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What basic knitting stitch, the reverse of the knit, is formed by pulling a loop of the working yarn back through an existing stitch and then slipping that stitch off the needle?
Purl | Define Purl at Dictionary.com C16: related to Norwegian purla to bubble Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Word Origin and History for purl Expand v. "knit with inverted stitches," 1825; earlier "embroider with gold or silver thread" (1520s), probably from Middle English pirlyng "revolving, twisting," of unknown origin. The two senses usually are taken as one word, but even this is not certain. Klein suggests a source in Italian pirolare "to twirl," from pirolo "top." As a noun, from late 14c. as "bordering, frills," 1530s as "twisted thread of gold and silver." "flow with a murmuring sound," 1580s, imitative, perhaps from a Scandinavian language. Related: Purled; purling. Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
Purl
In what country would you find the 4,700 square-mile Negev Desert?
purl: meaning and definitions 1. to knit with a reverse stitch. 2. to finish with loops or a looped edging. —n. 1. a basic stitch in knitting, the reverse of the knit, formed by pulling a loop of the working yarn back through an existing stitch and then slipping that stitch off the needle. Cf. knit (def. 11). 2. one of a series of small loops along the edge of lace braid. 3. thread made of twisted gold or silver wire. Also,pearl. purl
i don't know
What daily comic strip, created by Jim Toomey in 1991, features an overweight, lazy shark, his wife Megan, a sea turtle named Fillmore, and crab named Hawthorne, among others?
Ljl 01 29 15 by MainStreet Media - issuu issuu PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SAN DIEGO, CA PERMIT NO. 1980 Vol. 103, Issue 5 • January 29, 2015 ENLIGHTENING LA JOLLA SINCE 1913 ONLINE DAILY AT lajollalight.com Shores board backs extension for sound wall Faith for Families La Jolla Parkway barrier Super Bowl XLIX Sunday, Feb. 1 3:30 p.m. on NBC INSIDE n Crime News, A7 n Calendar, A14 n Business, A16 n Opinion, A18 n Cove Stench Calendar, A18 n Poll of the Week, A18 n Obituaries, A19 n News Nuggets, A21 n 12 Questions, B1 n Let Inga Tell You, B3 n Kitchen Shrink, B7 n Social Life, B12 n Best Bets, B14 n Faith Directory, B15 n Classifieds, B20 n Real Estate, B22 Prince Chapel by the Sea in La Jolla is the oldest African-American church in the nation. Prince Chapel by the Sea to celebrate community leaders as ‘Pillars of Light’ Editor’s Note: This is the seventh in a bi-monthly La Jolla Light series examining the various faith communities in our town and the people within them. Reporter Linda Hutchison and photographer Milan Kovacevic take us into the familiar buildings for insight on what goes on inside … and why. Read previous installments online at lajollalight.com La Jolla’s Faith Communities 7th in a Series By LindA HutCHiSon ucked into the north end of one of La Jolla’s shortest streets is a church with a rich, long history. Prince Chapel by the Sea African Methodist Episcopal Church on Cuvier Street was founded officially in 1943, but its spiritual roots began in La Jolla in the 1920s (and in the United States in the late 1700s). The African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC) grew out of the Free Africa Society shortly after Americans won independence but while blacks were still slaves. T 565 Pearl St., Suite 300 La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 459-4201 lajollalight.com ResidentIal Customer La Jolla, CA 92037 ECRWSS Marc & Craig Lotzof See PrinCe CHAPeL, A12 619-994-7653 • www.TheLotzofGroup.com rev. Chuck norris, pastor By ASHLey MACkin A proposed extension of the sound wall along La Jolla Parkway got another nod of approval, when La Jolla Shores Association joined the La Jolla Town Council in voting to support the concept during its Jan. 14 meeting. Further, the board voted to add the conceptual project to the list of capital improvement requests it will submit to the city for the 2016 fiscal year. The current wall is 200-feet long, starting east of Ardath Lane along on the south side of La Jolla Parkway, a thoroughfare that reportedly sees more than 50,000 cars a day. The wall was constructed in the early 2000s to reduce noise, although project organizers argue it only does so for a select few homes. For residents living on parallel and adjoining streets, La Jolla landscaping and trees are the only noise buffers. Association Presented by Rick Adams, on behalf of residents who feel they are impacted by the vehicle noise of cars traveling to and from the 52 and I-5 freeways, the project proposes extending the sound wall tenfold, expanding eastward from its current endpoint up to around La Jolla Scenic Drive North. La Jolla Parkway does not intersect with La Jolla Scenic Drive North, but serves as a geographic reference. “We would just hope for a continuation of what is already there,” Adams said. Citing City of San Diego municipal code, Adams said noise limits in single-family residential zones range between 40 to 50 decibels, depending on the time of day. A 2004 traffic study conducted on La Jolla Parkway indicates noise levels average 75 decibels from passenger cars, and up to 90 decibels when motorcycles pass by. A photo Adams presented shows a sound meter pointed at La Jolla Parkway in an area not protected by the sound wall, registering 74 decibels as a truck passes. A petition signed by 48 affected homeowners, representing 100 residents, was also presented. LJSA member Mary Coakley-Munk suggested that should the wall be extended, its appearance be visually appealing. PhotoS by Milan Kovacevic Shores See Sound WALL, A15 M a r k e t i n g G l o b a l l y , S e l l i n g L o c a l l y TM Marc & Craig Lotzof | 619-994-7653 | www.TheLotzofGroup.com | CALBRE #01046166 | CALBRE #01211688 www.lajollalight.com Page a2 - January 29, 2015 - La JOLLa LIGHT [email protected] 858.361.4903 cell Cal BRE# 01269523 Eric Derby Besides negotiating great sales in The many disciplines learned at an La Jolla, fashion is Erica’s passion. early age from competitive sports Whether it’s clothes or staging proved extremely useful in Craig’s real a home’s interior, Erica delivers estate negotiations, creating an award with an innate sense of style. Born winning career. These skills also provide and raised in Taiwan, Erica speaks Craig with a way to give back to his fluent Mandarin Chinese and enjoys community. He donates his time as the working with an international JV Head Coach for LJHS, serves on clientele that’s drawn to La Jolla. the La Jolla Foundation Board and is a “It’s very rewarding to guide people Director for a youth mentoring program. 4 [email protected] 619.813.9557 Cal BRE# 01255991 REASONS to choose Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties San Diego’s Leading Real Estate Professionals Tinker Mico Tinker puts her experience as an Adult Buster draws on his service as a San Education teacher for San Diego Unified Diego Lifeguard Service Lieutenant School District to work as she guides as well as his high school and college clients through the intricate process of athletics experience to focus his selling or buying a home. More than an teamwork, tenacity and stamina into assistant manager of the La Jolla office, every client’s sale or purchase. As an Tinker was also a cheerleader at Oregon assistant manager for the busy La State and founded the ladies Double Jolla office, Buster still finds time to League Team at La Jolla Beach and play tennis and is a Silver Life Master Tennis Club. in Duplicate Bridge. [email protected] 858.344.8551 Cal BRE# 00879516 For career opportunities visit bhhscalifornia.com/about/careers ©2015 An Independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. CalBRE# 01317331 [email protected] 858.344.8550 Cal BRE# 01314136 PHOTOS OF THE WEEK www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - JAnuAry 29, 2015 - Page a3 “The sky broke like an egg into full sunset and the water caught fire.” — Pamela Hansford Johnson, British critic “This photo of the sunset at WindanSea on Thursday, Jan. 22 at 5:22 p.m. is something you might like to run in the La Jolla Light.” — John Weil -4 RIVe 1 T ReS D a S o SH N a L e L o8PLa Jo “I find it interesting most people watching a sunset get up and leave just as the sun disappears below the horizon. The following 20 minutes produce the most amazing and rich-palette of colors of the evening. It holds you transfixed and in awe. That’s how it was Thursday, Jan. 22.” — Greg Wiest La Jolla Shores VALUE! Beach-Close & Spacious 0 85 Protected and set back from La Jolla Shores Drive and located by the beach with plenty of parking, this two-level home offers soaring open beam ceilings, a grand upper level family/ rec room with wet bar and fireplace, and four bedrooms for plenty of room for family and friends! Ready to go at $2,198,000 GReG NooNaN & associates Representation You Can Trust #1 in La Jolla 2013, because YoU SUCCeeD! If you are considering selling your home or purchasing another, please call anytime to put Greg’s experience, knowledge, track record and reputation to work for you. Greg can make a crucial difference in your results should you wish to make a move, or he might give you all the reasons another option is the better choice. Either way, your best interests will always be Greg’s only priority. Call now. 1-800-LA JOLLA (525-6552) Greg Noonan & Associates · 1-800-LA JOLLA (525-6552) · LaJollahomes.com · [email protected] ©2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. CalBRE# 01317331 www.lajollalight.com Page a4 - JAnuARy 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT Some of the Kiwanis Club of La Jolla presidents recognized during the celebration include: Craig Bratlien (2014), mary talbot (2008), Glen rasmussen (2004), Jack talbot (1987), Dan Stinemates (1979), Wendy matalon (1996), Doug Bradley (2005), rebecca morales (current), Dick mullen (1988 and 1992) and Jim Kennedy (1985). Photos by Pat sherman La Jolla Kiwanis: Nine Decades Strong Service organization celebrates history of giving A (2001 and 2002) noted Kiwanis was founded Jan. 21, 1915 in Detroit, Michigan by a group of businessmen as a networking organization. It attracted 200 members in its first six months. “Soon, the members were distributing Christmas baskets to the poor and performing other charitable acts,” Hodges said. “By 1919, after a great deal of debate, it was decided the primary mission of Kiwanis (should be) community service.” Its efforts since have included helping greatly eliminate iodine deficiency disorder throughout the developing world — a leading cause of developmental disabilities of the brain in areas where iodized salt was not previously available. Today, there are more than 600,000 Kiwanis clubs around the globe that have raised more than $100 million for its charitable endeavors and dedicated more than 18.5 million service hours to children through the causes it supports, Hodges said. Kiwanis’ current international project, launched in 2010, is reducing or eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus in developing countries. Tetanus, a bacterial disease affecting the nervous system, took the lives of more than 40,000 newborn children in 2013, Hodges said. Kiwanis Club of La Jolla, which provides opportunities for social service and fellowship, has more than 80 members who raise money each year through the La Jolla Half Marathon. This year’s competition, starting at the Del Mar Fairgrounds and ending in Scripps Park, will be Sunday, April 26. Information at lajollahalfmarathon.com Proceeds are given to local charities and also help fund scholarships and civic events. This year, the club anticipates it will distribute $245,000 in the community from the Half Marathon and other fundraising activities. The La Jolla Kiwanis chapter is in the top one percent of revenue generating Kiwanis clubs in the world. Shawn Hethcock & Shawn Rodger 858.755.2280 PRICE REDUCTION OLDE DEL MAR | 4BR/3.5BA | $3.795M BRE# 01231927 BRE# 01276557 SOLD — REPRESENTED BUYER ENCINITAS | 5BR/5BA | $6.799M SPECIALIZING IN EXQUISITE RANCH & COASTAL PROPERTIES s By Pat Sherman lhough most people know the Kiwanis Club of La Jolla as the heart and soul behind the La Jolla Half Marathon and the annual Pancake Breakfast at the Rec Center, they may not know the club’s rich history of community service spans nine decades. The club celebrated its 90th anniversary — as well as the centennial of its parent organization, Kiwanis International — during a luncheon Friday, Jan. 23 at First Presbyterian Church of La Jolla. Giving a brief history of its parent organization, former president Don Hodges www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - JAnUARY 29, 2015 - Page a5 Left: Former Kiwanis Club of La Jolla president Wil Johnson, celebrating his 85th birthday Jan. 23, placed an $85 check into the club’s ‘Happy Dollars’ bucket during the lunch. Those who place one or more dollars in the bucket — used to fund club administration and special events — are given the floor to tell a joke, share anecdotes or other news. Right: Kiwanian Kedest Berhanu presents Travis Larson of the Alpha Project with a check for $2,000 during the event. Alpha Project’s mission is to provide recovery and support services to homeless individuals who are motivated to change their lives and achieve self-sufficiency. During Friday’s luncheon, the club presented a check for $2,000 to the Alpha Project, a San Diego-based organization that provides outreach to homeless individuals. “The biggest part of our job is taking all that money we make on the Half Marathon and giving it away, which is how we touch so many lives,” said former club president Wendy Matalon (1996). “Our club has served this community for 90 years — I can say, like no other organization.” Matalon supported that claim by offering an in-depth history of the club’s charitable activities. Although Matalon said little documentation exists on the club’s activities between its inception in 1925 to 1940, “from 1940 until now — wow!” she chimed, noting the club’s consistent history aiding Boy Scouts of America and Meals on Wheels to its welldocumented role in establishing the Gillispie School, founded as a preschool and orphanage in 1933 by the club’s first president, pediatrician Samuel Gillispie, and his wife, Ana, a registered nurse. Gillispie School’s existing campus — expanded through the years — was dedicated in 1953 with financial assistance from Kiwanis, Las Patronas and the nowdefunct La Jolla Welfare League. Kiwanis still provides scholarships to Gillispie for those who cannot afford to attend, Matalon noted, going on to share some other highlights from the club’s history: n 1944: (La Jolla population, 8,500; Kiwanis membership, 85). Club supports the war effort, selling bonds and stamps. n 1947: Club sponsors The Actors Company, an eight-week summer theater program headed by actors Gregory Peck, Dorothy McGuire and Mel Ferrer. “It was so successful that they held a special matinee to thank Kiwanis and donated the proceeds to the Gillispie Welfare Foundation,” Matalon said. n 1948: Kiwanis establishes scholarship fund for high school students. n 1950: Kiwanis establishes La Jolla High’s Key Club, a high school-level version of Kiwanis. n 1953: Kiwanis plans and presents first La Jolla Rough Water Swim (in concert with La Jolla Town Council). n 1964: Kiwanis holds first pancake breakfast; membership reaches peak of 161. n 1973: Meals on Wheels is established; La Jolla Kiwanis commits to delivering meals every Wednesday. n 1974: Club purchases and plants 50 Torrey pine trees to commemorate its 50th anniversary, at a cost of $238 apiece. n 1976: Club charters Circle K Club at UC San Diego, a collegiate-level Kiwanis outlet. n 1983: Kiwanis forms the La Jolla Half Marathon in concert with La Jolla Town Council (race nets $10,500 in 1984). n 1987: Kiwanis International opens membership to women. n 1990: Launches “Junior Olympics” event at three La Jolla public elementary schools, plus “Kiwanian of the Year” program. n 1992: Adopts an orphanage in Tijuana that the club goes on to assist for many years. n 1994: Elects its first female president, Michelle Burgart. n 1996: Establishes a scholarship program. n 2001: Half Marathon nets $90,000. n 2006: Kiwanis International stops requiring club record-keeping. “I’m pretty confident we’re going to re-initiate that process, because we just lose way too much information,” Matalon said. u — On the Web: kiwanisclublajolla.org SOLD IN 5 DAYS! www.LaJollaColonyGem.com La Jolla Colony presents its finest gem in the gated Valencia community conveniently located minutes from beaches, shops, airports and UCSD. Entertain in your beautiful formal dining room or outside beneath the motorized shaded pergola. The opulent over sized master retreat includes a private lounging area with a cozy fireplace. Offered at $975,000 - $1,055,000 We are experts in marketing and negotiating home sales. Call us if you want your home SOLD! CAL BRE #01059544 For More Information Call: 858-551-3355 · E-mail: [email protected] · Web: SDCoastalHomes.com ©2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. CalBRE# 01317331 www.lajollalight.com Page a6 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT No Parking on Torrey Pines? Traffic board seeks feedback on removing busy road’s slots By Ashley MAckin La Jolla’s Traffic & Transportation (T&T) advisory board, comprised of representatives from five community groups, has put this question forward: Should we nix the parking spaces along Torrey Pines Road between Girard Avenue and Prospect Place? T&T has two members from each of these groups: La Jolla Community Planning Association, La Jolla Town Council, La Jolla Village Merchants Association, Bird Rock Community Council and La Jolla Shores Association. Hopeful that these representatives would take the discussion back to their boards to gather community feedback, T&T chair Todd Lesser introduced the topic at the Jan. 22 meeting. “I‘ve had multiple people come to me (with this proposal),” he said “But we are also aware that by allowing parking, it provides a traffic calming of sorts because cars will not fly by. So we need to bring this back when we know what the community wants.” T&T member Tom Brady reported there are 45 parking spaces in question. Serge and Adriana Issakov, owners of La Jolla Swim and Sport on Torrey Pines Road at Girard Avenue, were in attendance and spoke in favor of keeping the parking for its traffic calming effect, but favored efforts to make it safer to park there. “You can feel the whole traffic line slow down as soon as motorists approach where those cars are parked,” Adriana Issakov said. not always aware that parking is allowed on the block in front of the business, and passing drivers often honk their horns at those trying to parallel park. La Jolla resident Dan Courtney opined that “the discussion (of removing parking) is going the opposite direction of how it should go,” and that “If you take away the parking being discussed, people are going to go faster, like they do on the other (eastern) side of Torrey Pines Road.” The item was noticed for discussion only, with the hope it could be readdressed at a later date with more feedback. ‘What can be done?’ Proponents of keeping the parking on Torrey Pines Road between Girard and Prospect argue that trucks and other cars slow down when approaching parked cars. Ashley MAckin “People back off and try not to drive closely side by side. Without those cars there, other cars would just fly by. It really is the only thing that slows people down.” However, parking along the busy thoroughfare has its risks, with Serge and Adriana both reporting that cars whizzing by occasionally take off the side mirrors of parked cars. Further, Adriana said people are Two La Jolla residents came to the board with traffic problems near their residences. Neither proposed a solution, but both asked what the city might do to address their concerns. Casa de Manana resident Esther Viti said the crosswalk (mid-street on Coast Boulevard South between Eads Avenue and Jenner Street) used by several residents is not safe. “There is currently a pedestrian-activated lighted crosswalk for those who live across the street but access the main building for meals or events,” she said. However, in trying to cross the street, “I’ve almost been killed five or six times and, on the average of twice a week, someone is almost hit,” she said. She claimed drivers actually accelerate when seeing the pedestrians — often using walkers or wheelchairs — hoping to cross Although nearly a year away, the board voted to approve the requested street closures for the October La Jolla Art & Wine Festival. The board approved the closure of Girard Avenue between Prospect Street and Torrey Pines Road, starting 6 p.m. Friday Oct. 9 and reopening 11:59 p.m. Sunday Oct. 11. u n Traffic & Transportation advisory board next meets 4 p.m. Feb. 26 at the La Jolla Rec Center, 615 Prospect St. lajollacpa.org 5316CalumetAve.com Drew Nelson CA BRE# 01376023 [email protected] Art & Wine Fest street closures approved $6,900,000 - $7,400,000 5316 Calumet Ave., La Jolla 858.215.DREW (3739) the intersection before the pedestrians do. Chair Lesser said the mostly likely solution would be a crossing guard, and would relay Viti’s concern to the city to see if there are any other additional safety measures available. Ed Ward came before the board looking for ways to relieve traffic issues around Nautilus Street, La Jolla Scenic Drive South and Soledad Mountain Road. He argued there are issues both with congestion from parents dropping off children at one of the three schools at the top of Soledad Mountain Road and students using the route to get to UCSD from Pacific Beach, but also issues with people speeding during nonpeak hours. Lesser said he would also relay Ward’s concerns and see what options the city presents. DrewNelsonRealtor.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - JANUARY 29, 2015 - Page a7 CRIME AND PUBLIC SAFETY NEWS La Jolla mugging ends in police chase F our male suspects accused of committing armed muggings in a stolen car early Friday morning, Jan. 23 were arrested after a police chase and crash in the Midway District. The suspects used guns and knives in all four muggings — including one at WindanSea Beach in La Jolla — and demanded cell phones and other items the victims were carrying. The final mugging in the spree occurred at 2:20 a.m. in La Jolla. Two pedestrians were robbed of their cell phones by three suspects at WindanSea Beach. The victims told police the suspects sped off in a car with Baja plates. The three other robberies occurred in Hillcrest, University Heights and North Park — with several other witnesses reporting the muggers were driving a Honda Civic with Baja plates. The suspects’ Honda Civic was spotted by a San Diego police helicopter later that day on Mission Boulevard, near Belmont Park. During the high-speed chase, police put down spike strips on Ingraham Street. The suspects hit the strips and kept going with flat tires before losing control at Duke Street and Midway Drive. The car hit a Nissan SUV and the suspects all jumped out and tried to run. All four were caught and arrested, police said. According to San Diego police, one of the suspects was bitten by a K-9 during the arrest and was taken to a hospital. The driver of the Nissan SUV was not injured. Two of the suspects were juveniles. Police said the plates on the Civic had been switched to hide that the car had been stolen. UTC mall restaurant robbed at gunpoint San Diego Police say an adult black male in his 30s robbed Cozymels Coastal Mex restaurant at 4304 La Jolla Village Drive (in the UTC Westfield Mall) just after midnight on Monday, Jan. 26. The robber entered the business, produced a handgun, made a demand to an employee, then fled in an unknown direction. The suspect is described as being 6-foot-tall, 150 pounds and wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, jeans and white bandana. The loss was not disclosed. Robbery detectives are investigating. Driver falls asleep at the wheel A 39-year-old female was driving her Honda Civic westbound on 10200 Genesee Ave. about 2 p.m. Jan. 20 when she fell asleep, veered off the roadway and hit a tree, said San Diego police. The woman was not injured. Her seven-year-old son, a passenger, suffered serious internal injuries. Traffic Division is investigating. Police Blotter Jan. 17 n Grand theft, 7600 block Eads Avenue, 12:05 a.m. n Minor consuming alcohol in public, 7800 block Cuvier Street, 12:17 a.m. n Grand theft, 7800 block Eads Avenue, 8 p.m. n Residential burglary, 6400 block Avenida Manana, 9 p.m. Jan. 18 n Vehicle break-in/theft, 7300 block Caminito Bassano West, 5 p.m. n Minor consuming alcohol in public, 5800 block Rutgers Road, 11:25 p.m. Jan. 20 n Vehicle break-in/theft, 8300 block Cliffridge Avenue, 5:35 p.m. n Vehicle break-in/theft, 3300 block Caminito Eastbluff, 10:10 p.m. Jan. 24 n Other sex crime, 2800 block Torrey BUILD No Money Down, No Payments, No Interest and call before Jan. 31st to SAVE 20% WARRANTY ! T F E L AYSJAN. 31st D 2 ONLTYCALL BY VARIETY NO MONEY DOWN NO PAYMENTS MONTHS NO INTEREST SAVE 20% on windows/patio doors AND installation1 Jan. 26 n Residential burglary, 2500 block Hidden Valley, 7:45 a.m. u How to contact San Diego Police To report a non-emergency crime, contact the San Diego Police Department’s Northern Division, which serves the neighborhoods of La Jolla, Torrey Pines and University City. n Phone: (858) 552-1700 n TTY: (858) 552-1799 n Emergency: 9-1-1 n Address: 4275 Eastgate Mall, San Diego, CA 92037 n Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. (closed 11 a.m.-noon). Closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday n E-mail: [email protected] Don't settle for poor-quality vinyl windows; our window's Fibrex® material is 200% stronger than vinyl.* Most installations–including the clean up–are completed in just one day. We take responsibility for the entire process, including warranting the windows and installation.** Your windows are a part of your home’s aesthetics and we offer endless design possibilities with over 5 million possible color, hardware, grill, and insect screen combinations Call for your FREE Window Diagnosis MUS Offer ends January 31 Jan. 25 n Vehicle break-in/theft, 7200 block Rue Michael, 9 a.m. n Fraud, 8400 block El Paseo Grande, 3:20 p.m. During your FREE in-home Window Diagnosis, we'll give you a price that's good for one year. SELL FREE WINDOWS Pines Scenic Drive, 12:20 p.m. indecent exposure, Torrey Pines Gliderport, female passerby walking through parking area reported a male standing by a white sedan fondling himself.) FREE NEST LEARNING THERMOSTAT PROGRAMS AUTOMATICALLY SAVES YOU ENERGY with purchase of 4 or more windows 858-397-5895 RenewalbyAndersen.com Dreamstyle Remodeling of San Diego, Inc. Lic. 995160 1Discount applied by retailer representative at time of contract execution and is available on purchase of 4 or more windows and/or patio doors. Cannot be combined with other offers. To qualify for discount offer, initial contact for a free Window Diagnosis must be made and documented on or before 1/31/15 with the appointment then occurring no more than 10 days after the initial contact. 0% APR for 18 months available to well qualified buyers on approved credit only. Financing not valid with other offers or prior purchases. No Finance Charges will be assessed if promo balance is paid in full in 18 months. *See the Renewal by Andersen 20/2/10 limited warranty for details. www.lajollalight.com Page a8 - JANUAry 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT Fun In The Deep Blue Sea Scripps hosts evening with cartoonist/conservationist Jim Toomey “I Jim Toomey FOR SALE long passions — art and the sea — and he claimed to be “equally incompetent in both areas.” Toomey holds a Masters of Arts from Stanford University, and recently, he earned a Masters of Environmental Management from Duke University. The son and grandson of engineers, Toomey said he considered going into engineering as well, but the ocean fascinated him at a young age, and he enjoyed doodling in class, sharing some of his earliest drawings of sharks. When holding a globe in his hands, he said he realized that most of it consists of water and that, “if I had a boat, I could go anywhere.” The audience followed as Toomey told a riveting story about learning to fly small airplanes and struggling with the stall recovery. To attempt the maneuver, he descended in a spiral from 6,000 feet, and while facing the rapidly approaching ocean below, he somehow managed to recover control. Afterward, on his way to the bar, he saw birds spiraling downward to eat with ease and natural skill, and he realized, “I’m being humbled by sparrows!” Constructing cartoons He also became aware of the “incredible powers” of ocean creatures. For example, about Sherman he said, “he’s talented without motivation — like some human characters.” Sherman could easily catch more prey if he s By Ramin SkiBBa t’s the first time I’ve been a distinguished anything!” laughed Jim Toomey, beginning his presentation as the distinguished speaker for the annual KnowltonJackson Lecture of the Center for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (CMBC) at Scripps Seaside Forum Auditorium Jan. 16. The speaker series, which began in 2013, is named after Nancy Knowlton, founder of CMBC, and Jeremy Jackson, both marine biologists. Just outside the auditorium, people appreciated the sunny day on the beach and sounds of the crashing waves, making the place a fitting venue for Toomey’s lecture, titled “Drawing Inspiration from the Sea.” For the past 20 years, Toomey has been writing and drawing the daily comic strip, Sherman’s Lagoon, which is syndicated in 250 newspapers in North America and in 30 foreign countries. Its cast of sea creatures includes a lazy great white shark, Sherman; his wife, Megan; the sea turtle, Fillmore; and the selfish hermit crab, Hawthorne. Toomey joked with the audience that he often speaks before younger crowds and at aquariums, so it was like a nightmare speaking in front of real marine biologists at Scripps, and he thanked the organizers for making his nightmare come true. Sherman’s Lagoon brings together two of his life- 160 W ISLAnd AvEnuE, dOWnTOWn 2 Bedrooms + Optional • 3 Baths – Call 800-233-6725 x3333 for a property detail recording. – Text 59951 to 35244 for additional photos. Eugenia Garcia & Jeff Carlson Effective Strategies & Superior Services 619.987.4851 | [email protected] | www.EugeniaGarcia.com ©2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. CalBRE# 01317331 CAL BRE #01372053 www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - JANUARy 29, 2015 - Page a9 A sample comic strip from ‘Sherman’s Lagoon’ by Jim Toomey weren’t so lazy. Fillmore, the turtle, has an incredible ability to navigate; he also has terrible pickup lines. He named many of his characters after streets in San Francisco, where he was living at the time. To make his cartoons, Toomey said he starts with the dialogue, “though for me, the hard part’s the writing.” He then demonstrated with Photoshop, by drawing a strip, as the audience watched it take shape on the screen. (He switched from pen and paper to drawing on the computer in 2002.) Through his cartoons, artistic abilities and speaking skills, Toomey works toward communicating science and environmental issues to a wide audience. For example, he recently conveyed how ocean acidification affects sea creatures, including Sherman’s and other sharks’ ability to smell. He also drew a series of strips about the BP gulf oil spill. Toomey’s comics and illustrations appear in educational materials published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and he partnered with the United Nations Environmental Program to create videos to raise awareness of the importance of oceans and the coastal environment. He also created a video about threatened coral reefs with Céline Cousteau, granddaughter of famed ocean explorer, courtesy of shermanslagoon.com Jacques Cousteau, and the World Resources Institute. Efforts like these earned him the Environmental Hero Award in 2000 and 2010, presented by NOAA, “for using art and humor to conserve and protect our marine heritage.” On the front line Last summer, Toomey dove to the depths of the Gulf of Mexico in Alvin, a Navy deepocean submersible vehicle. He described his experience and showed videos of the area teeming with life, including tube worms and a squid with incredibly long tentacles. The scientists aboard had technology to allow him to call his 10-year-old son’s science class in Annapolis, Maryland from the bottom of the ocean. He has plans to take his family on a boat for a year, and will describe their experiences with autobiographical comics. Just as he advised scientists trying to engage with the public, “if you want to reach people, you need to be honest, tell a story, and connect with your audience in a human way,” Toomey reaches and inspires many people with his entertaining cartoons and as a passionate and outspoken advocate for ocean conservation. u n On the Web: shermanslagoon.com Call Liz and Lori ~ the local area experts! Liz and Lori Representing distinctive home buyers and sellers in all price ranges Liz Nederlander Coden Cal BRE #01847352 Phone: 858.945.7134 Email: [email protected] Lori Sykes Cal BRE #01883104 Phone: 619-933-9191 Email: [email protected] Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. www.lajollalight.com Page a10 - JANuARy 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT Project applicant michael rollins (far left) shows DPr members Brian Will, mike Costello and matthew Welsh the location of a fence to be built at the rear of his clients’ property on el Camino del teatro; architectural rendering of the proposed Senyei residence rebuild at 1547 el Camino del teatro. Permit reviewers consider WindanSea expansion, cell site and reservoir plans Presbyterian Church. n Rising with the tide: During a preliminary review to the DPR, ClaudeAnthony Marengo of Marengo Morton Architects presented plans for a home remodel at 6715 Neptune Place that would include a 2,738-square-foot, two-story addition, concrete deck in the front yard and subterranean car garage and gym. The home, and one adjacent it at the corner of Gravilla Street, are two of the only one-story residences remaining on Neptune Place, which fronts the coast in WindanSea. The site is comprised of two lots (including one fronting Vista Del Mar to the east) that are zoned differently, Marengo said. “We’re doing a full excavation (for the garage),” he said, noting the subterranean area would also be used to catch groundwater runoff. “We’ll be putting filtration systems all the way around this whole structure.” A portion of an existing, five-car garage off Vista del Mar will be converted to guest quarters and a storage area for beach equipment, while another portion of it will contain an elevator leading to the subterranean garage, Marengo noted. To maintain previously conforming setbacks, the city requires that the structure s By Pat Sherman During January meetings at La Jolla Rec Center, members of the La Jolla Community Planning Association’s Development Permit Review subcommittee (DPR) considered permit applications for several residential projects, as well as the reconstruction and removal of reservoirs, and a contract renewal request for a wireless communications facility at Mount Soledad Community Expertise Values History Integrity Networking Nothing makes friends like a place near the beach. Photos provided by the La Jolla Historical Society and REBA. La Jolla Real Estate Brokers Association We are buyers of your diamonds, timepieces & antique fine jewelry All transactions are in cash and confidential Sign up for our newsletter: CJCHARLES.COM REBA agents are your neighbors too. Ask your agent if they’re a REBA member. Bringing agents together to get deals done for 90 years! REBA agents get REsults REBA Agents : Bringing You Home Since 1924 858.454.6126 • 908 Kline Street • La Jolla, CA 92037 • www.lajollareba.com C.J. CHARLES 1135 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 858.454.5390 CJCharles.com Business Permit #1999006264 www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - JANuARY 29, 2015 - Page a11 The city is planning to remove this 1909 reservoir on Country Club and Encilia Drives (off Torrey Pines Road), while replacing the 1949 La Jolla View Reservoir in La Jolla Natural Park with a larger, below-ground tank. Pat Sherman retain its garage doors, although they would likely be replaced with decorative glass or redesigned to appear as French doors (a concept supported by DPR member Dianne Kane). “I really can’t lose the doors,” Marengo said. The project utilizes the city’s “50 percent rule,” which allows applicants certain exemptions in exchange for maintaining 50 percent or more of a building’s exterior walls during a remodel (in this case, the ability to maintain previously conforming setbacks). However, unlike some projects employing the 50 percent rule, the owner must still obtain a coastal development permit (CDP), and the project can be appealed. The maximum height of the proposed project would be 28 feet, and a ground-level patio would extend to five feet from a wall fronting Neptune Place. Based on drawings presented, DPR member Kane said the project appeared to replicate the pattern of tall, boxy buildings that have sprung up on Neptune Place. “You’re absolutely right,” Marengo said. “It’s a contemporary box … a glass box.” Kane conceded that rejecting this project based on its design would be like “closing the barn door after the horses are gone.” “It’s creating more of the same in the whole neighborhood,” she lamented. “What have we done to our community?” Marengo said that, like La Jolla Shores, the neighborhood is a hodgepodge of zoning that allows for higher density. n Vehicle court at issue: DPR members also approved a Muirlands home rebuild at 1547 El Camino del Teatro after an issue with potential light pollution from a proposed vehicle court at the rear of the property was resolved with the neighbors. The applicant is seeking a CDP to demolish an existing home and guest house and construct a new residence and guest quarters totalling 12,521-square-feet. Last month, neighbors Jim and Mary Berglund said they were concerned noise and light would spill from the vehicle court to their adjacent home, located to the south. At issue was a proposed eight-foot wood fence between the parking court and the Berglund’s home. While the fence may shield car headlamps, the Berglund’s representative, La Jolla architect Phil Merten, argued it wouldn’t sufficiently block noise from car engines. Following the review, Rollins and Merten met in private, returning with a compromise that involves constructing a wood-framed stucco wall that would better block sound, and extending the wall further along the driveway to prevent light spilling onto the Berglund’s property. The new design was noted and signed on plans by Rollins and Merten. n Cell contract renewal: DPR members considered a 10-year contract renewal request for T-Mobile’s wireless communications antennas and related equipment at Mount Soledad Presbyterian Church (6551 Soledad Mountain Road). AT&T, Verizon and Sprint also have wireless facilities at the church. All are painted brown and located 20-25 feet above ground. The request includes the addition of two storage cabinets to a mechanical building. A motion made to consider the preliminary project review a final one — clearing the way for its approval — failed to garner the required unanimous vote of trustees. Kane said she would like to hear from the church as to any potential issues with the wireless communication providers, while DPR member Angeles Leira, who voted against the motion, said she would like to see a photo of the mechanical building. The applicant will return in February to present the project again. n Reservoir replacement/removal: Permit reviewers also heard the city’s plans to replace the existing 720,000-gallon La Jolla View Reservoir with a new 3.1 million gallon tank, while completely removing the Exchange Place Reservoir two blocks off Torrey Pines Road. The reservoir’s pump station and pressure reducing station will continue in operation. Built in 1909, the 990,000-gallon Exchange Place Reservoir was placed out of service in 2002. The roof of the new, 60-foot-deep La Jolla View Reservoir storage tank will be below existing ground level and covered with four feet of soil. Construction is expected to begin in October 2016 and be complete by April 2018. The construction is on environmentally sensitive parklands, which include small areas of Southern Maritime Chaparral and rare plant and animal species. The environmental document explaining mitigation measures has not yet been produced. La Jolla Parks & Beaches chair Dan Allen expressed concern for the protection of parkland, wildlife habitat and open space during construction, which will be visible from Pearl Street. Allen quoted from the La Jolla Community Plan, which states that protected open space is not to be disturbed. The project, which also involves replacing the existing Muirlands Pipeline along Country Club Drive with larger, 30-inch pipeline, will be continued to a future DPR meeting. n Next meetings: DPR meets 4 p.m. the second and third Tuesdays at La Jolla Rec Center, 615 Prospect St. To view agendas and meeting minutes, visit lajollacpa.org u FDA APPROVED! Come in for a FREE Consultation The intelligent alternative to liposuction with equally dramatic results. No Pain, No Downtime • • • • • Fitness and Wellness Stress Reduction Libido Improvement Soreness Lactic Acid Elimination • • • • • Blood Circulation Weight-loss Body sculpting Cellulite reduction Nutrition • • • • And Personal Trainers in La Jolla 7580 Fay Avenue • Suite 103 • La Jolla (858) 444-0340 • www.lajollawellnessstudio.com Open Saturdays www.lajollalight.com Page a12 - JANUARy 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT From Prince chaPel, a1 The church has gone through two major remodels, one in 1985 and another in 2008. Photos by Milan Kovacevic tunein “It is the oldest African-American church in the country,” explained Rev. Chuck Norris, pastor of Prince Chapel, referring to the AMEC. “It started first in black colleges and universities and has always been about social justice. “Early members petitioned President Lincoln about the Emancipation Proclamation and church bishops led the way for the formation of the NAACP.” The NAACP was founded in 1909. Many key players in the civil rights movement, such as Rosa Parks and James Meredith, were members of the AMEC. This sense of social justice, “doing what is right for all people,” said Rev. Norris, still marks the spirit of the church today. Under his guidance, the church is very focused on helping people. “Our mission is about reaching families, and helping families strengthen themselves,” he said. “They are the building blocks of society.” Prince Chapel accomplishes this mission in three ways, he added. “First, we invest in our youth, bring them together, introduce them to people to offer leadership, help with academics. We support and encourage one another, teach our youth to have a voice and to use it in a positive, effective and responsible manner.” Rev. Norris also focuses on young people of mixed race, who may be struggling with identity issues. Second, Prince Chapel reaches out to homeless people. “We work with the police department to feed the homeless, clothe them, talk with them, cheer them up, treat them with dignity,” he said. “It’s part of our basic Christian tenets … reaching out to colleagues.” Third, the church feeds the hungry. Its main outreach ministry serves Rachel’s House, a women’s shelter in San Diego. In addition to these programs and regular worship services, Prince Chapel hosts several musical events throughout the year with its Praise Team youth choir and an annual Pillar of Light festival, which has a musical theme. This year’s festival will be held 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29 and Friday, Jan. 30 at the Congregational Saturdays at 8 a.m. AM 600 KOGO News Talk Radio A look back … The first AMEC church in La Jolla was formed in 1921 to serve the black community, primarily domestic servants. Members met at La Jolla Union Mission, a small, two-room house near the site of the current church. In 1943, the church officially organized under its current name. A new church building was erected in 1948 while members held their services at the La Jolla Recreation Center. Since then, it has gone through two major remodels, one in 1985 and another in 2008. The AMEC is doctrinally Methodist and organizationally Episcopalian, meaning governed by bishops. According to the AMEC website, the church currently has membership in 20 Episcopal Districts in 39 countries on five continents. Rev. Norris joined Prince Chapel in 2010, after serving at a church in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born in Chicago, the oldest of six children. After earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business, he worked in the information technology world for 20 years and then in the non-profit arena before being ordained. During Black History Month, the church will add special presentations to its regular services spotlighting prominent local and national figures in black history. u Your ASB Headquarters! Last Minute? No Problem! Topic to be Discussed Planning for a Secure Retirement Aubrey Morrow, Certified Financial Planner® Church of La Jolla on Cave Street. “Its purpose is three-fold,” said Rev. Norris. “It’s a kickoff for Black History Month in February. It’s a national evangelical revival, with guest speakers. And most important, it gives people a boost spiritually. We’ve just finished Christmas and this encourages and lifts spirits. We strive to honor people, bring light to the community, make the community better — not just in La Jolla, but in all of San Diego.” During this year’s festival, the church will present two Pillar of Light awards to honor members of the community for their contributions. On Thursday night, the award will go to Leon Chow of C & H Photo and on Friday night to Dr. Robert Gillespie of Sharp HealthCare and chairman of the board of the Association of Black Cardiologists. Tune in! Order your complimentary booklet “Are You Financially Organized?” at www.MoneyTalkRadio.com • Tax Planning • Global Investing • Real Estate • Retirement Planning • Advanced Estate Planning • Insurance • Long-Term Health 5075 Shoreham Place, Suite 200 San Diego, CA. 92122 Ask Aubrey at: www.MoneyTalkRadio.com Phone (858) 597-1980 | Fax (858) 546-1106 Securities and advisory services offered through Independent Financial Group, LLC (IFG), a registered broker-dealer and investment advisor. Member FINRA and SIPC. Certain IFG representatives also may offer advisory services through Financial Designs, Ltd, (FDL), a CA State Registered Investment Advisor. IFG and FDL are not affiliated entities. • Student discounts • We rent & sell men’s designer suits and tuxedos • All merchandise in stock and available for SAME DAY SERVICE! • We have a complete line of fashionably correct accessories • We have prices to fit everyone’s budget A BETTER DEAL TUXEDOS & SUITS 858.551.6044 369 Bird Rock Avenue at La Jolla Blvd. www.abdtuxedo.com www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page A13 - Sponsored Content - trends & events Early childhood dental care can have long-term positives Prince Chapel by the Sea African Methodist Episcopal Church ■ Address: 7517 Cuvier St., La Jolla ■ Phone: (858) 459-0271 ■ Website: princechapelame.org ■ Facebook: Search for ‘Prince Chapel by the Sea, La Jolla’ ■ Twitter: twitter.com/PrinceChapel or @PrinceChapel ■ Leader: Rev. Chuck Norris, pastor ■ Year Established: 1943 ■ Members: 83 ■ Average Weekend Attendance: 42 ■ Worship Services: Church School 9 a.m. Sunday; Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Sunday; Bible Study 7 p.m. Wednesday; Youth Gathering 6:45 p.m. second Fridays ■ Community Programs: Homeless outreach program. Annual Pillar of Light musical celebration, Jan. 29-30. Correction In the Jan. 15 La Jolla Light Faith Communities article about La Jolla Christian Fellowship, Pastor Adam Stadtmiller wishes two quotes attributed to him be corrected to read: 1) “It is our goal to provide an atmosphere of ‘casual excellence’ at LJCF so that all who attend either our worship services or classes can feel comfortable while enjoying the very best we have as we offer ourselves to our Lord.” 2) Where he was quoted as saying that “a church is defined by its programs,” it should have read, “While programs are important, our church is defined by its ‘prayer life’ and the dedication and love found in our people. People and prayer are paramount at La Jolla Christian Fellowship.” u Last call for photo contest entries! A nother chance to win a $100 gift certificate to lunch or dinner at Bijou Bistro in La Jolla comes this month with La Jolla Light’s Caught on Camera online photo contest — the January theme: Cutest Baby or Kids Photo. It’s easy to enter and upload your images or see other readersubmitted photos at lajollalight.com by clicking on “Caught on Camera Community Photo Contest” in the middle of the homepage. Get snapping! The deadline is Jan. 31. We’ll publish the winning photos in the Feb. 5 issue of the Light. Heads up: The February contest theme is: Best Romantic Photo. u Unlike in decades past, most kids today have fun and positive experiences at their initial and ongoing dental visits. To a large extent, the attitude and feelings of a parent have a tremendous influence on their children’s experiences. Dr. Ashley Olson feels having the little ones see their parents visit the dentist will go a long way. “Little kids are like little sponges; they mirror our happiness, they mirror our sadness and they mirror our uncertainty,” Olson said. “This is important to keep in mind when thinking about your own feelings about seeing the dentist. Kids pick up on subtleties in the tone of our voice and even our facial expressions. Setting our kids up for the best possible experience at the dentist starts with parent’s communication (verbal and nonverbal) about it. We do not recommend promising your child a special treat if he or she behaves at the dentist, because doing so may only introduce apprehension. They may wonder, ‘What is so bad about the dentist that I might fuss or cry?’ Keep a positive, optimistic attitude, leaving any of your own negative feelings behind when discussing an upcoming dental visit with your child, and they will have nothing to fear or worry about.” Olson also noted that having calm parents at the first visit can help the children stay calm as well, and lessen the amount of stress and anxiety. “Generally, the rule of thumb is that children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday,” said Olson. “Early exposure to the dental team not only helps children feel comfortable, but also gives parents the opportunity to learn how to manage diet, hygiene and fluoride to limit their child’s risk for cavities.” The goal of the first visit is for parents to learn about their child’s oral health and how to properly care for their child’s unique needs. At that initial visit, parents can discuss home care, teething and development, proper use of fluoride, oral habits such as thumb or finger sucking, and factors that affect the risk of cavities. At home, a parent can help a child’s dental health with the foods they provide. Avoiding sticky candies and even chewy raisins and dried fruit is key and sticking to fruits and vegetables, cheese, and other good sources of calcium is the way to go. “Education and prevention are the keys to a child’s dental health,” added Olson. “Although baby teeth aren’t there forever, it is still very important to keep those teeth and gums as healthy as possible while they are holding space for future permanent teeth. Parents who start their kids early at the dentist are more likely to limit future dental problems and those kids are more likely to continue giving their oral health proper attention in their adult life. “Forming habits early on, like regular dental visits and cleanings, brushing in the morning and at night and flossing, will set kids up for a lifetime of dental health.” When your children see you brushing and flossing your teeth every day, establishing good habits for them will be infinitely easier. Don’t underestimate the power of setting a good example for your children. For more information, call Dr. D’Angelo & Dr. Olson at 858-459-6224 1111 Torrey Pines Road www.joethedentist.com www.lajollalight.com Page a14 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT repeats Jan. 30 n 17th Century Dutch Art lectures by Linda Blair, 7:30 p.m. today and Feb. 5, Athenaeum Music & Arts Library, 1008 Wall St. $14$19. (858) 454-5872. ljathenaeum.org/lectures 29 Calendar Thursday, Jan. 29 n Sunrise Rotary of La Jolla meets, 6:55 a.m. The Shores Hotel, 8110 Camino Del Oro. $20. (619) 992-9449. n Qi Gong, 9:30 a.m. Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave. Gentle exercises for all ages. (858) 453-6719. lajollalibrary.org n Pen to Paper writing group meets, 1 p.m. Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave. (858) 552-1657. lajollalibrary.org n La Jolla Women’s Club Social Networking Event, 5-7 p.m., cash bar, all welcome, 7791 Draper Ave. n Pillar of Light Festival with Praise Team Youth Choir concert, 7 p.m. Congregational Church of La Jolla, 1216 Cave Street. (858) 459-5045. Event n La Jolla Golden Triangle Rotary Club Breakfast Meeting, 7:15 a.m. La Jolla Marriott, 4240 La Jolla Village Drive. $20. (858) 395-1222. lajollagtrotary.org n Computer Help Lab, 11 a.m. Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave. (858) 552-1657. lajollalibrary.org n Kiwanis Club of La Jolla meets, noon, La Jolla Presbyterian Church, 7155 Draper Ave. First 3 meetings free as a member’s guest, then $15. (858) 945-2280. [email protected] n Art Interact Club, La Jolla High student-run art program, 3:30 p.m. Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave. (858) 552-1657. lajollalibrary.org Saturday, Jan. 31 n Trends Conference with Christianity Today’s Marshall Shelley, “What’s in store for the Christian Church in 2015?” Also, prerelease screening of “The Warwick’s Dropbox” about a couple in South Korea who made a dropbox for abandoned babies, La Jolla Christian Fellowship, 627 Genter. Register online ($15) at lajollacf.org or on Adam Stadtmiller’s Facebook page. $20 at the door. n Seniors Computer Group, 9:30 a.m. Wesley Palms, 2404 Loring St., Pacific Beach. Free for guests, $1 monthly membership. (858) 459-9065. n Author talk with Richard Torregrossa, “Terminal Life,” 3 p.m. Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave. (858) 552-1657. lajollalibrary.org n Art reception, Larry “Renzo” Lewis, 5 p.m. La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect St. Paintings and sculptures explore alteration and evolution of the human experience. (858) 454-1231. n Art exhibit, Alexander Ditimus, 6 p.m. Dolphin and Hawk Fine Art Gallery, 7742 Herschel Ave., Suite M. Colored pencil, pen and oil paintings depict complex socio-political themes. (858) 401-9549. Sunday, Feb. 1 n San Diego County Diversity and Inclusiveness Group meets to affect a 7812 Girard Ave. 858-454-0347 www.warwicks.com Actor, director, and “NYT” bestselling writer Andrew McCarthy E-Waste Recycling n La Jolla High School hopes to turn your trash into their treasure at the seventh annual e-waste collection day, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31. Drive up to the end of Westbourne Street (off Draper Avenue) and students will collect unwanted computers, monitors, laptops, cameras, scanners, TVs/DVDs, cell phones, toasters, vacuums, microwaves. (619) 822-1120. [email protected] faith-neutral name for the La Jolla December parade, 8:15 a.m. Starbucks, 1055 Torrey Pines Road. Free with RSVP: (858) 454-2628. [email protected] n La Jolla Open Aire Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Girard Avenue at Genter Street. (858) 454-1699. Monday, Feb. 2 (Groundhog Day) n Ico-Dance class, low impact, 9 a.m. La Jolla Community Center, 6811 La Jolla Blvd. $7 members, $12 non-members. amandabanks.com/ico-dance n Raja Yoga class, guided by the Nataraja Yoga and Meditation Center, 4:30 p.m. Congregational Church of La Jolla, 1216 Cave St. By donation. (858) 395-4033. Tuesday, Feb. 3 n Rotary Club of La Jolla, noon, La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect St. Lunch $30. Guests welcome. [email protected] n Hatha Chair Yoga, 12:30 p.m. Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave. (858) 5521657. lajollalibrary.org n Photography class, hosted by the Museum of Photographic Arts, 2 p.m. Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave. (858) 552-1657. n Soroptimist International of La Jolla monthly dinner meeting, 5:30 p.m., new members invited, location given upon RSVP to soroptimistlj.org n Bird Rock Community Council meets, 6 p.m. La Jolla Masonic Lodge, 5655 La Jolla Blvd. info@ birdrockcc.org n Community Balance Class, learn techniques to walk safely and maximize independence, 6 p.m. Ability Rehab, 737 Pearl St., Suite 108. Free for MS Society members, $10 for nonmembers. (858) 456-2114. n Parenting workshop, “Fast and Effective Conflict Resolutions,” Hilde Gross, 6 p.m. Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave. (858) 552-1657. n Toastmasters of La Jolla meets to improve their public speaking skills, 6:45 p.m. La Jolla Rec Center, 615 Prospect St. Free for guests, and $85 six-month membership. president@ tmlajolla.org n Seaside Quilt Guild monthly social, 6:30 p.m., program 7 p.m. Soledad Club, 5050 Soledad Road. $5. [email protected] Wednesday, Feb. 4 n Kiwanis Club of Torrey Pines meets, 7:15 a.m. Torrey Pines Christian Church, 8320 Scenic Drive North. First three meetings free, then $15. [email protected] n Torrey Pines of La Jolla Rotary meets, 11:30 a.m. Rock Bottom Brewery, 8980 La Jolla Village Drive. $20. (858) 459-8912. [email protected] n Tapping to the Stars dance class for women, noon. Ooh La La Dance Academy, 7467 Cuvier St. $70-87 a month. nancy@ tappingtothestars.com n Lecture series, “Cultures, Disparities, Societies: Degrees of Freedom,” 7 p.m. Great Hall of UC San Diego International House, 9500 Gilman Drive. Economics prof. Paul Niehaus, “Giving Freedom: How Direct Cash Transfers are Reshaping the Way We Help the Extreme Poor.” ah-lectures@cloud. ucsd.edu u All events are free unless otherwise noted Did we miss listing your community event? n E-mail information to: [email protected] n The deadline is noon, Thursday for publication the following Thursday. Questions? Call Ashley Mackin at (858) 875-5957. Speaking & Signing More info at www.warwicks.com or 858-454-0347 We Are Buying ...Immediate Cash Paid Ends Saturday, Jan. 31st! Exclusive Fine Linens For the Bed & Bath Sophisticated Sleepwear Gifts & Accesories for Gracious Living Diamonds • Estate Jewelry • Antique and Period Jewelry Gemstone Jewelry • Designer Jewelry • Fine Watches and Gold Coins (858) 459-1716 Two stores in the Village of La Jolla 1230 & 1237 Prospect Street • www.hmoradi.com 7717 Fay Avenue • La Jolla, CA 92037 T(858)459-8642 www.marthasmithfinelinens.com www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - JAnuARy 29, 2015 - Page a15 2014 Model Year Closeout A proposed extension to the sound wall along La Jolla Parkway (pictured at right) got another nod of approval, when the La Jolla Shores Association approved the concept. Ashley MAckin From Sound WALL, A1 “Some areas have beautiful sound walls and if we were to do something, I would hate to see it be (unattractive),” Coakley-Munk said. In agreement, Adams said, “This is the gateway to La Jolla, it’s not like we have five or six entrances … so something special would be in order.” The project was previously presented to the La Jolla Town Council, which gave its approval in September 2014, when a motion was passed to “have the city start looking at how to solve the noise issue in that area.” Hoping for city support — as the project would not be privately funded — Adams said he and other project advocates would like to see it get the stamp of approval from applicable community advisory groups. Additionally, he said he would like to see the project on the capital improvement projects lists that several community advisory groups are drafting. Granting both requests, LJSA voted to support the concept of an aesthetically pleasing extension to the noise mitigation wall along the south side of La Jolla Parkway. In a separate motion, the board voted to add the proposal to its “wish list” of projects it would like the city to fund in fiscal year 2016. At the December LJSA meeting, Justin Garver, representing the office City Council President Sherri Lightner, explained that the list could contain “Anything within the purview of the group ... So when we go through the six-month budget process, we’ll have that list as opposed to having things come up in April, May or June, when it’s not as easy to add things.” La Jolla Shores Priorities List At the January LJSA meeting, the following list was created and approved, with the request the items be addressed as funding becomes available: n Allocation of city fees generated by the La Jolla Shores beach concessions to the maintenance and improvement of the La Jolla Shores Planned District. n Increased staff hours and improved maintenance in Kellogg Park. n Dedication of the recently created park ranger position to Kellogg Park only. n More pairs of Big Belly-plus recycling trash cans along the north boardwalk, placement of blue beach cans on the boardwalk during off-seasons, and more frequent trash pick-ups for all Shores beach and boardwalk trash cans. n Boardwalk and sea wall improvement and beautification. n Allocation of staff hours for amending of the La Jolla Shores Planned District Ordinance. n Allocation of staff hours to explore incorporation of Allen Field and the homes along the northern end of La Jolla Shores Drive into the La Jolla Shores Planned District area. n Avenida de la Playa business district enhancement and reconfiguration to improve safety and aesthetics, including: increasing the visibility of stop signs and crosswalks throughout the business district on Avenida de la Playa; increasing the lighting (street lights) on Avenida de la Playa; extension of sidewalk, curbing and green space on Avenida de la Playa to the corner with El Paseo Grande; and widening of the sidewalk in front of Piatti Restaurant. n Landscaping for Laureate Park. n Extension of the noise mitigation wall along La Jolla Parkway. u — Next meeting: LJSA next meets, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11. Scripps Institute of Oceanography, Building T-29, 8840 Biological Grade. [email protected] How to share your news Submit your news tips, story ideas, community events, letters to the editor, and announcements of engagements, weddings or anniversaries for publication in La Jolla Light via e-mail to: [email protected] A high-resolution photo should be attached when possible. ENCINITAS Huge Selection With Prices Like These on All 2014 Models! New 2014 VW Jetta S SportWagen MSRP $23,185 Save $3,200 1 at this price 619097 Closeout Price $19,985 0.9% APR for 60 Months! 0.9% apr with approved credit on 14 Jetta Sportwagen (includes TDI) or 15 CC and cannot be used in conjunction with factory or dealer discount expired 2/2/15. Example with $0 down, monthly payment is $16.67 per month per $1,000 financed. Drive Yours Today at ENCINITAS 760.753.6256 1425 Encinitas Boulevard | Encinitas, CA 92024 www.cookvw.com All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document processing charge, any electronic filing charge, and any emission testing charge expires 2/2/15. Page a16 - JANUAry 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT Business Spotlight on Local There’s always something new at Nativa Interiors By Mario Scolari Nativa Interiors What’s new at Nativa Interiors? A lot is new! For one, we invite customers to come and check our stores periodically because we’ve increased the frequency in which we completely rotate the showroom floors. Most furniture stores rotate merchandise every three months. We are rotating our stores at least once a month and that means new and exciting products with different designs, colors and textures all the time. We also have a new line of fabric and leather recliners from American Leather for whom we are an exclusive dealer. This product is new to the brand and features a contemporary design and high-quality fabric or leather upholstery —100-percent made in Texas! Customers have the option of a manual reclining mechanism or power mechanism that is very smooth to operate. It features a battery that lasts for years and that means no ugly wires! We dedicated our second floor in La Jolla to outdoor furniture with high-quality products for the yard and patio made in a variety of materials — ranging from powdercoated aluminum dining chairs to chaise at Nativa, merchandise on the showroom floors is changed out monthly. lounges featuring adjustable backs and tailored upholstery. We continue to increase our fabric offerings and we currently have more than Courtesy 8,000 different fabrics from the best mills in the world. We recently incorporated a collection of 100-percent cotton velvet in 40 different colors. The fabric comes from the oldest fabric mill in the United States, located in the heart of South Carolina. Our collection of fabrics is remarkable — from 100-percent cotton pre-washed fabrics that are ideal for slipcovers to 100-percent premium Belgium linens in different hues and textures. On the upholstery side, customers will note that we have made several new sofas and accent chairs featuring buttoning, or as it is called in the furniture industry, “tufting.” We’ve taken the traditional Chesterfield design and modernized it by increasing the size of the arms and making it more comfortable. We also took a contemporary straight-arm sofa with nailheads and gave it tufting. This sofa is called the Soho, and it comes in three sizes and thousands of fabric options. n Nativa Interiors at 7770 Girard Ave., La Jolla is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. MondaySaturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. (760) 533-9355. nativafurniture.com. There is also a Solana Beach showroom at 143 S. Cedros Ave., which closes at 5 p.m. daily. (858) 794-0003. u The Business Spotlight features commercial enterprises that support the La Jolla Light. www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page A17 Spotlight on Local High-tech La Jolla Wellness Studio presents MyoMetrix Workout By Diane Y. Welch Innovation and space-program technology set La Jolla Wellness Studio worlds apart from other health clubs. In its new state-ofthe-art facility in downtown La Jolla, the studio provides a wellness program that promotes the health of body, mind and spirit and appears more like a futuristic spa than a gym. It’s not only high-tech, but efficient, too. The studio offers a 30-minute workout — with a personal trainer — that’s equivalent to 100 minutes of weight training, 60 minutes of cardio and 20 minutes of stretching in a single session, said Michelle Racine, the studio’s managing director. “One of the machines we use was the type used by NASA astronauts when they orbited the Earth for a couple of years so that they didn’t lose their lean body mass,” Racine said. Workouts using the patent-pending MyoMetrix Method Workout begin with an optional treatment of the i-Lipo Ultra Laser, which emits low levels of laser energy. This naturally breaks down stored triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol, which are then transported to the tissues that will use them during exercise. Next is 10 minutes of vertical vibration therapy, which increases production of Vertical vibration therapy and a low-level laser are part of the MyoMetrix Method Workout offered at La Jolla Wellness Studio, which aims to reverse the aging process and keep clients fit. Courtesy human growth hormone, serotonin and endorphins while it lowers cortisol and lactic acid. It decreases cellulite, tightens skin and relieves menopausal symptoms while increasing metabolism, reducing body fat and relieving stress. Then it’s on to the Range of Motion machine, for high-intensity four-minute interval training that boasts the same results as 45 minutes of cardio and weight training combined. Workouts conclude with a 10- to 15-minute horizontal vibration recovery, calibrating metabolism for optimal fat loss and lean muscle mass building. “This also does tremendous things for skin and vascular flow,” said Racine. “Guys who go on it have reported that they don’t need to take Viagra anymore.” Gene Barduson is the founder of the MyoMetrix Method Workout. Aiming to stay healthy after a cancer diagnosis, Barduson wanted to invent something to reverse the aging process and keep himself fit. “So he put this very high-tech system together for himself and friends at his country club,” said Racine of the inspiration for La Jolla Wellness. “His friends started having miraculous things happen, like not needing to take blood pressure medication and having the best golf game of their life,” said Racine. “Women in their 70s were able to play four sets of tennis, and they started to look younger.” In fact, Racine was a client before she became managing director. A dancer, she used the method to help alleviate the aches and pains that often come with rigorous exercise. Word of the La Jolla Wellness Studio has even traveled to the medical school at Western Oregon University. “They are so fascinated by our patented process that they are doing an 18-month study to see what all the health benefits are,” said Racine. The studio offers massage, Reiki healing, acupuncture, hypnosis, IV vitamin therapy, stretch and mediation classes, intellectual and fun lectures and more. Also available are at-home cooking instruction, an in-house chef and nutritionist, and clients may order locally grown organic produce. Pricing is competitive and several specially priced packages are available for weight loss, detoxification, anti-stress and improved libido and anti-aging. n La Jolla Wellness Studio is at 7580 Fay Ave., Suite 103, La Jolla. (858) 444-0340. lajollawellnessstudio.com u The Business Spotlight features commercial enterprises that support the La Jolla Light. Regular monitoring of a home is shown to be the difference between damage and disaster. Home Watch Services are a vital resource to any seasonal or absentee homeowner. We offer • Condo Care with a 15-point checklist • Bungalow Care with a 26-point checklist • Estate Care with a 26-point checklist Visit www.CoastHomeWatch.com to find the perfect plan to ensure your peace of mind for your home. Licensed, Insured & Bonded Light 565 Pearl St., Suite 300 La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 459-4201 lajollalight.com La Jolla Light (USPS 1980) is published every Thursday by U-T Community Press. Adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation by Superior Court No. 89376, April 1, 1935. Copyright 2014 U-T Community Press. All rights reserved. No part of the contents of this publication may be reproduced in any medium, including print and electronic media, without the expressed written consent of U-T Community Press. Publisher • Douglas F. Manchester Vice President and General Manager • Phyllis Pfeiffer [email protected] (858) 875-5940 Executive Editor • Susan DeMaggio [email protected] (858) 875-5950 Staff Reporters • Pat Sherman [email protected] (858) 875-5953 • Ashley Mackin [email protected] (858) 875-5957 Village cleanup a success! Before walkers started on their Jan. 24 cleanup of La Jolla with the “It Takes a Village Project,” nearly 65 volunteers dressed in orange and light-blue shirts canvassed the entire downtown Village. nearly 500 pounds of trash was collected by the group. Jack Berkman, La JoLLa Student libraries in the Philippines are in great need of used books This letter is in response to your call for possible recipients of used books. My husband, amando, and I have partnered with some Filipino-american friends, alas Cargo, an International freight forwarding company owned by Tracie Syhongpan, and the Jesuit-run ateneo de Manila university Center for Educational Development (aCED) to collect and ship quality, used books to form the nucleus of public elementary and high school libraries in the Philippines. The Philippine government meagerly funds its public schools, and does not consider establishing libraries for its million students a priority. reading books is an imperative complement to classroom instruction. Without libraries, Philippine public schools fail to stimulate the imagination and dreams of their students, hence the costly loss of opportunity to spur the country’s development. On Oct. 27, 2014, aCED in Manila received 35 cartons of elementary, young adult and reference books shipped gratis by alas Cargo. We would like to sustain this partnership with Cove Stench Calendar I’m happy to pass along the website address for an organization that will pick up your used books and then sell them to raise money for field trips for children with special needs donatebookssandiego.com you can also find more information at sddownsyndrome.org and when you go to the site, it explains what the profits are used to support. I think it is a very worthwhile organization. The phone number is (619) 777-6724. Ruth Perlin La JoLLa POLL OF THE WEEK at lajollalight.com How often do you dine out in La Jolla? Contributors • Will Bowen, Kelley Carlson, Lonnie Burstein Hewitt, Linda Hutchison, Inga, Catharine Kaufman, Ed Piper, Diana Saenger n Once a week: 40% n A few times a week: 38% n Daily: 22% Chief Revenue Officer • Don Parks (858) 875-5954 Media Consultants • Jeff Rankin (858) 875-5956 n This week’s question: • Jeanie Croll (858) 875-5955 Where will you watch the Super Bowl? • Sarah Minihane (Real Estate) (858) 875-5945 • Kathy Vaca (858) 875-5946 Business Manager • Dara Elstein n Pinch your nose: This symbol indicates a foul stench was detected at La Jolla Cove that day. Administrative Assistant • Ashley O’Donnell Graphics • John Feagans, Production Manager • Maria Gastelum, Graphic Designer Classified Ads • (858) 218-7200 [email protected] Used books could help Down Syndrome group n Last week’s question and poll results: Page Designer / Photographer • Daniel K. Lew [email protected] (858) 875-5948 Obituaries • (858) 218-7237 or inmemory@ myclassifiedmarketplace.com donations from the community. Fr. Bienvenido nebres retired as ateneo president in 2011, but continued to be involved with aCED. I hope La Jolla Light and its readers will support our goal of enhancing the education of Philippine public school students and list our project among recipients of donated used books. I am willing to pick up used books from donors’ homes. Prudence Gaspar La JoLLa Editor’s Note: The Light is happy to pass along this information and will put anyone with books to donate to this project in touch with the Gaspars. Send inquiries by e-mail to [email protected] Updated Jan. 27, 2015 T o keep the spotlight on the pervasively pungent problem of marine life excrement odors invading the Village from the Cove cliffs (a scenario that has plagued the town for the past two years), La Jolla Light is publishing a weekly Cove Stench Calendar to track the extent. It’s our hope that VISuaL, as well as OLFaCTOry proof, will lead to a resolution to the distressing dilemma in 2015. reporters embedded on the frontlines are providing daily updates on the air “conditions” in the Village, which we will pass along to you and City Hall. u o At Home o At a Friend’s Home o At a Pub o Won’t Watch Answer on the homepage at lajollalight.com www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - JAnuAry 29, 2015 - Page a19 OBITUARIES Andrew A. Benson 1917 – 2015 Andrew Alm Benson passed peacefully on January 16, 2015. A native Californian, he was born in Modesto in 1917; graduated Valedictorian from Modesto High School; and was inducted to its Hall of Fame in 1943. He graduated from University of California, Berkeley in 1939, earning his bachelor’s degree; and from California Institute of Technology in 1942, with a doctorate in organic chemistry and neurophysiology. Dr. Benson is universally recognized as the discoverer of how plants absorb carbon dioxide from air for growth, which is the foundation of the food chain. He pioneered the use of radioactivity to reveal the path of carbon in photosynthesis at a time in the 1940s, when only the eminently prepared and bravest knew how to handle manmade atomic materials. This required the creation of equipment and chemicals that had never been known before. For a time, Dr. Benson held the entire concentrated supply of radioactive carbon dioxide as this was the rarest of all materials. He was at the forefront of developing the first procedures for algae and green plants to safely work with these “atomic cultures.” One of the great joys of his life was to have made such extraordinary contributions early in the atomic era. For fifty years, Dr. Benson was a member of the United States National Academy of Sciences. In 1978, he was made an Honorary Citizen of Alert Bay, British Columbia, where Dr. Benson returned annually for 26 years to collaborate with an international team of research scientists and was a founder of the Alert Bay Marine Society. Dr. Benson joined the faculty of University of California, San Diego in 1962 and, under his direction, Hubbs Hall was funded and constructed on the Scripps Institution of Oceanography campus. For the past twenty-five years, Dr. Benson continued to add new discoveries by daily rigorous research on “The Path of Carbon in Photosynthesis.” He was always generous with his time, effort and enthusiasm as he continued to mentor his students and collaborate internationally with scholars over six decades. All regarded him as a dear friend. Worldwide, he was lauded by his peers, recognized as, “one of the leading plant biologists of the twentieth century.” High honors were many, leading to the recent Andrew A. Benson Award in 2014 for “conferring the greatest good to mankind.” He is survived by Dee Benson, his wife of 45 years; and daughters, Claudia and Linnea from a previous marriage. Please sign the guest book online at www. legacy.com obituaries/ lajollalight. Antoinette Marie (Gazzilli) Attili 1941 – 2015 Nettie Attili, beloved mother, sister and special friend, succumbed to cancer on January 20, 2015, at Thornton Hospital. Nettie was born on May 10, 1941, in Utica, New York, to Lawrence and Mary Gazzilli and was the oldest of five children. She attended local schools and, in 1961, she married Frank Attili, also of Utica. Nettie worked for several firms in the Utica area including Griffiss Air Force Base and Mohawk Data Sciences. After Frank’s passing in 1996, Nettie moved to La Jolla to be with her only son Joseph and resided here for 19 fun-filled years. Nettie was a Eucharistic Minister and an active member of the Lady’s Guild at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church. She was also active with her homeowners association. Ma Nettie was a devoted mother who always put others before herself. She enjoyed entertaining and community service, was an excellent cook and adored animals. She will be dearly missed by her family and all that knew her. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Joseph and Susan Attili of Ramona, CA; brother and sister-in-law, Albert and Marianne Gazzilli of La Crescenta, CA; sister and brother-in-law, Marie and Larry Darr of Monrovia, CA; brother and sister-inlaw, Victor and Connie of Whitesboro, NY; several nieces and nephews; and numerous close friends in La Jolla and Upstate New York. She is pre-deceased by her beloved husband of 34 years, Frank; her brother, Lawrence Gazzilli; and her parents. The family wishes to thank her many close friends, especially Terry, Tricia, Leslie and Greg, for all of their love, help and support during her illness. The family also wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at the UCSD Medical Center for their valiant efforts and care while she fought the disease. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2015, at 10 AM at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church. A viewing will be held on Friday, January 30, 2015, from 4-8 PM at the Pacific Beach Chapel, 4710 Cass Street. The Rosary will be prayed at 6PM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in her name to either Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church or the UCSD Medical Center in La Jolla. Please sign the guest book online at www. legacy.com/obituaries/ lajollalight. Mary M. “Mat” (Merrell) Jones 1924 – 2015 Mat Jones died of complications of dementia at the age of 91 on January 12, 2015, the thirteenth anniversary of her husband’s death. She was born Mary Maxine Merrell in the tiny town of Bridgeport, Nebraska, on January 2, 1924, to P.J. and Mary Anna Merrell. Mat was a high school cheerleader, majorette, sorority sister and Homecoming Queen at Wesleyan college; and a La Jolla socialite who made many lifelong friends along the way. She and her husband, Dr. Richard A. “Dick” Jones, were high school sweethearts and married on December 26, 1944, in Bridgeport. Mat supported her husband while he completed medical school in Nebraska and then internship and residency in Chicago, Illinois. In the late 1940s, Dick had completed his service obligations at San Diego Naval Hospital, so when he was offered a partnership by Dr. Hall Holder in La Jolla, they decided to move back to California in 1953. Mat and Dick joined the La Jolla Presbyterian church, and she enthusiastically threw herself into many social and charitable community projects, including PTA and Las Patronas presidencies, Scripps Hospital Auxiliary chairmanships and volunteer work, and church event planning. She also served six years on the La Jolla Town Council. Her handmade puppets and shows were legendary. She enjoyed making people, especially children, laugh and being the life of the party wherever she went. Her cheerful, friendly presence will be missed. Mat was preceded in death by her husband, Dick, her parents, and all four of her siblings. She is survived by her children, Susan Nicholas, Debbie George and Steve Jones; six grandchildren, Laura Nicholas Daniels, CHP Sgt. Eric Nicholas, Wendy Nicholas Hamilton, Ernest Woodward, Jessie George Gonzalez and Pearl George; and nine greatgrandchildren. A memorial service will be held on February 7, 2015, at 2 p.m. at La Jolla Presbyterian Church, 7715 Draper Ave., La Jolla. A reception will follow at 3 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Please sign the guest book online at www. legacy.com/obituaries/ lajollalight. Ned Wayne Buoymaster 1928 - 2015 Ned Buoymaster passed away peacefully on January 2, 2015, in La Jolla surrounded by loving family following a stroke the previous day. He was 86 years old. He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Kathleen K. Buoymaster; son, John Buoymaster; daughter, Barbara Fuegner; and grandchildren, Katherine and David Buoymaster, all of whom live in San Francisco; stepsons, James, Andrew and Joseph Weisiger, and their spouses, Ann, Adela and Julie; and their children, Nicholas, Haley, Samson, Billie, Grace, Ava and Alexander. Ned was born in Hollidaysburg, PA, grew up in Bergen County New Jersey, and graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 1949. He had a long career in the electronics industry, Obituaries call Cathy Kay at 858-218-7237 or email [email protected] working for Raytheon Company and Ferroxcube Corporation (a subsidiary of North American Phillips) before founding National Micronetics, Inc., in 1969. After becoming President of Ferroxcube, Ned was elected as a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO). Founded in Kingston, NY, National Micronetics designed and manufactured recording head assemblies for disk drive memory systems used by many of the first personal computer manufacturers such as Apple and IBM. The company was financed by venture capital, in the early days of the venture capital industry, and went public in a successful initial public offering in 1972. National Micronetics moved its corporate offices to San Diego in 1977, where it was one of the first technology companies in North County. Ned also was an investor and director of a number of other technology companies in San Diego, including Cipher Data Products, Valor Electronics, InNet, and Ormet Circuits. He contributed to and supported the founding of Connect, a network that is instrumental in supporting the growth of technology businesses in the San Diego area. The move to San Diego brought Ned to his La Jolla home overlooking the La Jolla Cove and, most importantly, his wife Kathleen. They shared many happy years there with their family and friends and were active supporters of many community organizations in San Diego over the years. Ned was particularly fond of taking walks with his well-loved dogs and the Friday date night dinners at the La Valencia Whaling Bar with his wife. He was a voracious reader and a life-long learner, taking online courses almost until he passed away. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends, and his devoted Barnaby. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a charity of your choice in his honor. Please sign the guest book online at www. legacy.com/obituaries/ lajollalight. HSY-1863-AnthemMaint Ad UT Community Press 10.33"w x 12.25"h WR __________ AD __________ MM __________ ED __________ Page a20 - January 29, 2015 - La JOLLa LIGHT www.lajollalight.com Your partners in good health: Anthem Blue Cross and UC San Diego Health System With all the changes happening in health care, it’s good to know one place is making it simple. 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Anthem Blue Cross and Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company are independent licensees of the Blue Cross Association. ® ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross name and symbol are registered marks of the Blue Cross Association. HSY-1863-Anthem-Maint-Ad-UTCP-10-33wx12-25h.indd 1 LA JOLLA LIGHT - JANUARy 29, 2015 - Page a21 LA JOLLA NEWS NUGGETS City asks court to dismiss Cove odor lawsuit S an Diego doesn’t have a duty to clean up sea lion poop, City Attorney Jan Goldsmith said Jan. 23 when he asked a judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed by La Jolla merchants and residents who want the city to fix the stinky mess. The La Jolla Cove has made local and national headlines since pungent animal waste from birds and sea lions began driving away tourists and shoppers several years ago. In December 2013, a group of residents and merchants called Citizens for Odor Nuisance Abatement sued the city in San Diego Superior Court, accusing officials of not acting to reduce “the foul, noxious and sickening odors emanating from the excrement of cormorants and sea lions.” The group has proposed hiring an animal behaviorist to train the sea lions to do their business elsewhere — a proposal the city is mulling over. On Jan. 24, the city argued in a legal filing that sea lions are part of the “natural condition” of the beaches and pointed to court decisions holding that agencies aren’t responsible for the potential nuisance posed by wild animals within their jurisdictions. The increase in sea lions at the Cove follows the animals’ resurgence throughout California as a result of the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act, the city said in its filing. Statewide populations of the species climbed 500 percent between 1975 and 2008, according to the document. The benefits of protecting the animals outweigh any harm caused by the unpleasant smell, the city said in its filing. “Though the remaining odor of the sea lions may be pungent at times, these are the sacrifices made by human beings to preserve and protect wildlife.” Meanwhile, San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer has pledged the city will continue spraying a microbial foam on the bluffs above La Jolla Cove that eats away the bird waste and, to a lesser extent, sea lion excrement — increasing applications to a monthly basis this year. Gerry Braun, a spokesperson for the San Diego City Attorney’s office told La Jolla Light via e-mail, “a court ruling that the City has no duty to control the sea lions does not, of itself, have an effect on future efforts to manage the odor.” Joe LaCava will run for Council District 1 seat Joe LaCava La Jollan Joe LaCava, president of the La Jolla Community Planning Association and chair of the Community Planners Committee, announced he plans to run for City Council at the Torrey Hills Community Board meeting Jan. 20. LaCava, a land use and public policy consultant, said he plans to run for Council President Sherri Lightner’s District 1 seat when it is up for election in 2016. The Torrey Hills meeting was one of LaCava’s first stops as he plans to visit local planning groups in the district to learn about the issues facing their communities. District 1 includes Carmel Valley, Pacific Highlands Ranch, Torrey Hills, Torrey Pines, Del Mar Mesa, Del Mar Heights, La Jolla and University City. journalist Loren Nancarrow, who died Dec. 28, 2013 after a battle with brain cancer, celebrated the dedication of the Loren Nancarrow Healing Garden at the Scripps Radiation Therapy Center, Jan. 22. The garden is on the rooftop of Scripps Radiation Therapy Center, 10670 John Jay Hopkins Dr., (near North Torrey Pines Road) in La Jolla. The funds raised in his name will be used to provide patient support services for cancer patients at Scripps Health. More undergrounding is set for La Jolla ‘Doomsday Clock’ update The next round of utility undergrounding in La Jolla will be in the Muirlands neighborhood (Block 1M1) and the La Jolla Shores area (Block 1J phases 1 and 2), with phase 2 extending south toward Mt. Soledad. Pre-construction meetings with the community will be scheduled for midFebruary through early March when residents will be able to ask questions and address concerns like streetlight and utility box placement. More at sandiego.gov/undergrounding or (619) 533-3841. Scripps dedicates Loren Nancarrow Healing Garden Family and friends of San Diego broadcast An elite group of scientists and Nobel laureates that includes Richard Somerville, a distinguished professor emeritus and research professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and UC San Diego, warned that climate change and the threat of nuclear war are posing an increasing threat to civilization and are bringing the planet closer to doomsday. The group moved its symbolic “Doomsday Clock” two minutes forward last week, making the current time three minutes to midnight (or doomsday). Somerville unveiled the updated clock during a press conference of the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists in Washington D.C. on Jan. 22. A member of the Science and Security Board and the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, Somerville is calling on people to demand action from their leaders to curb See NewS NuggetS, A22 METROPOLIS Now GRACE-FUL LIVING FURNITURE HOME FURNISHINGS ES SAL T N EVE RET ALL VEHICLE MAKES & MODELS From Bentley to BMW, Lotus to Lexus & Aston to Acura, we provide the same level of care & detail to all vehicles. After serving the Encinitas area since 1986, the owner is retiring and must sell $1,000,000 worth of quality, famous, name brand furniture. All inventory must be SOLD IMMEDIATELY AT THE LOWEST PRICES!! GRACE-FUL LIVING 1044 N. El Camino Real Encinitas, CA 92024 HOME FURNISHINGS (Corner of El Camino Real & 619-399-3460 Leucadia Blvd) Next to PRESENT THIS BONUS CERTIFICATE TO RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL 10% OFF PRESENT THIS COUPON & RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL 10% OFF ALREADY DISCOUNTED MERCHANDISE. NOT REDEEMABLE FOR CASH. OTHER RESTRICTIONS APPLY. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. ALL INSURANCE COMPANIES We work directly with your insurance company and provide pickup, delivery & towing using our own trucks. 11455 SORRENTO VALLEY ROAD, SAN DIEGO, CA 92121 858.350.1393 SYMBOLICMOTORS.COM B E N T L E Y C E R T I F I E D R E PA I R FA C I L I T Y www.lajollalight.com Page a22 - JANUARy 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT LA JOLLA NEWS NUGGETS (CONTINUED) From News Nuggets, A21 fossil fuel pollution and to stop developing more modern nuclear weapons that are endangering the planet. “Efforts at reducing global emissions of heat-trapping gases have so far been entirely insufficient,” he said. “Unless much greater emissions reductions occur very soon, the countries of the world will have emitted enough carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases by the end of this century to profoundly transform the Earth’s climate.” Somerville noted that 2014 was the hottest year on record and that the tipping point of ice loss in west Antarctica has been reached, meaning the melt is now unstoppable. Created in 1947, the clock has been changed just 18 times, ranging from two minutes to midnight in 1953 to 17 minutes before midnight in 1991. It has been set at five minutes to midnight since 2012. The last time it was three minutes to midnight was in 1983, during the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union. ‘Sparkle & Shine’ campaign continues Some of La Jolla Village Merchants Association’s (LJVMA) ‘Sparkle & Shine’ banners displayed on Torrey Pines Road will be temporarily taken down Feb. 8 to make room for banners promoting the Farmers Insurance Open golf tourney, Feb. 5-8 at Torrey Pines Golf Course (farmersinsuranceopen.com). Sparkle & Shine banners will go back up after the golf tourney is finished, said LJVMA executive director Sheila Fortune. The popular program, in which residents and businesses purchase personalized banners to raise money for steam-cleaning sidewalks in the Village, has netted nearly $61,000 since it was announced last fall. The most recent donors include: Adelaide’s florists, Best Western Inn by the Sea, The Bishop’s School, Brick & Bell Café, Bridget’s Blooms, Chicklits Book Club, Gillispie School, La Jolla Management Company (La Jolla Country Market, Sycamore Court, Village Corner), Monarch Gallery, Monday and Wednesday Walkers, Needle Nook, OrangeTheory Fitness, Whisnladle Hospitality, Ghassan Aboukhater Realtor, Deborah Greenspan Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, Barbara Leinenweber Realtor, Jeffrey and Jane Marks, Arthur Rifkin, Ruthi Warburg and Friends, and Dave Weston. “We pretty much have already pressurewashed all of the sidewalks in the Village,” Fortune said, noting some of them were so badly stained from gum and other pollutants that it will take subsequent quarterly cleanings before a significant change is noticed. In addition, LJVMA will use Sparkle & Shine proceeds to hire someone part-time to ride a bicycle-powered wagon through the Village (provided by the San Diego Business Improvement District Council), cleaning areas as needed a couple of hours per day, several days a week. “The maintenance staff will be provided a schedule of sidewalks in the Village to monitor … picking up garbage, (pulling) weeds around trees, sweeping sidewalks where the trees have dropped leaves, and (performing) other light maintenance,” Fortune said. “We will launch this for 30 days as a trial and then adjust for lessons learned, and hopefully continue to grow this program. … We do hope that the tenants and real estate owners will do their part in keeping their storefronts, sidewalks and landscaping maintained to help enhance our contribution.” There is still time to purchase a banner and join the campaign. Info at (858) 4545718 or [email protected] Concours d’Elegance registration opens Luxury/classic car and motorcycle enthusiasts may register vehicles online for the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance show, April 10-12 in Scripps Park. The event highlights vehicles from some of the world’s most rare collections, as well as gourmet food and events. The Concours raises money for La Jolla Historical Society and Monarch School. Register at lajollaconcours.com ArcLight La Jolla offers free screenings of ‘Selma’ to students San Diego is one of the cities to be part of the Selma for Students program, which offers students a chance to see the Oscar-nominated drama “Selma” for free. Beginning Jan. 31, students in the seventh, eighth and ninth grades can see the movie by presenting a current student ID or report card at the box office of any participating theater. According to Paramount Pictures, ArcLight Cinemas in the UTC shopping mall, 4425 La Jolla Village Drive, is one of the participating theaters. “Selma,” which is nominated for Best Picture and Best Original Song, tells the story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. leading a campaign to secure equal voting rights in 1965. The offer is good for as long as tickets last. selmamovie.com/studenttickets u GRAND OPENING! 68 Years of Education Excellence Stella Maris Academy Alumni Reunion A IM AS Date: February 21st, 2015 Time: 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.* Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine ET FIRST CL Please join us for a night of laughter & friendship as we reunite with friends new and old to make memories to behold! Visit us in our beautiful new location in La Jolla! RE SS We offer a full range of digital hearing aids starting at $995! If you or someone you may know have hearing loss, call HearUSA today to make an appointment at 858.260.5615 Experience the Highest Quality in Hearing Care: • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee • 99% Customer Satisfaction Rating • Over 27 Years in Business • Friendly Local Service by Licensed Professionals Olive Garden 25 Gift Card $ With hearing screening. Must have hearing loss. FREE Hearing Screening La Jolla: 8915 Towne Centre Drive, Suite 116 San Diego, CA 92122 • Please spread the word! *SMA Gala 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 – Tickets are still available! Call: 858.260.5615 www.hearusa.com 141201 HearUSA New Location Ad_La Jolla LIGHT_5x6 to run 1-8_03.indd 1 © 2014 HearUSA, All Rights Reserved. 12/29/14 9:46 AM LA JOLLA LIGHT - JAnuAry 29, 2015 - Page a23 CALBRE #603821 Thank you for a great year! To all who have both directly and indirectly contributed to an amazing year, I couldn’t have done it without you! 2014 REAL ESTATE SALES AND RENTALS (asking prices shown so as to protect privacy) 1001 7824 1001 8282 1001 1001 Genter St. #1A – $525,000 Ivanhoe Ave. – $1,375,000 Genter St. #1H – $890,000 Caminito Maritimo – $1,750,000 Genter St. #4C – $1,240,000 Genter St. #2C – $1,099,999 9780 Keeneland Row – $1,195,000 464 Prospect St. #204 – $3,250,000 1305 Muirlands Vista Way – $2,150,000 1001 Genter St. #4F – $1,150,000 1001 Genter St. #11A 1914 Via Casa Alta 2752 Carriagedale Row 464 Prospect St. #204 5859 Camino De La Costa 6120 La Flecha 1914 Via Casa Alta CURRENT LISTINGS IN LA JOLLA 7BR/9BA – $6,300,000 A unique blend of traditional Muirlands and contemporary flair, this two-parcel property offers spectacular ocean and sunset views. 3BR/3BA – $2,495,000 Like new! Single family home completely renovated this year. Bright, sunny and fabulous ocean views, literally steps to the famous Windansea beaches. 4BR/3BA – $2,200,000 Opportunity knocks! Beautifully cared-for single-level home with spectacular ocean & sunset views. Value in land. 3BR/4BA – $4,495,000 Spectacular, brand newly combined unit in the Seville, with exquisite finishes and details, by renowned architect Trip Bennett. 1BR/1BA – $ 897,000 Exquisite penthouse unit in the prestigious 464 Prospect in the center of the village of La Jolla and steps to the ocean and beaches, offering valet parking, onsite maintenance, and management. www.lajollalight.com Page a24 - January 29, 2015 - La JOLLa LIGHT New oN the MaRket! 964 La Jolla Rancho Road • • • • • • 3BR + family room, 3.5BA, 3,173sq.ft. Unparalleled 180 degree views of the ocean, bay & downtown San Diego Beautifully renovated 1 level living Expansive gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances 2 fireplaces, high ceilings and rare woods throughout Green house and view decks Offered at $2,575,000 Cher Conner C: 858-361-8714 | [email protected] | www.RealestateinLaJolla.com CaL BRe#00604382 ©2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. CalBRE# 01317331 Globe stages musical murder mystery B13 Theater, animals, love and life inspire radio guy Jerry Cesak J erry Cesak is half of the top-rated “Jeff & Jer” morning show in San Diego, heard on KyXy 96.5 FM. He graduated as a theater major from the University of Maryland after which he took a short 30-year diversion into radio. He’s been waking up San Diegans since 1988. In 2003, he wrote and directed the play “Nickels and Dimes,” which sold out 16 performances at San Diego’s Lyceum Theatre and raised $150,000 for animals. Previously, he created, directed and performed “Bless The Beasts,” a multi-media Jerry Cesak of the theatrical event ‘Jeff & Jer Showgram’ about animal welfare, which toured the country for three years. For as long as he can remember, Jerry has been passionately involved in campaigning for animal protection, speaking and acting on behalf of animals whenever possible. He is the founder of “The Unicorn Foundation,” a non-profit group that raises money for animal protection. He is also on the board of directors of The Humane Society. Jerry and his wife, Pam, live in La Jolla in a house owned by five rescued cats. What brought you to La Jolla? As I recall, it was a bus. Oh, wait. That’s probably not what you meant. I came to San Diego in 1988 to start what is now a 27-year run on the radio with Jeff and the gang. When my relentless and shameless pleading finally convinced Pam to marry me, we lived in Point Loma but dreamed of making La Jolla our forever home. We found realtor Marion Hirsch and handcuffed ourselves to the back bumper of her car until she found our wonderful home. It is our favorite place on planet Earth. Plus, the housing here is so affordable! See 12 Questions, B19 San Diego Jewish Film Festival celebrates silver anniversary By Lonnie Burstein Hewitt I t’s a happy year for the San Diego Jewish Film Festival (SDJFF), which began with a few casual screenings in the gym at the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center in La Jolla, before moving on to its first real festival venue in 1990 at Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego’s Sherwood Auditorium. That first festival featured four films; this year, there are 54 full-length and 50 short films, shown in five different locations over 11 days, starting Thursday, Feb. 5. The SDJFF is now considered one of the most important platforms for movies about the Jewish experience. Year by year, the SDJFF has been broadening its range. See Jewish Film Festival, B5 San Diego Jewish Film Festival also includes 10 programs of short films as part of the Joyce Forum. Among the shorts are (top) ‘Simpler Times,’ a non-techie’s nightmare starring Jerry Stiller, 1:30 p.m. Feb. 9 at ArcLight Cinemas; and (bottom) ‘Hollow Land,’ a Danish animator’s Utopian dream, 5 p.m. Feb. 9 at Jewish Community Center’s Garfield Theatre. Courtesy Suzanne M. Giannella , Broker Associate 858.926.3060 (o) | 858.248.6398 (c) | [email protected] 7855 Ivanhoe Avenue, Suite 110 | La Jolla, CA 92037 | Cal. BRE #01770605 beyond the extraordinary™ Page B2 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT The Daniels Group • Recently refurbished and tastefully remodeled 858-361-5561 • Widespread views of the blue Pacific Ocean [email protected] www.TheDanielsGroup.com • Perfect for indoor/outdoor living • 5BD/5BA plus 1BD/1BA guest house/pool/spa www.7234EnceliaDrive.com Facebook.com/TheDanielsGroup Twitter.com/LDanielsGroup LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page B3 Let Inga Tell You A wild and crazy technology frenzy O La Jolla Cultural Partners ver the Christmas holidays, I went into a wild and crazy technology frenzy and had the kids install both Instagram and Uber on my iPhone. I’m not actually interested in posting photos on Instagram myself, but my daughter-inlaw posts lots of adorable grandtot photos on hers that I was eager to see. Of course, I tried to install it first and messed it up beyond all belief. The kids used to encourage me to try software installs myself (teach a person to fish) but they’ve come to realize that some people simply cannot be taught to fish and will be a drain on society for life. I have many talents, but technology is not one of them. I confess that part of my motivation was that now that I’ve had a smartphone for two years, I thought it was time to add an app. I didn’t want to rush into anything. I know people who say they have maxed out the number of apps their phone will allow. I’m agog. How do they even remember what all of them do? Every icon on my phone came with the phone and fits on one screen. Or did anyway. I felt bad for that Instagram app all by itself on the second screen, so I decided that as long as I had tech support available, I’d add Uber as well. So now the Instagram app has a friend. I truly think Uber is the best invention ever. As one who has lived in San Diego for decades, my opinion of certain local taxi services is withering at best. I don’t want to mention any names but the ones I’m talking about are often associated with citrus colors. Ever since flat rate transportation companies entered the field, these are the only ones Olof and I will use to go to the airport, having been stood up by the citrus folks one too many times. (Once, my lawn guys took me to the airport in their truck — my suitcase and their mower rolling around in the back — when the citrus service announced it would be an hour late.) While taxis regularly circulate around the bars in Pacific Beach, my son and friends, then college students, stood on Prospect Street in downtown La Jolla late one night for an hour and a half for a citrus cab that repeatedly said it was en route but never showed. A friend who lives in University City waited endlessly for a citrus cab after each of a series of oral surgery appointments in downtown La Jolla. One time, a driver showed up after an hour announcing he was taking pity on her because all the citrus drivers were hoping for airport runs and were simply ignoring her call, despite insisting they were on their way. He expected a generous tip for this. Worst of all, I can’t even count the number of times I gave rides home to elderly women supermarket patrons waiting with their defrosting groceries for the cab that was called for them but which, 60 minutes later, had still not arrived. Fortunately, I don’t look dangerous so these women were willing to get in my car. Or, kidnapping sounded more appealing than continuing to wait for the cab. I get that cab companies want longer hauls. But saying you’re coming when you’re not? There should be a special place in hackney hell for you guys. Those ladies waiting outside the supermarket put the Fear of Being a NonDriving Senior in the Land of Crappy Public Transit squarely in my heart. Buses, alas, aren’t reliable either and often don’t run at night. But Uber happily does short hauls. And comes immediately! Any time! When they say they’re coming, they actually come! On top of that, they’re half the cost! And no I don’t have stock in Uber! One teeny weeny problem with Uber, at least as far as senior citizens are concerned: You currently need a smartphone. Fortunately, once your techno-savvy kids have installed it for you, the app is almost frightening easy to use. You push the Uber icon and the driver knows where you are because of the GPS on your phone, and comes and gets you. Your credit card is Inga’s iPhone enjoys its first two apps: Instagram and Uber. already on file with them so you don’t even have to have cash. Tip is included! The people who manufacture those large-print totally basic Jitterbug cell phones for the elderly would be wise to immediately make standard an Uber app on it. Advice for 18-year-old techno-geek app designers: It should be a button with a CAR on it, OK? You’re dealing with a population who isn’t getting either younger or more techno-savvy. Truly, I think if we could get the smartphone thing worked out, Uber will be the biggest boon to seniors since knee replacements. Sorry, citrus guys. It’s the juicer for you. u — Look for La Jolla resident Inga’s lighthearted looks at life in La Jolla Light. Reach her at [email protected] CHECK OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING Barbara & William Karatz Chamber Concert Series Alexandre Tharaud Monday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m. Globally sought-after French pianist, Alexandre Tharaud is heralded for his brilliantly conceived programs and best-selling recordings that range from Bach, Chopin, Rameau, and Ravel to music inspired by Paris cabaret of the 1920’s. Tharaud has not only performed the gorgeous soundtrack to, but also appeared in the Academy Award–winning motion picture Amour. His recording of the Goldberg Variations will be released by Warner Classics in fall 2015. Tickets: $40 members, $45 nonmembers www.ljathenaeum.org/chamberconcerts.html or (858) 454-5872 Whale Watching Adventures Now through April 19 9:45 a.m.–1:15 p.m. & 1:30–5 p.m. Download a $5 off whale-watching coupon at aquarium.ucsd.edu! Embark on an unforgettable journey with the ocean experts at Birch Aquarium at Scripps and Flagship Cruises & Events! Join aquarium naturalists for twice daily cruises to see gray whales as they pass by San Diego on their annual 10,000-mile round trip migration. Don’t forget your camera! Adults: $38 weekdays, $43 weekends Youth: $19 weekdays, $22 weekends More info: 858-534-4109 or aquarium.ucsd.edu Nikolay Khozyainov, piano Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 8 p.m. MCASD Sherwood Auditorium Tickets: $80, $50, $30 Prizewinner at several major international piano competitions, including being the youngest finalist of the XVI International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition, the 22-year-old Russian pianist makes his much-anticipated return to La Jolla to open this Season’s Frieman Family Piano Series. (858) 459-3728 www.LJMS.org Laugh-in: Art, Comedy, Performance Through April 19 MCASD La Jolla Laugh-in: Art, Comedy, Performance explores the recent turn toward comedic performance in contemporary art. The exhibition presents the work of 20 artists who engage strategies of stand-up comedy as a means to reframe questions surrounding performance, audience, and public speech. www.mcasd.org MCASD La Jolla 858 454 3541 700 Prospect Street www.lajollalight.com Page B4 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT 25th annual San Diego Jewish Film Festival: Theo Bikel and the legacy of Sholem Aleichem T heodore Bikel is a legendary folk singer, activist and actor who has played Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” more than 2,000 times. Tevye the Milkman is a beloved character created by Sholem Aleichem (1859-1916), sometimes called the Jewish Mark Twain. The Russian-born Yiddish writer died in New York City at age 57. At 90, Bikel is still going strong. In the past year, he married again, updated his memoirs, had his 90th birthday honored with a folk singers’ concert in Beverly Hills, and performed for the Austrian Parliament in Vienna, the city of his birth, on the 75th anniversary of Kristallnacht, a night of Nazi-led violence that ultimately turned him and his family into refugees. “The mass murderers are gone,” Bikel told his Austrian audience, “but I’m still here, singing about peace.” Last year, too, he transformed his intimate, one-man show about Sholem Aleichem into a documentary that has been feted at film festivals from San Francisco to Haifa, Warsaw and Sydney. “Theodore Bikel: In the Shoes of Sholem Aleichem” will have its local premiere at the SDJFF. The film, called a celebration of two Sholem Aleichem in New York City, 1907. Theodore Bikel will be at the Jewish Community Center 7 p.m. Feb. 4 to kick off the 2015 Jewish Film Festival at an underwriters’ preview of ‘Theodore Bikel: In the Shoes of Sholem Aleichem,’ also screening 6:15 p.m. Feb. 7 at Carlsbad Village Theatre and 5 p.m. Feb. 15 at Reading Cinemas Clairemont. Courtesy Photos Jewish giants, is narrated by Alan Alda, and includes appearances by several of Bikel’s friends, like Dr. Ruth Westheimer and 102-year-old author/educator Bel Kaufman (now deceased), who also happens to be Sholem Aleichem’s granddaughter. Among other things, it is a testament to the humor that is part of the Jewish tradition — the ability to turn calamity into comedy. “Let my name be recalled with laughter, or not at all,” Sholom Aleichem wrote in his will, which was published, after his funeral filled the city’s streets with mourners, in The New York Times. Recently, Bikel spoke of his feelings for Sholem Aleichem: “He has been part of Visit my life ever since I can remember. When I was a little boy, my father would read his stories to me, in Yiddish, of course. That language was indelibly etched in my mind. It became my anchor, my roots, and my portal into the shtetl. The world he chronicled is gone, but we can all read the stories, in whatever language is comfortable. Read them, and laugh.” u and support as we celebrate American Heart Month in February! All month long we’ll be fundraising to help the American Heart Association raise awareness for heart disease in women. Enjoy complimentary tastings and enter to win olive oil for a year and a trip to wine country! 1158 Prospect St. La Jolla, CA 92037 • (858) 551-8250 • weolive.com/la-jolla www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page B5 25th annual San Diego Jewish Film Festival ■ When: Feb. 5-15 ■ W  here: Films screen at the Jewish Community Center’s Garfield Theatre, 4126 Executive Drive; ArcLight Cinemas at UTC mall/La Jolla; Reading Cinemas 14 in Clairemont; Carlsbad Village Theatre; Edwards San Marcos Stadium 18. ■ J oyce Forum Short Films: 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 9 at JCC and ArcLight Cinemas ■ F ull Schedule: sdjff.org, or pick up a printed program at the JCC ■ Tickets and Website: (858) 362-1348 and sdjff.org ■ L ocal Talent: Director Sophie Tuttleman, who grew up in La Jolla, will speak at the screening of ‘The Cancer Mirror,’ a film about her mother, a scientist and philanthropist who lost her battle with brain cancer. Joyce Forum, 5 p.m. Feb. 9, JCC The documentary ‘Above and Beyond’ recounts how a group of World War II pilots volunteered in 1948 to fight for Israel, turned the tide of Israel’s Independence War and laid the groundwork for the Israeli Air Force. Screens 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11 at Reading Cinemas Clairemont and 6:15 p.m. Feb. 12 at Carlsbad Village Theatre. From Jewish Film Festival, B1 This year’s opener is “Serial Bad Weddings,” a French comedy about mixed marriages; the centerpiece is “Above and Beyond,” an American documentary about the ragtag band of foreign pilots who helped win Israel’s War of Independence; and there are four audience favorites from previous years, including “Nowhere in Africa,” a German drama that took home an Oscar in 2003. A special attraction this year is the IndiaJewish Showcase, featuring “Shree 420,” a Chaplinesque Indian classic from 1955. Also included: a Skype talk with actor/director Randhir Kapoor, whose family brought Jewish actresses to Bollywood, and a live performance by a local Indian dance troupe. One of the fastest-growing, most popular parts of the SDJFF is the Joyce Forum, a short-film festival-within-the-festival named in honor of founder Joyce Axelrod, who has been on board since the early movies-inthe-gym days. “Last year, we had three programs of shorts; this year we have ten,” Axelrod enthused. “We had so many submissions, many of them award-winning films, and 15 of the filmmakers are coming here on their own dime!” For the past two years, festival director Craig Prater, whom Axelrod praised as “a risk-taker, full of fabulous ideas and worldwide contacts,” has been raising the SDJFF’s profile, with the help of festival chair Saundra Saperstein and co-chair Devorah Gurantz. Together, they are creating new events, bringing in film industry hotshots, and reaching out to an ever-widening community. Their aim is to make SDJFF a major player, not just in the world of Jewish film festivals, but film festivals in general. It certainly looks like they’re well on their way. u Lacey Schwartz, seen here with her mother, directs and stars in ‘Little White Lie,’ a film she made about growing up Jewish in Woodstock, and what happened when she finally found out she was black. Screens 9:15 p.m. Feb. 14 at Edwards San Marcos and 8:15 p.m. Feb. 15. at Reading Cinemas Clairemont. Courtesy Photos www.lajollalight.com Page B6 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT ‘Cello Goddess’ Maya Beiser to perform with LJS&C From LJS&C Reports T he La Jolla Symphony & Chorus (LJS&C) will present the third concert of its 60th anniversary season “The Nature of Things,” Feb. 7 and 8 in Mandeville Auditorium on the UC San Diego campus. Conducted by Steven Schick, the concert will explore the nature of reflection in three works: Osvaldo Golijov’s cello concerto “Azul”; Chinary Ung’s piece for unaccompanied cello “Khse Buon”; and Carl Nielsen’s earth-shaking Symphony No. 4 “The Inextinguishable.” Cellist Maya Beiser will solo. 1) “Azul” has become one of Golijov’s most successful recent compositions. Written for cellist Yo-Yo Ma and the Boston Symphony, the original version was meant to project a sense of calm and transcendence. After its premiere in 2006, Golijov felt the work incomplete, too innocent. He rewrote “Azul,” expanding the music and changing its character to evoke a meditative energy. Along with cello soloist and orchestra, Golijov includes a small ensemble that consists of a hyperaccordion (an accordion whose range has been extended electronically) played by Mark Danisovzsky, and two percussionists, Fiona Digney and Stephen Solook. Both the small ensemble’s and cellist Beiser’s music will be amplified electronically. 2) “Khse Buon” was composed in 1980 by Cambodian UCSD music professor Chinary Ung. It was his only composition written during an 11-year period when Ung took part in an effort to preserve his native culture after the Cambodian holocaust under Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. Ung became deeply involved in learning, performing and transcribing much of the Cambodian court music, which accompanies traditional Cambodian ballet. “Khse Buon,” (or “four strings,” following a Cambodian tradition of naming music for the solo instrument that plays it) was Ung’s first attempt to integrate string sounds from the East into Western string playing. Solo cellist Maya Beiser will perform it. 3) Nielsen’s Symphony No. 4 (1915-16) represents “that which cannot be extinguished,” an indomitable spirit, a sort of force. Full of violence and conflict, the music finally smashes through this discord to a triumphant close. While the symphony is in the traditional four movements, these are played without pause, and the music seems to flow in one great arc across its 37-minute span. The fourth movement includes the symphony’s most famous feature — dueling timpanists set at opposite sides of the stage. In the end, the conflicts are resolved, and the symphony hurtles to a heroic conclusion. u n If you go: Concert times are 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8 in Mandeville Auditorium at UC San Diego. A pre-concert lecture by Steven Schick will be offered one hour prior to concert times. Tickets from $15 at (858) 534-4637or lajollasymphony.com Parking is free. Cellist Maya Beiser last performed with the orchestra in 2007. Courtesy Quality of Life STARTS HERE From basic personal care including mobility assistance, bathing, and medication reminders to companionship, mental stimulation and exercise, our holistic approach to home care will enrich and enhance the daily lives of your loved ones. Special Promotion Receive $150 off when you sign up for 40+ hours of care! Call for a free in-home consultation (619) 228-9065 | origenhomecare.com www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page B7 The Kitchen Shrink’s Super Bowl Seafood Chowder OPERA’S ULTIMATE BAD BOY! (Serves 4 — recipe may be doubled) n Ingredients: • 1/2 pound of large or jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined • 1/2 pound of scallops (bay or Diver’s, halved) • 1 pound of cod, cubed • 1 large can or jar (28 ounce) of pureed tomatoes • 1 small, sweet onion, diced • 4 garlic cloves, minced • 1 red or yellow pepper diced • 2 stalks of celery, thinly sliced • 2 tablespoons of olive oil • 1/4 teaspoon each of basil, oregano, rosemary and thyme • 1 tablespoon of amber or dark honey • 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth (adjust for desired consistency) • Sea salt and cayenne pepper to taste n Method: In a large soup or saucepan, heat oil on medium and sauté onion, garlic, pepper and celery until tender. Add the fish and seafood, and sear for three or four minutes. Add remaining ingredients, adjusting the broth quantity to desired consistency, and simmer for 30 minutes. Ladle into small chowder bowls, and serve with grilled garlic toast strips. Kitchen Shrink Catharine L. Kaufman Winning eats for Super Bowl Sunday XLIX O n Sunday, Feb. 1, at approximately 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time, tailgate parties will be rockin’ and rollin’ from Foxboro and Boston to Mercer Island, Bellevue and Seattle, making a final pit stop at 1 Cardinals Drive in Glendale, Arizona. Nearly 70,000 stalwart Super Bowl fans (including supermodel Gisele Bündchen) will cozy into the University of Phoenix Football Stadium, transfixed on the steamy turf as hot, hunky quarterback rock stars — New England Patriots’ elite Tom Brady and Seattle Seahawks’ up-andcomer Russell Wilson bandy their athletic and strategic prowess. Then the bathroom break, aka halftime, will be dominated by the iconic tight end — Katy Perry. The rest of the Big Game fans, 150 million coast-to-coast, will be high-definitionhomebound sharing comradery, side bets, food fests and heartburn with their best buds. No food group, combination or type of preparation is out-of-bounds for Super Bowl Sunday. This no-rule policy includes Beluga caviar smeared on a bratwurst or hot dog, or Dom Perignon paired with a bison cheeseburger. In fact, Super Bowl Sunday lays a solid claim to the biggest grilling day of the winter season, and snagging second place for the largest food consumption day of the year, following closely behind Thanksgiving. The average fan will scarf down more than 1,200 empty calories of salt, sugar, spice and grease, while the nation will consume a total of 53 million pounds of guacamole — enough to spread across the University of Phoenix Stadium from end zone to end zone 21-feet deep, 14,500 tons of chips, and 450 million killer chicken wings guzzled down with 21 million kegs of brewskis. Of course, there’s a major post Super Bowl fallout with a 20 percent hike in antacid use. Daah. There’s still time to strategize a more creative (and healthier) game plan if you’re hosting a Super Bowl shindig. Organize a regional potluck incorporating the cuisines of New England, Seattle and Arizona (Sonoran desert), the latter paying homage to the venue. You can whip up some fun new fare and good old standbys with healthy riffs to avoid that collateral antacid damage on Monday morning. Some light and lively New England eats might include a seafood or corn chowda or chili, lobster rolls with New England–style hot dog buns, turkey or roast chicken subs or grinders, American chop suey, Boston baked beans, and for your just desserts New England apple, rhubarb or blueberry popovers. To quench that Big Game thirst there’s crisp apple cider or cranberry cocktail, local New England lagers and ales like Samuel Adams or geographic appropriate cocktails including the Cape Codder or the Boston. For Pacific Northwest cuisine, we can take a culinary lesson from Seattle’s Pike Place Market and serve a smorgasbord of hand-crafted small batch cheeses with assorted crackers and lavash breads, smoked salmon and caper flat breads, crab cake or grilled diver scallop sliders with zesty wasabi tartar sauce accompanied by a savory apple slaw. For sweet Seattle tooths Rainier cherry chews, strudels or cobblers will satisfy the craving, along with anything coffee-flavored from gelatos and biscottis to iced and Irish coffees, espresso cream sodas, martinis or margaritas. Those who enjoy southwest or Sonoran fare can munch on fresh fruit and veggie spears of mango, pineapple, watermelon and jicama coated with a lime-chile blend, or indulge in gourmet fish tacos garnished with pickled carrots, red onions and jalapeños, carne seca or sun-dried shredded beef sautéed with tomatoes, onions and chiles stuffed in tortillas, or a prickly pear cactus gazpacho. u — For other Big Game recipes, e-mail [email protected] FEB 14 • FEB 17 • FEB 20 • FEB 22 • 2015 Lustful, pompous and sadistic, Don Giovanni stalks his latest conquest, but he cannot escape his past sins or the ones who try to bring him to justice. In a shocking conclusion, we find that the living are not the only ones who can seek vengeance. Tickets start at $45 sdopera.com (619) 533-7000 Tickets also available at All performances at the San Diego Civic Theatre. Free lecture one hour prior to each performance. ENGLISH TRANSLATIONS DISPLAYED ABOVE THE STAGE www.lajollalight.com Page B8 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT Dinner with Beneficiaries Las Patronas presents checks, Spirit of Giving award By Ashley Mackin uring the 2015 Las Patronas beneficiary celebration, a dinner held Jan. 21 at Estancia Hotel in La Jolla, there was a lot of giving going on. The La Jolla-based philanthropic organization distributed checks in excess of $20,000 each to 10 major beneficiaries, and bestowed its Spirit of Giving Award. Despite the eleventh-hour cancellation of the 2014 Jewel Ball — the organization’s major fundraising event — Las Patronas raised $881,000 for non-profits across San Diego. When the Ball, themed Moonlit Mambo, was cancelled due to inclement weather, the silent auction went online and Moonlit Mambo chair Susie Piegza said the group received generous, unsolicited underwriting donations. “We had the highest grossing post-ball sale ever!” Piegza joked. Moonlit Mambo was the first cancellation in the organization’s 68-year history. Piegza, along with her Jewel Ball co-chairs Melinda Mahony and Cari Massaad, presented hefty checks, representing about half of the total amount raised, to the major beneficiaries. The remaining funds will be distributed to dozens of minor beneficiaries. Bookended by heartfelt thanks, representatives from each of the recipient organizations shared how the grant would D 2014 Jewel Ball co-chair Melinda Mahony, chair Susie Piegza and co-chair Cari Massaad, stand ready to present checks to San Diego nonprofits. Photos by Ashley Mackin will not eat again until Monday morning when they come back to school.” He said the food bank also serves 28,000 former and active duty service members, and their dependents, every month. n For Parkinson’s Association of San Diego, the grant will fund fitness and physical therapy equipment at an exercise center for patient and research use. Jerry Henberger explained, “If you know anything about Parkinson’s, you know there are two parts: the mental complications and cognitive disorders, and the movement disorder. This grant is going to the motion therapy side, for exercise and postural stability equipment.” He added that after the site visit — at which time Las Patronas members vet the organizations applying for grants — Parkinson’s Association board president Rick Brydges took a fall due to his own Parkinson’s disease, and broke his arm. “When Rick fell, he couldn’t exercise and is now in a wheelchair,” Henberger said. “It was his vision to get this equipment to help those (affected by Parkinson’s related mobility issues) be stable when they walk.” benefit their cause. n A grant to the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank will fund a 12-passenger Visit Mary’s 60th Anniversary Season Fish ‘n’ Chip Fridays Open until 9pm on Fridays serving traditional beer battered Fish & Chips served on English newspaper in a basket 858.263.4614 · 7918 Ivanhoe Ave · La Jolla 92037 marysenglishkitchen.com n The grant for Promises2Kids will buy a 15-passenger van to support foster youth enrolled in the Guardian Scholars Program, a program that offers consistent educational and emotional support for those in foster care. “There are 3,100 children today living away from their families, in foster care, usually because of abuse or neglect,” said its CEO Tonya Torosian. “Of those children, 50 percent will not graduate from high school — not because they aren’t smart, simply s for breakfast, lunch or a lovely afternoon tea! van with removable seats to transport personnel and deliver food. Representing the food bank, Jim Floros said, “Some of the things that surprise people about the Food Bank (is that) we serve 370,000 people every month. Of that population, a lot are seniors living on fixed incomes or children living in poverty. There are still elementary school children in our community for whom their last meal of the week is Friday afternoon at school and they Saturday, February 7 at 7:30 pm Sunday, February 8 at 2:00 pm Mandeville Auditorium, UCSD GUEST ARTIST: MAYA BEISER, cello STEVEN SCHICK conducts OSVALDO GOLIJOV BREAKFAST &Lunch Free pre-concert lecture by Steven Schick one hour before performance. 858-534-4637 • www.lajollasymphony.com www.lajollalight.com because of their circumstances. Foster children who grow up in care have approximately 10 moves in the course of their education. That’s 10 schools, 10 homes or group homes, 10 families and social support networks. I don’t know about you, but I had one. I had one high school, one family, one set of friends.” With support from the Guardian Scholars, she said, 80 percent of participants went on to higher education. Of those, 80 percent have graduated. n For Tradition One, a long-term residential program for men recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, the grant will fund a replacement roof for the main facility, which program executive director Gloria Thompson explained houses the meeting room, dining room and gathering place. “I remember we were having lunch and it was raining, and the rain started coming through the roof, so a couple of guys got up and got some pots and pans from the kitchen to catch the rain,” she said. “By the time lunch was over, we had a trash can catching the water. We’ve been doing that for years.” Thompson said maintenance crews would come in occasionally and patch the roof, but this will be a more permanent solution to “maintain a safe and healthy environment for our guys to be successful in their recovery.” n Other projects funded by Las Patronas grants include: • La Jolla Playhouse: A 15-passenger van for the Performance Outreach Program Tour LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page B9 to transport performers and sets; • Mission Valley YMCA: Replacement turf for an indoor soccer field at Toby Wells Field; • Pro Kids Golf Academy — The First Tee of San Diego: A 12-passenger van to transport students and golf equipment; • San Diego Blood Bank: Getting a bloodmobile for the Blood Collection Program; • San Diego Junior Theatre: LED lighting package for the Casa del Prado Theatre in Balboa Park • Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla: 28 crash carts for the new Scripps Prebys Cardiovascular Institute Spirit of Giving Award Bestowed to those who help Las Patronas in its efforts to host events that serve as major fundraisers, the 2015 Spirit of Giving Award went to the Alpha Project — a repeat beneficiary. Las Patronas immediate past president Jena Joyce explained that in the late 1990s Alpha Project received a grant to buy a van, and soon afterward were in discussions to have a crew of men come and help set-up an upcoming Jewel Ball. Each year since, the Alpha Project has sent a crew to help bring glassware, bars, rolls of fabric, flowers ... whatever is needed, Joyce said. “These are men who have gone through the Alpha Project Program, which offers work and housing opportunities for homeless men. But these eight men are not paid for their time, they are volunteers. Many of them return year after year with a big smile and a can-do attitude,” she said. “Furthermore, they don’t worry about breaking their nails, Alpha Project president and CEO Bob McElroy accepts the Spirit of Giving award. re-applying face cream, getting tan lines or checking on the kids. They keep going until the last truck is unloaded.” Representing the Alpha Project, president and CEO Bob McElroy received the recognition (which in previous years has gone to the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, Ladeki Restaurant Group, Chism Brothers Painting, Randy Cutting of Abbey Party Rentals, and others) with a standing ovation. McElroy explained that the crew is comprised of pre-released convicts in the Alpha Project’s long-term drug and alcohol recovery facility in Vista. They work and participate in treatment from 4 a.m. until 9 p.m., six days a week, for a year. “You really have to want your recovery and one of the biggest blessings — not just from the grants from this organization — is they get treated with respect (by Las Patronas members),” he said. “Eighty percent of graduates are still drug- and alcohol-free, fully employed and living independently. Ninety-three percent in treatment that come to work with you graduate, and are still sober. Why? Because you treat them with respect. You give them so much hope.” At this point, someone from the audience yelled “We love them!” Smiling, McElroy responded, “You have been our biggest champions, so I accept this award on behalf of all the men and women, the tens of thousands of men and women, that have worked their way out of a sleeping bag on the sidewalk and become successful … Every time we have a success story, you have a stake in that. I hope and pray that you realize that.” Next Jewel Ball 2015 Jewel Ball Chair, Cari Massaad, said the 69th annual event, themed “Magnifique!” will be Aug. 8 at La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club and will be a tribute to romance, fashion and elegance. The major beneficiaries will be: Alpha Project, Arc of San Diego, Boys and Girls Club of Greater San Diego, Living Coast Discovery Center, Mountain Health and Community Services, Old Globe Theatre, Preuss School at UCSD, University of San Diego, and San Diego Zoo Global. u — See more photos from Las Patronas’ beneficiary dinner on page B12 MAINLY MOZART’S SPOTLIGHT SERIES FEBRUARY 8 - MAY 31 ANNE MARIE M DERMOTT, CURATOR c THE WORLD’S GREATEST CHAMBER MUSICIANS… CLOSE TO HOME IN LA JOLLA! FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Erin Keefe, violin; Ronald Thomas, cello; Adam Neiman, piano Experience the Art of Fine Dining with breathtaking views of Torrey Pines Golf Course www.LodgeTorreyPines.com | 858.777.6635 11480 North Torrey Pines Road | La Jolla, California 92037 6:30 PRE-CONCERT RECEPTION | 7:30 CONCERT AUDITORIUM AT TSRI • 10620 JOHN JAY HOPKINS DR WWW.MAINLYMOZART.ORG • (619) 46-MUSIC Page B10 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT New Americans Museum Reawakened gallery tells immigrants’ inspiring stories A This tapestry woven in Colombia is one of 12 on display in the New Americans Museum’s Exhibition Gallery. Photos by David L. Coddon Live Here. Give Here! The La Jolla Community Foundation connects people who want to make a difference with the projects and organizations that can help make La Jolla an even better place to live. Make your giving matter here: Join the La Jolla Community Foundation. Membership Levels • Community Leader $1,000 • Patron $2,500 • Pacesetter $5,000 • Visionary $10,000 • Corporate $5,000 Send checks payable to: La Jolla Community Foundation Julie Bronstein, Executive Director 2508 Historic Decatur Road, Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92108 www.lajollacommunityfoundation.org women living, working, mothering and surviving amid all that country’s armed conflict and political turmoil. Her sitespecific exhibit includes a tapestry, a video and elegant lightbox pieces that illuminate these women, literally and figuratively. “The stories are inspiring and I learned a lot about my culture,” said Castaño, whose parents came to the United States from Colombia. The connective message between the two galleries’ exhibits is that “We find a way to evolve and grow and thrive,” said the New Americans Museum’s new executive director, Linda Caballero-Sotelo. The same could be said for the museum, which in addition to hosting four exhibits throughout the year, will offer educational programming in a classroom, and a recording studio for collecting important immigrant testimonials from the region. Among the events upcoming is a U.S. citizenship swearing-in ceremony for children. Being an important learning place for children to come and learn is a major goal of Szekely’s. “We will be able to make young people understand something about the language of art and how it is something they can do,” she said, “and they’ll get a feeling for the country of that art and its people. This is a museum of living, thriving people.” Added guest curator Adriana Martinez, s By David L. Coddon fter a five-hear hiatus, the New Americans Museum has reopened in Point Loma’s NTC at Liberty Station Arts and Culture District — and in a brandnew space. It’s not so much a reopening as a reawakening, and that’s a term that appeals to Deborah Szekely, who founded the museum in 2001. “I feel like a sleeping beauty who’s been taking a nap,” said Szekely, 92. “It’s a very exciting time.” The museum, which was established to honor the nation’s cultural diversity, is back with an exhibition running through March 21 titled “Narratives of Resilience: Reimagining Homeland.” It features, in the museum’s two galleries, tapestries and mixed-media works that in their own way tell the stories of struggle and triumph in communities in Colombia. The Exhibition Gallery houses “Weaving a New Home — San Isidro, Colombia,” with 12 tapestries created mostly between 1966 and 1981 by Colombian women in a barrio above Bogotá, and an accompanying retrospective by photojournalist Patrick Breslin. In the Community Gallery, Los Angelesbased artist Carolyn Castaño’s “Mujeres Que Crean / Women Who Create — Medellín, Colombia: New Works in Miixed Media” tells the personal stories of Colombian www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page B11 Linda Caballero-Sotelo is the new executive director of the reopened New Americans Museum. Museum founder Deborah Szekely “Making it enticing visually captures the children’s attention, and then you go from there.” A major change for the museum is presenting its own exhibitions rather than bringing them in from elsewhere, as was the case in the past. “When we brought in shows, it was wonderful,” Szekely recalled, “but it wasn’t our own creation. Now we are making happenings.” Another major component of the reawakened museum is the integration of digital technology. This will translate to, among other things, a digital histories archiving project. Telling stories remains the museum’s raison d’etre. “Having the opportunity to show amazing and incredible exhibitions that provoke and excite is what we’re about,” Caballero-Sotelo said. “We collect narratives and testimonials as opposed to things.” The reopening of the museum is a proud moment for Alan Ziter, NTC executive director. “There are so many stories that new Americans have that don’t often get told,” he said. “Here’s an opportunity to engage the public in those stories. In the end, we are all immigrants. We’ve all come from somewhere else.” u The exhibit ‘Weaving a New Home — San Isidro, Colombia’ features tapestries collected by Deborah Szekely and photos by Patrick Breslin. New Americans Museum 2015 Exhibitions ■ Address: 2825 Dewey Road, Suite 102, Liberty Station, Point Loma ■ Phone: (619) 756-7707 ■ Website: newamericansmuseum.org ■H  ours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday ■ Admission: Free ■ Through March 21: ‘Narratives of Resilience: Reimagining Homeland’ ■ April 10-July 4: ‘Becoming All-American: Celebrating Immigrants in Major League Baseball’ ■ July-September: ‘Meletas Migrantes/ Migrant Suitcases,’ curated by Ignacio Vazquez Paravano At The Marine Room, Every Meal is a Special Occasion. “Assisting with care needs when VAlentine’s Day you need a little or a lot of help” Specializing in Home Care needs for adults. Specializing in Alzheimer’s and Rehabilitation Care Caregiver’s Live-In or Hourly RN guidance at a time of uncertainty Saturday, February 14, 5 to 10 p.m. | $125 per person The Marine Room has been voted San Diego’s “Most Romantic” and “Best View” year after year. Make your reservation and treat your sweetheart to an unforgettable evening. Indulge in a decadent four-course dinner featuring Verbena Butter Basted Lobster Tail, Midwestern Black Angus Filet Mignon and more. Colleen Van Horn RN, BSN, PHN, CCM Toll-Free 1-877-731-1442 www.innovativehc.com Page B12 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT SOCIAL LIFE Las Patronas beneficiary dinner links patrons, charities T o celebrate the distribution of more than $881,000 to non-profits across San Diego, the La Jolla-based philanthropic group Las Patronas hosted a dinner party Jan. 21 at Estancia Hotel in La Jolla. The grant funds came from underwriting donations and silent auction proceeds from the rained out (but financially successful) Jewel Ball “Moonlit Mamboâ€? in August 2014. u Read more about the dinner on page B8 Photos by Ashley Mackin Alpha Project president and CEO Bob McElroy and Las Patronas immediate past president Jena Joyce A standing ovation for Spirit of Giving recipient, the Alpha Project. 2015 Las Patronas president Annette Bradbury and 2014 Jewel Ball chair Susie Piegza La Jolla Playhouse managing director Michael Rosenberg Las Patronas members Kathryn Hamon, Clarissa Keyes and Marie Browning Scripps Health Foundation directors Mary Braunwarth and Valerie Wingfield Immediate past president Jena Joyce and 2015 Jewel Ball chair Cari Massaad Jim and Elpeth Myer with Tricia and Bill Kellogg Las Patronas member Elizabeth Estey, San Diego Junior Theatre public-affairs director Theresa Wulf and San Diego Junior Theatre artistic director Rayme Sciaroni Former Las Patronas president Pat Marsch and former Jewel Ball chair Erin Wyer New Las Patronas member Elsie Arredondo and her husband Danny Incoming Las Patronas members Lauren Weiss, Kelly Kjos, Shay Stephens, Ceryl Cousino, Karly Cole and Carolyn Brann Las Patronas member Randi Hegeler, Tradition One executive director Gloria Thompson and Tradition One grant writer Delores von Mirbach www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page B13 ‘Murder for Two’: A madcap musical who dun it? By Diana Saenger What happens to a detective trying to solve a murder at a birthday party when he encounters a crowd of zany suspects comes to light in “Murder for Two” at The Old Globe Theatre. Joe Kinosian plays The Suspects (and wrote the book and music along with Kellen Blair) and Ian Lowe portrays detective Marcus. Scott Schwartz (Old Globe’s “A Room with a View,” La Jolla Playhouse’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”) directs the musical, which Chicago Shakespeare Theater recently recognized as Best New Work — Musical or Review. “My writing partner Kellen Blair and I were drawn to creating a silly farce based around a murder mystery,” Kinosian said. “We were influenced by screwball comedy performers and directors; the Marx Brothers above all others, but we love Preston Sturges’ wordplay as well.” Lowe, who worked with Kinosian on “Murder for Two” in New York and on tour, said he responded to many of the play’s elements. “I’ve found a number of scripts that require an actor to play piano as they are always on my radar,” he said. “When I read this one, it totally appealed to my sense of humor, and the piano component was challenging and fun to tackle. “There is a mystery being solved during the course of the evening, but the play is definitely a comedy first and foremost,” Kinosian said. Joe Kinosian as The Suspects and Ian Lowe as Marcus star in ‘Murder for Two,’ through March 1 at The Old Globe Theatre. Joan Marcus Lowe, a big fan of stories by Agatha Christie, Clue and other comedic murder mysteries, added, “I love that the show borrows from a lot of those ideas in this zany, screwball musical,” where the grand piano has a center-stage spot. “There are moments where director Schwartz and the actors found ways to make the piano theatrical in the show that adds to the storytelling.” Lowe describes his character as someone who wants nothing more than to be a good detective. “Marcus is passionate about all Dr. Serena Kurt, DDS Dr. Serena Kurt, DDS is one of the top dentists for cosmetic, laser and Implant dentistry in San Diego. Her purpose is to provide exceptional dental care in a friendly, comfortable and elegant setting. things police-related,” Lowe said. “He’s memorized all the things that make up a great detective. He’s determined and focused on solving this mystery. But because it’s a comedy, the suspects are throwing thousands of wrenches into the mix that prevent Marcus from quickly finding a solution. He also has a backstory, so every step along the way is highly charged for him.” Kinosian said, “When we were writing the play, that was the notion — this sweet, earnest, young police officer is trying to prove himself at the crime scene before the real detective shows up, and all of the suspects have different reasons and tactics to distract him from doing what he needs to do.” Kinosian plays 10 characters and said each suspect evolved over time. “There are three members of a 12-member boys choir for which I walk on my knees for them and talk like a reject from a ‘Little Rascals’ movie. The leading female character is me imitating my friend, Lauren.” Mystery and comedy usually have different audiences but not here, said the creators. “We’ve had a range of audiences and it’s been fun to see their responses,” Lowe said. “At a student matinee in Arizona, it was fun to see how they enjoyed the irreverent humor. I see it as having a PG-rating, but for precocious children, because there’s a lot of swear words.” Kinosian said, “It’s cross-generational in its appeal; those age 60-plus will know the references to old movies, slapstick, screwball comedies, film noir and nods to vaudeville … those in their 30s or 40s will appreciate The Simpson’s- Family Guy-style delivery of surreal comedy. Patrons ages 12-18 will enjoy some immature jokes and a lot of people falling down.” u n IF YOU GO: “Murder for Two” runs through March 1 at The Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way in Balboa Park, San Diego. Tickets from $29 at (619) 234-5623. TheOldGlobe.org Daniel Jewelry In anticipation of retirement after 36th years, take advantage Experience quality service with a of our sales on the latest styles of the jewelry industry from 69 EXAM brands such as Roberto Coin, Judith Ripka, Montblanc Pens & many more for new patients. •Featuring fine gems like diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and tanzanite Call us today at (858) 800-3909 4453 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92117 www.CosmeticDentistinSanDiego.com • necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and more • TAG Huer and Seiko Astron watches available • Limited stock available 1241 Prospect Street | 858-454-8001 Page B14 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT ‘Balboa Park, 1915 & 1935’ La Jolla’s Best Bets For Events Overland, 1915 Saxon, 1915 Model T Runabout, 1917 Smith Flyer, 1922 Hupmobile, 1930 Lincoln, and a 1932 Plymouth. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily. 2080 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park. Admission: $4-$9. (619) 231-2886. sdautomuseum.org Tickets for Two More fun online at www.lajollalight.com Classic Cars on Display northcoastrep.org n French pianist Alexandre Tharaud premieres a new recital, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2 at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library, 1008 Wall St. Tharaud is heralded for his brilliantly conceived programs and best-selling recordings that range from Bach, Chopin, Rameau and Ravel, to music inspired by Paris cabarets of the 1920s. Tickets: $40$45. (858) 454-5872. ljathenaeum.org/chamberconcerts.html It’s the FBI! n Kiwanis Club of La Jolla hosts a special meeting with FBI Special Agent James Verdi, All Hallows Academy Catholic School Established in 1964 Now Enrolling for the 2015-2016 School Year T K - 8th grade • Faith formation & character development • Community service and outreach • Engaging, rigorous academic curriculum • Small group instruction • Technology integration • Fine Arts, Foreign Language, Music • Competitive member of Parochial Sports League programs • Passionate certified teachers dedicated to ongoing professional development 1250 PROSPECT ST LA JOLLA, CA 92037 858.454.9983 O P E N 7 D AY S 1 0 : 3 0 - 6 : 0 0 For more information see www.allhallowsacademy.com or contact the main office at 858-459-6074 to schedule your tour Gifts from the HEART s n San Diego Automotive Museum recently unveiled the exhibit “Balboa Park, 1915 & 1935,” which will be on display until March 27. The show features a 1909 Tourist, 1910 Cadillac Demi Tonneau, 1913 Pierce Arrow (pictured), 1913 Cadillac, 1915 n L.A. Noir Unscripted is a stage production that mixes the dark and seedy side of the 1940s with improvisational sketch comedy. It’s a night of shadowy tales featuring dangerous ladies and trenchcoated gents all performed without a clue — except for audience suggestions, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987 Lomas Santa Fe Drive. Tickets: $25. (858) 481-1055. Alexandre Tharaud LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page B15 Don’t Try This At Home Hillary Young a certified bomb technician in the San Diego Field Office, noon, Friday, Jan. 30. A buffet lunch will be served from 12-12:30 p.m., club business from 12:30-1 p.m., followed by a 30-minute presentation by Verdi. La Jolla Community Center, 6811 La Jolla Blvd. $15. RSVP: [email protected] Science Series Starts n Ever wonder what would happen if you took a leaf blower to a roll of toilet paper? Or try to break a metal pipe with water? Find out at the Don’t Try This At Home series of interactive programs that explore the messy, crazy side of science, daily through May 10. Starting Jan. 31, the Tinkering Studio offers an extension of the show with even more experiments. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park. Tickets from $14.95. (619) 238-1233. rhfleet.org Wildlife Woes Dissected n Hillary Young, Ph.D., will discuss “Of Mice and Men: Effects of Wildlife Loss on Ecosystem and Human Health,” 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29 at The Bishop’s School, 7607 La Jolla Blvd. Young is a Bishop’s graduate, class of 1997, and a guest of the Shaffer Family Foundation Endowed Science Lecture series. Free. bishops.com/ sciencelecture Nikolay Khozyainov Piano Classics Concert n Nikolay Khozyainov will perform Arabesque in C Major, op. 18 (Schumann); Etude No. 5 “Feux follets,” “Apres une lecture du Dante,” “Rhapsodie Espagnole” (Liszt); “Pavane pour une infante defunte” (Ravel) and Piano Sonata No. 1, Op. 28 (Rachmaninoff), 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31 at Sherwoood Auditorium, Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, 700 Prospect St. A prelude lecture by Steven Cassedy begins at 7 p.m. courtesy of La Jolla Music Society. Born in Blagoveshchensk, a city in Russian Far East in 1992, Khozyainov began to play the piano at age 5. He studied at Central Musical School of the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory (1999-2010). Tickets: $30-$80. (858) 459-3728. ljms.org u RELIGION & spirituality Catholic Church 6602 La Jolla Scenic Drive So., La Jolla, California (858) 459-2975 • www.allhallows.com on Kline St. between Draper and Eads) 858-454-0713 www.ljpres.org Sunday Services: 8:45 & 11:00 Traditional with the choir & organ 10:00 Contemporary with the band CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH OPEN HEARTS OPEN MINDS OPEN DOORS FOURTH CHURCH OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST, SAN DIEGO “O give thanks unto the Lord for he is good; his mercy endureth for ever” - Psalms 136:1 Sunday Services and Sunday School 10:00am Wednesday Testimony Meetings 7:30pm 1270 Silverado, La Jolla • (858) 454-2266 Reading Room • 7853 Girard Avenue • (858) 454-2807 esbyteria Pr Rev. Raymond G. O’Donnell 7715 Draper Ave. (underground parking n Weekdays: M, T, W & F Mass at 7am Communion: Th 7am & Sat at 8am Reconciliation: Sat at 4:30pm, Sat Vigil at 5:30pm Sunday Masses: 8am & 9:30am Children’s Liturgy of the Word and Childcare La Jolla Presbyterian Church CHAPEL OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 10 a.m. TRADITIONAL SUNDAY WORSHIP IN THE SANCTUARY SUNDAY SCHOOL • CHILD CARE AVAILABLE 5 p.m. PRAISE, PRAYER AND COMMUNION IN THE CHAPEL 858-454-7108 6063 La Jolla Blvd. Rev. Dr. Walter Dilg, Pastor www.lajollaunitedmethodist.org Invite readers to join in worship and fellowship. Contact Michael Ratigan today to place your ad. 858.886.6903 · [email protected] www.lajollalight.com Page B16 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT La Jolla Newcomers Club plans Mardi Gras gala By Nancy Pfleg new year of friendships is beginning at the La Jolla Newcomers Club with many special events, lunch socials, book clubs, hiking parties, bowling, Mah Jongg and bunco games, museum tours and more. Members are getting ready to let the good times roll on Fat Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the club’s Mardi Gras Gala. The event will feature a gourmet dinner, signature cocktails, live music and dancing at the Cuvier Club in La Jolla. Everyone is sure to “laissez les bons temps rouler!” There’s still time for new 92037 residents within the past three years to join and learn more at lajollanewcomers.org u A Mardi Gras committee members Ursula Moede, Judy Pruett, Barbara Zimonja, Claudette Heffner, Stephanie Shapiro, Eleanor Shorter, Carol Rumsey and Sheila Dershowitz. Committee members not pictured: Beverly Fink, Linda Low Kalkstein, Linda Karelis and Judi Omson Hans Yeager Newcomers take an architectural tour of the Salk Institute on Jan. 14. Club members hike along the Lake Poway Loop Trail on Jan. 17. Front Row: Elizabeth Westlake, Anita Lindberg, Sarah Forster, Gabrielle Defesche and Linda LaCom. Back Row: Hank Peterson, Nancy Koch, Jan Morris, Judi Omson, Tim Morris, Mary Mitchel (unidentified guest) and Curt Koch Courtesy Photos sponsored columns caRlos guTieRRez la Jolla Real estate 858.551.3380 2015 housing Market Predictions After a prosperous 2014 that saw the housing market in the best shape it has been in since the crash nearly a decade ago, 2015 expects to be even stronger. If this coming year might find you in the housing market as a seller or a buyer, here are 5 predictions that you may want to keep an eye on. 1. The End of Foreclosures After the housing bubble burst nearly seven years ago, foreclosures and short sales flooded the market. And while 2014 saw foreclosure inventories decrease by 30%, that number should be even bigger this year, bringing the amount of foreclosures to a normal level and essentially putting a close to the foreclosure crisis. This should go a long way in normalizing the market. 2. More New Homes In 2014, construction on new housing units came in around 1 million, which actually isn’t that high. But that number should rise significantly in 2015. One of the reasons is a shift in focus. Last year, new building was centered around multifamily homes, but 2015 should see a large increase in single-family homes. Jonathan Smoke, Chief Economist at realtor.com says, “We are forecasting 16% growth in starts, driven now more by growth in single-family starts, which we are expecting to grow 21%.” In fact, the only thing that might put a ceiling on growth is the supply of labor and materials. 3. Millennials Joining the Market The millennial generation (those born between 1981 and 2000) is actually a bigger group than the baby boomer generation. The older end of the milliennials are at the age now where they are beginning to get married, start a family, and the job market is helping make this possible. In 2015, about 65% of first-time home buyers will be from this generation. In fact, their impact on the market is really just beginning. In the next five years, roughly two-thirds of household growth will come from the millennial generation. 4. Credit Still an Issue The one thing that might keep the millennials from buying as many houses as they might want, is the availability of financing. For the past four years, strict mortgage qualifications have kept many potential buyers from purchasing their first home with a bank loan. In fact, according to Smoke, “...at least 10% of current homeowners with mortgages would not qualify for a new mortgage today.” This trend is expected to continue into 2015. Smoke did note that if access to credit were to open up, it could make a big impact, essentially opening the market to up to as many 750,000 would-be home buyers. 5. Mortgage Rates on the Rise One of the only downsides to the improved job market, is that it will inevitably cause mortgage rates to rise as well. The Federal Reserve has indicated that it will increase the federal funds rate which does not directly affect mortgage rates, but it will still have a substantial impact. While the Federal Reserve might not make this increase until 2016, Smoke has suggested mortgage rates will rise ahead of the federal rates, possibly increasing in mid 2015. “Our forecast for housing assumes the 30-year fixed rate will reach 5% by the end of 2015,” Smoke said. While still relevant when looking at the big picture, these are predictions and trends at a national level, but really the housing market is a local one. If you are looking for a real estate professional in the San Diego area who is up to speed with the current market and has the experience required in the complex analysis that comes with buying or selling a home, please don’t hesitate to visit my website, http://carlosgsandiego.blogspot.com, or call me at 858-551-3380. look to these local authorities for professional guidance on daily living at lajollalight.com/columns Michael Pines DR. 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Photos for illustration purposes only. Offer ends date of publication. *Limit one per household. www.lajollalight.com Page B18 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT Humor trumps sorrow in ‘The Darrell Hammond Project’ By Diana Saenger American actor, stand-up comedian and impressionist Darrell Hammond can boast the longest tenure of any cast member in “Saturday Night Live” history — 14 years (19952009). Now he takes the stage in the world premiere of “The Darrell Hammond Project,” directed by La Jolla Playhouse Artistic Director Christopher Ashley, Jan. 31-March 8 at Potiker Theatre, UCSD campus. “I have been a decades-long major fan of Darrell and his channeling of other people on ‘SNL,’” Ashley said. “I was one of the first people who bought his book when it came out — ‘God, If You’re Not Up There, I’m F***ed’.’ It was not what I expected from the comedy and characters he has done; it’s an honest off-look at a terrifying (abusive) childhood. “I thought this would make an amazing stage piece in this kind of era and reveal the detective story of Darrell’s past. I think of it Christopher as the dark side of funny because it’s tough Ashley and funny. We did some workshops over the last year and performed it at a school and comedy club. That was tremendously useful in starting the rehearsal process here.” Hammond, with Elizabeth Stein, wrote the play based on his book, which Ashley refers to as “surprising, incredibly funny and deeply moving.” “It’s like the trifecta to be funny, harrowing and moving because his writing background is largely in standup and characters,” Ashley said. “Writing a 90-minute piece as opposed to a stand-up set is a new form. Darrell was incredibly open to, ‘How does the theater piece work, and how do you build a set of ideas around emotion?’ He’s one of those newcomers excited to discover what he doesn’t know, and he brings a skill set of comic chops, writing Darrell Hammond from ‘Saturday Night Live,’ appears in his one-man show ‘The Darrell Hammond Project’ at the La Jolla Playhouse. Courtesy Photos chops and a really evolved dedication.” Part of Hammond’s detective story is trying to figure out things about his abusive childhood and past. “We’ve worked on how to keep a handle on that and not invite the audience into his therapy,” Ashley said. “It’s really honest for him to own that history and events and not be driven by them. It’s rough to wake up every morning and know you have to relive them.” “The Darrell Hammond Project” is also very funny, as often the case, comedians use humor to diffuse the dark moments of their lives. Hammond unravels his heartbreaking and hilarious journey in this show. “Darrell’s humor saved his life so it wasn’t darker,” Ashley said. “As a young child, he was gifted at imitating and channeling neighbors and what was funny about people around him to make other people laugh … that distracted from some of his real-life, so his comedy was both an antidote and prevention from cruelty.” Hammond plays 63 characters in “The Darrell Hammond Project,” including politicians such as Clinton, Cheney, George W. Bush, Al Sharpton, shrinks along the way, his parents, his high school football coach, and movie stars like Sean Connery. “The Connery segment on ‘SNL’ was a little risqué and was only done on late night,” Ashley said. “We only do bits of it, but that was some of the most-searched material ever. Darrell is the longest-running cast member on that show — on and off for 25 years. He’s back on it now and will be on the 40th anniversary special in February. If you grew up in America at any point in the last 40 years and watched television, you probably have seen ‘SNL,’ and will really enjoy this show.” u n If you go: “The Darrell Hammond Project” runs Jan. 31-March 8 at Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, UCSD campus. Note: The show contains strong language, mature themes and adult situations. Tickets from $15 at (858) 550-1010 or lajollaplayhouse.org www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page B19 Social Life Calendar n 106th Charity Ball Magic of Miracles • Benefits Rady Children’s Hospital Neuro-Oncology Program • Jan. 31 • Hotel Del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave. • (619) 475-3255 • March 21 • La Jolla Playhouse’s Potiker Theatre, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, on the UC San Diego campus • From $500 • (858) 550-1070, ext. 144 • [email protected] n Darlington House Winter Classical Musicales • Benefits Social Service League’s affordable housing for seniors • Feb. 15: Members of the San Diego Symphony • March 15: Torrey Pines Chamber Players • Darlington House, 7441 Olivetas Ave., La Jolla • 2-4 p.m., includes Champagne, wine, cheese and hors d’oeuvres, free valet parking • Tickets: $40 per concert • (858) 454-7625 n KPBS Gala • Benefits KPBS programming • Vintage travel theme • March 28 • Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines, 10950 N. Torrey Pines Road • Tickets: $500 each; $5,000 table of 10 • kpbs.org/gala n La Jolla Playhouse Gala 2015 • Benefits La Jolla Playhouse programs From 12 Questions, B1 If you could snap your fingers and have it done, what might you add, subtract or improve in the area? I’d remove those hideous “brochure boxes” disgracing the Village … such an embarrassment. We also need a really good deli like Milton’s … and a Greek restaurant … and a store specializing in dress socks, in case I’m ever allowed to attend another Jewel Ball. Who or what inspires you? The spirits and minds of animals inspire me. Animals are so pure. They make no judgments. They know nothing of hate, prejudice or unkindness. If given the chance, they love us unconditionally. They live in the present moment with no specific awareness of the past and none of the future. If you asked your cat what time it is, it would say, “It’s now. What else is there?” They have so much to teach us. If you hosted a dinner party for eight, whom (living or deceased) would you invite? The Buddha, Stephen Sondheim, Frank Sinatra, Jules Verne, Johnny Carson, singer/ songwriter Gino Vanelli, The Dalai Lama and the most truly extraordinary person I’ve ever known, my wife Pam. What is it that you most dislike? Cruelty to animals. I’ve devoted my life and its every resource to prevent and stop it. My decades-long work at this has given me a doctorate level understanding of horrific animal abuse, particularly institutional cruelty on factory farms and in research labs. Animal suffering has literally ruined my sleep every night for 40 years. What is your most-prized possession? As a Buddhist, I try (and wow, it’s difficult) to not have attachment to “things.” (Did I mention how hard that is?) If I interpret that question to ask what is indispensably important in my life, that’s easy: Pam, the animals sharing our home and my work for The Humane Society of the United States. n 16th Sharon’s Ride.Run.Walk • Benefits Epilepsy Foundation of San Diego County • April 26, De Anza Cove Park in Mission Bay, San Diego • 15-mile bike ride or 5K walk/run • epilepsysandiego.org u What are you currently reading? I always have several books going at once. Right now, I’m reading “Deep Down Dark,” about the rescue of the 33 Chilean mine workers, plus “The Andy Cohen Diaries,” and the latest and best biography of Bob Hope. I also continuously re-read the astounding works of Jules Verne. What do you do for fun? I treasure every moment spent in the company of animals. When a cat’s on my chest or I’m feeding pigeons or in a field with cows, I experience absolute, pure joy. We’re also movie freaks. We see everything. I worship Scorsese. And, of course, I spend many cherished hours each week alone in a quiet corner reading the La Jolla Light. What is your philosophy of life? Never cause harm to another living being. The Buddha said, “Do not destroy life nor cause others to destroy life, nor approve of others’ killing. Refrain from oppressing all living beings in the world, whether strong or weak.” When Pam and I established our charitable endeavor, The Unicorn Foundation, we chose that name because a unicorn never steps on another creature. What would be your dream vacation? Anywhere in the world where I can scuba dive is a dream vacation. More than half the show is down there. If I could physically do it, I’d go diving in a birdbath. What clothing item in your closet will you never part with? A pathetic old denim shirt I’ve had since Lewis and Clark discovered the Beach & Tennis Club. There’s also a pair of powderblue Capri pants in there that Pam doesn’t know about. What are your favorite comfort foods? Grilled-cheese sandwiches. We’re vegan and we’ve found a marvelous cheese alternative from Daiya. It’s available everywhere. I also take great comfort in beer. Fortunately, that’s available everywhere, too. u La Jolla Light’s Caught on Camera Community Photo Contest Cutest baby or Kid Photo Enter at www.lajollalight.com for a chance to win a $100 gift CertifiCate to biJou Sponsored by: biJou frenCh bistro 1205 Prospect Street www.bijoufrenchbistro.com 858.750.3695 Go to lajollalight.com and click on the online contest photo player to enter your submission. Enter as often as you like. See site for rules and guidelines. Winning photo will be selected by editors based in part by the number of reader votes per photo - so get your friends to click on the contest link to vote for your photo. Winning photo will be published in the La Jolla Light. To place your ad call 800.914.6434 PAGE B20 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT HOME & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 1920’s - mid 1980’s CLASSIC EUROPEAN SPORTS CARS Wanted byy Collector NHP New Horizon Painting Over 25 Years Experience • Crown Molding, Acoustic Removal • Retexturing, Drywall, Stucco Repair • Complete Surface Prep • Premium Paint & Materials FREE ESTIMATES Andy 858-775-9403 Bonded & Insured Lic. #643331 Artistic Tree Lacing • Fine Pruning and Thinning Tree and Stump Removal COMPLETE TREE CARE When Excellence Counts Member Tree Care Industry Assoc. California Association of Tree Trimmers Satisfaction Guaranteed • Since 1979 Free Estimates 858.270.1742 - crownpointclippers.com Crown Point Clippers Tree Service, Inc. 15% OFF when you mention this ad* Lic# 723867 • FERRARI • LAMBORGHINI • PORSCHE - 50’s-60’s - 356 ALL models 60’s-80’s - 911, 912, 77-89-911 Turbos/Cabriolets • ALFAS - 20-70’s, Italian Cars ALL Models • MERCEDES - 40’s-70’s, 190SL, 230SL, 250SL, 280 SL, Early Cabriolets • JAGUAR - 30’s-70’s, XK, XKE, Early Cabriolets • VWS - 50’s-60’s Bugs, Buses, Ghia’s • ALL EXOTICS - Need your garage back? I will gladly accept cars in “As Is” Condition, Restored, Barn Finds, Projects. All interesting classic/sports cars considered! GENEROUS Call Roy Powell 602-810-2179 • 858-454-0856 Visit our Website www.RKPCLASSICS.com PRICES PAID Fabulous Furnishings and Décor for Sale. www.CTOnLineAuctions.com/LaJolla (858) 768-2000 Your local Specialists for Moving and Estate Liquidation Services www.CaringTransitionsLaJolla.com 10 - FOR RENT HOUSES FOR SALE LA JOLLA 4BR/3.5BA w/ OCEAN VIEWS $7,500/mo. 3-story, 3,500 sqft home, culde-sac, tropical landscaping, marble/ solid oak floors, huge decks. Available NOW. Min. 1 yr. lease, unfurnished. Hillary, 858-472-0200 Randy, 858-472-0300 Klonoffc@ illinois.edu RENT YOUR SPACE IN THE MARKETPLACE CALL TODAY! 800-914-6434 or 858.218.7200 LA JOLLA - ALTA 2 3br/2ba Condo with View, 2 car garage. 1 Story, 1800 sf. For sale by owner. Asking, $882,000. Cell, 619-495-8080. 40 - BUSINESS SERVICES CAREGIVER COMPANION Educated, compassionate La Jolla woman. Errands, traveling, cooking, etc. 858-652-9660 CAREGIVER Experienced with ref’s. Luisa 619-405-7060 CAREGIVER - COMPANION Reliable. FT/PT. Excellent ref. I DO IT ALL! 619-471-6846 MIND & BODY ECLECTIQUE Massage. Swedish, Deep Tissue, etc. Lyn 619-500-2332 MASSAGE THERAPIST AT YOUR DOOR 6 yrs exp. New client intro rate. Lic. #43851 225-938-7230 SERVICES INDEX 10 - FOR RENT Houses 70 - JOBS & EDUCATION Help Wanted 20 - REAL ESTATE For Sale 90 - HOME SERVICES Lawn & Garden 40 - BUSINESS SERVICE Caregiver Services 100 - LEGALS CROSSWORD COMPUTER PROBLEMS? WE CAN FIX IT! We come to you or you come to us for the lowest rates and FREE diagnostics! R&R Services 858-449-1749 WINE APPRAISER/BUYER Professional wine appraisal. Will also purchase wine outright. 858-245-3568 70 - JOBS & EDUCATION HELP WANTED OFFER YOUR SERVICES IN THE MARKETPLACE CALL TODAY! 800-914-6434 or 858-218-7200 DEADLINES: Classified Liners Monday 4pm Boxed Service ad Monday 12pm LEGALS : OFFICE HOURS: Mon-Fri 8am – 5pm 858-218-7237 To Place Your Service ad: 800-914-6434 or 858-218-7200 BIM/DRAFTER Elec Engr Consulting Firm seeks Exp in AutoCAD 2012 & Revit MEP. Email: [email protected] PT ADMINISTRATIVE/ ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT (La Jolla) We are looking for a parttime Administrative Assistant with accounting capabilities. Will be needed 20-25 hrs per week (5 days a week/45 hours per day), at rate of $15/hr. Job includes mailing out invoices/statements, assisting clients & sales reps, applying payments to accounts, debits/credits as needed, light phone duties and assisting walk-in traffic. Applicant will be the main assistant for the Group Business Manager. Must be well-spoken and polished and a college degree is preferred. Knowledge of Excel and Word are required. Attendance and reliability are a must as applicant will be relied upon by several departments and an integral part of our day to day operations. This could grow into a full-time position in the future. Please send resume and cover letter detailing your accounting and administrative experience to, [email protected] 90 - HOME SERVICES LAWN & GARDEN COMPLETE YARD CARE La Jolla - 25 yrs experience. Bill (858) 279-9114 CG 100 - LEGAL NOTICES STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME File No. 2015-002260 Fictitious Business Name(s) to be Abandoned: Pacific Beach Grooming Located at: 1666 Garnet St., #923, Pacific Beach, CA, 92109, San Diego County. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in San Diego County on: 09/09/2011, and assigned File no. 2011-025601. Fictitious business name is being abandoned by: 1. Victoria M. Garduno, 1613 Emerald St., Pacific Beach, CA 92109 2. Becky Legris, 502 N. Zeyn St., Anaheim, CA 92805 This business is conducted by: Co-Partners. I declare that all Better BREATH, Better HEALTH, Better LIFE… YOGA with Jaruska Adapted to Your Needs $ or Exterior 300 Interior Painting Complete! OFF CONCRETE MASONRY BRICK • BLOCK • STONE • TILE DRAINAGE • WATER PROOFING PATIOS • PATHS • STEPS ALL WALLS & FLAT WORK DRIVEWAYS • CONCRETE www.carsonmasonrysandiego.com 858.456.9964 [email protected] 858.459.0959 858.405.7484 information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).) This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk, Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., of San Diego County on 01/26/2015. Victoria M. Garduno. LJ1864. Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 2015. MA, CCC-Sup, Speech/Language Pathologist. LJ1863. Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-001239 Fictitious Business Name(s): Synaptic Press Located at: 2031 Paseo Dorado, Apt. 30, La Jolla, CA, 92037, San Diego County. This business is registered by the following: Jennifer Diane Cohen, 2031 Paseo Dorado, Apt. 30, La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business has not yet started. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/14/2015. Jennifer Diane Cohen. LJ1865. Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-001483 Fictitious Business Name(s): Pepper Bella Located at: 1360 Piedra St., San Diego, CA, 92154, San Diego County. This business is registered by the following: Liliana Berenice Williams, 1360 Piedra St., San Diego, CA, 92154. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business has not yet begun. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/16/2015. Liliana Berenice Williams. LJ1860. Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-002068 Fictitious Business Name(s): a. Full Spectrum Speech Language Therapy b. Full Spectrum Speech Therapy Located at: 617 Camino Santa Barbara, Solana Beach, CA, 92075, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 617 Camino Santa Barbara, Solana Beach, CA 92075. This business is registered by the following: Amy R. Kraus, 617 Camino Santa Barbara, Solana Beach, CA 92075. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business was 1/9/15. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/23/2015. Amy Kraus, • William Carson - Contractor’s Lic #638122 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-001262 Fictitious Business Name(s): Nearby SD Located at: 7590 Fay Ave., Suite 200, La Jolla, CA, 92037, San Diego County. This business is registered by the following: Nathaniel Broughton, 6464 Dowling Dr., La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business was 7/10/2013. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/14/2015. Nathaniel Broughton, Partner. LJ1862. Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-000563 Fictitious Business Name(s): Deirdre Andrews / Young Actors Located at: 6445 Avenida Wilfredo, La Jolla, CA, 92037, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 6445 Avenida Wilfredo, La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is registered by the following: Deirdre Andrews, 6445 Avenida Wilfredo, La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business was on 05/01/2007. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/08/2015. Deirdre Andrews, Owner. LJ1859. Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-001475 Fictitious Business Name(s): La Jolla IT Consulting Located at: 4411 Caminito Sana #2, San Diego, CA, 92122, San Diego County. This business is registered by the following: La Jolla IT Consulting, 4411 Caminito Sana #2, San Diego, CA, 92122, California. This business is conducted by: A Corporation. The first day of business was on 09/02/2014. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/16/2015. Yogita Sharma, President. LJ1861. Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-001399 Fictitious Business Name(s): a. Hope & Help Enterprise b. Hope Help Enterprise Located at: 2185 Station Village Way, Apartment 2218, San Diego, CA, 92108, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 2185 Station Village Way, LA JOLLA LIGHT - JANUARY 29, 2015 - Page B21 To place your ad call 800.914.6434 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2014-033530 Fictitious Business Name(s): a. Jewel Coast Music b. Hannah Ford Music Located at: 5227 La Jolla Hermosa Ave., La Jolla, CA, 92037, San Diego County. Mailing Address: PO Box 22514, San Diego, CA 92192. This business is registered by the following: Hannah Ford, 5227 La Jolla Hermosa Ave., La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business was 12/30/14. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/30/2014. Hannah Ford. LJ1848. Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-000936 Fictitious Business Name(s): Security Investment Partners Located at: 2907 Shelter Island Drive, #105-405, San Diego, CA, 92106, San Diego County. This business is registered by the following: Security Investment Partners LLC, 1011 Anchorage Lane, G-53, San Diego, CA 92106, CA. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company. The first day of business was 04/25/2005. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/12/2015. Charles David MacVean, Owner/Principal/ Managing Member. LJ1856. Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2014-033235 Fictitious Business Name(s): Peaks Located at: 400 Prospect St., #1A, La Jolla, CA, 92037, San Diego County. This business is registered by the following: Peaks Coaching, Inc., 400 Prospect Street, #1A, La Jolla, CA 92037, California. This business is conducted by: A Corporation. The first day of business was 1/3/13. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/24/2014. Frank Carter, President. LJ1855. Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-000701 Fictitious Business Name(s): Lil Dipper Located at: 4130 La Jolla Village Dr., Suite 102, San Diego, CA, 92037, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 9700 Gilman Drive, #185, La Jolla, CA 92093. This business is registered by the following: Ragazza Inc., 9700 Gilman Drive, #185, La Jolla, CA 92093, California. This business is conducted by: A Corporation. The first day of business has not yet started. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/09/2015. Barbara Donovan, President. LJ1853. Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-000549 Fictitious Business Name(s): MC2 Design Located at: 5992 Avenida Chamnez, La Jolla, CA, 92037, San Diego County. Mailing Address: as above. This business is registered by the following: Martha Welsh, 5992 Avenida Chamnez, La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business has not yet started. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/08/2015. Martha Welsh, Owner. LJ1857. Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 2015. Sell Your Used Vehicle LIMITED TIME OFFER - Individuals only. Autos under $5,000 Reach us at (800) 914-6434 or (858) 218-7200 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2014-032660 Fictitious Business Name(s): a. Fabricontract b. Fabric Wholeseller Located at: 3052 Clairemont Dr., Suite H1, San Diego, CA, 92117, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 7301 Rue Michael, La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is registered by the following: Massoud Moussighi, 7301 Rue Michael, La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business has not yet started. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/17/2014. Massoud Moussighi, Owner. LJ1852. Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-000584 Fictitious Business Name(s): Countrywide Dental Arts Located at: 7968-D Arjons Dr., San Diego, CA, 92126, San Diego County. Mailing Address: same as above. This business is registered by the following: Light Mobile Inc., 16174 Cayenne Ridge Rd., San Diego, CA 92127, CA. This business is conducted by: A Corporation. The first day of business 01/05/2015. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/08/2015. Daniel Park, President. LJ1851. Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-000144 Fictitious Business Name(s): GRIT Located at: 1235 Parker Pl., #2G, San Diego, CA, 92109, San Diego County. Mailing Address: same as above. This business is registered by the following: GRIT Naked LLC. 1235 Parker Pl., #2G, San Diego, CA 92109, California. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company. The first day of business was 08/14/14. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/05/2015. Sarah Lemke, Owner / CEO. LJ1850. Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 2015. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business was January 5, 2015. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/05/2015. Tad Seth Parzen, Owner. LJ1847. Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-000445 Fictitious Business Name(s): La Jolla Gems Located at: 1230 Prospect St., La Jolla, CA, 92037, San Diego County. This business is registered by the following: H. Moradi Fine Jewelers, Inc., 1237 Prospect St., Ste. #A, La Jolla, CA 92037, California. This business is conducted by: A Corporation. The first day of business was 10/15/2006. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/07/2015. Hamid Moradi, Vice President. LJ1849. Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-000038 Fictitious Business Name(s): K and Company, LLC Located at: 4586 35th St., #D, San Diego, CA, 92116, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 4586 35th St., #D, San Diego, CA 92116. This business is registered by the following: K and Company, LLC, 4586 35th St., #D, San Diego, CA 92116, CA. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company. The first day of business was 1/1/14. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/02/2015. Brian Kitlinger, CEO. LJ1846. Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-000126 Fictitious Business Name(s): Parzen Civic Solutions Located at: 7979 Ivanhoe Ave., Suite 555, La Jolla, CA, 92037, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 7979 Ivanhoe Ave., Suite 555, La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is registered by the following: Tad Seth Parzen, 6612 Avenida Mirola, La Jolla, CA 92037. ANSWERS 1/22/15 Apt. 2218, San Diego, CA 92108. This business is registered by the following: 1. Yan Lin, 2185 Station Village Way, Apt. 2218, San Diego, CA,92108 2. Wei Yin, 2185 Station Village Way, Apt. 2218, San Diego, CA 92108 This business is conducted by: a General Partnership. The first day of business has not yet started. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/15/2015. Wei Yin, Company Director. LJ1858. Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2014-032185 Fictitious Business Name(s): a. Sunset Real Estate Appraisal b. Sunset Real Estate Located at: 5576 Chelsea Ave., La Jolla, CA, 92037, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 5580 La Jolla Blvd., #505, La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is registered by the following: Alan J. Devere, 5576 Chelsea Ave., La Jolla, CA 92037. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business was 01/01/2000. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/11/2014. Alan J. Devere, Owner. LJ1845. Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2014-032016 Fictitious Business Name(s): Chiptooth Productions Located at: 401 Spruce St., #2, San Diego, CA, 92103, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 401 Spruce St., #2, San Diego, CA 92103. This business is registered by the following: Andrew Jaramillo, 401 Spruce St., #2, San Diego, CA 92103. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business has not yet started. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/10/2014. Andrew Jaramillo, Sole Pro. LJ1844. Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, 2015. crossword Page B22 - January 29, 2015 - LA JOLLA LIGHT LA JOLLA HOMES LA JOLLA HOMES SOLD : Jan. 13-27 ADDRESS BED BATH n 1820 Viking Way n 5429 Beaumont Ave. n 842 Muirlands Vista Way n 1135 Skylark Drive n 2489 Darlington Row n 6340 La Jolla Blvd. n 642 Westbourne St. n 5408 Avenida Fiesta n 7721 Ivanhoe Ave. n 1001 Genter St., Unit 4F n 5745 Soledad Mountain Road n 6437 Caminito Formby n 7757 Eads Ave., Unit C3 n 2500 Torrey Pines Road, Unit 202 n 2420 Torrey Pines Road, Unit A101 n 8870 Villa La Jolla Drive, Unit 202 n 6455 La Jolla Blvd., Unit 111 n 8346 Via Sonoma, Unit H 4 3 3 3 4 4 3 3 3 2 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 3 2 2 2 3 2 2 2 2.5 2 2 2.5 2 2 2 1 1 1 Note: *0 means buyer did not want sale price disclosed. HOME OF HOME OFTHE THEWEEK WEEK PRICE $2,445,000 $2,225,000 $2,160,000 $1,603,000 $1,410,000 $1,325,000 $1,310,000 $1,225,000 $1,175,000 $1,125,000 $760,000 $635,000 $635,000 $530,100 $440,000 $395,000 $364,500 $297,500 SOURCE: RealQuest 647 La Canada, La Jolla • This storybook Cape Cod home is located in the prestigious neighborhood of Upper Hermosa. • It is situated on a very spacious corner lot over 10,200 sq ft. • This charming home is 4499 sq ft, with 6 bedrooms plus 4.5 baths. • Enjoy the fabulous master bedroom retreat with a private balcony that encompasses the entire second floor. • The home also features custom built-ins, hardwood floors, private putting green, 4 fireplaces and air conditioning. • Close to award winning schools, great restaurants, shopping and La Jolla’s famous beaches. Offered at $2,885,000 Michelle Silverman 619-980-2738 [email protected] CA BRE #00764023 REAL ESTATE Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties names general manager M ary Lee Blaylock has joined San Diego-based Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties as senior vice president and general manager. The former president and CEO of HomeServices Relocation, Blaylock and her family have relocated to Poway from Minneapolis. “Mary Lee’s strong customer focus, ability to work cross-functionally within the organization and drive to succeed are outstanding,” David M. Cabot, president and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, said. “Her exceptional background of leadership and management positions our firm for continued growth and success.” Blaylock began her career with Edina Realty Inc. in 1992 as a realtor in Minneapolis. In 1999, she was promoted to vice president of Edina Realty Relocation. In 2004, Blaylock was named president of HomeServices Relocation. Under her leadership, the organization grew from a startup company to a global relocation provider with operation centers in Winston-Salem, Mary Lee Blaylock North Carolina; Philadelphia and the Minneapolis headquarters. In her role at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Blaylock will focus on enhancing internal organization processes and infrastructure, and provide guidance and direction to the company’s 60 sales offices and 3,000 realtors. u — For information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, visit bhhscalifornia.com Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Southwest Region wins marketing award T he International Property Awards in London announced that Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Southwest Region won the 2014 International Award for Real Estate Agency, Marketing (Coldwell Banker Previews International). The judging committee chaired by three members of the House of Lords scrutinized hundreds of entries to award Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage this top honor. “We are so honored to accept this award on behalf of our marketing department. They are a team of talented and passionate individuals and it is wonderful to see their work not only appreciated, but acknowledged in such a profound way,” Robert Foster, COO of Coldwell Banker’s Greater Los Angeles Company, said. The regional stages of the competition, where Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage took three top awards — Best Real Estate Marketing Program, Best Real Estate Agency, and Best Real Estate Agent — advanced the brokerage to the international competition. The brokerage was among the top scoring companies from across the globe announced as winners in Dubai. Judging was carried out through a process involving a panel of more than 80 experts from around the world covering every aspect of the real estate industry. The judges not only look for the most impressive and innovative projects, they also examine the level of quality and customer service provided by real estate companies as well as the use of new technology. u — For information, visit coldwellbanker.com or californiamoves.com LA JOLLA RENTAL WITH VIEWS! 4 BR, 3.5 BA · $7,500/month Contemporary 3-story 3500 square foot home, quiet cul-de-sac, beautiful ocean views, tropical landscaping, tons of windows and light, marble and solid oak floors, 3 fireplaces, huge decks. Minimum 1 year lease, unfurnished. Hillary, (858) 472-0200 or Randy, (858) 472-0300 www.lajollalight.com LA JOLLA LIGHT - January 29, 2015 - Page B23 OPEN HOUSES More open house listings at lajollalight.com/homes ANNOUNCING: Randi Hegeler has joined PSIR and Darcy to better serve you and ALL of your Real Estate needs. Licensed since 1990. Currently active in Las Patronas and The Foundation of La Jolla High School DARCY DELANO SMITH Marketing the finest San Diego real estate to the World! Turn-key Duplex in Beach Barber The Brett Dickinson Team $679,000 - $679,000 2 BR/2.5 Ba 7550 Eads avEnuE #109, La JOLLa saT 1:00pm - 4:00pm & sun 11:00am - 2:00pm maRyL WEighTman/BERkshiRE haThaWay hOmEsERvicEs 858-354-2913 $739,000 2 BR/2 Ba 7811 Eads avEnuE # 303, La JOLLa andREW JaBRO/BERkshiRE haThaWay hOmEsERvicEs saT 1:00pm - 4:00pm 858-525-5498 5664 BELLEvuE avEnuE, La JOLLa TEam chOdOROW mOnica LEschick BaxTER/BERkshiRE haThaWay hOmEsERvicEs saT 1:00pm - 4:00pm 858-456-6850 8720 cLiffRidgE avEnuE, La JOLLa maRc and cRaig LOTz/BERkshiRE haThaWay hOmEsERvicEs sun 12:00pm - 4:00pm 619-994-7653 7359 Eads avEnuE, La JOLLa paTRick ahERn/BERkshiRE haThaWay hOmEsERvicEs $2,198,000 4 BR/4 Ba 8508 La JOLLa shOREs dRivE, La JOLLa gREg nOOnan/BERkshiRE haThaWay hOmEsERvicEs $2,375,000 5 BR/4.5 Ba 2107 caLLE guaymas, La JOLLa TEam chOdOROW anThOny haLsTEad/BERkshiRE haThaWay hOmEsERvicEs $2,375,000 5 BR/4.5 Ba 2107 caLLE guaymas, La JOLLa TEam chOdOROW caROL hERnsTad/BERkshiRE haThaWay hOmEsERvicEs $2,495,000 3 BR/3 Ba 6669 visTa dEL maR, La JOLLa dEBRa schRakamp/WiLLis aLLEn REaL EsTaTE $2,995,000 3 BR/2.5 Ba 7988 ROsELand dRivE, La JOLLa TEam chOdOROW david LEBOWiTz/BERkshiRE haThaWay hOmEsERvicEs $3,495,000 5 BR/5 Ba 6415 muiRLands dRivE, La JOLLa dOnna mEdREa/ pacific sOThEBys inTERnaTiOnaL REaLTy $7,295,000 4 BR/4.5 Ba 6423 caminO dE La cOsTa, La JOLLa ROss cLaRk/WiLLis aLLEn REaL EsTaTE saT 1:00pm - 4:00pm 858-220-9001 saT 1:00pm - 4:00pm 1-800-La JOLLa (525-6552) saT 1:00pm - 4:00pm 858-456-6850 sun 12:30pm - 3:00pm 858-456-6850 saT & sun 1:00pm - 4:00pm 925-963-5151 saT 1pm - 4pm & sun 11am - 2pm 858-456-6850 saT 12:00pm - 3:00pm 858-204-1810 saT 1:00pm - 3:00pm 858-442-2643 Move-in ready Beach Barber 3 BD/2.5 BA + 1 BD/1 BA duplex totaling approx. 3100 SF. 2010 remodel added 2nd story, fabulous ocean-view master suite, beautiful view deck, and new tile roof. Custom top-of-the-line finishes, fully equipped kitchen, dual-pane windows, 2 gas fireplaces, 2 1/2 car garage. Private yard w/2014 landscape upgrade. Walk to beach and Village. Offered at $1,645,000 CA BRE: #01714678 selling your house? Gorgeous Contemporary Motivated Seller – will consider trades. 4 BR, 4.5 BA with ocean view and 3-car garage. Large master suite. Offered at $2,195,000 The Corrente Team Please call Karen at 858.735.9299 Cor rentes92037@g mail.com www.lajollacahomes.com Peter CA BRE # 00389337 Judy CA BRE # 00848593 most extensiv e open home li stings anywh ere more than 50 000 visitors a m o nth visitors from 5 0 states and 1 32 countries.. . lajollalight.co m/homes La Jolla Office : 858-926-3060 7855 Ivanhoe, Suite 110 | La Jolla, California | 92037 PacificSothebysRealty.com ©MMVII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. CA DRE#01767484 Want your open house listing here? Contact Sarah Minihane • [email protected] • 858.875.5945 www.lajollalight.com
Sherman's Lagoon
Generally acknowledged as the father of role-playing games, Gary Gygax, along with Dave Arneson, was the mastermind behind what major game?
Ranch santa fe review 1 29 15 by MainStreet Media - issuu issuu Providing Three Decades of Quality Journalism www.rsfreview.com Volume 34 Number 6 ■ SD Aviators tennis team hopes to fly high this summer. Page 3 ■ Mainly Mozart Spotlight Series moves to new venue in RSF. Page 14 Lifestyle ■ For coverage of a variety of community events, see pages 1-32 and B1--B28. RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW An Edition of 3702 Via de la Valle Suite 202W Del Mar, CA 92014 858-756-1403 www.rsfreview.com PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SAN DIEGO, CA PERMIT 1980 January 29, 2015 Boxholder Rancho Santa Fe CA 92067 ECRWSS Committee looks for solutions to bring recycled water to RSF BY KAREN BILLING Rancho Santa Fe Association’s Committee on the Natural Environment (CONE) brought together an impressive collection of water experts on Jan. 26 to speak on the challenge of bringing recycled water to the Ranch via “the purple pipe.” The meeting included representatives from several local agencies: Mike Bardin from the Santa Fe Irrigation District; Deb Plummer and Chuck Duffy from the RSF Community Services District; Al Castro and Tim Barrier from the RSF Golf Club; Erin Browne named RSF Garden Club’s new Executive Director The Rancho Santa Fe Garden Club, a not-for-profit organization, recently announced the selection of Erin Browne as its new executive director effective Feb. 17. “We are very pleased to announce this appointment,” said Fred W. Wasserman, Garden Club co-president. “Erin will bring leadership and creativity to the Club’s programs. She has served nonprofits at the program, fundraising and leadership levels, and has a breadth of perspective and experience.” Browne’s resume includes over 10 years of administration, communications and marketing experience in the Erin Browne nonprofit sector. She received Photo by Karen Billing her BS in kinesiology from San Diego State. Browne has served as the office and data manager at the Rancho Santa Fe Community Center for the past several years. Prior to coming to Rancho Santa Fe, she served in various leadership positions at other nonprofit organizations, including Aquatics Director at the Toby Wells YMCA in Kearny Mesa. “I look forward to serving at the Garden Club in this new capacity,” Browne said. “I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to continue to collaborate with local organizations that serve the Rancho Santa Fe community.” The Rancho Santa Fe Garden Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that focuses to further the development of charitable horticulture and charitable conservation activities, both within and outside the community of Rancho Santa Fe. Kim Thorner and Joey Randall from the Olivenhain Municipal Water District; and Mike Thornton from the San Elijo Water Treatment Plant. “This was the first meeting, just to get ideas out and start a dialogue for our future needs; to bring recycled Wilkinson said it was important to bring everyone to begin to develop a road map and find solutions. “Hopefully, over time, we’ll get to all kinds of solutions,” said CONE chair Bill Beckman. “Collaboration is See WATER, page 29 Sportscaster Dick Enberg speaks at Viewpoints event Viewpoints, a lecture series co-presented by the Rancho Santa Fe Foundation and the Village Church, presented accomplished sportscaster Dick Enberg Jan. 25, in the Fellowship Center of the church. Pictured, l-r: Barbara and Dick Enberg with The Rev. Jack Baca. Enberg is recognized as one of the greatest sports broadcasters of all time, and in 2015 will be returning for his sixth season as the play-by-play voice for Padres television broadcasts. For more information, visit www.villageviewpoints.com. See pages 24-25 for more photos. Photo by Jon Clark. For photos online, visit www. rsfreview.com. SB School District explores bond issue for 2016 BY KRISTINA HOUCK With a need for school improvements, the Solana Beach School District board recently decided to explore whether to place a general obligation bond to pay for them on the ballot in 2016. The Solana Beach School District includes Solana Santa Fe Elementary School in RSF. “We have a window of opportunity right now,” board member Richard Leib said at the Jan. 15 meeting. “The economy, I think, is picking up. If we don’t do it now, we could be sitting here 10 years later, trying to fig- water to the whole Covenant, not just the golf club, ” said Sioux Colbourne, a CONE member who helped bring all the “heavy hitters” to the table. “Solana Beach has (recycled water), why don’t we?” Rancho Santa Fe Association board member Philip ure out how to keep buildings from falling down. Now is the time to move forward.” The district initiated its Facilities Master Plan process in July 2011, hiring HMC Architects to assist in the plan’s development. Along with the advisers, a committee was formed of board members, administrators, teachers, staff and parents to help with the process. The completed plan was presented to the board during a board workshop on May 2, 2013. The plan calls for improvements See BOND, page 28 Bystanders rescue man from burning vehicle On Sunday, Jan. 25, at 5:10 p.m., firefighters from the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District, Del Mar Fire Department and San Diego Fire and Rescue responded to a rescue traffic collision in the 14000 block of Via de la Valle. Upon arrival, firefighters found a single vehicle had gone off the road, hit a tree, and caught fire. Firefighters worked to quickly extinguish the flames. Bystanders assisted in removing the injured driver who was trapped in the burning vehicle before emergency crews arrived on scene. The patient, a 42-year-old male, was transported via ambulance to Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla with serious injuries. There were no other passengers in the vehicle and no other injuries were reported. The California Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the accident. www.rsfreview.com PAGE A2 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Local tutoring service lends hand with TPHS scholarship benefit BY KRISTINA HOUCK A local company and nonprofit are partnering in an effort to increase student test scores, while raising money for college scholarships. Carmel Valley-based Tutor Doctor and the Torrey Pines High School Scholarship Fund have teamed to offer practice ACT and SAT tests Feb. 21 at Torrey Pines High School, with all proceeds benefiting the scholarship fund. “Our group’s mission is to provide scholarships for seniors,” said Karin Lang, co-president of the TPHS Scholarship Fund. “So whatever fundraisers we can hold that can help our students are a win-win.” For $25, students can take either a full-length ACT or SAT practice test. The fee includes a score analysis report. Students may also request a free in-home consultation to discuss the score report, analysis and recommendations. “We wanted to offer our services any way we could,” said Tiffany Lien, who co-owns Tutor Doctor with her husband, Chris Lien. The couple have three children, with their oldest at Carmel Valley Middle School. “We really want to support this cause, and this is one way we can do it.” Since 1987, the TPHS Scholarship Fund has provided Torrey Pines seniors with scholarships ranging from $500 to $2000. “There’s a lot of pressure on these kids going through the college application process,” said Mary Stromitis, co-president of the TPHS Scholarship Fund. “College is so expensive now. Every dollar counts in today’s economy and with today’s high tuition costs. “I think every which way we can, we should help out our young people. They will be our future.” In its first year, the TPHS Scholarship Fund raised a total of $5,100 and awarded nine scholarships. Today, the volunteer, community-based scholarship organization raises an average of $30,000 per year, Stromitis said. Formerly known as Dollars for Scholars, the organization became independent in 2013. This year, the nonprofit reached its $1 million mark — having raised $1 million in scholarships since it was founded more than 28 years ago, Chris and Tiffany Lien of Stromitis said. This is the organization’s first time partnering with Tutor Tutor Doctor. Doctor of San Diego, which opened more than three years Courtesy photo ago. Based in Carmel Valley, Tutor Doctor offers tutoring services for all subjects and all grade levels, from elementary through college. The company also helps prepare local students for ACT and SAT tests. “We’re trying to spread the news that our programs work and we’re very committed to TPHS Scholarship Board. Courtesy photo the students at Torrey Pines, as well as throughout San Diego County and around the world,” said Chris Lien, who noted the San Diego branch is part of an international organization, with more than 400 offices in 15 different countries. “It’s been a real joy to work with students here and throughout the district.” The practice test is open to all students in the San Dieguito Union High School District. Interested students must register by Feb. 18. “We’re constantly looking for opportunities to raise more funds,” Stromitis said. “Hopefully, it will be very successful and we’ll do it again.” The Tutor Doctor-administered ACT and SAT practice tests will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21. The practice test costs $25, with all proceeds benefiting the TPHS Scholarship Fund. To register for the practice test, visit tphssf.org. CAVALLO FARMS Up to 60 Stalls, 18.68 Acres Del Mart COVENANT COUNTRYSIDE CHARM %FMJHIUGVMIPNF HVFTUIPVTFBSUJTUTTUVEJPt WILDFLOWER EQUESTRIAN SITE #BSOJTSFBEZUPNPWFJOt$990,000 PEPPERTREE FARMS *ODPNF 4FMMFS'JOBODJOH )PNFTt$3,975,000 HIGHLAND FARMS - ENCINITAS "SFOBT 4UBMMT (SBTT1BTUVSFTt $3,500,000 ENCINITAS EQUESTRIAN PARK Business Location, Arena, 42 stalls, home/poolt EQUESTRIAN REAL ESTATE PREMIER CALIFORNIA PROPERTIES Caren Kelley CA BRE #01003787 858-350-1018 [email protected] WWW.EQUESTRIANRE.COM www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A3 San Diego Aviators tennis team hopes to fly high this summer BY JOE TASH Most San Diegans are familiar with the Chargers and Padres. But the city has another professional sports team that brings big-name athletes to San Diego, which many locals may not know about — the Aviators of Mylan World Team Tennis. This summer, the Aviators will play in seven matches at the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, hosting pro teams from such cities as Austin, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. Rancho Santa Fe residents Fred Luddy and Billy Berger are the majority owner and CEO, respectively, of the Aviators, and the coming season will be the second for the San Diego team, which had previously been based in New York. Luddy and Berger said a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere prevails at WTT matches, in comparison with major tournaments on the pro tennis tour, such as the U.S. Open. “This event is more about the entertainment of tennis, the excitement,” said Berger. “It’s like a tennis festival.” (L-R) San Diego Aviators owner Fred Luddy and CEO Billy Berger. Courtesy photo. Spectators are not hushed if they speak or cheer during the matches, and an announcer calls the games, unlike during play in the majors, said Luddy. After the matches, the players hang out to give autographs. “Kids get to see these world-class athletes up close and intimate,” said Luddy. “Every kid can get an autograph from every player.” The WTT season runs from July 12 through Aug. 3, and includes a schedule of 14 matches, plus two rounds of playoffs, culminating in a final match. There are currently seven teams in the league, which was founded in 1974 by Billie Jean King, who still owns the Philadelphia Freedoms. Each match includes five sets, one each of men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. The teams are comprised of four to six players, with at least two men and two women on each team. Ticket prices average about $35 for adults, and there will also be youth ticket prices, as well as group discounts and family packages. More information about tickets will be available at SanDiegoAviators.com. Over the years, participants in the WTT have included a virtual Who’s Who of tennis luminaries, from Andre Agassi and Martina Navratilova, to John McEnroe and the Williams sisters. Recently, Andy Roddick and Martina Hingis have played for WTT teams. The league will hold its 2015 draft in March. Last year’s San Diego Aviators team featured doubles stars Mike and Bob Bryan. Last year, San Diego matches were played indoors at the San Diego Sports Arena, now known as the Valley View Casino Center. The new venue will allow for an interactive expo with food booths and a beer garden. Matches will be played on the resort’s tennis stadium, and Berger and Luddy anticipate as many as two thousand spectators. Match time is 7 p.m., and the schedule will be posted on the team’s web site when it becomes available. Luddy became involved with the team two years ago, after meeting Billie Jean King. He said the WTT league schedule falls between two major tennis events, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Players enjoy the camaraderie of the teams, and it also allows them to get ready for the upcoming tournament, Luddy said. “This really gets them tuned up to play in the U.S. Open,” he said. “They like the team environment. Tennis is a very lonely sport.” Luddy, who founded a cloud computing company, and Berger, who ran his own sports marketing firm, want to reinvigorate San Diego’s tennis scene through the Aviators and the annual WTT league, and build a following for the local matches, similar to the enthusiasm shown by horse racing fans for the annual Del Mar meets. Both men have children who attend the Roger Rowe School in Rancho Santa Fe, and also play tennis. “We’re trying to energize the sport of tennis and the tennis community and energize families around the sport of tennis,” Luddy said. String of burglaries targeting Apple products, police say Police are investigating a string of burglaries in coastal and inland North County San Diego. Burglars have broken into at least a dozen businesses in the coastal areas of Del Mar, Solana Beach and Encinitas, along with Poway, Rancho Bernardo, 4S Ranch and Mira Mesa since mid-November, said sheriff’s Capt. Theresa Adams-Hydar, who oversees the Encinitas Sheriff’s station. Police are investigating whether the incidents are connected. All of the commercial burglaries have involved Apple products. No arrests have been made yet. Adams-Hydar recommended businesses lock up or take home their Apple products, particularly portable laptops and tablets. “Harden your target,” she said. Those with any information about the incidents are asked to contact Crime Prevention Specialist Jonathan Simon at 760-966-3588. — Kristina Houck JUST SOLD 147 S. GRANADOS AVENUE #1 AGENTS IN WEST SOLANA BEACH! Bob & Kathy Angello 619.742.4800 [email protected] Just Closed Escrow for $2,175,000 CHANCES ARE WE SOLD A HOME NEXT DOOR TO YOU! www.rsfreview.com PAGE A4 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Getting services to those needing them is focus for county behavioral health director • Department helps more than 70,000 each year BY KATHY DAY As clinical director of San Diego County Behavioral Health Services, Michael Krelstein, M.D., often finds himself frustrated and challenged. But he also finds rewards in coming to the aid of people desperately in need of good help. The local resident shared his knowledge as a clinical and administrative psychiatrist at a Jan. 21 panel titled “Putting the Puzzle Together: Mental Health Policy and Community Options.” Presented by the Behavioral Health Committee of Jewish Family Services of San Diego, the panel also featured Jim Fix, Psy.D., executive director of the Psychiatric Emergency Response Team (PERT), and Jeff G. Elias, an attorney and consultant in criminal and mental health law. In an interview before the program, Krelstein said it would be a chance to “have a real discussion about the opportunities and challenges” in the mental health care system. While it is the “bad outcomes that make the news,” he said the emphasis should be on what is being done to gain the upper hand and identify who the stakeholders are. Acknowledging that the system may have failed those who make the news by allowing them to fall through the cracks, he focused on the challenge of developing resources statewide for those who are struggling. At every level, there are policies that need to be examined, and we need to figure out how to mobilize the resources for those most in need, said Krelstein, who previously served as medical director at San Diego County Psychiatric Hospital. Before coming to San Diego nine years ago, he worked at a mental health center in Las Vegas and was an assistant clinical professor at the University of Nevada School of Medicine. He has also been a consultant for the Las Vegas Metro Police Department and the California Medical Board. Krelstein’s father was a psychiatrist in Davis, where he grew up, and in the Bay area. “One thing led to another,” he said, explaining that his college biology major at UC Davis included an emphasis on neuroscience. With his growing interest in the brain, he spent an extra year in an honors program, publishing his first research paper. Then it was on to UC Irvine for medical school. “I tried to experience everything, but I wanted to pursue the brain,” he said, so he focused on psychiatry and psychology. “It’s kind of in my blood.” His interests led him to work in community mental health, with jail populations and the mentally ill. He has lectured on the medical-legal issues of violence and mental illness, sexually violent predators, workplace violence and malpractice. In his line of work, clients frequently include the uninsured, the indigent and the homeless. Mental illness, he noted, leads to a higher possibility of becoming homeless. “These are people who are individually disenfranchised and struggle with access to care,” said Krelstein. “There are social deterrents to seeking care, from challenging backgrounds to economic and developmental and mental challenges.” The county’s Behavioral Health Services department RESOURCES: “provides direct and indirect • www.211.sandiego. service to over 70,000 adults org and youth with a host of • www.up2us.org mental health and substance • County Behavioral abuse conditions,” he said Health Services via email. “Our approach is a http://tinyurl.com/ rich public-private collaborancgsalo tive, guided by community stakeholder input, with access to the County’s educational and academic centers.” Getting people to seek care often means overcoming the challenges of the perceived stigma and denial that you need help, he said. “In our darkest moments, we feel all is lost, but there is always hope for recovery and stabilization. … It is a very personal, intimate decision on how to interface with the sys- Michael Krelstein tem.” For people faced with a decision to seek care, he said, there are “many good providers working desperately hard to connect people with care.” From primary care providers, to educators and faith-based resources, the broader the reach, the more hope for success. One of the keys to care is honesty. “The greatest empowerment is working with each other, broadening and including others,” he said. In his own life, Krelstein stays centered by spending time with his wife and family. He also gets out on the trails and beaches around San Diego to hike whenever he can. He enjoys reading and movies, and while you’d think choosing entertainment with a focus on mental illness might not be much of a break for him, his constant search for knowledge often sends him down that path. Among his favorites are nonfiction works like “An Unquiet Mind” by Kay Jamison and “The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat” by Oliver Sacks. Fiction favorites include “I Never Promised You a Rose Garden” by Hannah Green, and “Ordinary People” by Judith Guest. At the top of his topical movie list are “A Beautiful Mind,” “Silver Linings Playbook” and “Shutter Island,” which he said is “not very realistic — but a great suspense film.” 18203 Via De Sueno, Rancho Santa Fe Find Feng Shui Harmony & Energy in Contemporary RSF Covenant Estate This original design by Architect Don Edson AIA has been reborn by Talon Ventures. The understated exterior transforms into a bright, open contemporary interior highlighting the original design lines! Massive picture windows, mahogany wood ceilings, huge kitchen/family/great room with spectacular views. Located off an uber cool RSF Covenant cul-de-sac of only 5 homes, this home offers a true estate feel with privacy, no road noise, and 2.9 acres abutting the RSF trail system. Plus plenty of room for a guest house, tennis court, barn, or ??? Offered at $3,995,000. Scott Union Real Estate Broker | DRE License #01116632 (858) 756-0362 x #1 | (858)518-9663(cell) [email protected] | www.UnionWestRealEstate.com www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A5 Tale of 33 trapped Chilean miners ultimately about love and family BY JOE TASH The 33 miners were working underground in Chile in August 2010 when the unthinkable happened: With a horrible roar and rumble, the interior of the mine collapsed, entombing the men some 2,000 feet below the surface of the earth. The men would later say that the collapse hit them “as a roar of sound, as if a massive skyscraper were crashing down behind them … The metaphor is more than apt,” writes author Hector Tobar in “Deep Down Dark.” “The vast and haphazard structure of the mine, improvised over the course of a century of entrepreneurial ambition, is finally giving way. A single block of diorite (stone), as tall as a forty-five-story building, has broken off from the rest of the mountain and is falling through the layers of the mine …” Tobar’s 2014 book chronicles the mine’s collapse, the harrowing 17 days the miners spent underground before the world knew whether they were alive, and their miraculous rescue 69 days after they were trapped. A Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and novelist, Tobar was the featured speaker at the Jan. 15 meeting of the Rancho Santa Fe Literary Society, held at the Grand Del Mar Resort. The book was compiled after hundreds of hours of interviews with the 33 miners and their friends and relatives, along with videos shot underground before and during the rescue, as well a diary kept by one of the miners. In an interview, Tobar, who lives in Los Angeles with his wife and three children, said he traveled to Chile five times in the course of his research, and worked on the book for about three years. He also worked with the producers of a film about the miners, called “The 33,” which is scheduled for release this August, the fifth anniversary of the mine’s collapse. The film will star Antonio Banderas, Juliette Binoche and Lou Diamond Phillips, among others. For the first 17 days, the miners were trapped in darkness with only a few packages of cookies and tins RSF Literary Society President Candace Humber, author Hector Tobar, Chapter leader Kelly Colvard. Photo by McKenzie Images of tuna to sustain them, Tobar said. Their only light came from the lamps of their helmets, and the headlights of a few vehicles trapped with them. They had water, thanks to supply lines and tanks installed for the mine’s operation, but didn’t know when or whether they would be rescued. By the time a drill broke through the ceiling of a tunnel close to them, they were nearly starved. Overjoyed, the men banged on the pipe that contained the drill bit to communicate their presence to the outside world. “Dios existe,” said one of the men, according to Tobar’s account. “God exists.” Tobar, whose parents were working-class immigrants from Guatemala, found the miners intelligent and down-to-earth, although they were traumatized by their ordeal. “I identified with them completely. I don’t think there’s that much difference between them and me,” said Tobar, a fluent Spanish speaker who worked in both South America and Mexico City as a reporter for the Los Angeles Times. “These guys went through something akin to a war,” he said, and the experience left its mark on their psyches. “It wouldn’t let go of them. They constantly have relapses,” he said. While the government of Chile has awarded all 33 men a monthly pension of about $600, most have gone back to work, the majority into surface jobs in the mining industry. At least three went back to underground mining, although one soon quit because he suffered flashbacks of the mine collapse, Tobar said. Adjusting to life after their rescue — the men were carried individually to the surface in a specially designed capsule called the Phoenix — was difficult, because of the trauma they suffered and their newfound celebrity. Tobar captured their conflicted feelings in this quote from Edison Peña, one of the trapped miners: “All the evenness of life, the ‘light’ part of it, really stunned me. It shocked me to see people walking around, living normally. It shocked me because I would say, ‘Hey, where I come from it isn’t like that. I come from a place where we were fighting desperately to live.’ I came out to life and I found this s--called peace. It threw me off. It threw a lot of us off.” One of the things that struck Tobar, he said, was how, during their ordeal, the miners thought mostly about their loved ones above them on the surface. Tobar said his own experience working on the book “reaffirmed my faith in family and familial love. That’s really what the book ends up being about.” He made a conscious decision not to shy away from the personal stories of the lives of the miners and their families, no matter how complex and messy their entanglements and dramas. “I didn’t make them into heroes, I didn’t make them into victims,” he said. “I made them into who they were.” For more information, visit www.hectortobar.com. “Deep Down Dark” is available at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble (and Barnes&Noble.com), among other outlets. If you want it tomorrow, speak up today. If you think a stylish mixed-use village with more options to play, dine and relax would make life in Carmel Valley even better, it’s time to step forward. Send a note to the City Council on the website below to show your support for OnePaseo. PL A Z AS l GARDENS l SHOPS l RESTAURANTS l HOMES l OFFICES OnePaseo.com www.rsfreview.com PAGE A6 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Theater, animals, love and life inspire â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;radio guyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Jerry Cesak Jerry Cesak is half of the top-rated â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jeff & Jerâ&#x20AC;? morning show in San Diego. He graduated as a theater major from the University of Maryland, after which he took a short 30year diversion into radio. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been waking up San Diegans since 1988. In 2003, he wrote and directed the play â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nickels and Dimes,â&#x20AC;? which sold out 16 performances at San Diegoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lyceum Theatre and raised $150,000 for animals. Previously, he created, directed and performed â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bless The Beasts,â&#x20AC;? a multimedia theatrical event about animal welfare, which toured the country for three years. For as long as he can remember, Cesak has been passionately involved in campaigning for animal protection, speaking and acting on behalf of animals whenever possible. He is the founder of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Unicorn Foundation,â&#x20AC;? a nonprofit that raises money for animal protection. He is on the board of directors of The Humane Society of the United States, the most effective animal protection organization on Earth. â&#x20AC;˘ Who or what inspires you? The spirits and minds of animals inspire me. Animals are so pure. They make no judgments. They know nothing of hate, prejudice or unkindness. If given the chance, they Jerry Cesak love us unconditionally. They live in the present moment with no specific awareness of the past and none of the future. If you asked your cat what time it Best Land Value in Covenant! is, it would say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now. What else is there?â&#x20AC;? They have so much to teach us. â&#x20AC;˘ If you hosted a dinner party for eight, whom (living or deceased) would you invite? The Buddha, Stephen Sondheim, Frank Sinatra, Jules Verne, Johnny Carson, singer/ songwriter Gino Vanelli, The Dalai Lama and the most truly extraordinary person Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever known, my wife, Pam. â&#x20AC;˘ What are you reading? I always have several books going at once. Right now Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m reading â&#x20AC;&#x153;Deep Down Dark,â&#x20AC;? about the rescue of the 33 Chilean mine workers, plus â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Andy Cohen Diaries,â&#x20AC;? and the latest and best biography of Bob Hope. I also continuously re-read the astounding works of Jules Verne. â&#x20AC;˘ What is it that you most dislike? Cruelty to animals. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve devoted my life and its every resource to prevent and stop it. My decades-long work at this has given me a doctorate level understanding of horrific animal abuse, particularly institutional cruelty on factory farms and in research labs. Animal suffering has literally ruined my sleep every night for 40 years. â&#x20AC;˘ What is your most-prized possession? As a Buddhist, I try (and wow, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s difficult) to not have attachment to â&#x20AC;&#x153;things.â&#x20AC;? (Did I mention how hard that is?) If I interpret that question to ask what is indispensably important in my life, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy: Pam, the animals sharing our home and my work for The Humane Society of the United States. â&#x20AC;˘ What do you do for fun? I treasure every moment spent in the company of animals. When a catâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on my chest or Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m feeding pigeons or in a field with cows, I experience absolute, pure joy. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also movie freaks. We see everything. I worship Scorsese. â&#x20AC;˘ What is your philosophy of life? Never cause harm to another living being. The Buddha said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do not destroy life nor cause others to destroy life, nor approve of othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; killing. Refrain from oppressing all living beings in the world, whether strong or weak.â&#x20AC;? When Pam and I established our charitable endeavor, The Unicorn Foundation, we chose that name because a unicorn never steps on another creature. â&#x20AC;˘ What would be your dream vacation? Anywhere in the world where I can scuba dive is a dream vacation. More than half the show is down there. If I could physically do it, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d go diving in a birdbath. â&#x20AC;˘ What clothing item in your closet will you never part with? A pathetic old denim shirt Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had since Lewis and Clark discovered the Beach & Tennis Club. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a pair of powder-blue Capri pants in there that Pam doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about. â&#x20AC;˘ What are your favorite comfort foods? Grilled-cheese sandwiches. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re vegan, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve found a marvelous cheese alternative from Daiya. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available everywhere. I also take great comfort in beer. Fortunately, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available everywhere, too. 3.8 Westside Covenant Acres DALE FIELDS RHETT, ESQ. 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Yogerst, a local resident and award-winning freelance writer, will lead a travel writing safari to South Africa in May. Through a series of workshops and real-time writing assignments, Yogerst said he intends for participants to come away with the skills needed to write travel articles or blogs, along with photos, suitable to be published online or in a newspaper or magazine. The trip is being orga- Joe Yogerst in Vanuatu: ‘My goal is to find out somenized by Goway Travel, a To- thing I haven’t read about before,’ he said. Courtesy ronto-based travel agency photo with offices in Los Angeles, Sydney and Vancouver. The 11-day trip is scheduled for May 9-19, and will include stops in Cape Town and the Cape of Good Hope, the Garden Route and the Kariega Game Reserve. The fee of $2,420 per person includes accommodation, meals, transportation in South Africa, excursions and guides. For details, visit Goway’s website at: www.goway.com/trip/africa-and-middle-east/write-stuff-cape-highlights-joe-yogerst/ Yogerst said he has given guest lectures for travel writing classes at San Diego State and UC San Diego, as well as for journalism students at Canyon Crest Academy. This is the first time he will conduct his own course, he said, and he has prepared a full curriculum for his students. While he said a number of his photographer colleagues have led photo safaris to various destinations, trips focused on writing are much less common. During the upcoming South Africa trip, Yogerst said he will conduct morning workshops on such topics as interviewing, blogging, taking photos and marketing and publishing articles. He will brainstorm with students on story ideas, and assign them 500word stories to complete. He will then review the pieces and provide feedback. At the end of the trip, he will assign a longer story that students can complete at home and send to him for review and suggestions. The trip will be limited to no more than 15 participants, he said. Yogerst’s lessons will stem from his own extensive experience as a writer and editor, mostly in the travel genre. For example, he seeks to turn an interview into a two-way conversation between himself and his subject, and cited a recent interview with actor Michael Keaton, who starred in the critically-praised film, “Birdman.” SD Planning Group to hold Feb. 12 meeting The San Dieguito Planning Group will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, at the Rancho Santa Fe Village Fire Station. Find the agenda and minutes at http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/ pds/Groups/sandieguito.html. During your FREE in-home Window Diagnosis, we'll give you a price that's good for one year. SELL FREE WINDOWS INSTALL FOR 18 MONTHS1 No Money Down, No Payments, No Interest and call before Jan. 31st to SAVE 20% WARRANTY ! 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He advised aspiring travel writers to look for the quirky, unusual stories that haven’t been written about, and one way to find them, he said, is to spend some time wandering aimlessly around a place, or sitting quietly in a park or town square, watching daily life unfold. “In between sightseeing, take a load off, sit at a café or park, and get a feel for how the place operates,” he said. Recently, Yogerst went to Uganda on assignment for CNN Travel. Following a tip that the hijacked airliner from the infamous 1976 raid on Entebbe was abandoned on the shore of Lake Victoria (the tip turned out to be untrue), Yogerst instead discovered a lively beach club scene at the lake. “It’s a cool thing no one knows about,” he said. Yogerst said he would be interested in exploring other venues for travel writing trips, perhaps through National Geographic or on cruise ships. “If this trip works, it’s something I would like to talk to other people about,” he said. 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No Finance Charges will be assessed if promo balance is paid in full in 18 months. *See the Renewal by Andersen 20/2/10 limited warranty for details. www.rsfreview.com PAGE A8 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW ‘Nightingale’ author Hannah speaks Feb. 11 at RSF Library Kristin Hannah, author of “The Nightingale,” will be the guest at a private reception Feb. 11, at 11:30 a.m., at the Rancho Santa Fe Library, 17040 Avenida de Acacias, Rancho Santa Fe. Join the RSF Library Guild for a light lunch and author presentation, followed by a question and answer session. Cost is $40 and includes a signed copy of “The Nightingale.” Sponsored by Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Donald E. Johnson III, first vice president, investment officer. To reserve or become a Library Guild member, visit www.rsflibraryguild.org or call 858-756-4780. Kristin Hannah RSF Library offers ‘Brain Health & Alzheimer’s series The Alzheimer’s Association, in partnership with the Rancho Santa Fe Library Guild, hosts a series of free “Brain Health & Alzheimer’s” classes from 11:30-1 p.m., held at 17040 Avenida de Acacias, Rancho Santa Fe. To reserve or for information, call 800-272-3900 or visit www.alz.org/sandiego. The next events will be held: • “Conversations About Dementia,” Feb. 24: This class offers tips on how to have honest and caring conversations with family members about going to the doctor, driving and making legal and financial plans for the future. Lunch provided by The Meridian at Lake San Marcos. • “Effective Communication Strategies,” March 24: Learn tips for effective communication with a loved one who is struggling with memory loss. Lunch provided by Vista Gardens. • “The Latest in Alzheimer’s Research,” April 28: As the number of people affected by Alzheimer’s rises, the effort to find prevention strategies continues to gain momentum. Learn about the latest in Alzheimer’s research. Lunch provided by Stellar Care at Collwood Terrace. REAL ESTATE DIRECTORY Barry Estates, Inc. Rancho Santa Fe Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices CA Properties Rancho Santa Fe office Bob & Kathy Angello Willis Allen Real Estate, Del Mar Brian Connelly Pacific Sotheby's Int’l Realty, Rancho Santa Fe Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Rancho Santa Fe office Equestrian Real Estate Del Mar Heather & Holly Manion, RSF Realty Willis Allen Real Estate, Rancho Santa Fe Janet Lawless Christ Coldwell Banker, Rancho Santa Fe Kilroy Realty Corporation Carmel Valley Office Liz Coden & Lori Sykes Pacific Sotheby's International Realty, Del Mar Michael Taylor Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Rancho Santa Fe Nancy White Coldwell Banker, Rancho Santa Fe Open House Listings Patricia Lou Martin Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Del Mar Richard Stone Keller Williams, Carmel Valley Scott Union Union West Real Estate, Rancho Santa Fe The Harwood Group Coldwell Banker, Rancho Santa Fe Willis Allen Real Estate Del Mar Willis Allen Real Estate Rancho Santa Fe A16 & A17 A19 A3 A10 Enter RSF Review’s online photo contest Enter the RSF Review’s online photo contest at www.rsfreview.com. This month’s contest is “Cutest baby or kid photo.” The winner will receive a $100 gift certificate to Amaya restaurant at The Grand Del Mar. The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center’s No-Limit Texas Hold’em Charity Poker Tournament, “Put Your Hearts on the Table,” will be held Saturday, Feb. 28, from 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. Courtesy photo RSF Community Center to host Charity Poker Tournament Feb. 28 The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center will host a No-Limit Texas Hold’em Charity Poker Tournament titled “Put Your Hearts on the Table” Saturday, Feb. 28, from 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. The tournament, presented by The Faltinsky Family and The Zeps Family will take place at the RSF Community Center located in the village of Rancho Santa Fe. Players of all levels will have the chance to compete for this year’s “Champ of the Ranch” title and walk away with the Grand Prize, a men’s luxury watch valued at over $10,000. The event will feature heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and signature cocktails as well as roulette and live entertainment. Cost for a Player Pass is $250 and a Spectator Pass is $100. Spectators will also have the opportunity to improve their beginning poker and Blackjack skills at a learner’s table. There will be many opportunities for all guests to win exciting prizes as well as a variety of opportunity drawings. All proceeds will go the RSF Community Center, a non-profit, 501(C)3 organization whose mission is to enhance the spirit and benefits of community life in Rancho Santa Fe through programs, events and services of enrichment, recreation and outreach for all ages. Seating is limited. To purchase tickets or sponsorships, please visit RSFCC.org. For more information call 858-756-2461 or email Kim Swaney at [email protected]. Must be 21 years or older to attend. A30 & A31 A2 A32 A9 A5 A11 The Farmers Insurance Open returns to Torrey Pines Feb. 5-8 The Farmers Insurance Open, San Diego’s prestigious annual PGA Tour golf tournament, will be played Feb. 5-8 at the Torrey Pines Golf Course. This is the 63rd year a PGA Tour event has been held in San Diego, beginning with the San Diego open in 1952. The field of 156 players will vie for a purse of $6.3 million in prize money. The gates open to the public at 7 a.m. on Feb. 5-8. The tournament will feature last year’s winner Scott Stallings, Rickie Fowler, Jordan Spieth, Poway’s Charley Hoffman, K.J. Choi, local favorite Phil Mickelson, who has won the tournament three times, and Tiger Woods, the alltime money winner at the Farmers Insurance Open with seven titles at Farmers. Woods also won the 2008 US Open at Torrey. The SERVPRO Fan Village, behind the 15th green, adjacent to the 17th fairway and a few hundred feet from the 18th tee, is the epicenter of action for spectators at the B14 & B15 A6 ALL DENTISTS ARE NOT THE SAME B27 A12 A23 A4 B26 A13 B28 tŚĞƌĞLJŽƵĂƌĞƚƌĞĂƚĞĚĚŽĞƐŵĂƩĞƌ͘/ƚŝƐ ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚƚŽĮŶĚĂĚĞŶƚĂůƉƌĂĐƟĐĞƚŚĂƚ ĚĞůŝǀĞƌƐĂŶŝĚĞĂůƉĂƟĞŶƚĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ͘ 6024 Paseo Delicias Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 (858) 756-5888 www.claytoncookedds.com Open. The village includes an expo with numerous golf vendors as well as gathering spots such as The Fringe, an open-air sports bar. Last year the tournament generated over $2.8 million that benefited over 100 local charities. This year beneficiaries include, among others, The Monarch School, Armed Services YMCA San Diego, Promises2Kids, Voices for Children and San Diego Youth Services. A parking and shuttle option is offered locally at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. For ticket information, visit farmersinsuranceopen.com. www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A9 TOP PRODUCING AGENT In recent months, my husband David and I had the distinct pleasure of meeting top real estate agent, Janet Lawless Christ. She was representing a luxury home in Rancho Santa Fe Farms, when we met her at an open house. Approximately two and a half months later, we became PROUD owners of that magnificent estate. This amazing feat could NEVER have manifested without the professionalism, tenacity, creativity, integrity, diplomacy and generosity of Janet Lawless Christ. Janet is an incredibly charismatic and competent person!  It was an absolute joy working with her! My husband and I had complete faith in her abilities to participate in win-win negotiations, successfully solve problems (IE. multiple offers, two cancelled escrows and a frivolous lawsuit), and staying open and receptive to ideas and opinions of everyone involved. She kept us abreast of the status (often rocky and beyond our control) and remained completely calm and available Janet is my chosen realtor and treasured friend for life. I’m honored to have met her and incredibly grateful for her partnership. – Heidi Hendler RANCHO SANTA FE RANCHO DEL LAGO RANCHO SANTA FE DEL MAR MESA ESTATES Hip Hollywood Revival! Fabulous single story home, golf course frontage, completely renovated and refreshed! Walk to town, quiet as can be! $8,995,000 Marvelous 5 Star estate in Rancho Del Lago. Lake views, tennis court, 2 guest houses, and orchard all set on 4+ glorious acres in ultra­private gated community. $3,495,000 Wonderful 8,121 appx. sf traditional 7BR home overlooking the breathtaking signature 14th hole of the RSF Golf Course! Gracious living at its finest! $4,995,000 One of a kind Del Mar Mesa Estates custom home AND 250 vine actively producing vineyard. Sweeping views. Easy access to beach, freeways & downtown. Top­line details & finishes, theater & attached 2 br guest house. RANCHO SANTA FE ED IST L ST JU LD SO $3,075,000 Incredible rebuilt Covenant home. Features grand circular drive, hardwood floors, gourmet kitchen and pool. Fantastic detached guesthouse. Horses possible! $4,995,000 Covenant California Villa on 5th hole with views spanning the golf course. Fine finishes & dazzling architectural details. 4 suite br, 2 story det wine room. Pristine, newly restaged 3+ br, 3.5 ba Covenant property. Light, fully updated adobe with high ceilings & fabulous floor plan. $3,495,000 Stately 8,250+ sq ft Traditional Mediterranean estate captures your heart with sweeping views and impeccably designed interiors with the finest materials including Creama­Marfil marble floors. SANTALUZ ILD BU RE HE $875,000 Great Santaluz custom Lot on private culdesac. Panoramic views of mountains, canyons & sunsets. Appx 22,800 sq ft usable building pad. Accommodates a 1 or 2­story house! R FO NT RE IN $7,400/MONTH Coveted 2 br 2 ba casita located on the grounds of the historic & iconic Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Enjoy guest privileges. Room service, concierge, and maid service available and more!! Fully furnished & ready to love! $2,095,000 Meticulously remodeled  3+ bd, 3 ba ranch­style single story home on appx 1.84 quiet & private acres. Gated, w/ private tennis court and sparkling pool! OW CR S E $2,795,000 Refreshed and staged to perfection! 5 br 5.5 ba Greg Agee estate in the Crosby. Flowing open floor plan, panoramic views, 4 car garage, theatre and pool. JANET LAWLESS CHRIST REALTOR® CALBRE# 01278863 C 858.335.7700 O 858.756.4481 [email protected] JanetLawlessChrist.com Follow me! COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE 6015 Paseo Delicias | PO Box 2225 Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. www.rsfreview.com PAGE A10 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW ‘Sherman’s Lagoon’ creator draws attention to ocean problems at Scripps lecture BY RAMIN SKIBBA “It’s the first time I’ve been a distinguished anything!” laughed Jim Toomey, beginning his presentation Jan. 16 as the distinguished speaker for the annual Knowlton-Jackson Lecture of the Center for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation at Scripps Seaside Forum Auditorium. The speaker series, which began in 2013, is named after Nancy Knowlton, founder of the center, and Jeremy Jackson, both marine biologists. Just outside the auditorium, people appreciated the sunny day on the beach and sounds of the crashing waves, making the place a fitting venue for Toomey’s lecture, titled “Drawing Inspiration from the Sea.” For the past 20 years, Toomey has been writing and drawing the daily comic strip, “Sherman’s Lagoon,” which is syndicated in 250 newspapers in North America and in 30 foreign countries. Its cast of sea creatures includes a lazy great white shark, Sherman; his wife, Megan; the sea turtle, Fillmore; and the selfish hermit crab, Hawthorne. Toomey joked with the audience that he often speaks before younger crowds and at aquariums, so it was like a nightmare speaking in front of real marine biologists at Scripps, and he thanked the organizers for making his nightmare come true. “Sherman’s Lagoon” brings together two of his lifelong passions — art and the sea — and he claimed to be “equally incompetent in both areas.” Toomey holds a master’s of arts from Stanford University, and recently, he earned a masters of environmental management from Duke University. The son and grandson of engineers, Toomey said he considered going into engineering as well. But the ocean fascinated him at a young age, and he enjoyed doodling in class, sharing some of his earliest drawings of sharks. When holding a globe in his hands, he said he realized that most of it consists of water and that “if I had a boat, I could go anywhere.” The audience followed as Toomey told a riveting story about learning to fly small airplanes and struggling with the stall recovery. To attempt the maneuver, he descended in a spiral from 6,000 feet, and while facing the rapidly approaching ocean below, he somehow managed to recover control. Afterward, on his way to the bar, he saw birds spiraling downward to eat with ease and natural skill, and he realized, “I’m being humbled by sparrows!” Constructing cartoons He also became aware of the “incredible powers” of ocean creatures. For example, Sherman is “talented without motivation — like some human characters.” Sherman could easily catch more prey if he weren’t so lazy. Fillmore, the turtle, has an incredible ability to navigate; he also has terrible pickup lines. He named many of his characters after streets in San Francisco, where he was living at the time. To make his cartoons, Toomey said he starts with the dialogue, “though for me, the Top: An installment of ‘Sherman’s Lagoon,’ and above, one of his cartoon collections, created by Jim Toomey, right, with Sherman and Fillmore. Photos courtesy shermanslagoon.com hard part’s the writing.” He then demonstrated with Photoshop by drawing a strip as the audience watched it take shape on the screen. (He switched from pen and paper to drawing on the computer in 2002.) See CREATOR, page 28 BEST DEAL IN RANCHO SANTA FE 7979 Camino Sin Puente This stunning single level 5Bed/ 5.5Bath home including detached guest house, is perfectly perched atop the hills of Cielo capturing sweeping panoramic views from almost every room! Located in the coveted Rancho Santa Fe and San Dieguito Union High school districts. Call Simone at 619-884-8560 for your private viewing today!! Offered at $2,599,000 619.813.3229 [email protected] Ca BRE#0123053 www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A11 From STEM, kids can branch into science — and flower BY ASHLEY MACKIN An education in STEM — Science, Technology, Engineering and Math — is at the forefront of teaching as elementary schools nationwide put extra emphasis on these subjects, hoping to spur interest in the sciences at a young age. With several of the fastest-growing occupations requiring an understanding of STEM principles, it’s more important than ever. Is it possible to give toddlers a foundation in STEM thinking, so they are ready to embrace these concepts in school? Katherine Williams, Ph.D., a child and adolescent psychologist at UC San DiSTEM ACTIVITIES FOR ego’s Rady Children’s Hospital, thinks so. YOUNG MINDS: “Having an early start and piquing an early interest and development in STEM learning can help set children on that trajectory to learning and developing careers in • t houghtstem.com: STEM,” she said during an interview. Coding workshops and Williams, a mother of four, touts the importance of games encouraging that thinking through play. • c ode.org: Coding “We know that the younger (that) children learn and games for kindergartenare exposed to STEM-based activities, the more likely that fifth grade, and for they will build skills in those areas as they get older, and the more likely they will be to choose to learn more in teachers to bring coding those areas,” she said. “When it comes to learning, espeinto the classroom cially at the toddler age, the more time they spend explor• s tem-works.com: ing, the more the neurons in the brain are developing.” Games,exercises and But letting the child lead the way as far as which acactivities to encourage tivities to explore is key, she said. STEM interest “Parents can start at a very young age because chil• gir lstart.org: Blog to dren learn best through play,” Williams explained. “There are so many games, puzzles, pattern recognition games, get girls interested in etc., that stimulate the brain development. But instead of STEM activities forcing them, find out what your child responds to. If they like Legos, show them how pattern recognition can lead to bigger and better projects. Follow their play and what they are interested in, and find a way to bring STEM into what they like.” Williams said her 5-year-old daughter loves Disney’s animated film “Frozen,” and so “there is a learning game online for children to learn how to write (computer) code using ‘Frozen.’ So they can make Elsa ice skate or create snowflakes that fall across their screens — all by writing code,” she said. Have a little Padres fan at home? “Baseball is all about math and statistics,” she said, adding that sports can be a way to make physics interesting for children. When it comes to technology, Williams said early use and introduction has its advantages when used as one avenue of learning. “Kids are using technology at a younger and younger age, and that can be a doubleedged sword,” she said. “On one hand, they can use computers better than most older adults. On the other hand, you want to make sure they are not just using computer A camera-shy Paul Williams, twins Kate and Cole Williams, Katherine Williams and Grant Williams. Courtesy photo games or apps, and limiting other areas of learning or exploring, such as art, sports or music.” Williams said when children have motor skills to work a computer mouse and can understand how to turn on a computer, it might be a sign they are ready to start exploring. Williams said there is no scientific data to suggest that boys and girls respond differently to STEM activities when they are very young. “What typically happens is more of a social development where parents and teachers bring STEM-oriented activities, like coding or Legos, to boys instead of girls, so that’s where you might see a difference forming,” she said. “It’s a societal difference, not a biological difference.” Nationwide, Williams said, STEM organizations are incorporating art into their programs, whether it has a place in the acronym or not, as it is just as important. “Engineers are creating robots, and they have to understand how to draw and represent the robot on paper before they can build one,” she said. “The purpose of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) should not be so much to teach art, but to apply art in real situations. Applied knowledge leads to deeper learning.” Call Liz and Lori ~ the local area experts! Liz and Lori Representing distinctive home buyers and sellers in all price ranges Liz Nederlander Coden Cal BRE #01847352 Phone: 858.945.7134 Email: [email protected] Lori Sykes Cal BRE #01883104 Phone: 619-933-9191 Email: [email protected] www.LizCoden.com Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. www.rsfreview.com PAGE A12 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Cathedral Catholicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Option Program recently wrapped up a successful first semester. Students with moderate to severe disabilities thrive through Cathedral Catholicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Option Program Committee prepares for Jan. 31 RSF Rady Gala Committee members are preparing for the Rancho Santa Fe Unit of Rady Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital Auxiliaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Circus Nights Gala,â&#x20AC;? to be held Saturday, Jan. 31, at 6 p.m., at the Grand Del Mar. Proceeds from this event will benefit Rady Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sam S. and Rose Stein Emergency Care Center. Visit www.rcha-rsf.org for tickets or more information. The committee members include, top row (L-R): Kimberly King, Donna Greenberg, Karina Lion, Zoraya de la Bastida, Christina Bertrand, Pooneh Hamzei, Kia Davis. Bottom row: Gisele Chaulhoub, Gina Jordan, Greta Sybert (gala co-chair), Sandra den Uijl, (gala co-chair), Cristiane Valdez, Kathy McVeigh. Cathedral Catholicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Option Program, which serves students with moderate to severe disabilities, has successfully wrapped up its first semester. The Options students, supported by their Peer Mentors, have enjoyed all aspects of the Dons life through their participation in both academic and extracurricular activities. Academically, they have soared beyond expectations in their freshmen courses, embracing their modified college prep material while sitting in classrooms alongside their friends. Inside the Options Center, Options Students were able to achieve maximum success due to their personalized academic plans and aid from their upperclassmen Peer Mentors. Outside of the classroom, the Options Students showed their school spirit by partaking in pep-rallies, school dances, and Dons sporting events. One Options Student successfully completed her first season of Cross Country and is now on the Dons Water Polo team, while another has taken up co-ed tennis and will play on the Dons team this season. Opportunities for students in the Options Program are immensely rewarding, as students experience unique integration and growth in a program unlike any other. Applications for prospective Options Students are now open for the 2015-2016 school year. If you have a child or know somebody with moderate to severe disabilities, please consider filling out an application for Cathedral Catholicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Options Program this fall. For more information, visit www.cathedralcatholic.org or call (858) 523-4000. DO YOU KNOW THE WAY TO SAINT MALO BEACHâ&#x20AC;Ś The exclusive enclave of Saint Malo Beach offers a rare opportunity for privacy while being on the beachâ&#x20AC;Śthere is no other place like this along the coast! Let me introduce you to Saint Malo Beach â&#x20AC;&#x201C; call me today for a private tour. Whether I am beachcombing for the perfect home for a client, or showing one RIP\OX[XU\OLVWLQJVWKHVXUILVGHĂ&#x20AC;QLWHO\P\WXUI ,I\RX¡UHORRNLQJWREX\RUVHOOD&RDVWDORU5DQFKSURSHUW\ I have consistently earned top producer awards and have achieved the highest distinction in sales excellence on the &RDVWDQGLQWKH5DQFKEXWLW¡VQRWDERXWPHÂŤLW¡VDOODERXW\RX CA BRE#01165542 858.735.9032 [email protected] 1234 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA Â&#x2021;2IĂ&#x20AC;FH www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A13 Rancho Santa Fe, 4BD/5.5BA | $1,999,000 Del Mar, 4BD/3.5BA | $3,795,000 La Jolla, 3+1BD/2.5BA | $1,925,000 Rancho Santa Fe, 4BD/5.5BA | $3,900,000-$4,300,000 ANNE LE BEAU MCBEE, BRANCH MANAGER Rancho Santa Fe, 5BD/6BA | $4,495,000 1424 CAMINO DEL MAR | 858.755.6761 | [email protected] A N D R E W E. N E L S O N , P R E S I D E N T & O W N E R www.rsfreview.com PAGE A14 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Mainly Mozart Spotlight Series set to begin stellar new season •Series in RSF now to be held at Fairbanks Ranch Country Club BY KELLEY CARLSON Mainly Mozart is warmed up and ready for a new season of concerts. It begins with the 19th Spotlight Series, in which renowned musicians from around the world perform in intimate settings in Rancho Santa Fe, La Jolla and Carlsbad between February and May. “They (the artists) are true legends in the chamber music world,” said Nancy Laturno Bojanic, Mainly Mozart’s executive director. This year’s Spotlight Series – curated for the third consecutive year by Anne-Marie McDermott – will feature many returning musicians, along with some new faces. McDermott said she took special care when choosing the artists and matching them up together for the series, “which can make or break a performance.” She said that she strives to create passionate performances where everyone is inspiring one another, where there is a sense of spontaneity, and there’s a love of music and a great sense of bonding among the players. “I want it to feel like a family of artists so the public can get to know them,” McDermott said. Furthermore, she balances out the season by ensuring there are a variety of instruments, from piano trios to string quartets. The first engagement in the Spotlight Series is Feb. 6-8, featuring violinist Erin Keefe (concertmaster of the Minnesota Orchestra), cellist Ronald Thomas (Mainly Mozart Artistic Partner for the Chamber Players series in June and Artistic Director Emeritus, Boston Chamber Music Society), and pianist Adam Neiman performing Mozart’s Sonata for Violin and Piano, No. 26 in B-Flat Major, K. 378 and Tchaikovsky’s Piano Trio in A minor, Op. 50. Next, from March 6-8, violin virtuoso Nadja SalernoSonnenberg will pair with McDermott (who is also a pianist) to perform Ernest Chausson’s Concerto for Violin, Piano, and String Quartet in D Major, Op. 21 in a program that also features The Miami String Quartet. Bojanic noted that because Salerno-Sonnenberg and McDermott regularly collaborate, “they play like sisters.” “I’m head-over-heels in love with this piece,” McDermott said. Later in the month (March 27-29), McDermott’s Opus One cohorts – violinist Ida Kavafian, violist Steven Tenenbom and cellist Peter Wiley – will play a program of J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations, transcribed (by Dmitry Sitkovetsky) for string trio. “(This is) one of the greatest pieces ever known; it’s like the Bible for music,” McDermott said. “But it’s not something people hear very often.” It’s also not usually performed by a string trio; typically, it’s played on the piano, according to McDermott. “Ida, Steven and Peter are truly chamber music superstars,” Bojanic said. “With their breadth of experience, there is a lot of respect (for them).” May is the busiest month for the Spotlight Series, starting with a concert on May 8 and 9. McDermott, Pedja Muzijevic, Anton Nel, and Stephen Prutsman (Artistic Partner for Mainly Mozart’s Evolution series) will join forces for Carl Czerny’s Piano Quartet No. 1 in C minor, Op. 148, and J.S. Bach’s Concerto for Four Pianos in A minor, BWV 1065. These particular performances will result in a very full house, Bojanic said – there will be four pianos on the stage at the La Jolla venue, and in Rancho Santa Fe, there will be four on the floor with the audience seated in a full circle around them. A week later (May 16-17), three members of the New York Philharmonic – violinist Sheryl Staples, violist Cynthia Phelps and cellist Carter Brey – will perform a program with pianist Shai Wosner that will include Mozart’s Duo No. 2 in B-Flat Major for Violin and Viola, K. 424 and Dvorak’s Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 87. Finally, the series will wrap up with Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra concertmaster Steven Copes and Dallas Symphony concertmaster Alexander Kerr playing a program alongside violist Hsin-Yun Huang, Seattle Symphony principal cellist Efe Baltacigil, and pianist Jon Kimura Parker. They will play a program of Mozart’s Adagio and Fugue in C minor, K. 546, Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 4 in C minor, Op. 18, No. 4, and Schumann’s Piano Quintet in E-Flat Major, Op.44. “I’m completely thrilled with the upcoming season,” McDermott said. L-R: Music Director Michael Francis (photo by Marco Borggreve), violin virtuoso Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg and curator Anne-Marie McDermott. Courtesy photos “It was such a privilege putting it together,” she added. This year, there is a new venue for the series in Rancho Santa Fe: the Fairbanks Ranch Country Club, 15150 San Dieguito Road, which has a capacity for up to 150 people. For $70, patrons are welcomed with a Champagne and Bellini reception, followed by an hour-long concert and a questionand-answer session with the artists on stage. Finally, guests are invited to post-performance mingling with the musicians while enjoying hosted hors d’oeuvres. Those who have previously attended Mainly Mozart Spotlight Series events will recognize the other two locations. In La Jolla, the performances are held at The Auditorium at The Scripps Research Institute, 10620 John Jay Hopkins Drive, and the $55 ticket price includes a pre-concert wine-and-cheese reception. Meanwhile, the $25 Sunday matinees are held at the St. Elizabeth Seton Church in Carlsbad. Later in the season (June 6-20) will be the 27th annual Mainly Mozart Festival, which will be helmed for the first time by Michael Francis. Mainly Mozart’s new music director will conduct all of the concerts of the Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra, while also serving as music director for the Florida Orchestra and chief conductor and artistic adviser to Sweden’s Norrköping Symphony Orchestra. Francis first established himself as a conductor in January 2007, when he replaced an indisposed Valery Gergiev for concerts with the London Symphony Orchestra during the BBC Gubaidulina festival at the Barbican Centre. A one month later – with only two hours’ notice -- Francis was asked to fill in for composer/conductor John Adams with the LSO at the Philharmonie Luxembourg. In January 2009, he replaced André Previn leading a German tour of the Stuttgart Radio Symphony. Other career highlights for Francis include debuts with the New York and Royal Philharmonic, European engage- ments with the London Symphony Orchestra and working with symphonies in Asia. He has also recorded several albums and was involved in the performance of the score for several of the “Star Wars” films. For Mainly Mozart’s 2015 season, Francis plans to close an era led by his predecessor, David Atherton, before announcing and launching a new direction. “I didn’t want to reinvent the wheel with the programming,” Francis said. “What we have here is something outstanding, with international class,” he added. Francis said this year will be a showcase of many of Mozart’s greatest masterpieces. “In 35 years, Mozart did more than what it would take us to do in three lifetimes,” Francis said. “His desire to create dramatic music … just encapsulates all that we love in art.” One event in particular that the maestro looks forward to: On June 14, as part of the Balboa Park Centennial, Mainly Mozart will invite 34 adult amateurs to play onstage alongside concertmasters and principal players of the nation’s leading orchestras, along with the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra, which will play down in the front. Additional Mainly Mozart events planned for this year include Mozart and the Mind (slated for the fall), and performances by the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra and the Chamber Players. “Mainly Mozart is something really amazing,” Francis said. “People are not quite aware of how amazing it is. They’re seeing the best of the best.” For tickets or additional information about Mainly Mozart and its concerts, call (619) 466-8742, or go to www. mainlymozart.org. Club Amadeus elevates concert experience BY KELLEY CARLSON Looking for first-class seats at premier chamber music concerts, at the best prices? Join the “Club.” Mainly Mozart’s Club Amadeus offers instrumental music enthusiasts “a very deep musical insider experience,” said Nancy Laturno Bojanic, the organization’s executive director. About 150 patrons take advantage of the affinity group’s benefits, which include tickets that can be used at Mainly Mozart performances throughout the year. These include the Spotlight Series concerts, held between February and May in Rancho Santa Fe, La Jolla and Carlsbad; the summer Festival Orchestra concerts at the Balboa Theatre in San Diego; Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra performances; Mozart and the Mind, which interweaves presentations with installations and live performances from leading figures in the sciences, medicine and the arts; and the Chamber Players performances at the Timken Museum of Art in Balboa Park. Club Amadeus members are promised the best seats, according to Bojanic. Within the group, there are two levels of membership: Annual and Deluxe. The Annual membership is $1,000 per person, of which $600 is tax-deductible. These members are given six concert tickets to be used at Mainly Mozart events open to the public, along with tickets to two members-only concerts to be held at private homes in August and November. They also have an opportunity to travel with other club members to see performances around the world, ranging from European tours to the Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival in Colorado. While the Deluxe membership is slightly more expensive ($1,500, of which $700 is tax-deductible), it has a few more perks. These patrons receive 15 tickets for the year, plus they are given the opportunity to attend a third private concert (in addition to those in August and November). All Club Amadeus members receive free admission to the annual gala. This year’s Extravaganza & Auction is slated for March 1 at the Allen Airways Museum at Gillespie Field. Bojanic noted that members are paying the lowest ticket price when factoring in all benefits. She added that most people who sign up for Club Amadeus — which is now in its 20th year — end up becoming members forever. “That says something about their satisfaction,” Bojanic said. www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A15 Your partners in good health: Anthem Blue Cross and UC San Diego Health System With all the changes happening in health care, it’s good to know one place is making it simple. Now you can access all of the world-class care available at UC San Diego Health System through Covered California — the state’s online insurance marketplace. Anthem Blue Cross UC San Diego Health System As one of the most trusted names in health coverage, generations have depended on Anthem Blue Cross plans to help them stay healthy … and you can, too. We’ve provided affordable, reliable health coverage in California for over 75 years. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked UC San Diego Health System #1 in San Diego. Now accessible through Covered California, UC San Diego Health System is the one place that has all your health needs covered, from topranked primary care physicians to leading specialists. To learn more about accessing care at UC San Diego Health System through Covered California, visit health.ucsd.edu/coveredca or call 1-800-926-8273. Anthem Blue Cross is the trade name of Blue Cross of California. Anthem Blue Cross and Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company are independent licensees of the Blue Cross Association. ® ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross name and symbol are registered marks of the Blue Cross Association. www.rsfreview.com PAGE A16 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A17 CA BRE# 01076961 Celebrating Our 25th Year! 6024 Paseo Delicias, Ste A P.O. Box 2813 Fax 756-9553 W NE SELLING BILLIONS IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE N TIO C RU ST N CO 858.756.2266 | $7,200,000 FAIRBANKS RANCH RSF DEL RAYO | $15,900,000 Single Level 6BR, Panoramic Views, Tennis Ct, 2.69 Acres RSF RANCHO BELVEDERE | $15,995,000 6+BR, GH, Study, Recreation Room 5+BR, GH, Wood Paneled Study, Soaring Ceilings RSF FAIRBANKS RANCH | $11,500,000 8BR + GH, Resort Pool & Spa, Tennis Ct, 2.5 Acres Grand Georgian Colonial 5BR, Panoramic Ocean Views DEL MAR OCEAN FRONT | $12,995,000 Custom 4BR, Views, Ample Parking, Ideal Location Single Level 3BR, Study, Orchard, 2.54 Acres 858.756.2266 | $8,750,000 RSF COVENANT 7-8BR, GH, Study, Putting Green, Views ED E REDK A C DMU RSF COVENANT | $5,595,000 CARMEL VALLEY TORREY HIGHLANDS | $975,000 CARLSBAD LA COSTA VALLEY | $1,069,000 5BR, Indoor/Outdoor Living, Gardens, 3.45 Acres Furnished 4BR, Theater, Study, Indoor/Outdoor Living 4BR, Gated Community, Canyon Views 5BR, Soaring Ceilings, Huge Backyard www.rsfreview.com PAGE A18 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW San Diego remembers Loren Nancarrow with healing garden at Scripps BY KRISTINA HOUCK In memory of the late San Diego television anchor and weatherman, family and friends gathered Jan. 22 to dedicate the Loren Nancarrow Healing Garden at Scripps Radiation Therapy Center in La Jolla. The healing garden was named in honor of the longtime TV personality, who died from brain cancer at age 60 in December 2013. He lived with his wife, Susie, in Solana Beach. “It takes a village, and this is a pretty spectacular group of villagers gathered here today,” said Susan Taylor, Nancarrow’s former co-anchor and current executive director of external affairs at Scripps Health. “Here we are, one year, one month and 25 days after Loren passed away, able to stand in the Loren Nancarrow Healing Garden.” More than 1,000 donors helped make Nancarrow’s dream a reality, raising more than $500,000. Funds raised in his name will also be used to provide patient support services for cancer patients at Scripps Health, including support groups, stress reduction classes, nutrition classes, acupuncture and yoga. Designed by landscape architect Pat Caughey, the rooftop garden features benches, a tree and numerous plants, including a new variety of lobelia flowering plants that bloom cobalt blue — Nancarrow’s favorite color. Phil Fischman and Valeri Okun, from Encinitas-based Beads, Crystals and More, donated a Shiva Lingam stone, which symbolizes balance and harmony. “This garden is going to be a blessing to so many people — so many patients and their families going through some of the most trying times in their lives,” Fischman said. “May this be a place of peace that they can reflect and take a breath and be, finding some solace.” The idea for the healing garden stemmed from Nancarrow wanting to create a comforting place for cancer patients and families. “He said, ‘If I don’t make it, I want someone else to make it to their treatment so they can,’” Susie Nancarrow recalled. “So we decided to start a foundation to do something to make a difference. “I just want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart,” she added. “Know that he’s gone, but he’s not forgotten. You being here will make — has made — a difference in other people’s lives.” Singer-songwriter Peter Bolland, a friend of the Nancarrow family, opened and closed the ceremony with songs such as Elton John’s “Candle in the Wind” and Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” Scripps nurse Rod Salaysay played a song he wrote for the occasion on his ukulele. One of the most poignant moments in the ceremony came when Nancarrow’s son, Graham, performed “We Ain’t Got the Time,” a song he wrote in response to a letter from his father. “Not gonna lie, this don’t sit well. It hurts my heart to see you go through hell,” sang, See NANCARROW, page 28 Susan Taylor Susie Nancarrow The Loren Nancarrow Healing Garden. Photos by Kristina Houck R A N C HO S A N TA F E , CA / / SI X-STR U CTU R E FA M I LY CO M PO U ND / / FE B 26TH // WITHOUT RESER VE PUN TA M I TA , M E XI CO / / F EB 1 9 T H WIT H OU T R E S ER V E M E N D O CI N O , CA / / F EB 2 6 T H THE SMART WAY TO BUY AND SELL LUXURY REAL ESTATE CONCIERGEAUCTIONS.COM // 212.257.5018 This property is listed for sale by K. Ann Brizolis (#00751535) of Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, 16915 Avenida De Acacias, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 –(858) 756-4328 and Cristie St. James (#00949711) and Markus Canter (#01810156) of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, 9696 Wilshire Blvd. 3rd Floor, Beverly Hills, California 90212 – (310) 777-2888. Auctioneer Frank Trunzo (CA Bond #511522). Concierge Auctions, LLC is the provider of auction marketing services and possesses California Auctioneer’s Bond #511475 - 777 S. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (888) 966-4759. The services referred to herein are not available to residents of any state where prohibited by applicable state law. Concierge Auctions LLC, its agents and affiliates, broker partners, Auctioneer, and the Sellers do not warrant or guaranty the accuracy or completeness of any information and shall have no liability for errors or omissions or inaccuracies under any circumstances in this or any other property listings or advertising, promotional or publicity statements and materials. This is not meant as a solicitation for listings. Brokers are fully protected and encouraged to participate. See Auction Terms and Conditions for more details. ©2015 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated. Neither Sotheby’s, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC nor any of their affiliated companies is providing any product or service in connection with this auction event. www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A19 DEL MAR $3,500,000 Single-level at the beach with fantastic backyard made for entertaining and family fun. Built in BBQ, large island, fire pit, gorgeous stone fountain all of this on a larger than most in the beach colony. If second story was added an ocean view is definitely possible. MLS# 140025449 858.755.6793 RANCHO SANTA FE $3,795,000 New listing. Magnificently sited in Del Mar Country Club, this Estate features 5BD suites, an office, hand distressed wood floors, Gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, 7 fireplaces, home theatre, balconies, 4-car garage, gym and detached guest house. MLS# 140028786 858.759.5950 RANCHO SANTA FE $2,495,000 Located in The Groves this enchanting 4+BD custom estate captures timeless beauty and views. MLS# 140039457 858.756.7899 RANCHO SANTA FE $2,199,000 Enjoy views from this single story remodeled Hacienda 3BD, plus office and bonus room, 3.5BA home. MLS# 140054717 858.756.7899 SAN DIEGO $1,449,000 4+BD/4.5BA family home w/gourmet kitchen, marble in baths, travertine floors, plantation shutters. MLS# 150001606 858.259.6400 SAN DIEGO $2,150,000 Just reduced. Beautiful 4BD/5BA within the prestigious Crosby Estates, with privacy and views MLS# 140052089 858.756.3795 SAN DIEGO $1,400,000-$1,595,876 Stunning in The Crosby 4BDs, 5+BA,office w/bonus room, 3-car garage on quiet cul-de-sac. MLS# 140061807 858.759.5950 SOLANA BEACH $2,360,000 REDUCED. Single-level with private setting and access to all that Solana Beach offers. MLS# 140064405 858.755.6793 Visit us online at bhhscalifornia.com © 2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. CalBRE# 01317331 www.rsfreview.com PAGE A20 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mother Gooseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; takes darker path with reimagined nursery rhymes BY DIANE Y. WELCH Mother Goose has gone rogue, with her nursery rhymes fractured to bring out the ogre in readers of all ages. Using the rhymes that children for decades have grown up with and memorized, Henry Herz and his sons Josh, 15, and Harrison, 13, have repurposed the classic nursery volume in his â&#x20AC;&#x153;Monster Goose Nursery Rhymesâ&#x20AC;? (Pelican Publishing Company Inc., 2015), a collection made up of the first stanzas of the timeless classic rhymes. His version speaks of Little Witch Muffet, Hefty Jack Horner, Wee Willy Werewolf, Mary Had a Hippograff and more. The book is a monstrous twist on traditional childhood literature. With the poemsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lilting meters enhanced by the brightly rendered comic-book style illustrations of acclaimed artist Abigail Larson, the read is playful entertainment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the first time we collaborated with Abigail,â&#x20AC;? said Herz. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She is able to convey the monster tone without being intimidating or scary for the younger readers.â&#x20AC;? The concept for a more sinister version of the classic Mother Goose rhymes came to Herz when he was taking a picture-book writing class at UC San Diego Extension and he had to come up with a story for the class, he said. He turned to nursery rhymes and fairy tales for inspiration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I did some research on what was available, reminding myself which ones had the right subject matter and length to be adaptable for my purposes,â&#x20AC;? he recalled. This led to the exploration of which mythological creatures could replace the original nursery rhyme characters in terms of â&#x20AC;&#x153;fitting the syllables for the names,â&#x20AC;? said Herz. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And it went on from there,â&#x20AC;? he added. His sons gave him useful feedback on his initial drafts and gave him character names. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Collaborating with him is fun,â&#x20AC;? said Josh. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He has these really good ideas that go well with the ones my brother and I have.â&#x20AC;? To launch the book, two campaigns have been developed. Already started is a virtual blog tour with book reviews and guest blog postings about the book. The second tour, starting Feb. 22, will be in-person book signings at several Southern California bookstores in which the two boys will take part, said Herz. A local resident, Herz received a bachelor of science in industrial engineering and operations research from Cornell University, a master of science in operations research from George Washington University, and a master of arts in political science from Georgetown University. But his literary heart is in science fiction. Herz has been attending Comic-Con in San Left, the cover of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Monster Goose Nursery Rhymesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;; above, authors Henry Herz and his sons, Josh and Harrison. Diego for several years and has moderated panels there on fantasy and science fiction authors. Meeting acclaimed New York Times best-selling authors who agree to be on his panel is a big treat, said Herz. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a big science fiction fan from when I was a kid,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where the Wild Things Areâ&#x20AC;? by Maurice Sendak made a big impact when he was a child. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think I got my start there,â&#x20AC;? said Herz. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I also read â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Hobbitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lord of the Ringsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at a young age, and I loved that stuff!â&#x20AC;? Harrison thinks that collaborating with his dad is â&#x20AC;&#x153;really cool.â&#x20AC;? He said that the best part is being able to look back on something that he did with his dad and know that â&#x20AC;&#x153;maybe I can do the same with my kids.â&#x20AC;? Upcoming book signings are Mysterious Galaxy, 2 p.m. Feb. 22; Barnes and Noble, Santee, 6 p.m. Feb. 25; Barnes and Noble, Mira Mesa, 4 p.m. Feb. 26; and Yellow Book Road, 7 p.m. Feb. 26. Visit http://www.henryherz.com/ to read Henry Herzâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blog. The book will also be available online from Amazon.com and http://www.pelicanpub.com. tunein AM 600 KOGO News Talk Radio Topic to be Discussed Planning for a Secure Retirement Tune in! Aubrey Morrow, CertiďŹ ed Financial PlannerÂŽ Order your complimentary booklet â&#x20AC;&#x153;Are You Financially Organized?â&#x20AC;? at www.MoneyTalkRadio.com s4AX0LANNINGs'LOBAL)NVESTINGs2EAL%STATEs2ETIREMENT0LANNING s!DVANCED%STATE0LANNINGs)NSURANCEs,ONG 4ERM(EALTH 5075 Shoreham Place, Suite 200 San Diego, CA. 92122 Ask Aubrey at: www.MoneyTalkRadio.com Phone (858) 597-1980 | Fax (858) 546-1106 3ECURITIESANDADVISORYSERVICESOFFEREDTHROUGH)NDEPENDENT&INANCIAL'ROUP ,,#)&' AREGISTEREDBROKER DEALER ANDINVESTMENTADVISOR-EMBER&).2!AND3)0##ERTAIN)&'REPRESENTATIVESALSOMAYOFFERADVISORYSERVICESTHROUGH &INANCIAL$ESIGNS ,TD &$, A#!3TATE2EGISTERED)NVESTMENT!DVISOR)&'AND&$,ARENOTAFlLIATEDENTITIES www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A21 Torrey girls take hockey 5s Tournament Three field hockey players from Torrey Pines — Gabi Jimenez, Shannon Yogerst and Farah Farjood -- led their San Diego Rush “Usuba” team to the championship of the Hockey 5s Tournament in Moorpark, Calif., two weeks ago. Yogerst scored three times and Jimenez twice in the final, a 6-3 victory over another San Diego team with players from Serra, LCC and Scripps Ranch high schools. That followed a resounding win over the Ventura County Lady Red Devils in the semifinals. Rush Usuba also went undefeated in pool play, winning all four games including a tough-fought 6-5 victory over a Ventura County boy’s high school team during which Yogerst racked up another hat-trick. Jimenez finished as the tournament’s leading scorer with nine goals, followed by Yogerst with eight. Farjood anchored a defense that stifled opponents time and again. Four of the seven-player Rush Usuba team are already committed to play college hockey. Hockey 5s is a new form of international field hockey just being introduced to the United States. Only five players are on the turf at any one time (compared to 11 in full-field hockey). The game is also much faster and high scoring. Next up for the Torrey trio: a trip to Florida for the Disney Field Hockey Showcase, during which their San Diego Rush team (ranked 23rd in the US) will take on other national powerhouses. (Top right photo) Shannon Yogerst (right) confronts Kyra Kent of Scripps Ranch in the Hockey 5s title game. (Bottom right photo) Gabi Jimenez (left) and Shannon Yogerst celebrate their tournament victory. Rush Usuba (back left to right): Marissa Medici (Vista), Gabi Jimenez (Torrey Pines), Tatiana Arias (Fallbrook); (middle left to right): Danielle Puplava (San Pasqual), Samantha Zevenbergen (San Pasqual), Farah Farjood (Torrey Pines), Shannon Yogerst (Torrey Pines); (front): Chelsea Bigelow (Westview). Private Mortgage Banking Contact Richard M. Faust for his insight in financing your luxury home • Lending in all 50 states • Relationship pricing may be available to new or existing Wells Fargo Bank customers • Primary residence, second homes, and investment properties • Loan amounts up to $6 million for qualified borrowers • Leverage currently held assets Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2014 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMSLR ID 399801. AS1036697 Expires 10/2014 Richard Malcolm Faust Private Mortgage Banker 858-922-3092 [email protected] NMLSR ID 633047 www.rsfreview.com PAGE A22 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Rancho Frontline: Cancer Santa Fe Resolve in 2015 to fight cancer Review 3702 Via de la Valle Suite 202W Del Mar, CA 92014 858-756-1403 www.rsfreview.com U-T Community Press Publishers of Rancho Santa Fe Review Gold Ink Award Winner, California Newspapers Publishers’ Association Award Winner, Independent Free Papers of America Award Winner, Society of Professional Journalists Award Winner DOUGLAS F. MANCHESTER Publisher PHYLLIS PFEIFFER Vice President and General Manager LORINE WRIGHT Executive Editor [email protected] KAREN BILLING Senior News Writer KRISTINA HOUCK Reporter MARSHA SUTTON Senior Education Reporter JON CLARK Photographer DON PARKS Chief Revenue Officer RYAN DELLINGER, COLLEEN GRAY, GABBY CORDOBA, DAVE LONG, MICHAEL RATIGAN, ASHLEY O’DONNELL, PIPER STEIN Advertising DARA ELSTEIN Graphic Designer ASHLEY FREDERICK Graphic Designer LAURA GROCH, AMY STIRNKORB Production/Editorial Assistant Joe Tash, Suzanne Evans, Diane Welch, Kathy Day, Rob LeDonne and Kelley Carlson, Gideon Rubin, McKenzie Images, Randi Crawford Contributors OBITUARIES: 858.218.7237 or cathy@myclassifiedmarketplace.com LETTERS POLICY Topicalletterstotheeditorareencouragedandwemakean efforttoprintthemall.Lettersarelimitedto200wordsorless andsubmissionsarelimitedtooneeverytwoweeksperauthor. Submissionsmustincludeafulname, l address,e-maiaddress l (ifavailable)andatelephonenumberforverificationpurposes. Wedonotpublishanonymousletters.Contacttheeditorfor moreinformationaboutsubmittingaguesteditoriapi l ece,called CommunityView,at400wordsmaximum.Wereservethe righttoeditfortaste,clarity,lengthandtoavoidlibel.E-mailed [email protected] alsobemailedordeliveredto565PearlSt.,Ste.300,LaJolla, or faxed to (858) 459-5250. LETTERSPOLICY BY SCOTT M. LIPPMAN By now, your New Year’s resolutions are at least a few weeks old and hopefully, they’re still in effect. Like you, I’m all in favor of saving money, spending more time with family, getting organized, taking trips, managing stress and helping others. These are among the most popular New Year’s resolutions, according to the federal government. They’re all tried and true. Well, mostly tried. While roughly half of American adults consciously (and conspicuously) make a resolution or two each New Year, less than 8 percent successfully achieve them, reported a 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology. That’s a shame, but promising yourself to be less grumpy or watch less TV and falling short isn’t the end of the world. You can always try again next year — and the year after that. Much more pressing is the making — and keeping — of resolutions that reduce your risk of cancer. An estimated 1.6 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in 2015, a figure that doesn’t include disease types not required to be reported to cancer registries. Last year, 585,720 Americans died of cancer (in all of its forms), which works out to almost 1,600 people per day. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the U.S., exceeded only by heart disease. In San Diego, county health officials say it is the leading cause of death, recently exceeding heart disease, and killing approximately 5,000 San Diegans annually. There are no surprises in what resolutions work best at reducing the risk of cancer. They’re common sense, buttressed by decades of hard science. You probably already know most of them, but read on and remember. Following these resolutions could help ensure that you are around next year at this time to make new ones. 1) Stop using tobacco. This is the single most important and effective way to reduce your cancer risk. Smoking and other forms of tobacco use are linked to cancers of the lung, bladder, pancreas, kidney, nose, mouth, cervix, prostate and colon, to name just a few. Tobacco is a major factor in heart disease, miscarriage, ear infections, and asthma — even the common cold. The use of tobacco products kills more than 440,000 Americans annually. 2) Lose those excess Dr. Scott Lippman pounds and keep them off. Being overweight or obese is associated with an increased risk of a variety of cancers, including breast, prostate, esophagus, kidney and uterine. It’s estimated that onequarter to one-third of some cancers are related to excess weight. There’s a corollary to this: While much has been written touting the virtues of fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in antioxidants, as cancer-fighters, there is no real, definitive evidence to prove it. Still, a well-balanced diet featuring fruits and vegetables can help you obtain and maintain a healthy weight. 3) Exercise regularly. In addition to reducing weight, numerous studies have shown that regular physical activity significantly reduces the risk of some cancers, notably breast and colon. Regular exercise also improves heart health, helps manage stress and improves mood and self-esteem — all of which help your body fend off disease. 4) Limit your drinking. Alcohol is linked to cancers of the breast, colon, mouth, esophagus, liver and larynx. If you do drink, experts recommend no more than one drink a day if you’re a woman, two if you’re a man. It doesn’t matter whether it’s wine, beer or spirits. Drinking and smoking is particularly harmful, dramatically increasing the risk associated with either cancer-causing agent alone. 5) Get screened. Early detection is the best way to overcome a cancer diagnosis. Don’t wait until you’re sick to see a physician. If you don’t have a personal doctor, get one and schedule an appointment to talk about your health and disease risk. There are recommended schedules for different types of cancer screenings, which include mammographies, pap tests, skin examination, prostate-specific antigen tests, colonoscopies and now, lung cancer screening in current or former heavy smokers. In November, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services released a proposed decision memorandum for approved coverage for lowdose computed tomography screening in this group, citing sufficient evidence indicating that screening reduced lung cancer mortality by 20 percent in smokers at high risk. People with a family history of cancer, or certain genetic changes or syndromes, should consult with their doctor to determine whether they should be screened earlier or more often. 6) Get vaccinated. It is exciting that vaccination is, at last, part of the cancer prevention repertoire. Hepatitis B virus infection and subsequent liver cancers can be prevented with vaccination. Another vaccine, which has engendered national debate, is the human papillomavirus or HPV vaccine. It can prevent cervical cancer in women, and more recent data indicates that it can prevent oropharyngeal and anogenital cancers in both women and men. If you were not vaccinated against Hepatitis B or human papillomavirus as a child, your physician can advise you as to whether this should be part of your cancer prevention arsenal. 7) Don’t get too much sun. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Nearly 4 million cases of non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed each year. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Most skin cancers develop after age 50, but damage from sun exposure begins far earlier in life. To protect yourself and your children, minimize skin exposure to direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; wear wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved clothing or a swim skin or similar barrier while enjoying our beautiful beaches; and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher. Skin cancers can occur on areas that are not easily seen, like the back, scalp, or the soles of the feet. Remember to include yearly skin examinations as part of your cancer screenings. Have a happy, fulfilling and cancer-free new year. Scott M. Lippman, M.D., is director of UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center. His column on medical advances from the front lines of cancer research and care appears frequently in this newspaper. You can reach Dr. Lippman at [email protected]. Letters/Commentary/Opinion Rant with Randi: Playboy Mansion Party BY RANDI CRAWFORD Have you heard about the “Poway Playboy Daddy,” who threw a “Playboy”themed party for his 18-year-old daughter? According to several sources, there were 200 kids, and a large portion of them came dressed in “Playboy Bunny” attire. (See pictures on Instagram). I just have to ask: Who in the hell has a “Playboy”themed party for an 18-yearold? What type of parents let their daughter attend a party where she has to show up in a little teeny bunny outfit? What parent possibly thinks this is OK? Sometimes I forget that we are living in a “Kim Kardashian world.” Translation — body image, big boobs, round tushies and selfies are the name of the game. Why wouldn’t a teenager want to attend a party flaunting her sassy self and then posting it all over social media? So here’s where the party gets especially egregious. The dad was serving minors alcohol. If you don’t believe me, you can see the beer cans in their yard (again, those smart teens posted pictures all over the Web). I hope you’ve read enough of my articles to know that by smart, I mean entitled, dumb, and arrogant. Not only does this dad have young girls running around his house with their cleavage hanging out, he’s mixing and serving the kids alcoholic drinks. I’m shocked that any parent would put a kid’s life in danger like this. I honestly cannot wrap my brain around serving alcohol to minors. Our daughter just started high school and if I’ve heard this once, I’ve heard it a thousand times: “Randi, you know that you have to lock up the liquor cabinet once your kids start high school. You will find yourself doing things like marking the bottles, and you won’t be surprised when the lines move. No matter how well you think you know the kids, or how good they are, they will drink your liquor.” I get it; kids make bad choices. But a 48-year-old father has to know better, right? I love it when parents argue that they prefer that their kids drink at home, where they can contain and monitor it. But we aren’t talking about a sip of wine or a taste of beer. That’s amateur hour, compared with hosting a “teen rager,” serving kids, and then letting them get in their cars and drive home. Did this dad have any understanding at all of how detrimental and serious the consequences are of trying to be the “cool parent”? The “mom” was a former PTA president as well as a participant on a Mothers Against Drunk Driving committee — and here’s her tweet to her daughter: “Happiest Birthday to the baddest b**** in town. Now don’t get arrested. Love you madly.” Are you freaking kidding me? Is this “parent” reliving her high school years? Her horribly entitled daughter then tweeted out, “Huge thanks to everyone who was able to be a part of last night! I hope you all had a damn good time and that you’re all okay and safe.” And this is after her father was brought in and faces six months in jail. Nice empathy for her dad? This family is one hot mess, and a very sad representation of our society. And who came up with the six months? I don’t think six years is enough. Any parent who serves alcohol to a minor should pay big. They should put a scarlet letter “S” in his yard for stupid. They should tattoo the letter “S” to his forehead so he can look in the mirror, every day, and remember the night he almost killed 200 innocent kids whose lives were in his hands. If someone can come up with a way to dole out common sense, please tell me. We have really hit rock bottom when this becomes the norm. What say you? Email me at www.randiccrawford. com. LETTERS POLICY: Topical letters to the editor are encouraged. Submissions should include a full name, address, e-mail address (if available) and a telephone number for verification purposes. We do not publish anonymous letters and there are length limits (400 words maximum). E-mailed submissions are preferred to [email protected]. Letters may be edited. The letters/columns published are the author’s opinion only and do not reflect the opinion of this newspaper. www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A23 D! ! L O S id it a Ri ! ain! ! ! D O L ag i d i d ard t A TOUCH OF CLASS!! | $1,266,500 MANICURED MASTERPIECE YARD!! | $1,700,000 OCEAN VIEW LIVING!! | LIST $2,150,000 Model home upgrades!! Gorgeous hardwood floors!! Short walk to new school and park!! Humungous grassy areas in addition to the pool make this quarter acre lot one of Carmel Valley’s truly unique locations!! Soak up panoramic ocean views with family and friends in the comfort of your own home!! William Oh’s kitchen & baths!! The Richard Stone Real Estate Group Keller Williams 12780 High Bluff Drive, Ste 130 San Diego, CA 92130 858-481-7653 Cell 858-395-7653 CalBRE # 00874215 [email protected] www.RichardStoneRealEstate.com #1 Individual Agent 2011, 2012, 2013 Keller Williams Realty Southern California Region!! “# 1 Real Estate Seller in 92130 Since 1987” www.rsfreview.com PAGE A24 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Sportscaster Dick Enberg speaks at Viewpoints event Manny and Adrienne Falzon, Martha and Larry Brooks Jeff Wilson, Jim Wadley Viewpoints, a lecture series co-presented by the Rancho Santa Fe Foundation and the Village Church, presented accomplished sportscaster Dick Enberg Jan. 25, in the Fellowship Center of the church. Enberg is recognized as one of the greatest sports broadcasters of all time, and in 2015 will be returning for his sixth season as the play-by-play voice for Padres television broadcasts. A nearly 50-year broadcasting career has earned Enberg many accolades, most recently the esteemed Frick Award for excellence in broadcasting. He has also earned 14 Emmy awards, holding the distinction of being the only person to win national Emmy awards as a sportscaster, a writer and a producer, culminating in 2000 with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Emmy award. Enberg is just the fourth sportscaster to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. For more information, visit www.villageviewpoints.com. For more information, visit www.villageviewpoints.com. Photos by Jon Clark. For photos online, visit www.rsfreview.com. Larki and Jim Cook Rusty Wright, Gigi Fenley, Erin Heidner, Linda Howard Laurie Peterson, Ray Vance Barbara and Dick Enberg, Rev. Jack Baca Jan Clark, Kevin and Kathy Stumm Marina Pastor, Joel Floros, Lix Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill Kathy and David Hewitt, Tom and DeeDee Barkley Mary Beth Brown, Paul Spitzer Christopher Yanov, Linda Moynan, Teressa Nakamoto www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A25 The Inn offers several special romantic events Viewpoints event with Sportscaster Dick Enberg Continued... The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe sets the tone for a romantic Valentine’s Day with offerings such as a wine tasting, a prix-fixe dinner in Morada and romantic room packages. At 5 p.m. Feb. 12, the Inn will host a Martinelli Winery and Vineyards wine tasting in the lobby. Sample the wines and learn the history behind the Martinelli family, which began growing grapes in the Russian River Valley in the 1880s. From Feb. 12-14, Morada’s Executive Chef Tod Alison will offer a four-course tasting menu curated with romance in mind, combining sweet with savory for a remarkable dining experience. The four-course menu will include grilled Maine lobster, forest mushroom risotto with bacon and artichokes, Morada beef bourguignon with potato gnocchi and for dessert, dark chocolate molten cake. The dinner is $85 a person, plus $35 for optional wine pairings. The Inn will also be offering customized room packages with add-ons like sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries, a couples massage at the spa and a private hot-air balloon ride. For information and dining and room reservations, call 858-381-8289 or visit theinnatrsf.com. Todd Grehl, Jennifer Morse RSF Republican Women Fed. to host ‘Membership Coffee Mix & Mingle’ Feb. 11 Please join the Rancho Santa Fe Republican Women, Fed., for a Membership Coffee Mix & Mingle to be held at 10 a.m. Feb. 11 at the home of Bettybob Williams in Solana Beach. The address will be given when making reservations. Cost is $20. Gift for new member sign-up and membership renewal. The 2015 board will be sworn in at this event. The public is invited to this 2015 get-to-know-you occasion. Your check is your reservation, Make check payable to: RSFRWF, PO Box 1195, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067. Please RSVP no later than Feb. 6. Call Lorraine Kent, 858-756-1081, or email to [email protected]. Todd Schultz, Ron Schultz, Rafael Pastor OBITUARIES Frank Lawson Rowland 1919 – 2014 The Rev. Jack Baca, Craig Clark, Dick Arendsee Nancy and Tom Lawton, Penny and Lou Rosso Frank Lawson Rowland, a longtime resident of Rancho Santa Fe, passed away on December 25, 2014, at the age of 95. He is survived by Jean Rowland, his wife of 67 years; John Rowland, his son; Sue Rowland Brown, his daughter; and five grandchildren. He is predeceased by his sister, Joan, and two halfbrothers, “Wally” Wilburn and Ken Wilburn. Frank was born on February 4, 1919, in Mexbrough, a small town in the county of Yorkshire in the north of England. When he was in school he ran track and began winning events at the national level. Given his ability, he had hoped to be selected as a contender in the 1940 Olympics but WWII got in the way and the games were cancelled. After he had finished school, he started at the University of Sheffield but enlisted in the British Army when war broke out. As an Officer in the Royal Artillery anti-aircraft division of the British Army, he commanded troops and fought in North Africa and Italy. After the war ended Frank returned to England and attended Sheffield Medical School, at which he met his future wife, Jean. As the story goes, they met in the most romantic of labs over an adorable cadaver! In 1953, Frank left England and moved to Nipawin, Saskatchewan, Canada, where he found housing and joined a local medical practice. Jean and the kids followed six months later. During a vacation to Southern California, where Jean lived as an evacuee during the war, he learned that the internship requirement for foreign trained physicians to be eligible to practice in California was increasing from a 1-year to 2-years. As their ultimate goal was to move to the US, he packed up the family and they moved again, this time to Santa Monica, CA. Frank and Jean interned at Santa Monica Hospital which provided them with a cute little house right next door to the Emergency Room entrance where both worked. The house was furnished and when they moved out, they were invited to take the furniture with them, which helped to furnish their first home! After obtaining his license to practice in California, he established a family practice in Santa Monica which he continued until he retired. Frank and Jean moved to RSF in 1981 where both were active members of the Tennis Club. He continued to play until his health no longer permitted it. He spent the last few years of his life managing his investments, enjoying his family, and maintaining his beautiful garden. He will be remembered for the twinkle in his eye, his great intelligence and endless wit. But more importantly, he will be remembered by many for his quiet generosity to friends and family for whom he cared so dearly. A celebration of his life will be held on February 28, 2015. For details, please email Sue Brown at [email protected]. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to your favorite charity. Please sign the guest book online at www. legacy.com/obituaries/ ranchosantafereview. Obituaries call Cathy Kay at 858-218-7237 or email InMemory@MyClassifiedMarketplace.com www.rsfreview.com PAGE A26 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Top musicians perform at Community Concerts of RSF event Community Concerts of RSF presented violinist Alex DePue and guitarist Miguel DeHoyos Jan. 23 at the Village Church Fellowship Hall. Individually, DePue and DeHoyos have wowed the world — from Depue performing at Carnegie Hall at age 14 and touring with rock guitarist Steve Vai in 2007 to DeHoyos entertaining government officials and diplomats in Mexico and performing in Romania by invitation from the Romanian government. Together, they produce an unparalleled sound — music that can speak to anyone’s soul. For more information on upcoming Community Concerts, visit www.ccrsf.org. Photos by Jon Clark. For photos online, visit www.rsfreview.com. Harriet Baldwin, Islandia Rosales Carolyn and Bob Sweeney, Bibbi and Robert Herrmann, Terri Storm Trudy and Ruth Mangrum Victoria and Ellie Sack Carolyn Nelson, Peppy Bahr, Carol Keeney Kathy Alameda, Elizabeth Li Karen Weseloh, Georg’Ann Fletcher, Anne Fletcher Guest musicians Alex DePue and Miguel DeHoyos Jere and Joyce Oren Nancy Miller, Kathy Stumm, Linda Howard, Kevin Stumm www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A27 RSF Community Concerts continued... Poll of the Week at www.rsfreview. com Last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s question and poll results: Would you like there to be more retail business in the RSF Village? Yes: 100 percent No: 0 percent This weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s question: Are you registered to vote at the RSF Association? Yes or No Sandra Obsorn, Julie Amador Judy Arendsee, Art Yayanos North San Diego County Pi Beta Phi Alumnae Club to hold Valentine Party and Dinner Feb. 7 Nancy Lawton, Suzy Halleland, Henry Halleland, Tom Lawton A Valentine Party and Dinner for Pi Beta Phi Alumnae, husbands, and guests will be held Saturday, Feb. 7, at 6 p.m. Please phone 858613-3926 for information and reservations. Jean Sealy, Jeanette Webb, Rosemary Nauert TOYOTA â&#x20AC;˘ SCION PAGE A28 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW CREATOR continued from page 10 Through his cartoons, artistic abilities and speaking skills, Toomey works toward communicating science and environmental issues to a wide audience. For example, he recently conveyed how ocean acidification affects sea creatures, including Sherman’s and other sharks’ ability to smell. He also drew a series of strips about the BP gulf oil spill. Toomey’s comics and illustrations appear in educational materials published by the National Oceanic and NANCARROW continued from page 18 Graham, frontman of American country band, Nancarrow. “I say my prayers every night in my bed, when the heaps of thoughts run through my head. Don’t cry. We’ve got a life to live.” For more than 30 years, San Diegans welcomed Nancarrow into their homes. The five-time Emmy awardwinning journalist’s career landed him on CBS News 8, ABC 10 News and most re- Atmospheric Administration, and he partnered with the United Nations Environmental Program to create videos to raise awareness of the importance of oceans and the coastal environment. He also created a video about threatened coral reefs with Céline Cousteau, granddaughter of famed ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau, and the World Resources Institute. Efforts like these earned him the Environmental Hero Award in 2000 and 2010, presented by NOAA, “for using art and humor to conserve and pro- cently on Fox 5 News. With a love of nature, he was also an organic farmer, gardener and author of four gardening books. Nancarrow was diagnosed with Stage III brain cancer in February 2013. He died on Dec. 28, 2013, leaving behind Susie and their three adult children, Graham, Hannah and Britta. “Thank you for being a friend to Loren,” Taylor told the crowd through tears at the end of the ceremony. tect our marine heritage.” On the front line Last summer, Toomey dove to the depths of the Gulf of Mexico in Alvin, a Navy deep-ocean submersible vehicle. He described his experience and showed videos of the area teeming with life, including tube worms and a squid with incredibly long tentacles. The scientists aboard had technology to allow him to call his 10-year-old son’s science class in Annapolis, Md., from the bottom of the ocean. He has plans to take “Thank you for being a friend to his family, thank you for being a friend to Scripps and all the other cancer patients who will benefit from this place of healing and tranquility. “The Loren Nancarrow Healing Garden — what a wonderful legacy to a man who gave so much to the community of San Diego for the past 30 plus years. Love grows, love blooms, because of all of you.” FORMERLY KNOWN AS 0( ,5( 5(7 ES SAL T N EVE After serving the Encinitas area since 1986, the owner is retiring and must sell $1,000,000 worth of quality, famous, name brand furniture. All inventory must be SOLD IMMEDIATELY AT THE LOWEST PRICES!! *5$&(ĥ)8//,9,1* 1044 N. El Camino Real Encinitas, CA 92024 HOME FURNISHINGS (Corner of El Camino Real & 619-399-3460 Leucadia Blvd) Next to PRESENT THIS BONUS CERTIFICATE TO RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL 10% OFF PRESENT THIS COUPON & RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL 10% OFF ALREADY DISCOUNTED MERCHANDISE. NOT REDEEMABLE FOR CASH. OTHER RESTRICTIONS APPLY. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. his family on a boat for a year, and will describe their experiences with autobiographical comics. Just as he advised scientists trying to engage with the public, “if you want to reach people, you need to be honest, tell a story, and connect with your audience in a human way,” Toomey reaches and inspires many people with his entertaining cartoons and as a passionate and outspoken advocate for ocean conservation. BOND RSF resident to embark on nineday outreach tour to Africa Evangelist Morris Cerullo, 83, president of Morris Cerullo World Evangelism, is embarking next month upon a nine-day outreach tour throughout Africa. The international evangelist has been traveling to developing nations for 68 years. This nine-day trip to Africa will include training meetings in Lome, Togo; Cotonou, Benin; Lagos, Nigeria; Libreville, Gabon; Kinshasa, Congo; and Douala, Cameroon. Cerullo, a Rancho Santa Fe resident, will also consult with political leaders of these nations to discuss economic aid, food, and medicine for the beleaguered countries hit hardest by poverty, political and economic corruption. — Submitted press release continued from page 1 to all schools in the district with the exception of Solana Ranch and limited improvements to Solana Pacific, the district’s newest schools. Planned improvements would enhance all school facilities, with the exception of Solana Ranch, which opened in the fall, Superintendent Nancy Lynch explained after the meeting. Kitchens would also be expanded to promote the district’s focus on wellness and healthful living, she added. The most significant projects would be the modernization of Skyline and Solana Vista — the district’s oldest schools. “Our FMP is a living document that will be reviewed to ensure that current educational and safety priorities are included,” Lynch said. “Setting priorities will be a next step for the board, since priority of projects is not outlined in the plan.” During the meeting, Jay Bell, senior vice president of Telacu Industries, presented an informational report to the board regarding the history of general obligation bonds and how the district would pursue such a measure. If the board ultimately decides to move forward with a general obligation bond, Bell suggested the district update its plan, generate community interest, organize a bond steering committee, and develop a construction project list and schedule in preparation for the June or November 2016 elections. “The district has allocated resources of time and funds to develop a comprehensive Long-Range Facilities Master Plan,” Lynch said. “We must now enter discussions on how to fund this plan that will benefit our students and community.” www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A29 continued from page 1 what we need at this point. There are facilities and maybe things that are expensive, but we need to consider which resources are the best and figure out how to get funding. We will never have an opportunity like we have today … the timing is right.” The committee plans to bring the same group together for another meeting in midMarch, yet to be scheduled. The meeting was largely informational, with each agency providing an overview of its approaches to providing water to their constituency. As Randall reported, the Olivenhain district delivers nearly 2 million gallons of recycled water daily. The district has just received bids of $8 million to $10 million to bring recycled water to the Village Park community of Encinitas. The hope is to construct 7.6 miles of pipelines to bring water to schools, parks, street landscaping, 19 homeowners associations’ common areas and golf course — Randall said the challenge, as always, is funding. Bardin discussed the Santa Fe Irrigation District’s water supply: 30 percent comes from Lake Hodges, the local water supply they’ve had the rights to since the 1920s; 65 percent is imported; and 5 percent is recycled water. Bardin said the district’s goal is to manage its supply as cost-effectively as possible, keeping their portfolio diverse and keeping the costs down. “Our main imperative is to protect Lake Hodges,” Bardin said, noting that they have some of the lowest rates in the region primarily because of those local supplies. He said water districts are entering a new era of developing alternative supplies at the local level rather than relying on imported water. All of Solana Beach is on recycled water (all homeowners associations, medians, golf courses), and Bardin said they have been studying how to bring recycled water out to the RSF Golf Club for three decades. “The reason it has never been done is because it’s very expensive,” he said of the $20 million project. They have mapped out all target areas of big users, and Bardin said they couldn’t be more spread-out if they tried — the hope is to get a recycled-water anchor tenant like the golf course, and get a lot of the “big guys” off of that system. The pipeline does exist, Bardin said, but they need to secure access to it and build a storage tank, preferably at the golf club. “We’ve got this thing figured out; it’s the funding that we’re working on,” Bardin said, noting they are chasing $50 million of federal funding along with the 10 agencies in the North San Diego Water Reuse Coalition. Bardin said the district is working on getting permits for private estate lots on the edge of Solana Beach for recycled water use. If approved, he said, that could open up a lot of doors to bring “purple pipe” to other properties in Rancho Santa Fe. Thornton, the general manager of the San Elijo JPA, said they are working with the North San Diego Water Reuse Coalition to expand recycled water use and leverage existing infrastructure, and go after the federal funding as well as $5 million in state funding. Through a main facility in Cardiff, the San Elijo JPA manages wastewater treatment for Encinitas and Solana Beach, and serves Santa Fe Irrigation District and OMWD as clients. Starting this year, it will handle wastewater treatment for Del Mar, which used to send its wastewater down to San Diego. He said one of the issues that golf courses like Rancho Santa Fe have with the recycled water is its quality — Rancho Santa Fe’s water has a high salt content. Thornton said San Elijo has constructed an advanced treatment program at the facility that can remove salt from the water, down to 850 milligrams — a number that Barrier from the RSF Golf Club seemed to be pleased about. “Financing is still an issue, but the quality issue has been addressed to make sure it’s a viable solution,” Thornton said. As reported by Duffy, the RSF Community Services District has two wastewater treatment plants: The Rancho Santa Fe plant and the Santa Fe Valley plant east of the Crosby. The Santa Fe Valley plant is the “blueprint,” Duffy said, as it has an advanced treatment system and its water is sold to the OMWD. The Rancho Santa Fe plant was built in the 1960s and doesn’t have the advanced treatment system. Duffy said the water there is not being beneficially reused, and they have looked at upgrading it — at a cost of $1.5 million to $ 2 million. Wilkinson noted that it’s really “hard to swallow” that none of that water is going back into the community. Bardin asserted that the Rancho Santa Fe community really needs to get its water usage down before millions are spent on a recycled water project. He said there’s a “bull’s-eye” on Rancho Santa Fe for having high water usage, and he asked that community members do their part by thinking about their irrigation demands and making sure their use is efficient. Barrier said the golf club has done many things to improve its water-use efficiency and many factors must be overcome. “My first day here, we talked about recycled water. Twenty-three years later, I’m still going to meetings about recycled water,” Barrier said. “We’re open-minded. We’re willing to take on any of these projects.” 2014 Model Year Closeout Huge Selection With Prices Like These on All 2014 Models! 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PAGE A30 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW www.rsfreview.com www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE A31 OLIVENHAIN, CALIFORNIA Beautifully situated sgl level home offers privacy, panoramic views, guesthouse. 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, $2,495,000 RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Remodeled by Weir Brothers with views from almost every room. Pool & tennis. 5 bedrooms, 6+ baths, $3,995,000 RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Lilian Rice inspired estate with beautiful views. Covering 4+ usable acres. 5 bedrooms, 3+ baths, $3,995,000 RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Guard-gated Fairbanks Ranch. Renovated. Open floor plan. Entry level master. 7 bedrooms, 6+ baths, $3,895,000 Represented by: John Olson T. 619.884.9215 [email protected] Represented by: Mary Djavaherian T. 858.663.2297 [email protected] Represented by: Doug Harwood T. 858.735.4481 [email protected] Represented by: Pari Ziatabari T. 858.442.9940 [email protected] RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Traditional Mediterranean estate. Finest finishes, views, pool & water features. 6 bedrooms, 6+ baths, $3,495,000 RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Beautifully remodeled single level Covenant home on a flat, park-like lot. 4 bedrooms, 4+ baths, $3,095,000 RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Premier ocean & golf course views. Infinity salt pool/ spa. Must see to believe. 5 bedrooms, 5+ baths, $2,799,000 RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Greg Agee custom estate in The Crosby. Views, theater, pool, wood-clad office. 5 bedrooms, 5+ baths, $2,795,000 Represented by: Janet Lawless Christ T. 858.335.7700 [email protected] Represented by: Doug Harwood T. 858.735.4481 [email protected] Represented by: Patrick Knapp T. 800.800.6417 [email protected] Represented by: Janet Lawless Christ T. 858.335.7700 [email protected] RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Gated & meticulously remodeled 3 br and office on 1.8+ quiet, private acres. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, $2,095,000 RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Tuscan-inspired home on one of the highest points on the west side of Cielo. 4 bedrooms, 4+ baths, $1,725,000 RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA Appx 4.25 acre parcel with views & breezes! Flat pad. Approved for 4 horses. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, $1,675,000 SANTALUZ, CALIFORNIA Allard Jansen designed, Sharratt Construction built. Golf course & ocean views. 6 bedrooms, 6+ baths, $5,490,000-5,990,000 Represented by: Janet Lawless Christ T. 858.335.7700 [email protected] Represented by: Joanne Fishman T. 858.945.8333 [email protected] Represented by: Rosie Gross T. 858.775.7355 [email protected] Represented by: Shepard & Lysaught T. 619.417.5564 [email protected] ColdwellBankerPreviews.com 6015 PASEO DELICIAS | PO BOX 2225 | RANCHO SANTA FE | (858) 756-4481 Coldwell Banker Previews International® ©2015 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. www.rsfreview.com PAGE A32 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Question: How many homes Sold in 92067 in 2014? Answer: 195 (all 92067), down 21% compared to 2013. 98 (Covenant only), down 17% compared to 2013. Question: What was the median sale price for 92067 in 2014? Answer: $2,375,000 (all 92067) up 2.3% from 2013. $2,400,000 (Covenant only), up 3.7% from 2013. Question: What was the average sales price of a home in 92067? Answer: $2,735,228 (all 92067) up 8% from 2013. $2,912,403 (Covenant only), up 10.9% from 2013. Question: What was the average price per square foot for 92067 in 2014? Answer: $510/sqft (all 92067). $591/sqft (Covenant only) Question: How many homes are on the market today 2015? Answer: 160, compared to 250 in January 2014. Question: How many homes went back to the bank in 2014? Answer: There were 6 homes that went back to the bank in 92067 last year. Question: What real estate agents are known EXPERTS in the area? Answer: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Team Manionâ&#x20AC;? Heather and Holly have been representing Buyers and Sellers on the Ranch for over 35 years. CALL â&#x20AC;&#x153;TEAM MANIONâ&#x20AC;? FOR A 2015 MARKET EVALUATION OF YOUR HOME. $1,395,000 Covenant Village, %HGURRPV2IÂżFH $1,345,000 Covenant Village, 4 Bedrooms $765,000 Rancho Bernardo Golf Course Location, 4 Bedrooms RANCHO SANTA FE REALTY (858) 756-3007 CA BRE # 00798625, #00646025 6024 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe www.TeamManion.com $7,800/month Covenant Village, 2 Bedrooms + 2IÂżFH*XHVW5RRP January 29, 2015 Section B RSF Community Center Adult Dodgeball Tournament The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center hosted an adrenaline-filled Adult Dodgeball Tournament Jan. 23 at the center. Photos by McKenzie Images. For photos online, visit www.rsfreview.com. Team Fireball is Andy Kaffka, Ilene Lamb, Kristin Baldi, Lynde Kaminsky, Phan Kaffka, Krista Bonano, John â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eagleâ&#x20AC;? Bonano, Todd Parnell The Misfits Team The Dodgefathers are Justin and Stephanie Smith, Tom Schreiber, Ken and Julie Buechler, Garth and Brynn Engelhorn, Kali and Paul Kim Team Light Blue Balls- Back row (L to R): Jolene Banuelos, Anna Larson, David Mitchell, Carlos Banuelos, Felipe Arroyo. Front row (L to R): Anna Kozikowski, Rochelle Vandermerwe, Brian Robbins, Valerie Robbins The Average Joes are Gene and Debbie Kim, Mike Carufel, Michelle Kim, Cyndi and Colton Sudberry, Sarah and Tom Murphy www.rsfreview.com PAGE B2 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW NORTH COUNTY’S FINEST PREVIOUSLY OWNED CARS Merv Griffin’s #12 Saleen!! 1988 Ford Mustang Saleen | 73,041 miles | $69,088 WE BUY CARSWE CONSIGN CARS HOME OF THE 90 DAY WARRANTY* WE SPECIALIZE IN AWESOME CARS! 1949 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible $219,449 | Mileage: 16,816 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 $119,967 | Mileage: 2,420 CHECK OUT OUR EXTENSIVE ONLINE INVENTORY EZCARS101.COM EZ FINANCING AVAILABLE 140 NORTH COAST HIGHWAY 101, ENCINITAS 760-753-CARS (2277) One Block North of Moonlight Beach *Excludes Classic Cars Local expert keeps things on positive level when it comes to dialogue with dogs BY DIANE Y. WELCH If you’ve ever wondered what your dog is thinking, pet psychologist Linda Michaels may be able to give you some clues. From her decades devoted to the care and understanding of canine companions, Michaels comes as close as it gets to reading doggy minds. It is a skill derived from her degree in experimental psychology from San Diego State University, paired with thousands of hours of practical experience with dogs and years of volunteer work at the San Diego Humane Society, said Michaels. That experience includes Michaels’ work in a behavioral neurobiology laboratory, conducting behavioral trials, and examining the interface between behavior and the brain. By combining science with a hands-on approach, she has positioned herself as a leading authority on force-free, positive pet training. Michaels serves clients from La Jolla to Beverly Hills through her private consulting Linda Michaels has positioned herself as practice, Linda Michaels MA, Victoria Stilwell a leading authority on force-free, positive pet training. Positively Dog Training. “I consider myself a relationship healer,” she said. Her practice focuses on the psychological aspects of canine behavior, much like human psychology, which include fear, anxiety, aggression, hyperactivity and separation/attachment disorder. “I also teach pet parents how to communicate with their dogs in a language that dogs can understand.” Michaels’ love for dogs started as a child growing up in Westchester, N.Y. The family’s first pet was a puppy that Michaels sneaked into the home and hid in the closet. She was soon discovered, but the dog was allowed to become part of the loving family. This love and compassion for dogs has never waned, and most recently led Michaels to become the flagship Southern California Victoria Stilwell trainer. Stilwell, famed for her Animal Planet TV show about dogs, “It’s Me or the Dog,” in 2010 founded a global network of elite dog trainers. “To join the network was very demanding,” said Michaels, as the standards were so high. “Victoria wanted people who were already successful in business and on the same mission to promote force-free training and to prove how much they love dogs.” Michaels submitted several well-researched essays, along with two lengthy unedited videos that captured her in action with clients and their pets. One of the videos was of a behavoral consultation for a serious issue, a family who had a dog that was being aggressive against both a 2-year-old child and the father. The mother assumed that her toddler loved the dog, who was tolerant of the child’s less-than-gentle treatment. “But I could see the anxiety building in the dog,” said Michaels. The issue ended up being a matter of management and education. It was resolved by being mindful of the developmental behavior of the child, along with using positive techniques to teach the dog rather than using dominant force. “It’s is a big problem,” said Michaels of the trend whereby pet parents are being instructed to use punitive measures and devices like shock, prong and choke collars to train their dogs through dominance. “This is not a good thing to do,” she stressed. “Treating a dog in that manner, who has canines (teeth) and very powerful jaws, can only incite aggressive behavior, and it changes the personality of the dog.” Instead, force-free trainers teach through benevolent leadership and rewards. “We don’t correct, intimidate or use any dominance-based leash-walking devices. We redirect, not correct unwanted behavior,” Michaels explained. This approach has brought Michaels to the attention of many organizations. Notably, she serves as behavioral consultant for the Wolf Education Project in Julian, is on the advisory board for the Rancho Santa Fe-based nonprofit Art For Barks, and is the founder and director of the Positive Pet Professionals of San Diego, a network of local force-free professionals. She has also been invited to speak at the inaugural summit of the Pet Professional Guild in Tampa, Fla. in November. It is a meeting of the minds for trainers solely centered on positive tactics. “We are finally having a sea change in the dog training industry,” commented Michaels, “but it is still an ongoing battle to get these punitive pet devices banned.” For private, customized behavior consulting and basic manners dog training in the North County area, contact Linda Michaels at 858-259-9663, email at VSDogTrainer@gmail. com or visit http://www.dogpsychologistoncall.com. Clarification In the Jan. 22 issue of the Rancho Santa Fe Review, an article on Mille Fleurs stated that the restaurant is offering a $30 three-course, prix fixe menu from now through Feb. 8 (not including weekends). The restaurant emphasizes that it is not offering this menu on Saturdays. www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B3 Humor trumps sorrow in ‘The Darrell Hammond Project’ La Jolla Cultural Partners BY DIANA SAENGER American actor, stand-up comedian and impressionist Darrell Hammond can boast the longest tenure of any cast member in “Saturday Night Live” history — 14 years (19952009). Now he takes the stage in the world premiere of “The Darrell Hammond Project,” directed by La Jolla Playhouse Artistic Director Christopher Ashley, Jan. 31-March 8 at Potiker Theatre, UCSD campus. “I have been a decades-long major fan of Darrell and his channeling of other people on ‘SNL,’” Ashley said. “I was one of the first people who bought his book when it came out — ‘God, If You’re Not Up There, I’m F***ed’.’ It was not what I expected from the comedy and characters he has done; it’s an honest off-look at a terrifying (abusive) childhood. “I thought this would make an amazing stage piece in this kind of era and reveal the detective story of Darrell’s past. I think of it as the dark side of funny because it’s tough and funny. We did some workshops over the last year and performed it at a school and comedy club. That was tremendously useful in starting the rehearsal process here.” Hammond, with Elizabeth Stein, wrote the play based on his book, which Ashley refers to as “surprising, incredibly funny and deeply moving.” “It’s like the trifecta to be funny, harrowing and moving because his writing background is largely in standup and characters,” Ashley said. “In writing a 90-minute piece as opposed to a standup set is a new form. Darrell was incredibly open to, ‘How does the theater piece work, and how do you build a set of ideas around emotion?’ He’s one of those newcomers excited to discover what he doesn’t know, and he brings a skill set of comic-chops, writing-chops and a really evolved dedication.” Part of Hammond’s detective story is trying to figure out things about his abusive childhood and past. “We’ve worked on how to keep a handle on that and not invite the audience into his therapy,” Ashley said. “It’s really honest for him to own that history and events and not be driven by them. It’s rough to wake up every morning (L-R) Darrell Hammond from ‘Saturday Night Live,’ appears in his one-man show ‘The Darrell Hammond Project’ at the La Jolla Playhouse. Playhouse Artistic Director Christopher Ashley directs Darrell Hammond in the world premiere of ‘The Darrell Hammond Project.’ Courtesy photos and know you have to relive them.” “The Darrell Hammond Project” is also very funny, as often the case, comedians use humor to diffuse the dark moments of their lives. Hammond unravels his heartbreaking and hilarious journey in this show. “Darrell’s humor saved his life so it wasn’t darker,” Ashley said. “As a young child, he was gifted at imitating and channeling neighbors and what was funny about people around him to make other people laugh … that distracted from some of his real-life, so his comedy was both an antidote and prevention from cruelty.” Hammond plays 63 characters in “The Darrell Hammond Project” including politicians such as Clinton, Cheney, George W. Bush, Al Sharpton, shrinks along the way, his parents, his high school football coach, and movie stars like Sean Connery. “The Connery segment on ‘SNL’ was a little risqué and was only done on late night,” Ashley said. “We only do bits of it, but that was some of the muchsearched material ever. Darrell is the longest-running cast member on that show — on and off for 25 years. He’s back on it now and will be on the 40th anniversary special in February. If you grew up in America at any point in the last 40 years and watched television, you probably have seen ‘SNL,’ and will really enjoy this show.” • If you go: “The Darrell Hammond Project” runs Jan. 31-March 8 at Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, UCSD campus. Tickets from $15 at (858) 550-1010, lajollaplayhouse.org Note: The show contains strong language, mature themes and adult situations. CHECK OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING Barbara & William Karatz Chamber Concert Series Alexandre Tharaud Monday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m. Globally sought-after French pianist, Alexandre Tharaud is heralded for his brilliantly conceived programs and best-selling recordings that range from Bach, Chopin, Rameau, and Ravel to music inspired by Paris cabaret of the 1920’s. Tharaud has not only performed the gorgeous soundtrack to, but also appeared in the Academy Award–winning motion picture Amour. His recording of the Goldberg Variations will be released by Warner Classics in fall 2015. Tickets: $40 members, $45 nonmembers www.ljathenaeum.org/chamberconcerts.html or (858) 454-5872 Whale Watching Adventures Now through April 19 9:45 a.m.–1:15 p.m. & 1:30–5 p.m. Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 8 p.m. MCASD Sherwood Auditorium Download a $5 off whale-watching coupon at aquarium.ucsd.edu! Tickets: $80, $50, $30 Embark on an unforgettable journey with the ocean experts at Birch Aquarium at Scripps and Flagship Cruises & Events! Join aquarium naturalists for twice daily cruises to see gray whales as they pass by San Diego on their annual 10,000-mile round trip migration. Don’t forget your camera! Prizewinner at several major international piano competitions, including being the youngest finalist of the XVI International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition, the 22-year-old Russian pianist makes his much-anticipated return to La Jolla to open this Season’s Frieman Family Piano Series. Adults: $38 weekdays, $43 weekends Youth: $19 weekdays, $22 weekends More info: 858-534-4109 or aquarium.ucsd.edu (858) 459-3728 www.LJMS.org Laugh-in: Art, Comedy, Performance Through April 19 MCASD La Jolla Laugh-in: Art, Comedy, Performance explores the recent turn toward comedic performance in contemporary art. The exhibition presents the work of 20 artists who engage strategies of stand-up comedy as a means to reframe questions surrounding performance, audience, and public speech. www.mcasd.org MCASD La Jolla 858 454 3541 700 Prospect Street www.rsfreview.com PAGE B4 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW SPOTLIGHT on LOCAL BUSINESS ‘Moms Making Six Figures’ allows women to stay at home and earn an income For 15 years, Jennifer Becker worked in the corporate world. But after becoming a mom, she no longer wanted to work late and travel. She wanted to be home with her daughters. “When I had my first daughter, I was still traveling and coordinating babysitters,” said Becker, who worked as a supply chain director, first in aerospace and then in consumer goods. “But when I had my second daughter, it just became apparent it was going to be a really hard career to maintain.” After learning about Moms Making Six Figures, a San Diego-based marketing company that allows women to stay at home and either replace or supplement their income, Becker started with the company in October 2013. By January, she joined the company full time, leaving behind the corporate world for good. “It was a very male-driven industry,” recalled Becker, who often had to travel across the country and around the world. “There wasn’t a lot of sympathy for women with children. There was always a lot of stress trying to juggle the kids. It was just really hard to balance.” Becker isn’t alone. While employment rates for women have been rising in other countries, they have declined in the United States, falling from 74 percent at its peak in 1999 to 69 percent today, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. In addition to the downturn in the economy, a lack of family-friendly policies appears to have contributed to the lower rate, according to a recent Kaiser Family Foundation/ New York Times/CBS News poll of unemployed adults ages 25 to 54. Sixty-one percent of women said family responsibilities were a reason they weren’t working, compared to 37 percent of men. Of women who identify as homemakers and have not looked for a job in the last year, nearly three-fourths said they would consider reentering the workforce if a job offered flexible hours or allowed them to work from home. To allow women to work from home and either replace or supplement their income, local resident Heidi Bartolotta quit her job and founded Moms Making Six Figures with two other women in December 2009. Since then, Moms Making Six Figures has grown to more than 300 team mem- Jennifer Becker with her daughters, 3-year-old Jillian and 5-year-old Kamryn. Courtesy photo bers. “The corporate environment is failing families, and moms in particular,” said Bartolotta, a former pharmaceutical sales representative, whose daughters are 9 and 11 years old. “That’s the people we cater to — families looking for an alternative way to create a similar income but have flexibility.” Although the company launched in San Diego, there are now team members across the United States, as well as in the United Kingdom and Australia. Teams have long been established in San Diego County, Orange County and the Bay Area, as well as in Nevada, Arizona, Chicago and New York. New teams have also launched in Atlanta and Nashville. Bartolotta said her team is comprised of women from very different education levels, backgrounds and work styles. Interested team members don’t have to have a marketing background, but they do have to have self-motivation and the desire to succeed because they make their own schedules and work from home, she added. “The benefit of staying with a corporate company doesn’t have the pay-off anymore,” Bartolotta said. “You don’t have pensions and other benefits that companies gave back to you for investing so much of your life. That doesn’t really exist anymore for our generation. A company like ours is so applicable to people because they get to design, own and dictate their schedule and their life.” “When I found Moms Making Six Figures, I was kind of in disbelief that I could still pull a six-figure income and really work around my kids’ schedule,” added Becker, whose daughters are 3 and 5 years old. Over the last year, Becker has taken her daughters — now in preschool and kindergarten — to school every morning and picked them up every afternoon. She has gone on every field trip and been at every soccer practice. “I was pretty much just coming in right at dinner and bath and bedtime, and that was it,” she said. “Now, I really get to be the person to pick them up and hear about their day. I calendar everything the kids are doing, and then I calendar work after that.” Looking to expand her team at home and abroad, Bartolotta encourages interested women to contact her by filling out a form on the company’s website at www.momsmakingsixfigures.com/contact. “Check it out and see if it’s for you,” Becker said. “Know there’s an alternative.” For more information, call 858-837-1505 or visit momsmakingsixfigures.com. Business spotlights are developed through this newspaper’s advertising department in support of our advertisers. 60th Anniversary Season Saturday, February 7 at 7:30 pm Sunday, February 8 at 2:00 pm Mandeville Auditorium, UCSD Ends Saturday, Jan. 31st! GUEST ARTIST: MAYA BEISER, cello STEVEN SCHICK conducts OSVALDO GOLIJOV Azul CHINARY UNG Exclusive Fine Linens For the Bed & Bath Sophisticated Sleepwear Gifts & Accesories for Gracious Living Khse Buon CARL NIELSEN Symphony No. 4 “The Inextinguishable” Tickets $15 - $29! 7717 Fay Avenue • La Jolla, CA 92037 T(858)459-8642 www.marthasmithfinelinens.com Free pre-concert lecture by Steven Schick one hour before performance. 858-534-4637 • www.lajollasymphony.com www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B5 ‘Murder for Two’ at the Old Globe is madcap musical ‘who dun it?’ BY DIANA SAENGER What happens to a detective trying to solve a murder at a birthday party when he encounters a crowd of zany suspects comes to light in “Murder for Two” at the Old Globe. Joe Kinosian plays the suspects (and wrote the book and music along with Kellen Blair) and Ian Lowe portrays detective Marcus. Scott Schwartz (Globe’s “A Room with a View” Playhouse’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”) directs the musical, which Chicago Shakespeare Theater recently recognized as Best New Work – Musical or Review. “My writing partner Kellen Blair and I were drawn to creating a silly farce based around a murder mystery,” Kinosian said. “We were influenced by screwball comedy performers and directors; the Marx Brothers above all others, but we love Preston Sturges’ wordplay as well.” Lowe, who worked with Kinosian on “Murder for Two” in New York and on tour, said he responded to many of the play’s elements. “I’ve found a number of scripts that require an actor to play piano as they are always on my radar,” he said. “When I read this one, it totally appealed to my sense of humor, and the piano component was challenging and fun to tackle. “There is a mystery being solved during the course of the evening, but the play is definitely a comedy first and foremost,” Kinosian said. Lowe, a big fan of Agatha Christie, Clue and other comedic murder mysteries, added, “I love that the show borrows from a lot of those ideas in this zany, screwball musical,” where the grand piano has a center-stage spot. “There are moments where director Schwartz and the actors found ways to make the piano theatrical in the show that adds to the storytelling.” Joe Kinosian as The Suspects and Ian Lowe as Marcus star in ‘Murder for Two,’ through March 1 at The Old Globe. Photo by Joan Marcus Lowe describes his character as someone who wants nothing more than to be a good detective. “Marcus is passionate about all things police-related,” Lowe said. “He’s memorized all the things that make up a great detective. He’s determined and focused on solving this mystery. But because it’s a comedy, the suspects are throwing thousands of wrenches into the mix that prevent Marcus from quickly finding a solution. He also has a backstory, so every step along the way is highly charged for him.” Kinosian said, “When we were writing the play, that was the notion — this sweet, earnest, young police officer is trying to prove himself at the crime scene before the real detective shows up, and all of the suspects have different reasons and tactics to distract him from doing what he needs to do.” Kinosian plays 10 characters and said each suspect evolved over time. “There are three members of a 12-member boys choir for which I walk on my knees for them and talk like a reject from a ‘Little Rascals’ movie … the leading female character is me imitating my friend, Lauren.” Mystery and comedy usually have different audiences but not here said the creators. “We’ve had a range of audiences and it’s been fun to see their responses,” Lowe said. “At a student matinee in Arizona, it was fun to see how they enjoyed the irreverent humor. I see it as having a PG-rating, but for precocious children because there’s a lot of swear words.” Kinosian said, “It’s cross-generational in its appeal; those age 60-plus will know the references to old movies, slapstick, screwball comedies, film noir and nods to vaudeville … those in their 30s or 40s will appreciate The Simpson’s – Family Guy-style delivery of surreal comedy. Patrons ages 12-18 will enjoy some immature jokes and a lot of people falling down.” • IF YOU GO: ‘Murder for Two runs through March 1 at the Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park. Tickets from $29 at (619) 234-5623 (Globe). TheOldGlobe. org Top-ranked juniors to play exhibition at RSF Tennis Club reception Jan. 31 The Rancho Santa Fe Tennis Club is holding a welcome reception on Jan. 31 for new members at the clubhouse along with a 4 p.m. doubles tennis exhibition open to members and non-members. Check-in and welcome for new members is at 3 p.m., and President Dave Van Den Berg welcomes them at 3:30 p.m. with an introduction to the pros, the board, league captains and the facilities. The doubles tennis exhibition starts at 4 p.m., and all are welcome to attend. This is an opportunity to see the top two ranked juniors in the nation, Andrew Salu and Hudson Rivera, play the top two adult club members, Terry McClanahan and Pat Dougherty. Please RSVP by Jan. 26 to 858-756-4459 or [email protected]. www.rsfreview.com PAGE B6 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Doctor speaks on ‘regeneration therapies’ at RSF Library The “future” is happening now for San Diego patients as they explore emerging regenerative medicine options for their sports, spine, and arthritis care. Quadruple board-certified physician Alexandra Bunyak, M.D., spoke Jan. 22 at the RSF Library about the latest advances in stem cells, platelet-rich plasma, and prolotherapy. Bunyak’s lecture was titled “Regeneration Generation: Innovative Therapies for Sports, Spine, and Arthritis Care.” Prolotherapy involves the injection of an irritant solution into a joint space, weakened ligament, or tendon insertion to relieve pain. The injection is administered at joints or at tendons Deborah Lefevre, Jeanie Rose-Wood where they connect to bone. Visit her website at www.feelboundless.com. Photos by Jon Clark. For photos online, visit www.rsfreview.com. Dr. Alexandra Bunyak speaks at the RSF Library Dale Bartley, Val Sowder Roma Market 1054 W. Valley Pkwy. Escondido, CA 92025 760-233-8003 Expires 02/15/15. (Off 15 & Valley Pkwy - Next to Golf Mart & Petco) Hours: Open 7 days a week! 8am-8pm with $50 minimum purchase Roma Market 918 N. Lake Ave. Pasadena, CA 91104 626-797-7748 Visit us on RomaMarkets.com www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B7 Coast to Cactus: New permanent exhibit at the NAT was three-years-in-the-making BY LINDA HUTCHISON Mention San Diego to anyone outside the area, and chances are the first thing they think of is beaches and a warm climate. What most don’t realize, even those of us living here, is that our region is one of the most diverse in the world, with terrain ranging from coastal beaches and chaparral though urban canyons to mountains and desert. This terrain makes Southern California one of only 35 biodiversity hotspots in the world — meaning areas that have the highest concentration of different species of any geographic area of similar size. Now, thanks to a new exhibit at Balboa Park’s Natural History Museum called “Coast to Cactus in Southern California,” it’s possible to experience and appreciate this tremendous diversity all under one roof. The permanent exhibit, which opened Jan. 17, is located in the Dennis and Carol Wilson Hall of Biodiversity on the second level of the museum, next to its sister exhibit, “Fossil Mysteries.” According to Dr. Michael (“Mick”) Hager, president and CEO, the museum’s expansion in 1998 was designed to accommodate the two exhibits. “Together they show our past, present and what our future is going to be,” he explained. “Southern California is unique in that we have mountains next to ocean, then desert. Here in San Diego we have flat mesas dissected by canyons,” Hager continued. “There are different microclimates in each area and elevation and even differences on the north sides of canyons.” Hager, who has a Ph.D. in geology, defines Southern California as spanning the area from Santa Barbara south into Northern Baja. “Coast to Cactus” brings the diversity of our flora and fauna to life in 8,000 square feet. It includes seven life-sized dioramas from coastal wetlands and sage to the mountains and desert, 12 digital media interactive demonstrations, 35 low-tech (flip card) demonstrations, 11 videos, 13 live animals, four crawl-through exhibits and more than 200 species represented as taxidermy or models. In one multimedia theater exhibit – Desert at Night – visitors can experi- EN YOGURT FROZ WE LOVE OUR CUSTOMERS! CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY! The permanent Coast to Cactus exhibit at Balboa Park’s Natural History Museum opened Jan. 17. Photo by Pablo Mason ence what it’s like to camp in the evening when animals come out to hunt. The exhibit includes a Bambi Airstream trailer with more specimens on display inside. Young visitors can also crawl through a replica of a segment of mud from a local tide flat and discover what animals live in the mud. An Urban Patio diorama overlooking a canyon invites us to learn about sharing space with wildlife and which animals and plants are native and which are not. Another coastal sage diorama portrays Torrey Pines State Reserve. Dr. Michael Wall, vice president of research and public programs, lent his expertise as an entomologist to make sure the exhibit explained the relationship between native plants and insects. Erica Kelly, senior exhibit developer, oversaw content, working with scientist and designers. The exhibit was designed by the museum’s in-house staff, led by Michael Field, with the help of designer Jim Melli and fabrication services at the Science Museum of Minnesota. All exhibits are in English and Spanish, said Beth Redmond-Jones, senior director of public programs, who was hired by the museum to cultivate a visitor-centered culture, a culture that is diverse as our geographic area. The Desert at Night exhibit, which is Redmond-Jones’ favorite, is narrated in Spanglish — “just like we hear in the grocery store. We need to embrace the community, the way we all talk and live,” she said, adding she worked with Karen Levyszpiro, binational education program manager, to accomplish this goal. “Coast to Cactus” took three years to build, but was first envisioned in the early 1990s, according to Ann Laddon, vice president of institutional advancement, who oversees fundraising. “It was actually even longer,” she said. “We had teachers asking for this 40 years ago.” The museum received a $7 million grant from the California Department of State Parks as the result of Proposition 84, the Safe Drinking Water Bond, which voters approved in 2006. Laddon helped raise $2 million more. Many of the donors have early connections to the museum. Dennis Wilson, for example, took classes as a pre-teen in the museum and his wife, Carol, a teacher, brought students on field trips and currently serves as a docent and sits on the board. “For me, this exhibit is totally engaging,” said Laddon. “I’m a San Diego native and remember my father telling stoSee EXHIBIT, page B27 MONDAY, FEB 2ND 1 pm - 6 pm FREE YOGURT AND TOPPINGS!* No Purchase Necessary! AT ALL OUR LOCATIONS! DEL MAR SWIRLS ‡ ENCINITAS SWIRLS ‡ CARMEL VALLEY SWIRLS * in promotional cup only www.rsfreview.com PAGE B8 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Jewish Film Festival marks silver anniversary BY LONNIE BURSTEIN HEWITT It’s a happy year for the San Diego Jewish Film Festival, which began with a few casual screenings in the gym at the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center in La Jolla, moving on to its first real festival venue at the Museum of Contemporary Art-San Diego’s Sherwood Auditorium in La Jolla in 1990. That first festival featured four films; this year, there are 54 full-length and 50 short films, shown in five different locations over 11 days, starting Thursday, Feb. 5. The festival is now widely considered one of the most important platforms for movies about the Jewish experience. And they aren’t just films about the Holocaust. Year by year, the SDJFF has been broadening its range. This year’s opener is “Serial Bad Weddings,” a French comedy about mixed marriages; the centerpiece is “Above and Beyond,” an American documentary about the ragtag band of foreign pilots who helped win Israel’s War of Independence; and four audience favorites from previous years, including “Nowhere in Africa,” a German drama that took home an Oscar in 2003. A special attraction this year is the India-Jewish Showcase, featuring “Shree 420,” a Chaplinesque Indian classic from 1955. Also included: a Skype talk with Randhir Kapoor, whose family brought Jewish actresses to Bollywood, and a live performance by a local Indian dance troupe. One of the fastest-growing, most popular parts of the SDJFF is the Joyce Forum, a short-film festival-within-the-festival named in honor of founder Joyce Axelrod, who has been on board since the early movies-in-the-gym days. “Last year, we had three programs of shorts; this year we have 10,” Axelrod exulted. “We had so many submissions, many of them award-winning films, and 15 of the filmmakers are coming here on their own dime!” For the past two years, festival director Craig Prater, whom Axelrod praised as “a risk-taker, full of fabulous ideas and worldwide contacts,” has been raising the SDJFF’s profile, with the help of festival chair Saundra Saperstein and co-chair Devorah Gurantz. Together, they are creating new events, bringing in film industry hotshots, and reaching out to an ever-widening community. Their aim is to make SDJFF a major player, not just in the world of Jewish film festivals, but film festivals in general. It certainly looks like they’re well on their way. 25TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL • When: Feb. 5-15 • Where: Films screen at the Jewish Community Center’s Garfield Theatre, 4126 Executive Drive; ArcLight Cinemas at UTC/La Jolla; Reading Cinemas 14 in Clairemont; Carlsbad Village Theatre; Edwards San Marcos Stadium 18. • Joyce Forum Short Films: 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 9, JCC and ArcLight • Full schedule: sdjff. org, or pick up a printed program at the JCC • Tickets: 858-362-1348 and sdjff.org • Local talent: Director Sophie Tuttleman, who grew up in La Jolla, will speak at the screening of “The Cancer Mirror,” a film about her mother, a scientist and philanthropist who lost her battle with brain cancer. Joyce Forum, 5 p.m. Feb. 9, JCC Theo Bikel and the legacy of Sholem Aleichem Theodore Bikel is a legendary folksinger, activist and actor who has played Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” more than 2,000 times. Tevye the Milkman is a beloved character created by Sholem Aleichem (1859-1916), sometimes called the Jewish Mark Twain. The Russian-born Yiddish writer died in New York City at age 57. At 90, Theo Bikel is still going strong. In the past year, he married again, updated his memoirs, had his 90th birthday honored with a folksingers’ concert in Beverly Hills, and performed for the Austrian Parliament in Vienna, the city of his birth, on the 75th anniversary of Kristallnacht, a night of Nazi-led violence that ultimately turned him and his family into refugees. “The mass murderers are gone,” he told his Austrian audience, “but I’m still here, singing about peace.” Last year, too, he transformed his intimate, one-man show about Sholem Aleichem into a documentary that has since been acclaimed at film festivals from San Francisco to Haifa, Warsaw and Sydney. “Theodore Bikel: In the Shoes of Sholem Aleichem” will have its local premiere at the SDJFF. Theodore Bikel. Courtesy photo The film is narrated by Alan Alda, and includes appearances by several of Bikel’s friends, such as Dr. Ruth Westheimer and 102-year-old author/educator Bel Kaufman (now deceased), who was Aleichem’s granddaughter. Among other things, it is a testament to the humor that is part of the Jewish tradition — the ability to turn calamity into comedy. “Let my name be recalled with laughter, or not at all,” Sholom Aleichem wrote in his will, which was published in the New York Times, after his funeral filled the city’s streets with mourners. Recently, Bikel spoke of his feelings for Sholem Aleichem: “He has been part of my life ever since I can remember. When I was a little boy, my father would read his stories to me, in Yiddish, of course. That language was indelibly etched in my mind. It became my anchor, my roots, and my portal into the shtetl. The world he chronicled is gone, but we can all read the stories, in whatever language is comfortable. Read them, and laugh.” s iond t a ercvep te s e R Ac THE DIFFERENCE IS NIGHT AND DAY! The Food Is Great, And At Night You Can Linger Now Open For Dinner Year-Round Friday and Saturday Evenings 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Come join us for a cozy meal with friends and family 858-259-8597 • www.clairesoncedros.com • 246 north cedros, solana beach, ca A True European Style Market Del Rayo Village Center 16079 San Dieguito Rd. 2ANCHO3ANTA&Es    3UNDAYS AMnPM ranchosantafefarmersmarket.com www.rsfreview.com WoW director back at La Jolla Playhouse with ‘The Grift’ RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B9 OPERA’S ULTIMATE BAD BOY! BY DIANA SAENGER Since the La Jolla Playhouse introduced its site-based theater series Without Walls (WoW) — innovative shows taking place in unique San Diego venues rather than an indoor stage — they continue to draw crowds. Tom Salamon, creator of the 2010 WoW production “Accomplice” — extended three times — is back in San Diego with a new show, “The Grift.” The noir-inspired mystery will take place at the Lafayette Hotel, a San Diego landmark. Part drama, part game, attendees will find themselves involved with Ben, who has lived his entire life at the hotel. Salamon said the idea for “The Grift” came about after he acquired the hotel as an event partner. Intrigued by its ballroom, swimming pool and suites, Salamon’s ideas about Tom Salamon con artists and the art of the con, would lend itself well to participatory fun there for audiences. “After ‘Accomplice,’ the Playhouse and I talked about doing something else,” he said. “I came back and started a location scout of neighborhoods that would offer different experiences, and we came across the Lafayette Hotel.” Diabolical Muse, Salamon’s production company, has created new concepts of work in forms of immersive, experiential entertainment including television, film, Web, live public events and tailor-made private events. His productions have been performed in London, New York and Hollywood, and surpassed 125,000 attendees and $6 million in sales. “Most of my ideas for shows happen in tandem,” he said. “I find a location, wrap my idea about the theme around it, and what that would feel like for an audience to come and take part in it, and then I figure out how to best use the space, how the characters would fit in it, and how to use the surroundings to have it feel organic to the story.” In “The Grift,” a traveling con man’s last wish is to enlist the audience’s help to execute one final, giant swindle. The cast of eight will be scattered throughout the hotel. Part of the show is scripted and part is improvised. “I wanted to equal what we did with the ‘Accomplice,’ and bring it to another level, where it’s going to be even more participatory for the audience to actually learn some cons within this world and execute them,” Salamon said. “The group is all working toward the same goal, and yet still having individual hands-on moments where everyone is involved in small ways and big ways.” “The Grift” runs matinees, evenings Jan. 27-Feb. 22 at the Lafayette Hotel, 2223 El Cajon Blvd. Tickets available from $35-$45 at 858-550-1010; lajollaplayhouse.org. FEB 14 " FEB 17"FEB 20"FEB 22"2015 Lustful, pompous and sadistic, Don Giovanni stalks his latest conquest, but he cannot escape his past sins or the ones who try to bring him to justice. In a shocking conclusion, we find that the living are not the only ones who can seek vengeance. Tickets start at $45 sdopera.com (619) 533-7000 Tickets also available at All performances at the San Diego Civic Theatre. Free lecture one hour prior to each performance. ENGLISH TRANSLATIONS DISPLAYED ABOVE THE STAGE www.rsfreview.com PAGE B10 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW ‘Beach City Politics’ “Beach Cities Politics” was the theme when the Rancho Santa Fe Democratic Club welcomed elected officials from Encinitas, Solana Beach and Del Mar Jan. 22 at the Lomas Santa Fe Country Club in Solana Beach. The panel included Encinitas City Council members Lisa Shaffer and Tony Kranz; Solana Beach Mayor Lesa Heebner and veteran Councilman Mike Nichols; Sherryl Parks, Deputy Mayor of Del Mar; and Lee Haydu, former Mayor of Del Mar. Panelists discussed the problems these coastal beach communities face and the political processes through Encinitas City Councilman Tony Kranz, Encinitas City Councilwoman which problems are engaged. Lisa Shaffer, Del Mar City Councilman Dwight Worden, Encinitas Photos by McKenzie Images. For photos online, visit www.rsfreview.com. Deputy Mayor Catherine Blakespear and Jeremy Blakespear, Del Mar Deputy Mayor Sherryl Parks Maureen Sweeney, RSF Democratic Club President Michael Gelfand, Del Mar Deputy Mayor Sherryl Parks Solana Beach Councilman Peter Zahn, Encinitas Deputy Mayor Catherine Blakespear Bobby Edelman, Bob Bauer Travis Clarke, Beth Smith Susan Wayo, Michel Hetz Encinitas City Councilwoman Lisa Shaffer, Solana Beach Mayor Lesa Heebner, former Del Mar mayor Lee Haydu Richie Edelman and Maureen Sweeney, Bobby Edelman Marilee McLean, Michael Gelfand, Rena Monge Lane Sharman, Solana Beach Councilman Mike Nichols Susan Wayo, Paul and Maria McEneany www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B11 Ask the 2015 Selecting a Solar Installer This is the first in a series of five articles focused on the benefits of installing solar photovoltaics on your home in 2015. In this piece, Will Hobbs, owner of Native Electrical Construction, Inc., provides expert insights on selecting an installer. His next article will focus on the importance of project timing and current incentives, specifically how they relate to the year 2015. THE TIME FOR SOLAR IS NOW! Installed solar energy capacity grew in the United States by 418 percent from 2010 through 2014, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. This explosive growth proves the nation’s dedication to decarbonizing the economy and broadening the country’s power system. Will Hobbs, certified Sharp solar installer and president of Native Electrical Construction, Inc., in Ramona, has directed photovoltaic (PV) projects since founding his company in 2005. His experience spans the planning and execution of complex water, waste water treatment and co-generation plants projects. “The time to install solar is now,” said Hobbs, an 11-year Ramona resident and member of the Ramona Chamber of Commerce. And while installing solar is a smart decision, it can also be a complicated one. Hobbs urges homeowners to do their homework when it comes to selecting a solar installer (See Hobbs’ full list of tips below). His company was recently referred to a residential project in San Diego County to upgrade an electrical service for a homeowner installing solar. The customer had previously signed a contract with a C-46 solar contractor, whom the customer later found out was unqualified to perform a complete job and hadn’t secured the proper permits and documentation. Now coordinating with the contractor to take over the job, Hobbs is working to make sure the project is properly documented so the customer receives all of the available incentives, rebates and tax credits associated with installing a solar system for the home. It has been a long process. “In the best interest of the customer I coordinated with the solar contractor and provided him with the necessary equipment data for the electrical service to be installed in order for him to incorporate it into his design,” Hobbs said. “I anticipate it will have taken this homeowner approximately a year from the date of their signed contract to having their solar system in operation.” Hobbs has some great advice for homeowners searching for a solar contractor. Just like hiring any other professional to perform a service, it is important to research, read reviews and sit down with contractors to receive an estimated cost and project timeline. John Rowe (homeowner) - 19.9 kW Solar System Installation (Rancho Santa Fe, CA.) “I am happy to endorse the quality and reliability of Native Electrical Construction, Inc. Native Electrical Construction, Inc. has done large and small projects for us and I’m always completely satisfied.” HERE ARE OTHER TIPS FROM HOBBS: 1) Review your contract thoroughly, ensuring there is a start and completion date included. It should take no longer than four months to complete your project from the time the contract is signed. Keep in mind, if your project requires a service upgrade, extensive coordination will be required with San Diego Gas and Electric. This could result in extra project time because you are at the mercy of its schedule. However, SDG&E tends to be very responsive and insightful if the contractor is familiar with their protocol. 2) Do not accept materials prior to two weeks from the scheduled start date. Don’t pay for those materials until construction has started on your project. 3) Do not pay any more than 10 percent of your contract until the design is completed and permits are approved. 4) Have a structured payment schedule with reasonable progress payments included in your contract. 5) Choose a C-10 Licensed Electrical Contractor that can perform all aspects of installing your solar system. You will avoid unnecessary additional costs and delays. 6) Choose a reputable contractor that you have confidence and trust in, they should have been in business for at least five years. 7) Inquire about the training of personnel and company staff. I suggest that someone involved with your installation possess an electrician certification and a North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners accreditation. 8) Ensure your contractor provides and prepares the necessary documents to apply for all available, credits, incentives and rebates. Review these documents with your tax advisor to be informed as to how they apply to your specific financial situation. 9) Perform energy upgrades yourself, prior to your system being designed and installed. This can include installing LED lamps and replacing outdated equipment and appliances. You will avoid over sizing your system and paying additional unnecessary costs. 10) Having financing in place or funds available will expedite your solar installation and will give you leverage when negotiating the cost of your system. Frankie Riddel (City of Palm Desert, Director of Special Programs) - EV Charging Stations Installation (Palm Desert, CA.) “The City of Palm Desert undertook the construction and installation of eight new electric vehicle charging stations through a public/private partnership with private property/business owners as well as a community college and university campus. The project required coordination with property owners, state and private college entities as well as other utility providers, trenching and other site work not typical of basic installation of electrical vehicle charging station. Native Electrical was knowledgeable and easy to work with.” Established in 2005, Native Electrical Construction Inc. is a full service, family-owned and operated electrical contracting firm with a staff properly trained in the electrical and renewable energy industries. It has completed electrical projects ranging from residential remodels to new construction for estate properties, as well as public works initiatives for various municipalities throughout California. www.rsfreview.com PAGE B12 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW At The Marine Room, Every Meal is a Special Occasion. VAlentine’s Day Saturday, February 14, 5 to 10 p.m. | $125 per person The Marine Room has been voted San Diego’s “Most Romantic” and “Best View” year after year. Make your reservation and treat your sweetheart to an unforgettable evening. Indulge in a decadent four-course dinner featuring Verbena Butter Basted Lobster Tail, Midwestern Black Angus Filet Mignon and more. HIGH TIDE BREAKFAST February 18 & 19, 7 to 10 a.m. | $38 per person Experience our final signature High Tide Breakfasts of the season as you watch the tide bring the surf up to the windows. Enjoy favorites like Grand Marnier Chocolate Brioche French Toast, Sun Dried Apricot Fromage Blanc Blintz and more. MENU ITEMS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. 877.477.1641 MarineRoom.com Canyon Crest Academy Envision Theatre presents ‘Don’t Drink the Water’ Canyon Crest Academy (CCA) Envision Theatre will present the comedy play “Don’t Drink the Water” by Woody Allen, Feb. 12 (7 p.m.), Feb. 19 (4:30 p.m.), Feb. 20 (7 p.m.) and Feb. 21 (2 and 7 p.m.) at the CCA Black Box Theater. Guest directed by Steve Lipinsky with technical direction by Jeremy Sewell and costumes by Janet Pitcher. Additional production team includes CCA student Maya Abed as stage manager and Marie Osterman as assistant director. “Don’t Drink the Water” takes place in an American Embassy located in a small communist country. A family of three American tourists rush into the embassy seeking asylum from the communist police who suspect them of spying and taking photos of missile sites. It’s not much of a refuge as the embassy is temporarily being run by the absent Ambassador’s diplomatically incompetent son, Axel. Nevertheless, they carefully and frantically plot their escape, and the Ambassador’s son and the American daughter even have time to fall in love. CCA’s modern take on Woody Allen’s Cold War classic, is sure to delight any audience, just maybe not the communists. Director Steve Lipinsky holds a B.A. from the USC School of Theatre with an emphasis on performance and education. An active member of both major performing unions (SAG-AFTRA, AEA) Lipinski has been working in Southern California theatres as an actor, advisor, and teacher for the past 22 years. In addition to his extensive theatre credits outside of San Diego, Lipinski has enjoyed coaching and teaching right here in his home town. For six years, Lipinski sat on the Board of Directors of the San Diego Shakespeare Society and taught classical theatre as an ambassador to that organization throughout the city schools. He has directed and taught acting and performance for many local theatres and programs, including North Coast Repertory Theatre, the American Scholar Academy, and The Old Globe Theatre. His business, Access to Acting, Inc., which he relocated from Santa Monica to Encinitas, offers extensive training in monologue preparation, sense memory exploration, audition technique, improvisa- tion, scene work, and solo performance. The production will be held at the Canyon Crest Proscenium Theatre, 5951 Village Center Loop Road, San Diego. For tickets in advance: https://www.vendini. com/ticket-software.html?t= tix&e=b19824d0ce4c0db0f5 798d33e7f6fb15 Email: envision.theatre. [email protected] Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/ CCAEnvisionTheatre Twitter Page Link: https://twitter.com/CCATheatre Cast members include: Anna Couvrette, Annika Patton, Aria Weidmann, Benjamin Natkin, Julia WaxVanderweil, Julian Coker, Laurel Posakony, Maia Zelkind, Phillip Magin, Riley Lewis. www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B13 Public invited to AAUW’s ‘Gently Used Sale’ Feb. 7 The Del Mar-Leucadia Branch of the American Association of University Women invites the public to a “Gently Used Sale” on Feb. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 925 Balour Drive, Encinitas. “Gently Used” household goods, books, clothing and accessories will be for sale. Proceeds from the sale will benefit national AAUW Funds in advancing equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. Founded in 1955, the Del Mar-Leucadia Branch of AAUW serves the North Coastal communities of Carmel Valley, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Rancho Santa Fe, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Encinitas, Olivenhain, Leucadia and Carlsbad. The branch raises funds for scholarships for students attending Mira Costa College and California State University San Marcos, as well as local middle school girls attending AAUW’s Tech Trek, a math and science camp at the University of California San Diego. Membership in AAUW Candy apple pancakes, Winter Harvest Benedict on new menu at Snooze in DM Highlands Center Snooze, an AM Eatery in Del Mar Highlands Town Center, is whipping up wintertime flavors such as candy apple pancakes and a twist on eggs benedict featuring San Diego’s own Susie’s Farm veggies. The seasonal special Winter Harvest Benny features sweet potato polenta cakes topped with griddled sweet potatoes, fennel, kale hash and cream cheese hollandaise. The Candy Apple Pancakes have caramelized apples and are topped with caramel apple glaze, whipped mascarpone and a sprinkle of spiced pie crumble. The breakfast dishes can be washed down with a latte, a local craft beer or even a MMM MMM Mimosa made from Evolution sparkling wine, Odwalla OJ and Pama Pomegranate Liquor. Snooze has built a diehard following across Colorado, Arizona and California, thanks to its from-scratch, creative approach to traditional breakfast and brunch favorites, served all day long. Plus, each location features Snooze’s signature bold, colorful atmosphere and retro-futuristic décor, and offers free coffee and games of cornhole to anyone waiting for a table. The restaurant also has a commitment to sustainability, incorporating as much responsibly grown food as possible, and recycling and composting 80 to 90 percent of its waste. In Del Mar, this includes using greater San Diego favorites such as organic veggies from the family-owned Susie’s Farm, as well as foods from Bread and Cie Bakery and Jackie’s Jams. Snooze heavily integrates with charities, giving back 1 percent of sales annually, and plans to partner with local organizations such as Helen Woodward Animal Shelter, the Del Mar Schools Education Foundation and the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy. Snooze Del Mar is open from 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.,Monday through Friday, and from 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Call 858-703-5300 or visit snoozeeatery.com. AAUW Del Mar-Leucadia Branch “Gently Used Sale” committee members Dianne Nichols, Arleen von Schlieder, and Cindy Hellmann show a few of the items donated for the sale. is open to all graduates who hold an associate or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university. The Del Mar-Leucadia Branch reflects the varied interests of its members with informative, educational monthly meetings and special interest groups such as Great Decisions, Walkabout, dining groups, book groups, film groups, Gadabout, and Theatre trips. For information visit delmarleucadia-ca. aauw.net. Daniel Jewelry Introducing BANC OF CALIFORNIA Your New Local Bank NOW OPEN Headquartered in Southern California, Banc of California has been providing banking and lending services for over 75 years. For all your personal and business banking needs, visit our new Rancho Santa Fe branch today to discover how we can help you reach your goals, every step of the way. • Free access to over 55,000 ATMs nationwide and abroad.† In anticipation of retirement • Flexible jumbo portfolio lending programs for residential mortgages. after 36th years, take advantage • Preferred Membership Program with frontof-line access, unlimited house calls and notary services, exclusive discounts on mortgages, and one simple interest-bearing account featuring our very best rate. of our sales on the latest styles of the jewelry industry from brands such as Roberto Coin, Judith Ripka, Montblanc Pens • Branch features warm cookies and espresso for our clients. CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT % APY* Term of 6 Months or Greater PREFERRED ACCOUNT % APY** 1.00 Fully Liquid Account & many more s&EATURINGlNEGEMSLIKEDIAMONDS SAPPHIRES RUBIES ANDTANZANITE sNECKLACES BRACELETS EARRINGS ANDMORE s4!'(UERAND3EIKO!STRONWATCHESAVAILABLE s,IMITEDSTOCKAVAILABLE 1241 Prospect Street | 858-454-8001 Jaime Smart, Branch Manager with over 20 years of banking experience 16975 Avenida De Acacias, Rancho Santa Fe | 858-400-2993 | bancofcal.com ©2015 Banc of California, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. †International fees may apply and other financial institutions or merchants may charge you for use of their ATM or POS terminals. *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) effective as of 1/23/15 and is subject to change daily. Minimum balance to open and earn the stated APY is $1,000. Funds must be new to Banc of California. Substantial penalty for early withdrawal. **Minimum balance to open is $25,000. Minimum balance to earn the stated Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is $250,000. Funds must be new to Banc of California. Additional rate tiers: $25,000 to $99,999.99 – 0.50% APY, $100,000 to $249,999.99 – 0.90% APY. APY’s effective as of 1/23/15 and are subject to change daily. Fees may reduce earnings. www.rsfreview.com PAGE B14 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B15 Paying Attention to the Market allows us to develop the best strategy to sell your home +RPH6DOHV%X\HU7\SH  'RPHVWLFYV,QWHUQDWLRQDO LOCAL 5DQFKR6DQWD)H   0/6UHSRUWHG+RPH6DOHV-DQXDU\ Total < 3 mil 265 Total < 3 mil Total 3 - 5 mil Total > 5 mil 60 25 7 0 Fairbanks Farms Golf Hacienda Ranch Bridges Club Cielo Santa Fe 0 0 0 0 0 3 7 1 6 6 15 8 10 1 0 7 2 0 2 0 2 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 28 20 12 9 6 18 9 1 15 5 0 7 2 0 6 0 0 Del Mar All Other RSF C.C. Communities 0 4 0 14 1 12 1 7 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 41 1 1 30 10 source of data: U.S. Census Bureau 0 san diego, san antonio, laredo, ca tx tx 2013 AGENTS source of data: A member of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway afďŹ liate. *formerly Prudential California Realty Š 2013 BHH AfďŹ liates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway afďŹ liate, and a franchisee of BHH AfďŹ liates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.ÂŽ Equal Housing Opportunity. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. Copyright Trendgraphix, Inc. 2013. This report is published January 2015, based on data available at the end of December 2014. Based on data supplied by the CARETS, Sandicor MLS, Santa Barbara Association of Realtors, Central Coastal MLS and Ventura County Coastal Association of Realtors. Neither the associations nor MLSs guarantee or are in any way responsible for their accuracy. Data maintained by associations or MLSs may not reďŹ&#x201A;ect all real estate activities in the market. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. ** OfďŹ ce or agent information is not available. source of data: Lawrence Yun, Senior Vice President Jed Smith, Managing Director, Quantitative Research Gay Cororaton, Research Economist June 2014 el paso, tx houston, chula vista, tx CA source of data: realtor.comÂŽ Raising the Bar of Real Estate Representation The Michael Taylor Group Connecting Globally, Nationally & Locally THE MICHAEL TAYLOR GROUp !%&(, ,)Â?(%a MIKE TAYLOR, STEVE GOENA, PRISCILLA WOOD, SUSANNA HANITIO, BOB PAGE, NICKY TAYLOR, CLARICE CIOE, GARRETT MATHEWS, BEN REED CA BRE # 01224870 1 2 6 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 13 houston, tx 34 71 78 35 18 5 2 1 0 0 1 245 chicago, il 35 96 107 47 13 5 2 1 0 0 0 306 anderson, sc 35 92 74 34 11 8 4 2 1 1 0 262 boston, ma 33 85 57 18 11 4 1 2 0 1 0 212 orlando, fl 33 85 52 22 8 9 3 2 1 1 0 216 miami, fl 29 43 43 14 7 4 5 2 1 0 0 148 seattle, wa 0.21 0.46 0.55 1.20 0.67 3.60 5.50 5.00 4.00 4.00 10.00 0.78 23 30 46 38 11 5 4 2 0 1 7 167 detroit, mi 2 2 7 14 8 43 66 60 48 48 120 9 20 42 72 38 20 10 4 3 2 0 4 215 las vegas, nv 7 33 43 42 12 18 11 5 5 4 10 190 26 61 68 54 17 2 8 4 3 2 5 250 12 1 10 11 4 2 1 1 1 0 2 0 33 28 65 83 58 28 7 8 3 3 2 1 286 (Index 12, of Major Interest - Index 0, of No Interest) 30% 39 118 108 47 16 11 3 3 2 2 3 352 Type B san francisco , ca under 1 mil 1 to 2 mil 2 to 3 mil 3 to 4 mil 4 to 5 mil 5 to 6 mil 6 to 7 mil 7 to 8 mil 8 to 9 mil 9 to 10 mil 10 mil+ Total 7\SH$ 3DFLĂ&#x20AC;F6RWKHE\V,QWO5HDOW\ Pend 1/23/ 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 China: Top U.S. Cities Searched by Residents of China on realtor.comÂŽ in 2013-2014 Distribution of International Sales by Country of Origin Berkshire Hathaway Home Services $OO6DQGLFRU0/6$UHDV &RPELQHG International Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;°/Â&#x2026;i Â&#x2C6;VÂ&#x2026;>iÂ?/>Ă&#x17E;Â?Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;°VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;nxnÂ&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;xĂ&#x2C6;Â&#x2021;xÂŁĂ&#x201C;äĂ&#x160;UĂ&#x160;ViÂ?Â?\Ă&#x160;Ă&#x2C6;ÂŁÂ&#x2122;Â&#x2021;nÂŁĂ&#x17D;Â&#x2021;xÂ&#x2122;xäĂ&#x160;UĂ&#x160; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x17D;iJ Â&#x2C6;VÂ&#x2026;>iÂ?/>Ă&#x17E;Â?Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;°VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x2C6;ÂŁÂŁÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x160; >Ă&#x160;Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x2DC;>`>Ă&#x160;-Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;iĂ&#x160; Ă&#x160;,>Â&#x2DC;VÂ&#x2026;Â&#x153;Ă&#x160;->Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;>Ă&#x160;i]Ă&#x160; miami, fl www.rsfreview.com PAGE B16 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW QUEST Research Poster Presentation/Gallery Walk Canyon Crest Academy Foundation hosted the third annual QUEST Research Poster Presentation/Gallery Walk Jan. 20, on the CCA campus. Students presented research methods, proposals, and techniques in the fields of biology, physics, and engineering. The QUEST research program is part of QUEST: The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) experience at CCA, which is funded by the Canyon Crest Academy Foundation. More information is available at www.canyoncrestfoundation.org. Photos by Jon Clark. For photos online, visit www.delmartimes.net. Jerry Wu – Producing higher grade graphene Richard Murphy - Using a bacteriaphage to create a vaccine effect Anthony Kang – Inhibiting interbacterial Julia Cochrane – Using neurotransmitters genetic exchange to protect against protein toxicity Maia Zelkind – Using a protein to control a beetle pest Simon Xu – A self-sustainable irrigation system for the garden Esther Peluso – Making cheese production more effective Andrew Kim – Piezoelectric Classical Instruments Nico Laqua - Using a bacteria that can biodegrade oil Gavin Rockwood – Redesigning UV light sources Ethan Ragins – The Biomine Print www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B17 COME IN AND TAKE A TEST DRIVE TO RECEIVE A FREE ROUND OF GOLF AT THE AVIARA! * 2014 BMW i3 DEMO SALES EVENT 75 TO CHOOSE $159 We Can Waive Up 4O2EMAINING Payments! Per Month + Tax 5 TO CHOOSE FROM 24 month lease. $4998 plus tax and government fees due at signing. Includes $5,500 Customer Rebate. $0 security deposit. 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Photos for illustration purposes only. Offer ends date of publication. *Limit one per household. www.rsfreview.com PAGE B18 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Disposable and inexpensive, ‘Mighty Clean Baby’ products are local parents’ brainchild BY KAREN BILLING Two local parents are finding success with the Mighty Clean Baby line of baby care products they created: disposable bibs, placemats and changing pads that are designed for parents always on the go with kids in tow. Husband-and-wife team Brett Chodorow and Limor Rabie launched the line in January 2014, with the hope of selling products that are equally helpful and cost-effective. “As a parent, I feel like you’re always doing everything with one hand,” Rabie said. “The goal is to make life with little ones easier.” Rabie is an attorney who graduated from Yale University and Columbia Law School. Her career was focused on intellectual property: for nine years she worked as a patent lawyer for a Carmel Valley firm. Chodorow earned his degree from Harvard and spent time on Wall Street before entering product development. His family had a consumer packaged goods company in Carmel Valley — his father invented a very successful dental flosser. When the business was acquired, he worked there for a number of years and in 2009 founded his own firm, Power Forward Ventures. The couple’s oldest child, Ben, was born in 2007, and he served as the inspiration for the next chapter of their business lives. As new parents, they were constantly bombarded with products for their child. They found many items were too “luxury”; still others were way too expensive for things that were basic needs. And Rabie was annoyed that everything had to be stamped with characters from television shows or movies. “Is it really necessary to have your 2-year-old constantly associated with princesses or characters from ‘Frozen’?” asked Rabie. They wanted to buy the essentials they needed without “breaking the bank” and without having to purchase yet another item with a licensed image on it. Each contributing business expertise and armed with the experience of being parents, they set out to create a high-quality, reasonably priced product that they could develop and introduce to the market. “We didn’t want to sell a product we wouldn’t use. It had to pass the smell test as a parent,” Rabie said. Their products existed in the marketplace, but they were finding better ways of making them. Chodorow used his experience in product development to find the best manufacturers for their items. The challenge was finding a company that was the highest quality in terms of labor standards, customer service and a nontoxic environment. “This became the bulk of what we were doing, and the business took on a life of its own,” Rabie said. The line started with disposable bibs and placemats. They have since added three more products to the mix: disposable changing pads, toilet seat covers and diaper bags. Their best seller is the bibs. “Simply put, they just work,” Chodorow said. “It’s a really good product and I think they’ve saved a lot of shirts.” The baby bibs are designed with adhesive tabs that ensure they stay in place, and they come with a “crumb catcher” pocket to protect against spills and mess. All products are designed for an on-the-go lifestyle in slim, re-sealable packages. Disposable baby bibs are among products by Mighty Clean Baby. Brett Chodorow and Limor Rabie founded the Mighty Clean Baby line of products, inspired by life with kids Joshua, Ben and Lila. Online reviews are positive and parents are grateful they don’t have to carry around a dirty bib — Mighty Clean Baby is something they can stash in the diaper bag and go. The products are not branded and come in simple designs of white handprints on bold primary colors. They are also more environmentally friendly than others, BPA-free and biodegradable. As a fun bonus, their two youngest children, Joshua and Lila, are the models on the packaging. “It really has been amazing what we’ve accomplished in a small time,” Rabie said, noting they are having conversations with retailers now about a product that didn’t exist a year ago. For now, their products are available only on e-commerce sites like amazon.com, diapers.com and zulilly.com, but Chodorow said they are working on building relationships with retail stores. “We hope to change in a big way in 2015. We have high hopes for this year for our products to be in stores,” Chodorow said. COME JOIN THE FUN AND PLAY FUTSAL! www.cvfutsal.com Find out what the rest of the world already knows - Futsal helps develop more well-rounded soccer players by improving their technical abilities, quick reflexes, fast thinking and pin-point passing. It is an exciting, fastpaced, five-a-side game, normally played indoors on a flat, smooth surface (such as a gym floor) on a pitch the size of a basketball court. PDS - PROPANE DELIVERY SERVICE San Diego's Choice for Propane Delivery Since 2000 Register your team for the NEW Carmel Valley Futsal League winter session starting up on February 22 and running for six consecutive Sundays. Games will be played at the Carmel Valley Recreation Center. For more information or to register your team or individual player, go online to www.cvfutsal.com. Registration ends on February 14, so hurry and reserve your spot NOW! CV Futsal | P.O. Box 81797 | San Diego, CA 92138 | [email protected] 619-579-8600 or 760-721-8600 New Homeowner Service Special Sign Up Today and get the following FREE Tank Set 1st Year Tank Rental New Regualtor Safety Inspection A $250 Value – FREE www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B19 Youth winter session, art classes, camps at RSF Community Center BY LINDA DURKET, RSF COMMUNITY CENTER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The new line-up of after school classes has begun! The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center is offering creative new classes such as Animal Adventures on location at Helen Woodward Animal Center, “Pre Engineering: Mine, Craft, Build,” Icky Sticky Science, and Woodshop Wizards! We are also offering ongoing skills classes including golf, tennis, yoga, dance and hoops. After-school classes are available for grades K-5 and include some pre-school classes as well. The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center is at 5970 La Sendita, Rancho Santa Fe. Register for all classes and events to 858756-2461 or visit www.rsfcc.org: • Class Spotlight: Get Smart With Art! 2:15-3:15 p.m. Wednesdays: This innovative class features techniques that help children develop cognitive, social and motor abilities. These thoughtfully constructed lessons introduce students to a variety of artists’ and illustrators’ techniques while developing their concentration, focus, fine motor, language and critical thinking skills. It is designed especially for pre-K and kindergarten students. Cost: $225 per nine-week session. • Family Week Camps, Feb. 9-13: Looking for child care while the little ones are off from school? Sign them up for the fun Family Week Camp this winter, Feb. 9-13. Outings will include ice skating, “SpongeBob the Movie,” Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, CeramiCafe and bowling. Camps run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. for students ages K-5. Cost is $85 each day ($75 for siblings). Need extra care? Early care runs from 8-9 a.m. and late care from 3-5 p.m. for just $10/ hour per child. Registration is open. Space is limited to 15 children per day. • Moms & Tots, Tuesday mornings: Join local moms and their little ones Tuesday mornings for play dates in the Ranch and around San Diego. This popular program is free PARADISE? Linda Durket, Executive Director with RSFCC family membership. The Moms & Tots group is a wonderful way to meet new families, make friends, share play dates and experience kid-friendly activities, including holiday parties, park adventures, creative play at Art Soup, museum outings and botanical garden excursions. Introduce your little ones to new friends and make lasting relationships. This group is perfect for moms and babies ages newborn to preschool. Families are welcome to join any time throughout the year. ‘Clutter Cutter,’ ‘Brain Games,’ coming to RSF Senior Center BY TERRIE LITWIN, RSF SENIOR CENTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR These events are upcoming at the Rancho Santa Fe Senior Center, 16780 La Gracia, Rancho Santa Fe. Call 858756-3041 to register, or visit www.rsfseniors.org: • “Clutter Cutter”: 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28. Learn simple strategies to create a safe, attractive, and accessible environment. Linda Diller of Senior Move Masters and Beppie Mostert of Living Design Interiors will give valuable tips on reducing clutter while improving your home’s comfort, beauty, and livability. • “Brain Games”: 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6: Lisa Damron, M.S., will host this interactive and educational presentation designed to increase knowledge about brain health and exercise memory. Lisa is Senior Helpers San Diego North’s Staff Gerontologist and Community Outreach Director. • Avoiding Scams and Identity Theft, 2 p.m. Feb. 11: Gary Rivers, with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, will present valuable information about the latest scams and identity theft schemes, and offer tips about how you can avoid becoming a victim. • Cooking for One or Two, 2 p.m. Feb. 25: Certified Personal Chef Pamela Croft, with Dinner at Home Personal Chef service, will demonstrate how to prepare and store delicious single-serving portions of healthy food items. • Intermediate Bridge: 2 p.m. Feb. 26. Register now with instructor Scott Farr for this 10-week workshop. The cost is $150, paid to the instructor. • Resource and Referral Service, available 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays: Seniors and their family members can speak with a staff member for valuable information to address a variety of needs. For assistance, or to schedule an appointment, call 858-756-3041. • Balance & Fall Prevention Fitness Class: Meets at 10:45 a.m. Monday mornings. Licensed physical therapist Navid Hannanvash leads the class in performing practical and useful exercises to improve balance, strengthen muscles, and help prevent falls. A fee of $5 for each class is paid to the instructor. • Classical Music Appreciation: Meets from 2-4 p.m. Mondays with next classes Feb. 9, Feb. 23. Instructor Randy Malin leads this class featuring classical composers and the music that has endured through the ages. • Art History Video Lecture: Meets 2-3:45 p.m. Feb. 2, March 2, 16, 30. Enjoy a fine art history video lecture from the Great Courses Teaching Company. • Oil Painting Class: This class is appropriate for all art- SEEKING TROPICAL “Best of” 9/20/11 PRESENT Reviving Palms for over 10 years! “We had the tree inspected by three palm tree specialists. They advised us there was no hope… After Abartis treatment...the diseased tree is alive and well.” -Robert B. RSF Terrie Litwin ists from beginning through advanced. Local artist Lynne Zimet instructs. Call for information about the next series. • Rancho San Café, French Discussion Group: Class meets from 10:3011:30 a.m. every first and third Thursday. A wonderful opportunity for those with intermediate to advanced French language skills to join host Philippe Faurie and enjoy a cup of coffee while conversing in French. • Acting Class with Monty Silverstone: Instructor Silverstone, accomplished actor and father of Hollywood actress Alicia Silverstone, will teach students about monologues, scene study, and cold reading from scripts. • Calling All Literature Lovers: 10 a.m.-noon every first Friday (Feb. 6, March 6, April 3). This workshop led by Garrett Chaffin-Quiray begins with a discussion of a critically acclaimed author’s work, followed by an optional writing workshop for interested participants. “After being told that my $10,000 palm had no chance of survival, I called Abartis Chemical as a last hope before removing it. My trust in their unique approach resulted in a very healthy tree.” -Ron G. RSF BEFORE ABARTIS CHEMICAL COMPANY LLC. For an on-site evaluation: 858-472-2003 | 1-800-243-6476 [email protected] | www.abartischemical.com www.rsfreview.com PAGE B20 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Shelter to Soldier announces online fundraising campaign to benefit U.S. veterans Shelter to Soldier, a San Diego-based 501c3 non-profit organization that rescues shelter dogs and trains them as certified psychiatric service companions for post 9/11 U.S. combat veterans suffering from PTSD and/or TBI, recently announced the launch of its online Indiegogo fundraising campaign to underwrite the cost of training shelter dogs and matching them with participating veterans. Every day on average, 23 U.S. veterans commit suicide (Department of Veteran Affairs). In the past year alone, the number of diagnosed cases of PTSD in the military jumped 50 percent and this represents cases that have been diagnosed. Studies estimate that one in every five military personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan is suffering from PTSD. Shelter to Soldier is dedicated to alleviating the impact of this statistic by fulfilling a much-needed solution in the veteran community. In addition, every 11 seconds, a shelter animal is euthanized in the U.S. Shelter to Soldier service dogs have been proven to interrupt moments of elevated stress and repetitive nightmares experienced by veterans suffering from PTSD and/or TBI, decreased hypervigilence through companionship, and a renewed sense of security. Shelter to Soldier companion dogs also provide impartial emotional support and motivate the veteran to participate in family activities, society in general, and heightened physical activity. With the aid of a service dog, veterans regain the familiarity of being a team member, similar to their active military service. Training a service dog at this level in the forprofit world costs upwards of $25,000, however, with the longstanding relationships Shelter to Soldier has within the community and dedicated volunteer support, the organization is able to cut costs considerably. Each service dog/veteran team costs Shelter to Soldier $12,000, on average. The goal with this campaign is to rescue at least one dog for their program to be matched with a veteran from their wait list. Additional funding beyond their goal will be applied toward training and partnering additional rescue dogs with veterans. Shelter to Soldier is supported solely through charitable contributions from corporations, charitable foundations and private individuals. TPHS Music Department to present Winter Concerts The Torrey Pines High School Music Department recently announced its upcoming Winter Concerts: the orchestras and jazz band will perform on Feb. 5, and the bands and jazz combos will perform on Feb. 12. Both concerts are free, and will take place in the CCA auditorium starting at 7 p.m. The public is welcome to join TPHS Music for these fun concerts! U.S. Veteran Vic Martin with companion dog Kira. Photo by Nine10 Photo To learn more about veteran-support services provided by STS, visit www. sheltertosoldier.org, or call 855-CUS-TMK9 (855-2878659) for a confidential interview regarding veteran eligibility. The Indiego fundraising campaign web site is: http://igg.me/p/shelter-tosoldier-saving-lives-two-ata-time/x/9546510 Art Guild offers ‘Fun With Glass’ series The San Dieguito Art Guild offers “Fun with Glass” with Kate O’Brien, a four-part class starting in March. Participants will be introduced to the art of glass fusing and slumping. Students will complete three projects of their choosing using System 96 glass. The instructor will discuss the fundamentals of fusing and glass kiln firing schedules. Written instructions will be provided to each participant, and all tools needed will be provided during class time. Cost is $100 plus a $30 materials fee, which includes kiln firings, to be paid to the instructor at the first class. (Normally the materials fee is $40, but $10 will be subsidized by the Guild.) Cost is higher because fusible glass is costlier and there will be multiple firings. Classes are 3 hours per session and will be held at the Encinitas Community Center from 1-4 p.m. March 13; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. March 14, and 1-4 p.m. March 20. From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 28, students will pick up fired pieces at the Off Track Gallery. To register, email to [email protected]. Exceptional Family Dentistry COLLISION REPAIR ALL VEHICLE MAKES & MODELS From Bentley to BMW, Lotus to Lexus & Aston to Acura, we provide the same level of care & detail to all vehicles. 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Conducted by Steven Schick, the concert will explore the nature of reflection in three works: Osvaldo Golijov’s cello concerto “Azul”; Chinary Ung’s piece for unaccompanied cello “Khse Buon”; and Carl Nielsen’s earth-shaking Symphony No. 4, “The Inextinguishable.” “Azul” has become one of Golijov’s most successful recent compositions. Written for cellist Yo-Yo Ma and the Boston Symphony, the original version was meant to project a sense of calm and transcendence. After its premiere in 2006, Golijov felt the work was incomplete, too innocent. He rewrote “Azul,” expanding the music and changing its character to evoke a meditative energy. Along with cello soloist and orchestra, Golijov includes a small ensemble that consists of a hyper-accordion (an accordion whose range has been extended electronically) played by Mark Danisovzsky, and two percussionists, Fiona Digney and Stephen Solook. The music of the small ensemble and cellist Beiser music will be amplified electronically. “Khse Buon” was composed in 1980 by Cambodian UCSD music professor Chinary Ung. It was his only composition written during an 11-year period when Ung took part in an effort to preserve his native culture after the Cambodian holocaust under Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. Ung became deeply involved in learning, performing and transcribing much of the Cambodian court music, which accompanies traditional Cambodian ballet. “Khse Buon,” (or “four strings,” following a Cambodian tradition of naming music for the solo instrument that plays it) was Ung’s first attempt to integrate string sounds from the East into Western string playing. Solo cellist Maya Beiser will perform it. Nielsen’s Symphony No. 4 (1915-16) represents “that which cannot be extinguished,” an indomitable spirit, a sort of force. Full of violence and conflict, the music finally smashes through this discord to a triumphant close. While the symphony is in the traditional four movements, these are played without pause, and the music seems to flow in one great arc across its 37-minute span. The fourth movement includes the symphony’s most famous feature — dueling timpanists set at opposite sides of the stage. In the end, the conflicts are resolved, and the symphony hurtles to a heroic conclusion. Israeli-born cellist Maya Beiser last performed with the La Jolla Symphony & Chorus in 2007. Courtesy photo Concert times are 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, in Mandeville Auditorium at UC San Diego. A pre-concert lecture by Steven Schick will be offered one hour before concert times. Tickets available from $15 at 858-534-4637or lajollasymphony.com. Parking is free. Join us for our OPEN HOUSE, JANUARY 30th Notre Dame Academy An Union Chretienne de Saint Chaumond School Preschool - 8th Grade The Sisters cordially invite your family to Notre Dame Academy on Friday, January 30th. JANUARY 30 @ 8AM C A M B R I D G E C L A S S I C A L .O R G / O P E N - H O U S E Faith. Academics. Character. Campus tours featuring classroom visits will be followed by the Principal’s Reception. Meet our Principal, Assistant Principal, Curriculum and Preschool Directors. The Coordinators of our Elementary and Middle School grade clusters will also be available to answer your questions. Schedule of Events for Friday, January 30th: 8:00am - 8:50am NDA Student Mass 9:05am - 9:50am Campus Tours* 9:50am - 10:15am Principal’s Reception *RSVP to guarantee campus tour, go to www.ndasd.org Click on NDA- Open House RSVP Or call our office, 858.509.2300 THE CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL 12855 Black Mountain Road, San Diego, CA 92129 Join us for our OPEN HOUSE January 30th @ 8AM CAMBRIDGECLASSICAL.ORGOPENHOUSE (858) 484-3488 or Visit us www.cambridgeclassical.org Notre Dame Academy www.ndasd.org Phone: 858.509.2300 A Catholic School 4345 Del Mar Trails Rd. San Diego, CA 92130 WCEA/WASC Accredited Preschool License: 37670022 www.rsfreview.com PAGE B22 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW San Diego Opera Season kicks off San Diego Opera recently opened the 2015 main stage opera season with Puccini’s beloved classic “La bohème” at San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., San Diego. A pre-opera celebration was held Jan. 24 at The US Grant. The event featured hors d’oeuvres, hosted signature cocktail, champagne, wine and beer. “La bohème” is considered by many to be the perfect “first time” opera. Tickets from $45. (619) 533-7000. Judith Harris and Dr. Robert Singer, Joan and Irwin Jacobs, Mary Keough Lyman Visit sdopera.com. Photos by Vincent Andrunas. For photos online, visit www.rsfreview.com. Victoria Hamilton, Joyce Gattas, Andy and Ann Irwin, Rachel Sommers, Linda Spuck Rebecca and Mitch Mitchell Ann Zahner, William Purves, Don Schmidt, Judith Brucker Dr. Ross Rudolph and Nancy Rudolph Mike and Rocio Flynn Bill and Evelyn Lamden, Randy Corby and Carol Lamden-Corby, Benjamin Ramirez, Ross Russell Ross and Nancy Rudolph, Ginger and Ken Stanwood, Julie Dickson, Jane Skeels Stephen Goss, Terra Davenport, Martin and Joyce Nash, Susan and Gary Spoto Ae Soo Lerche, Steve Snyder, Drs. Tatiana Kisseleva and David Brenner, Joye Blount and Jessie Knight Jr. Joyce and Martin Nash RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B23 Lisa Kalal, Teresa Fischlowitz, Ruth and Ron Leonardi, Joann Clark, Joan Henkelmann Tina Tamburrino, Debbie COnnin, Megan Padilla, Kathy Vaca, Bob Lundy, Magetta Chantiloupe Rich and Lynda Kerr Marcia Green, Vince Heald, Laurie Munday, Sissy MacAllister, Clinton Walters Tom Melody, Bonnie and Eddie Sanchez, Mike and Rocio Flynn Sarah B. Marsh Rebelo (SDO Board; co-chaired nominating committee), James Merritt (SDO VP of Finance) and Carol Lazier (SDO Board President), Courtney Coyle (SDO Board Executive VP) and Steven McDonald SPONSORED COLUMNS DR. VAN CHENG San Diego Vein Institute 760.994.9263 Varicose Veins and Exercise Many people incorrectly assume that varicose and spider veins only happen to the elderly or to pregnant women. But in actuality, varicose veins can occur in anybody. There are a variety of factors, many of which have to do with lifestyle, but varicose veins are hereditary as well. The good news is that there are things you can do to help minimize your risk for varicose veins, exercise being an important one. However, it is important to know which exercises are most beneficial, which exercises might actually increase your risk for varicose veins, and how to adjust your activities accordingly. First, it might be helpful to understand a little about how your body works – your circulatory system and legs, specifically. In general, when you exercise and your heart is pumping blood to the rest of your body, your calf muscles are what pumps the blood back up your legs, through the vena cava in your abdomen and back to your heart. Therefore, activities that strengthen your calf muscles are great for your overall circulatory health. On the other hand, however, certain strenuous activities that strain your abdomen can prevent the blood from flowing through the vena cava. This blood then pools in your legs, and this is what can lead to poor vein health and varicose veins. Let’s take a look at which exercises help or hinder this process: Exercise Dos: Walking – walking is not only the easiest exercise to fit into your daily routine, but it is also the best for your vein health. It works the calf muscle well, while still being a low-impact exercise. Stationary bikes – similarly to walking, stationary bikes are a great workout for stretching and strengthening your calves while not adding stress to your joints. This would also be true for other elliptical machines. Compression socks – wearing compression socks or graduated compression hose help the flow of blood move back up to the heart. So they are a great idea if you are exercising, but also if you are traveling, are pregnant, or if you’re daily work routine requires an excessive amount of sitting or standing. Smaller movements – even when it’s not possible to squeeze in a 30-minute walk each day, you can help stimulate the pump that is your calf muscle by rocking your feet back and forth, heel to toe, when standing or sitting for a prolonged time. Exercise Don’ts: Running – running is obviously a great way to stay in shape, and it also strengthens the calf muscle. Column continued at: http://www.lajollalight.com/news/2015/ jan/22/varicose-veins-and-exercise/ Look to these local authorities for professional guidance on daily living at ranchosantafereview.com/columns NORMA NELSON-WIBERG MICHAEL PINES RSF Home Loans 858.354.4777 everbank.com/_experts/ lending/n/norma-nelsonwiberg Accident & Injury Legal Advice 858.551.2090 SeriousAccidents.com RSF Real Estate 858.759.6567 janetlawlesschrist.com CHRIS L. MEACHAM, CPA Want to Save on Water? We Can Help! www.CTOnLineAuctions.com/LaJolla Your local Specialists for Moving and Estate Liquidation Services www.CaringTransitionsLaJolla.com WITH COUPON 6024 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 Fabulous Furnishings and Décor for Sale. (858) 768-2000 ete ny concr Turn a ce into surfa ce ative pie a decor r home. u for yo ete ke concr “We ma tiful” u a be 858.756.1483 Early Cabriolets • VWS - 50’s-60’s Bugs, Buses, Ghia’s • ALL EXOTICS - Need your garage back? 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Email: [email protected] PT ADMINISTRATIVE/ ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT (La Jolla) We are looking for a parttime Administrative Assistant with accounting capabilities. Will be needed 20-25 hrs per week (5 days a week/45 hours per day), at rate of $15/hr. Job includes mailing out invoices/statements, assisting clients & sales reps, applying payments to accounts, debits/credits as needed, light phone duties and assisting walk-in traffic. Applicant will be the main assistant for the Group Business Manager. Must be well-spoken and polished and a college degree is preferred. Knowledge of Excel and Word are required. Attendance and reliability are a must as applicant will be relied upon by several departments and an integral part of our day to day operations. This could grow into a full-time position in the future. Please send resume and cover letter detailing your accounting and administrative experience to, [email protected] 100 - LEGAL NOTICES FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-001348 Fictitious Business Name(s): Rancho Santa Fe Glass Located at: 1155 Camino Del Mar, #111, Del Mar, CA, 92014, San Diego County. Mailing Address: same as above. This business is registered by the following: David Butler, 1155 Camino Del Mar, #111, Del Mar, CA 92014. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business was 01/15/2015. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/15/2015. David Butler, Owner. RSF404. Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-001165 Fictitious Business Name(s): a. Queen Bee Market b. Peabody and Sassafras Located at: 1914 Golden Hill Dr., Vista, CA, 92084, San Diego County. Mailing Address: 1914 Golden Hill Dr., Vista, CA 92084. This business is registered by the following: 1. Allison Gharst, 13070 Oak Knoll Dr., Poway, CA 92064 2. Kellie Dooley, 1914 Golden Hill Dr., Vista, CA 92084 This business is conducted by: A General Partnership. The first day of business has not yet started. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/14/2015. Kellie Dooley, Owner. RSF403. Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2015-001068 Fictitious Business Name(s): a. WeSpeakMindful b. WeSpeakMindful.com Located at: 5389 Vista Del Dios, San Diego, CA, 92130, San Diego County. Mailing Address: PO Box 676360, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067. This business is registered by the following: Mary B. Berney, 5389 Vista Del Dios, San Diego, CA 92067. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business was Jan. 5, 2015. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/13/2015. Mary B. Berney, CEO/Founder. RSF402. Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 2015. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 2014-032720 Fictitious Business Name(s): Seabound Swim Techniques Located at: 444 E. 4th Avenue, #504, Escondido, CA, 92025, San Diego County. This business is registered by the following: Joshua Manuel Macias, 444 E. 4th Avenue, #504, Escondido, CA 92025. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The first day of business was 08/01/2013. This statement was filed with Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/17/2014. Joshua Manuel Macias, Sole Proprietor. RSF401. Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 2015. SELL YOUR ITEMS FOR $25.00 Private parties only, items up to $500. Call 800-914-6434 Our readers want to know what services you provide. Promote your business in the Home & Professional Services Section myclassifiedmarketplace.com Reach us at (800) 914-6434 or (858) 218-7200 www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B25 Sell Your Used Vehicle LIMITED TIME OFFER - Individuals only. Autos under $5,000 Reach us at (800) 914-6434 or (858) 218-7200 CROSSWORD Regional events offered, including music, theater, Classic Car display and Science Series Music/Theater •French pianist Alexandre Tharaud premieres a new recital, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2 at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library, 1008 Wall St. Tharaud is heralded for his brilliantly conceived programs and best–selling recordings that range from Bach, Chopin, Rameau and Ravel, to music inspired by Paris cabaret of the 1920s. Tickets: $40-45. (858) 454-5872. ljathenaeum.org/chamberconcerts. html • L.A. Noir Unscripted is a stage production that mixes the dark and seedy 1940s with improvisational sketch comedy. It’s a night of shadowy tales featuring dangerous ladies and trenchcoated gents all performed without a clue – except for audience suggestions, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987 Lomas Santa Fe Drive. Tickets: $25. (858) 481-1055. northcoastrep.org Classic Cars on Display San Diego Automotive Museum recently unveiled the exhibit “Balboa Park, 1915 & 1935,” which will be on display until March 27. The show features a 1909 Tourist, 1910 Cadillac Demi Tonneau, 1913 Pierce Arrow (pictured), 1913 Cadillac, 1915 Overland, 1915 Saxon, 1915 Model T Runabout, 1917 Smith Flyer, 1922 Hupmobile, 1930 Lincoln, and a 1932 Plymouth. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily. 2080 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park. Admission: $4-$9. (619) 2312886. sdautomuseum.org Science Series Starts Ever wonder what would happen if you took a leaf blower to a roll of toilet paper? Or try to break a metal pipe with water? Find out at the Don’t Try This At Home series of interactive programs that explore the messy crazy side of science, daily through May 10. Starting Jan. 31, the Tinkering Studio offers an extension of the show with even more experiments. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. FridaySunday, Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park. Tickets from $14.95. (619) 238-1233. rhfleet.org Auditions to be held for the Old Globe’s 2015 Summer Shakespeare Intensive for high school students As The Old Globe celebrates its 80th anniversary and its rich relationship with William Shakespeare, the theatre recently announced that auditions for the Globe’s 2015 Summer Shakespeare Intensive for San Diego County high school students will be held on Saturday, March 21 and Sunday, March 22 on the Globe campus. The four-week program is a unique opportunity for high school actors and actresses to refine their skills as performers in a professional setting. The Intensive will take place on Saturday, July 11, and on weekdays from July 13 through Aug. 10. The program will culminate with a public performance of two Shakespeare plays on Monday, Aug. 10, on the Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage in the Old Globe Theatre, part of the Globe’s Conrad Prebys Theatre Center. The program cost is $725 with a limited number of need-based scholarships available. Auditions are by appointment only and can be scheduled beginning in February. For more information on how to audition, please visit www.TheOldGlobe.org/SummerIntensive or email [email protected]. Students in the Summer Shakespeare Intensive study classical theatre technique, voice, movement, and stage combat led by theatre professionals while rehearsing for two productions of Shakespeare’s plays. Throughout the Intensive, the students have the unique opportunity to study Shakespeare and see the productions of the Globe’s Shakespeare Festival, which runs concurrently with the program. Festival company members lend the students insights into the art of performing Shakespeare that the students then apply to their own performances of the Bard’s work. Registration begins on Monday, March 9, for the Middle School Summer Conservatory, a three-week program of intense acting study with professional teaching staff and actors from the Globe’s Shakespeare Festival productions. Students will explore scene study, stage combat, theatre games, improvisation, movement, and specialty workshops. The Conservatory will take place on weekdays, June 29 – July 17. The program cost is $625 ($600 for children and grandchildren of Globe subscribers) and does not require an audition, though a passion for theatre and acting is important. For more information or to register for the Conservatory, email [email protected]. The Old Globe is located in San Diego’s Balboa Park at 1363 Old Globe Way. There are numerous free parking lots available throughout the park. Guests may also be dropped off in front of the Mingei International Museum. The Balboa Park valet is also available during performances ($12), located in front of the Japanese Friendship Garden. For additional parking information visit www.BalboaPark.org. For directions and up-to-date information, please visit www.TheOldGlobe.org/Directions. Dogs invited to Botanic Garden for Feb. 21 walk For only the third time in its history, dogs will be allowed Feb. 21 in the San Diego Botanic Garden during the third annual “5K Paw Walk in the Garden.” Once a year, the Rancho Coastal Humane Society and the San Diego Botanic Garden “join paws” to raise funds that support these two landmark organizations. “It’s a family-friendly event. When we say that, we mean the whole family, including the family pets,” says Nick Winfrey, RCHS Vice President of Planning and Development. “Not that we really need one, but it’s a great excuse to get up early on a Saturday morning and get some exercise with your family and your best friends.” Sam Beukema, education and events manager for the garden, says, “This has quickly become the walk that every dog is begging to go on.” Walkers can cover the full 5-kilometer/3.1-mile course, but there are other options. It’s not competitive. You don’t even need a dog. You can go for speed and span — or enjoy the scenery and serenity of the gardens. There will be pet products, food (for people), treats (for dogs), valuable information for dog lovers, a pet first aid station, and (of course) dogs! Afterward, walkers will have full access to the San Diego Botanic Garden until 2 p.m. There aren’t a lot of rules, but here are the main ones: • Dogs must be kept on leash at all times. • No leashes longer than 6 feet (including retractable leashes). • No dogs in heat. • It’s up to you to clean up after your dog. • Limit two dogs per person. • Dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations. Register for the third annual 5K Paw Walk in the Garden at www.sdpets.org or www.sdbgarden.org. Event-day registration starts at 9 a.m., and the first paw crosses the starting line at 9:30. Information about the 5K Paw Walk in the Garden is available at the Rancho Coastal Humane Society, 389 Requeza St., Encinitas, or the San Diego Botanical Garden, 230 Quail Gardens Drive in Encinitas. www.rsfreview.com PAGE B26 - JANUARY 29, 2015 - RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW Scripps Hematology and Oncology Conference set for Feb. 14-17 Hundreds of physicians and researchers from many of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading cancer institutions will gather in San Diego Feb. 14 through Feb. 17 for Scripps Healthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 35th annual Clinical Hematology and Oncology Conference at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine. The conference will bring together experts in diverse areas of oncology and hematology to discuss the latest advances in diagnosing and treating blood-based cancers and solid tumors. It will also provide a forum where they can explore practical ways to bring these advances to their patients. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This conference will provide an unusually broad perspective on a wide variety of blood-based cancers and solid tumors,â&#x20AC;? said conference director Michael Kosty, M.D., who is also medical director of Scripps Cancer Center at Scripps Green Hospital. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It will also offer an intimate environment where physicians can interact and discuss new ways to put the latest advances into practice to benefit their patients.â&#x20AC;? Scheduled presenters at the conference represent leading cancer institutions such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, High schoolers join forces to serve homeless Members of the Del Mar-Solana Beach Optimist Club-sponsored Octagon Clubs at Canyon Crest Academy and Torrey Pines High School are shown with some of the 200 nutritious lunches they prepared for the homeless as a joint clubs â&#x20AC;&#x153;Souper Bowl of Caringâ&#x20AC;? project in January 2015. The lunches consisted of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fresh fruit, and granola bars. Courtesy photo HOME OF HOME OFTHE THEWEEK WEEK 780 Neptune Ave, Encinitas, CA Art Guild to host Feb. 8 reception for Photocharity The nonprofit San Dieguito Art Guild will hold an artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; reception to give a $500 donation to Photocharity from 3:30-6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8 at its Off Track Gallery, 937 S. Coast Highway 101, Suite C-103, Encinitas. Guests may enjoy wine and refreshments with a Valentine theme, meet the creative artists of the San Dieguito Art Guild, and enter a free raffle for donated artwork. The Photocharity House of Hope program brings hope and opportunity for homeless youth starting with a mandatory 30-day inpatient drug/alcohol rehab, training and instruction in life skills and trades, case management, group and individual therapy, home-cooked meals, music and art classes with the goal of solving permanently their homelessness. Visit photocharity. org. Visit OffTrackGallery.com. Engaging Women in Wealth Reserve Your Seat Now Seating is Limited 858.756.0004 [email protected] Engaging Women in Wealth Workshop Out Sold This is how we roll on the oceanfront of Leucadia! Perched high on the hill and serenaded by the soothing sound of the waves, this oceanfront beach bungalow offers glorious 180 degree eagleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye views of the mighty PaciďŹ c. This dreamy beach home keeps in simple with 2 bedrooms and 1 bath and a short walk to Beacons beach or Stone Steps! Offered at $1,695,000 Doug Harwood 858-735-4481 [email protected] CA BRE Lic #00528073 Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital and Scripps Health. A team of 12 Scripps physicians comprise the conferenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s planning committee. The first day of the conference will focus on nonmalignant hematologic issues such as blood transfusions, post-surgical bleeding, iron disorders and blood clots. The second day will explore key areas of malignant hematology, including leukemia, multiple myeloma and lymphoma. Day three will shift toward updates in oncology, including genomic profiling of tumors, hereditary cancer syndromes and the use of supplements in cancer care. The fourth day of the conference will focus on the latest updates related to breast cancer. Through Feb. 6, advance registration for the full conference is $650 for physicians; $475 for nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists and allied health professionals; and $200 for fellows and residents. On-site registration at the conference is available for an additional $25 and day rates are also available. More information is available by calling 858-652-5400, or visiting www.scripps.org/ hemonccme. Introduction January 28th, 12-2pm Lunch Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club Engaging Women in Wealth Workshop Introduction February 11th, 12-2pm Lunch Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club Engaging Women in Wealth Workshop Family Legacy Planning February 25th, 12-2pm Lunch Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club 'HDU'HE ,Ĺ?YH VHHQ \RXU DGV LQ 5DQFK DQG &RDVW DQG WKH 5DQFK6DQWD)H5HYLHZ,Ĺ?PLQWHUHVWHGLQFRPLQJ DQG ZRXOG OLNH PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ :RXOG \RX JLYH GHWDLOV DERXW ZKDW WKH ZRUNVKRSV WLWOHG (QJDJLQJ:RPHQLQ:HDOWKDUHDERXW" â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Darlene, Rancho Santa Fe Dear Kathleen, 7KDQN \RX IRU \RXU TXHVWLRQ 0\ Ĺ&#x152;,QWURGXFWLRQ :RUNVKRSĹ? SURYLGHV WKH WRROV WR GLVFRYHU \RXU SXUSRVH LQ VHFXULQJ \RXU Ć&#x201C;QDQFLDO IXWXUH :H H[SORUHKRZ\RXUJRDOVDQGYDOXHVSOD\DPDMRU UROHLQSODQQLQJIRU\RXUIXWXUH0\VHFRQGW\SH RI :RUNVKRS EXLOGV XSRQ WKLV IRXQGDWLRQ E\ H[SORULQJVSHFLĆ&#x201C;FĆ&#x201C;QDQFLDOWRSLFV2XUXSFRPLQJ WRSLFV LQFOXGH )DPLO\ /HJDF\ 3ODQQLQJ DQG  7KLQJV :RPHQ 0XVW .QRZ DERXW 3ODQQLQJ IRU WKHLU )DPLO\ DQG 7KHPVHOYHV 7KH SXUSRVH RI HDFK RI P\ :RUNVKRSV LV WR JHW :RPHQ HQJDJHGDQGH[FLWHGDERXWWKHLUĆ&#x201C;QDQFLDOIXWXUH 7ROHDUQPRUHSOHDVHFRQWDFWP\RIĆ&#x201C;FH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Deb Sims $W (VWDWH 0DQDJHPHQW *URXS PRVW RI RXU FOLHQWV DUH VPDUW DQG HQJDJLQJ ZRPHQ :KLOH Ć&#x201C;QDQFLDOO\ VRXQG WKHLU ODFN RI Ć&#x201C;QDQFLDO FRQĆ&#x201C;GHQFHFUHDWHVDZRUU\DERXWWKHIXWXUH:LWKRXUJXLGDQFHWKH\DUHDEOHWRWDNHFKDUJH Estate Management Group 16906 V ia de Sant a Fe | Ranc ho Sant a Fe 858. 756. 000 4 | www.es t at emanagement group.c om Securities offered through J.P. Turner & Company, LLC (Member SIPC) Investment advice and financial planning offered though J.P. Turner & Company Capital Management, LLC (a registered investment advisor) J.P. Turner & Company, LLC and J.P. Turner & Company Capital Management, LLC are not affiliated with Estate Management Group. Deborah Sims does business under the name Estate Management Group. JPT012715-132 www.rsfreview.com RANCHO SANTA FE REVIEW - JANUARY 29, 2015 - PAGE B27 La Jolla Music Society presents Nikolay Khozyainov at MCASD Sherwood Auditorium La Jolla Music Society opens its 46th Season’s Frieman Family Piano Series with Nikolay Khozyainov at MCASD Sherwood Auditorium on Saturday, Jan. 31 at 8 p.m. After an acclaimed La Jolla Music Society debut in the Discovery Season in 2013, this 22-year-old Russian pianist is making a much-anticipated return. Prizewinner at several major international piano competitions, including being the youngest finalist of the XVI International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw, Poland, Khozyainov credits his success at the Dublin International Piano Concerto in 2012 as being the win that opened doors to the most prestigious concert halls across Europe, Australia, Japan and the U.S. He made debuts in New York’s Carnegie Hall and London’s Wigmore Hall in April 2013 and May 2014, respectively, firmly establishing him as Nikolay Khozyainov one of the most sought after pianists of his generation. Khozyainov’s program will feature works by Chopin, Tchaikovsky, Liszt and Ravel as well as Rachmaninoff’s Piano Sonata No. 1 in D Minor, which in a previous performance of this work earned him the title “master of the Romanic tone.” (New York Concert Review), La Jolla Music Society enhances the concert-going experience by presenting “Preludes” – pre-concert conversations and performances one hour prior to select performances and free to ticketholders. Steven Cassedy will deliver this pre-concert presentation, Crazy-Difficult Piano Music. Tickets are $30-$80 and are available through La Jolla Music Society’s Ticket Services Office, 858-459-3728 or online at www.LJMS.org. Pacific Ridge School presents ‘Pippin’ Pacific Ridge School invites North County families to experience “Pippin.” The Tony Award-winning musical, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked”), tells the tale of a young prince searching for meaning and significance. The timeless story has been constantly reimagined to reflect the pervasive themes of each decade, and Pacific Ridge’s ultra modern take tackles the promise and perils of technology. The 50-person cast and crew will bring the playful, heartfelt story to life with dazzling choreography, powerful musical numbers, and “magical” effects. To purchase tickets to Pacific Ridge School’s 7th annual musical, visit www.seatyourself. bix and search “Pacific Ridge School.” Show times are Feb. 5 to Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m., with an additional matinee at 2 p.m. On Feb. 7. International Bipolar Foundation to host free mental health event on ‘Resilience, The Hallmark of Health’ On Feb. 17, International Bipolar Foundation will host a free mental health event on “Resilience, The Hallmark of Health,” with Dr. Jennifer Bahr. Bahr draws from her unique perspective gained from experience in both conventional and natural medicine, as well as both doctor and patient, to discuss what she has learned to be the most important hallmark of health resilience. In this talk, Bahr will share her perspectives on health and resilience based on both physical and emotional markers, as well as some guidelines on how she achieves this for herself and her patients. Naturopathic medicine’s roots lie in traditional healing that has been used for centuries to stimulate the body’s innate ability to heal. This does not, however, mean that it exists outside of the advancements that have been made in medicine over the years. Naturopathic doctors are trained to mesh the two, utilizing modern diagnostic techniques to help narrow their focus to the most appropriate and effective natural therapy to return the body and mind to a state of health. Location: Janssen R&D, LLC, 3210 Merryfield Row San Diego, CA 92121. Event and parking are free. Check in: 5:30-6 p.m. Lecture will begin at 6 p.m., followed by Q&A. R.S.V.P required here: ibpf.org. EXHIBIT continued from page B7 ries about riding horses from Point Loma to Sunset Cliffs and diving for abalone. Until I came to work here, I didn’t appreciate what makes this area so extraordinary. The exhibit provides an opportunity for more people like me to see the richness we have in 90 miles, how fortunate we are and how careful we have to be.” CEO Hager shares the same excitement. “It is a truly remarkable area and now we can see it all in one place,” he said. “Our hope is that is that visitors come here and learn, then go out and experience, then return, get more information and go back out.” If you go: What: Coast to Cactus in Southern California When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Where: San Diego Natural History Museum, 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park Admission: $11-$17 Phone: (877) 946-7797 Web: sdnat.org/coasttocactus Top flower photographer to speak at Palomar Orchid Society event Ron Parson’s presentation at the Feb. 4 meeting of the Palomar Orchid Society is simply called: “Colombia, August 2014.” Please attend and learn first-hand about his incredible trip to Columbia. Ron Parsons is one of the finest flower photographers in the United States. His photography and encyclopedic knowledge of orchids is known both nationally and internationally. He has been photographing orchids, wildflowers, and almost every other kind of plant for over 25 years. The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Pavilion, 1105 La Bonita Drive, San Marcos 92078. Ron traveled to Colombia for the first time in early August 2014 to coincide with the incredible Medellin Orchid Show called “Orquideas, Pajaros y Flores” (Orchids, Birds & Flowers). He visited two famous orchid nurseries, Colomborquideas and Orquifollajes, and photographed many incredible orchid species there. A weekend trip led him to a forest reserve owned by the Medellin Botanical Garden to see orchids in nature. He also visited a national park, a 7-hour drive (but only 150 km away) south of Medellin to spend four days photographing native orchids. He spent much time at the beautiful Medellin Orchid Show and adjoining botanical gardens photographing many amazing flowers. By the end of his trip, he had seen nearly 120 native orchid species in bloom in the wild, as well as hundreds of others at the show and nurseries. He highly recommends anyone to visit this beautiful and friendly country. Visitors are always welcome. For more info: www.palomarorchid.org OPEN HOUSES CARMEL VALLEY 12358 Carmel Country Rd. A108 Evelyn Edelstein / Coldwell Banker Sun 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. 619-261-7302 $699,000 3BR/2.5BA 12768 Via Teceto Charles & Farryl Moore / Coldwell Banker Sun 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 858-395-7525 $1,225,000 4BR/2.5BA 3216 Lower Ridge Road Tracey Lawlor / Berkshire Hathaway Sat 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 858-442-8801 $1,298,000 4BR/3BA 13645 Winstanley Way Sat & Sun 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Susan Meyers-Pyke / Coastal Premier Properties 858-395-4068 $1,499,000 5BR/4.5BA 13064 Sunset Point Pl Charles & Farryl Moore / Coldwell Banker Sat 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 858-395-7525 $1,549,000 5BR/5BA 4854 Bradshaw Court Charles & Farryl Moore / Coldwell Banker Sat 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 858-395-7525 $1,598,000 - $1,698,000 13476 Wyngate Pt Sat & Sun 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 5BR/5BA Susan Meyers-Pyke / Coastal Premier Properties 858-395-4068 $2,099,000 4BR/4.5BA 6505 Caminito Stella Sat & Sun 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Jerry McCaw/Lee Rotsheck / Berkshire Hathaway 858-882-7678 DEL MAR DEL MAR $989,000 Land/Lot Carmel Valley Rd & between Via Grimaldi & Portofino Sat & Sun 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Chris Lin / Berkshire Hathaway 858-605-8355 $1,799,000 5BR/3.5BA 1048 Highland Drive Sherry Stewart / Coldwell Banker Sat 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 858-353-1732 ENCINITAS & LEUCADIA ENCINITAS $795,000 - $875,000 5BR/3BA RANCHO SANTA FE 1634 Landquist Drive Sat & Sun 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Susan Meyers-Pyke / Coastal Premier Properties 858-395-4068 RANCHO SANTA FE 17014 San Antonio Rose Court K. Ann Brizolis / Pacific Sotheby’s Int’l Realty $3,750,000 5BR/6.5BA 5940 Lago Lindo Sat 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. & Sun 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Jennifer J. Janzen-Botts / Pacific Sotheby’s Int’l Realty 760-845-3303 SOLANA BEACH $1,075,000 3BR/2.5BA Sun 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 858-756-4382 SOLANA BEACH 1112 Santa Rufina Court Gracinda Maier / Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Sat 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 858-755-6793 Want your open house listing here? Contact Colleen Gray | [email protected] | 858.756.1403 x112 www.rsfreview.com
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In honey bees, the Queen and workers are all female. What name is given to the males?
Honey Bee Workers, Drones, and Queens Honey Bee Workers, Drones, and Queens Honey Bee Workers, Drones, and Queens Roles Within the Honey Bee Colony Workers attending to the queen honey bee.  Getty Images/Collection:PhotolibraryMax /C. Allan Morgan By Debbie Hadley Updated September 23, 2015. Honey bees enlist a caste system to accomplish the tasks that ensure survival of the colony. Each member of the community fulfills a need that serves the group. Tens of thousands of worker bees, all females, assume responsibility for feeding, cleaning, nursing, and defending the group. Male drones live only to mate with the queen, who is the only fertile female in the colony. The queen need not lift a wing, as workers tend to her every need. The Queen: Don't get the idea the queen is lazy, though. A newly hatched queen begins her life in a duel to the death with any other queens present in the colony, and must destroy potential rivals that have not yet hatched. Once she accomplishes this, she takes her virgin mating flight. Throughout her life, she lays eggs and secretes a pheromone that keeps all other females in the colony sterile. Drones: The drone's anatomical structure proves its limited role in the colony. Drones lack stingers, so they cannot help defend the hive. continue reading below our video 4 Tips for Improving Test Performance Without structures for collecting pollen or nectar, they cannot contribute to feeding the community. Upon mating, its only reason for existence, the drone dies. In the fall, worker bees prevent drones from entering the hive, effectively starving them to death. Workers: Female worker bees accomplish every chore unrelated to reproduction. In their first days, workers tend to the queen. For the remainder of their short lives, workers keep busy - thus the expression "busy bees." They build the comb in which honey is stored and eggs are laid. Workers collect pollen and nectar, and evaporate the nectar to make honey for times when food is scarce. They tend to the queen, the young drones, and the larvae. When threatened, the workers defend the colony. New research suggests the workers also make the collective decision to move the colony , or swarm.
Drone
What influential show, which paved the way for the future of cooking shows on TV, was hosted by Julia Child?
BioKIDS - Kids' Inquiry of Diverse Species, Apidae, bumble bees and honey bees: INFORMATION Skip directly to main content . Kids' Inquiry of Diverse Species bumble bees and honey bees Apidae Diversity The family Apidae is made up of over 25,000 species of bees in 4,000 genera. ( Gauld and Bolton, 1988 ; Michener, 2000 ) What do they look like? Adult bees are short stout insects. They are fuzzier than their relatives the wasps and the ants. They have chewing mouthparts, four wings, and straight antennae. Most of them have yellow and black stripes, but some are bright green, and some are all black. Most bees can give a painful sting. Bee larvae and pupae are never found outside their nest. Bee larvae look like grubs, with soft white bodies, no legs and brown heads. Honey bee queens are larger than other members of their colony, with workers being the smallest and male drones ranging in the middle. Other Physical Features female larger Where do they live? There are thousands of species of Bees all around the world. Bees can and do live in almost kind of climate. The only places bees do not live are in places with extreme cold all year round. In Michigan there are probably nearly 200 species. Biogeographic Regions native What kind of habitat do they need? Apidae species live anywhere there are flowers to feed from. Some bumble bees can tolerate very cold temperatures and live in the far north and high in the mountains. These animals are found in the following types of habitat swamp How do they grow? Bees are holometabulous insects. This means that they undergo complete metamorphosis, passing through egg, larval, and pupal stages before emerging as an adult. Eggs are elongate, white, gently curved, and have a soft membranous shell. In social species, eggs are not laid with any food as workers begin to feed larvae as soon as they hatch. In solitary species, eggs are laid upon or near a food source enclosed in a cell with the larvae. Larvae are soft, whitish and grublike. They grow quickly, molting about four times as they mature. The honeybee has 5 larval instars (molts). Cleptoparasitic taxa hatch from the egg with a large sclerotized head and long curved mandibles, which they use to kill the host larvae or egg. They then begin to eat the hosts’ food source, and after the first molt take on the normal grublike appearance of other bee larvae. Apidae larvae are unable to defecate as there is no connection between the midgut and hindgut. In solitary bees, after the larval food source is gone the bee will defecate, and then almost immediately pupate. Many bee larvae spin silken cocoons for themselves. Fertalized eggs develop into females while unfertalized eggs develop into males. After mating, the female stores the sperm in her spermatheca. Mating only one time will give her enough sperm for the rest of her life. As an egg pass down her oviduct, she controls whether it gets fertilized, by allowing whether or not sperm can exit the spermatheca as the egg passes. For more information, see the information on their close relatives, ants and wasps ( Hymenoptera ). ( Michener, 2000 ) Development - Life Cycle metamorphosis How do they reproduce? Some males fly over or around flowers, literally pouncing on females in order to mate with them. Copulation lasts from a few seconds to a few minutes at most. A male will grasp the female with his legs and sometimes his mandibles in order to hold on while they copulate. Many female bees only mate once, and males compete to get at them first. Some males even dig down into the soil to encounter a virgin female as she emerges from her larval cell. Most males bees are able to mate multiple times, although Meliponini and Apini male genitalia is torn away during copulation, after which the male soon dies. Some females that regularly mate more than once are found in the genus Panurgus . ( Michener, 2000 ; Ramel, 2005 ; Michener, 2000 ; Ramel, 2005 ) Mating System eusocial Most bee species are solitary nesters. The female makes a tiny bee-sized chamber for each of her offspring, lays one egg, and supplies the chamber with a ball of pollen and nectar for the baby bee to eat. Then she seals up the chamber and builds another one. Some bees, like bumble bees and honey bees, are more social and build nests or hives. In social bee species, a single queen lays the eggs, while most of her daughters don't reproduce but stay with their mother and help take care of more and more sisters (on average, 60 thousand). Some of the sisters are raised to be new queens, and they and their brothers fly away in the summer to mate and start new nests. ( von Frisch, 1950 ) Most bees are solitary nesters. Solitary bees construct their own nests, stocking each brood cell with a ball of pollen and nectar before laying one egg, sealing the cell, and building another. Solitary bees generally dye or leave before their offspring mature. When solitary bees do not leave before their offspring mature, but continue to feed and care for them, they are called subsocial bees. A colony is made up of 2 or more adult females, regardless of their social relationship. We usually think of a colony in terms of having many workers (all sisters), which do all of the foraging, brood care, guarding, and building, and one queen who is responsible for all egg laying. This is in fact the life of many honeybees ( Apis , Trigona , Melipona ), and they are considered to be highly eusocial. The queen is completely dependant on her workers, and new colonies are started by social swarms, which fly as a group to a new area never leaving a queen by herself. Other bees live in much smaller colonies such as bumblebees (Bombini), sweat bees ( Halictidae ) and carpenter bees (Xylocopinae). Their colonies begin with a single reproductive female who carries out all tasks of nest maintenance including foraging, brood care, and egg laying. After the emergence of daughters, colonial life and a division of labor between the foundress (queen) and her daughters may arise. These colonies are called primitively eusocial colonies. Often, the queen is larger than her workers, but this is not a constant rule. Bee nests are made up of brood cells, usually with one egg laid in each cell. Most Bombus species however, lay a cluster of eggs together in a wax cell. Cells are made of wax, or dug into wood, soil, plant stems, or mortar. The most complex bee nests are made by Meliponini species, where clusters (combs) of wax brood cells are surrounded by layers of wax or resin food storage chambers, which are further surrounded by layers of wax mixed with resin or mud to protect the colony inside. Other types of colonies include 2 or more reproductive females who each provision their own egg cells. This is called communal nesting. Most species that make communal nests also have individuals who nest alone. Communal nests can be made up of many species. It is not uncommon to find both solitary bees and wasps nesting communally together. This is especially common in areas where suitable nesting habitat is difficult to find, so individuals nest together in the only suitable areas available. The largest recorded communal nest aggregation was 423,000 bees covering 1300m squared. Solitary bees tend to line their brood cells with a waterproofing material to protect developing offspring. This material can be wax, pieces of leaves and petals, or varnish-like and made from saliva. ( Gauld and Bolton, 1988 ; Michener, 2000 ; Ramel, 2005 ; von Frisch, 1950 ) Key Reproductive Features Breeding season Spring or Summer Solitary female bees don't tend their babies after they close up their chamber. Bee species that form nests don't seal up the larvae, instead they feed and take care of them as they grow. Male bees never take care of offspring and do very little work. Parental Investment female parental care How long do they live? Solitary bees hatch in the summer or fall and spend the winter in their nest. They emerge in the spring or summer to reproduce and then die. Among social bees, queen bees can live for several years. The workers usually live just a few weeks or months, although some live through the winter. Male bees usually live a few months at most, and often die shortly after mating. ( Michener, 2000 ) How do they behave? Many bee species (called robber bees) are parasitic upon other bee species. These bees eat the stored food meant for the host larvae, starving or even directly killing the host. Most bees forage during the day, whenever it is warm enough. Honeybees build large hives out of wax, high up in trees or cliffs. Bumblebees make smaller nests in holes underground, usually abandoned mammal burrows. Almost any kind of protected niche can be used by bees as a nesting site, such as beetle bored cavities in timber, holes in walls or hollow trees, snail shells, or under rocks. Some use abandoned bird nests, dead plant stems, or may tunnel into the mortar of houses and walls. A few bees are nocturnal, and specialize on collecting pollen from certain night blooming flowers. Perdita species collect pollen only from evening primroses and their close relatives, and members of the cucumber family are frequented by Xenoglossa . In order to see better at night, nocturnal bees tend to have larger eyes and darker coloring. ( Gauld and Bolton, 1988 ; Michener, 2000 ; Ramel, 2005 ) Key Behaviors chemical What do they eat? Adult bees drink nectar and eat pollen, while larvae eat pollen, nectar, honey, and pollen or floral oils. Pollen is collected by the female parent in solitary species, or by the foundress and or workers in colonies. Females collect pollen on branched body hairs, which are later transferred to the scopa (carrying structure), generally located on the hind legs. An exception to this are the Hylaeus , which are hairless and lack scopa, instead transporting pollen in their crops. Bees normally collect dry pollen which is naturally sticky, but some bees mix pollen with regurgitated nectar to maximize its sticky qualities. In taxa that have scopa to carry the pollen, nectar is carried in the crop, and is then refined to make honey. Some bees collect floral oils instead of nectar. When a female returns to her nest she regurgitates her crop full of nectar or oil into a honey pot or preconstructed cell for storage. ( Gauld and Bolton, 1988 ) Primary Diet insect-eating birds What roles do they have in the ecosystem? Bees are essential to the survival of many ecosystems, as without them many plants could not reproduce. Bees pollinate more plants than any other insect. They are so important, that many species of solitary bees in the family Megachile are farmed and cared for because of their importance in pollinating commercial crops. Some plants have developed clever ways to trick bees into pollinating them. Certain orchids (Ophrys) emit pheromones similar to those of female Andrea , Anthophora , Colletes , Eucera , Tetralonia , and other bees. Males smell the pheromones and are attracted to the flowers thinking that they are female bees. As the male tries to mate with the flower, he pollinates it at the same time. ( Ramel, 2005 ; Gauld and Bolton, 1988 ; Ramel, 2005 ) Ecosystem Impact pollinates Do they cause problems? Bees sting to protect themselves. They usually aren't dangerous, but large hives might sting a person enough times to endanger them, and some people are so allergic to bee stings that they can die from just one or a few stings. Ways that these animals might be a problem for humans injures humans bites or stings How do they interact with us? Bees are very important to the production of fruits and vegetables, and other crops such as flax, cotton, alfalfa and clover. Without bees, most crops could not be grown. The pollination industry is worth millions every year. Bees also provide wax, honey, bee pollen, propolis (used in cough syrups) and royal jelly. ( Michener, 2000 ; Ramel, 2005 ) Ways that people benefit from these animals:
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Named for a field piece, what is the name of the cocktail consisting of gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar?
The Webtender Wiki - French 75 French 75 Jump to: navigation , search The French 75 is a Cocktail which consists of either Gin, Fresh Lemon Juice, Sugar, and Champagne. Contents 6 Links of Interest Why is it called a French 75? The French 75 is named after a WW1 artillery gun used by the French; the gun was a 75 millimetre. Historical References This is a great classic cocktail full of history. This drink is believed to be created at Harry's New York Bar in Paris in 1915. However, there is no conclusive evidence that the drink was created there or at that specific date. The drink appears in print as early as: The practical hotel steward - Page 39 by John Tellman in 1913 "75 Cocktail" This drink is commonly called a "french 75" which is believed to be composed of gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and champagne. Other sources claim this drink is made with brandy. Even today there is still some confusion over the base ingredient in this drink. The 75 has come to be known as a variation on the french 75 in which you substitute Gin for Brandy, but as seen in this piece of early literature the 75 and the french 75 are one in the same: Cyclopedia of law and procedure: Volume 23 - Page 61 by William Mack, Howard Pervear Nash in 1906 "United States — USV Ash, 75 Fed. 651. 75 cocktail. — Courts take judicial notice that 75 cocktail, a compound of which consist of French brandy, California brandy, or any other kind. Xeiv Fort.— Blatz" The name of this drink certainly derives from the french 75 mm howitzer, which was invented in 1897. There is no specific location associated with this drink, other than France. World War one had many conflicts and it is difficult to determine where exactly this drink was created. This drink dates between 1897 - 1905 and contained at least as of then: Shake these ingredients: David Wondrich Says "The French 75 is rather an open question -- with Cognac and no lemon juice or sugar, it's a French drink, although I don't think they called it that (officers used to drink it before going over the top in WWI). With gin, lemon juice and sugar (basically, a Tom Collins with champagne instead of soda water), it seems unlikely that it was originally French. Off the top of my head, I think it first shows up in the 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book, which is English. But the French cannon after which it was named wasn't used by the English in WWI and was used by the Americans, so I'd bet there's a Yank in the works somewhere." Other References of Interest "Banquet Book," by Cuyler Reynolds, 1902 "Punch. Most punches use a combination of strong liquors and wines, such as gin and champagne. Lemon is indispensable, and they are usually well sweetened." Similar Recipes
French 75
What three titans of classical music are collectively known as the Three Bs?
Cocktails 101 | Le French 75 | cityhomeCOLLECTIVE Cocktails 101 | Le French 75 January 2, 2014   There’s something about a champagne cocktail that cranks the flyin’ high freak-flag level of any event right up to 11 from the first toast, and the French 75 is arguably THE classic bubbly cocktail. Fair warning: it’s the kind of cocktail that sneaks up on you like a velvet sledgehammer. After a few of these, you’ll be stumbling into the next day wearing nothing but a tuxedo jacket and false eyelashes. That don’t belong to you. It’s deceptively simple in both ingredients and method: just a bit of sugar, lemon juice, a shit-load of gin, and all that topped with champers. Think of the French 75 as a gateway cocktail for grouchy asshats who say they “hate gin” after a G&T experience gone bad in their early drinking years [I’m talkin’ to you, Les]. They’ll be gulping this puppy down and asking for another round after two slugs, gauranteed.* Long before the “The French 75” showed up as a cocktail recipe in post-WWI bar books, champagne-liquor combos [made with gin or cognac] were famously guzzled by fellas of Victorian-era nobility and the dapper folks who emulated them on both sides of the Atlantic. Although cocktail geeks argue over where, and by whom, the French 75 cocktail was developed and named, all agree that the moniker stuck after WWI to celebrate the French 75 millimeter field gun [neat-o photo below]. ‘Twas a piece of artillery prized by French and American troops during WWI who appreciated its kickass power, speed, and accuracy all packed in an efficient and mobile design. Apropos for this potent drink. It’s one of the few early, 20th century American cocktail classics that gained popularity during Prohibition; even bathtub gin tastes pretty goddamn good if it’s mixed with enough sugar, lemon, and bootlegged bubbly. Like many classics, everyone’s got their favorite way to spin the sauce.  Here’s our take: THE BOOZE: Most barkeeps use gin for this drink, although if you order a French 75 in New Orleans, it’ll probably be made with cognac. Tasty. Within gin’s basic formula there’s a huge range of floral-herbal notes goin’ on underneath all that requisite juniper; any decent London Dry gin nicely complements the citrus/sweet of a French 75. It doesn’t need to be the priciest bottle on your shelf; save that for making martinis or for impressing that annoying douche who says, “I’ll only drink _________.”  #compensator THE CITRUS: To get the most juice out of a lemon, microwave one on ‘high’ for about 10 seconds, then roll it with the flattened palm of your hand firmly against a hard surface [table, cutting board, etc.]. Before you start squeezing out the juice, take a minute to cut out a wafer thin wedge of lemon or knife some peel off in a long string of zest for garnish. No, you philistine, you can’t use lemon juice from a plastic bottle for cocktails. Ever. THE SUGAR: Superfine sugar [sometimes called “Baker’s sugar”] dissolves more readily in lemon juice than large-grained sugars like turbinado, but any pale-colored sugar will do. Some recipes call for using simple syrup, instead [see my quick and dirty method here ]. THE BUBBLY: You know champagne can’t be called “Champagne” unless it comes from the Champagne region of France, right? That said, French 75s were almost exclusively made back in the day with French Champagne.   Very good, bubbly wines made using the same method and similar grapes come from all over the world: Spain’s Cava, Italy’s spumante and Prosecco [among others], German Sekt. In the U.S. and other English-speaking countries, it’s usually and underwhelmingly called “sparkling wine” [yawn]. Adding to the confusion, sparkling wines have a wide range of sweetness [Brut sauvage, demi-sec, extra Dry, etc]. Since this cocktail is made with sugar and citrus, lower sugar “Brut” wines make a great French 75, but you can totally play with the sugar:bubbly ratio for what you’ve got on hand. THE ROCKS: Drink nerds are gonna get all up in here about this one. There are two major camps of French 75 recipes: both equally delish IMHO [step down, people. Jeezus y’all try my patience]. Some bartenders vigorously shake everything except for the bubbly in a cocktail shaker filled with ice, strain the drink into a chilled champagne flute or coupe glass, and then add champagne to the rim. Other mixologists strain the shaken gin-citrus-sugar mixture into a tall narrow Collins glass almost completely filled with chipped ice, then add champagne to the top of the glass. Let’s call it even: In the winter I like my French 75 strained into a champagne glass, and in the summer prefer it over ice and served with a straw [so I don’t smear my lipstick, psht]. ‘Sup to you. Let’s shake some up, shall we? Meyer Lemon French 75 [Serves one. Meyer lemons — slightly rounder, sweeter, juicier, and thinner-skinned than regular lemons — are in season right now and make a delicious cocktail, but regular fresh lemon juice works just fine]. To a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 1 ½  oz. gin, ½  oz. Meyer lemon juice, and ½  oz. simple syrup. Shake that mutha vigorously, until the shaker is frosty…then strain into a coupe or champagne glass. Top with 2 – 3oz of sparkling wine, and float a small lemon wedge or long strip of lemon zest on the surface of the cocktail. Drink up, fancy. French 75 [Serves one. This would be “The Classic” version, by booze historian David Wondrich for Liquor.com] Add ½  oz lemon juice and 1 tsp. sugar to a shaker, and stir to combine. Then add 2 oz. London Dry gin or Cognac and fill with ice. Shake, and strain into a Collins [or other tall, narrow] glass filled with cracked ice. Fill slowly with chilled champagne and get to sippin’. Arnaud’s Louisiana French 75 [Serves one. The classic New Orleans version served at the historic bar at Arnaud’s restaurant. From April, 2013 Saveur magazine]. Combine 1 ¼ oz. cognac [they use Courvoisier VS], ¼ oz. fresh lemon juice, and ¼ oz. simple syrup in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake and pour into a champagne flute. Top with chilled champagne [Arnaud’s pick: Moët & Chandon Imperial] and garnish with a small piece of lemon peel. #ohmygoditsgood *Don’t worry gin lovers, we’ll tackle the gimlet and martini in a Cocktails 101 blog soon.  Hold ‘yer horses, ya filthy animals.   
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What is the name of the company from which Wile E. Coyote gets all of his supplies in his vain attempts to capture the Road Runner?
Character Guide | Looney Tunes Wiki | Fandom powered by Wikia Main article: A. Flea Ape Waiter An ape waiter that serves booze (beer) to customers in the following shorts: Lady, Play Your Mandolin! and Goopy Geer . Aunt Jemima An advertising character for a syrup company, this woman appeared in  September in the Rain and  Tin Pan Alley Cats . Some sources say she appeared in The Looney Tunes Show (Episode 12: Double Date), but this is unconfirmed. Add a photo to this gallery Unnamed Alley Cat A black cat who has appeared in the following shorts: Angel Puss , It's Hummer Time , Early to Bet and A Fractured Leghorn . Adolf Hitler Ali Baba and His Men Arabians that Porky is sent to capture in the short  Ali-Baba Bound . Ala Bahma Main article: Ala Bahma Alexander Woolcott Impersonator A parrot who appeared in  Curtain Razor . Asian Tweety A Chinese accented bird who appears in  Tweety and the Beanstalk and bears a resemblance to Aooga. Alien Invaders Alien Invaders are Men From Mars. In Kitty Kornered , the Alien Invaders are secretly pussycats in disguise trying to torment Porky out of his home. Air Force Ants Ants who work as an army/air force to defeat their enemies. They have appeared in Target Snafu,  Of Thee I Sting , and  Ant Pasted . Add a photo to this gallery Adolph Kitler Adolph Kitler is a cat that is a parody of Hitler. His only appearance is in  The Fifth-Column Mouse . Alligators Animal predators who attempt to eat up their pray. They were seen in  A Cartoonist's Nightmare ,  Hare-Abian Nights , and  Water, Water Every Hare . Angus MacRory Main article: Angus MacRory Angel Packed Cats Angel cats who have appeared in 3 shorts:  Angel Puss ,  Back Alley Oproar , and  Notes to You . Ant An unnamed ant character is seen in the short,  Foney Fables . He is small in height. The Angry Fish Main article: Babbit and Catstello Babbit and Catstello are cats based on the comedic duo Abbott and Costello . Although the short, fat character calls the other one "Babbit", the tall, skinny one never addresses his partner by name; the name "Catstello" was invented later. In their first three cartoons, the "Babbit" character was voiced by Tedd Pierce , and Mel Blanc performed "Catstello". Originally, the pair were cats in pursuit of a small bird for their meal in the 1942 Bob Clampett -directed cartoon A Tale of Two Kitties , a cartoon notable for the first appearance of the bird character, who would eventually become Warner Bros. cartoon icon Tweety Bird . The hapless duo fail in every attempt to capture the bird, establishing the pattern that would be used time and again in future Tweety cartoons. Three years later, Babbit and Catstello reappeared in the similarly named Tale of Two Mice , directed by Frank Tashlin . Though their characterizations were the same, the two were now mice, living in a hole in the wall of a typical cartoon kitchen. Their goal in this cartoon was the cheese in the kitchen's refrigerator, the only obstacle being the resident housecat. Babbit attempts to coerce Catstello (often by beating him up) into going after the cheese solo, using various methods to get it (which involved Catstello getting hurt). However, in the end, it is Swiss cheese, which Babbit can't stand. Angrily, Catstello beats him up and begins force-feeding the cheese, uttering one of his archetype Lou Costello 's famous lines: "Oh — I'm a baaaaad boy!" (At one point in A Tale of Two Kitties , he similarly =1946. They play the pets of the real Abbott and Costello , Costello's dog, refers to Abbott's dog as 'Babbit'. Finally, six months later in October 1946, Robert McKimson returned to the pair in The Mouse-Merized Cat , wherein Babbit uses a book to hypnotize Catstello. Babbit has Catstello believe he's a dog in order to scare off the cat so they can get to the food in the refrigerator. However, the cat soon studies hypnosis and is able to reverse Babbit's spell. This results in Catstello running back and forth between the two as they continue use hypnosis. Finally, Catstello becomes fed up with Babbit making him the fall guy, and turns the tables on both Babbit and the cat, hypnotizing them into believing they are, respectively, a cowboy and his trusty steed. Catstello trickes Babbit with his Yosemite Sam like voice makes Babbit utter a deliberately misworded variation on the Lone Ranger 's classic catchphrase — "Hi yo, Sliver, awaaayy!" — before he and the cat gallop away. The final scene shows Catstello eating cheese and reading a book on living alone, before turning to the audience and once again reciting "Oh — I'm a baaaaadd boy!" The pair have made few appearances since then, mainly cameos in modern Warner Bros. animated projects such as The Sylvester and Tweety Mysteries voiced by Jim Cummings and Joe Alaskey . Bad Female Moth The Bad Female Moth is an antagonist that has appeared in  Eatin' on the Cuff or, The Moth Who Came to Dinner  and  Bingo Crosbyana , where she was captured by  Bingo . Barnyard Dawg A fat cat who appears in  Lighthouse Mouse  and  Cat-Tails For Two . Biff Stew Biff Stew is a wrestler, who is also Egghead's enemy in the short  Count Me Out . Bill Weasel Bill Weasel was a small, gnash-happy weasel with the hyperness of the Tasmanian Devil. He craved chicken and was always after Foghorn Leghorn. He appeared in " Weasel Stop ," " Plop Goes the Weasel ," and " Weasel While You Work ." Bingo Crosbyana Bingo Crosbyana is a bug parody of famous singer Bing Crosby. His only appearance to date was in the 1936 short  Bingo Crosbyana . Add a photo to this gallery Black and White Cat A nameless male black and white cat who appears in the shorts Paying the Piper (1949), Swallow the Leader (1949), It's Hummer Time (1950), A Fractured Leghorn (1950), Early to Bet (1951) and Leghorn Swoggled (1951). He is voiced by Mel Blanc . In the third and fifth, the cat is antagonized by an unnamed bulldog who gives him either humiliating or also painful sentences for bugging him in the second cartoon and for losing bets in the fourth short. This may also be the same poor cat that appears in Fresh Airedale , about a dog (Shep) that keeps taking credit for the good deeds of a cat and placing blame on the cat. Black Panther An ant imitating blackface in the short Porky's Midnight Matinee . Blacque Jacque Shellacque Blacque Jacque Shellacque was created by Robert McKimson . While similar in many ways to Yosemite Sam —both are short in stature and temper—Blacque Jacque possesses his own unique characteristics, not the least of which is his comically thick French Canadian accent, performed by Mel Blanc . Also, like Yosemite Sam and many other villains, Blacque Jacque Shellacque does not have a high level of intelligence, preferring to use force instead of strategy to fight Bugs. Blacque Jacque first appeared in Bonanza Bunny , which takes place in the middle of the Klondike gold rush . Blacque Jacque attempts to seize Bugs' bag of gold (actually "a bunch of rocks and some yellow paint," according to Bugs) through card cheating, trickery, and out-and-out threats, but Bugs outwits him as always and defeats him by replacing his bag of gold with gunpowder while poking a hole in the bag and tossing a lit match on it causing a massive explosion. Blacque Jacque later clashed with Bugs in 1962's Wet Hare , in which his illegal damming of a river ("Me feel like pezky little beav-aire !") brings him into conflict with the rabbit—not only because he is committing a crime, but because he has blocked off the waterfall that Bugs uses as a shower. After demolishing several of Blacque Jacque's dams, Bugs turns the tables by damming the river upstream of Jacque's dam. Jacque, unsurprisingly, is enraged and wheels a small cannon along the riverbed to destroy Bugs' dam—but when he does he only reveals another dam further upstream. Jacque blows up several of Bugs' dams in succession and finally follows Bugs all the way to the "Grand Cooler Dam" (a pun on the name of the Grand Coulee Dam ). Jacque tries to blow it up with his cannon, but the dam is so massive and thick that the cannonball he launches ricochets back into the cannon's barrel and the recoiling force lands both Jacque and the cannon into the back of a waiting paddy wagon . Blacque Jacque also appears as a common enemy in Bugs Bunny: Lost in Time . Bluebeard Bluebeard is a villain who only appeared in the short  Bye, Bye Bluebeard . The Real Bluebeard Main article: Bunny and Claude Bunny and Claude are robbers (based on the real-life Bonnie and Clyde and the then recent film version ) that had been released by Warner Bros. They are a well-dressed rabbit male (Claude) and female (Bunny) duo who are always pulling off carrot heists, and their catch phrase is "We rob carrot patches", based on the film Bonnie and Clyde   "We rob banks." Bunny was voiced by Pat Woodell and Claude was voiced by veteran WB voice actor Mel Blanc . They both speak with pronounced Southern accents. They appeared in two cartoons produced by Warner Bros. Animation and released by Warner Bros.- Seven Arts in 1968, titled Bunny and Claude: We Rob Carrot Patches and The Great Carrot Train Robbery (the latter was held over to 1969). Both films were directed by Robert McKimson , and were his first two cartoons he directed in his comeback to Termite Terrace. Bunny and Claude were always chased by a stereotypical Southern sheriff (also voiced by Mel Blanc, his voice sounding similar to Foghorn Leghorn and Yosemite Sam ), who would always pursue them in his police cruiser even though the gangster rabbits would always foil his plans. Bugs Bunny Main article: Charlie Dog Charlie Dog, Charlie the Dog or Charles the Dog is a brown dog. Bob Clampett minted the scenario that Charlie Dog would later inherit in his cartoon short Porky's Pooch , first released on 27 December 1941. A homeless hound pulls out all the stops to get adopted by bachelor Porky Pig . Mel Blanc would provide the dog's gruff, Brooklyn- Bugs Bunny -like voice and accent which became Charlie's standard voice. However, as he did for so many other Looney Tunes characters, Chuck Jones took Clampett's hound and transformed him into something new. Jones first used the dog in Little Orphan Airedale (4 October 1947) which saw Clampett's "Rover" renamed "Charlie." The film was a success, and Jones would create two more Charlie Dog/Porky Pig cartoons in 1949: Awful Orphan (29 January) and Often an Orphan (13 August). Jones also starred Charlie without Porky in a couple of shorts: Dog Gone South (26 August 1950) which sees Yankee Charlie searching for a fine gentleman of the Southern United States, and A Hound for Trouble (28 April 1951) which sends Charlie to Italy where he searches for a master who speaks English. In these cartoons, Charlie Dog is defined by one desire: to find himself a master. To this end, Charlie is willing to pull out all the stops, from pulling "the big soulful eyes routine" to boasting of his pedigree ("Fifty percent Collie! Fifty percent setter, Irish Setter! Fifty Percent Boxer! Fifty percent Doberman Pincher! Fifty percent pointer—there it is! There it is! There it is! But, mostly, I'm all Labrador Retriever!") when reminded by others that he is not a Labrador retriever, his response would be, "If you'll find me a Labrador, I'll retrieve it for you." —though in reality, he is just a slick-talking mutt who rarely realizes that his own aggressive obnoxiousness is sabotaging his appeal to any potential guardian. Charlie makes a brief cameo appearance (via re-used animation from Often an Orphan) in the Robert McKimson -directed short Dog Tales (1958). Jones shelved the Charlie Dog series of films in the 1950s, along with other characters he had introduced, such as The Three Bears and Hubie and Bertie . He was turning his efforts to new characters, such as Pepé Le Pew and Wile E. Coyote and The Road Runner . However, recent Warner Bros. merchandising and series and films such as episodes of Tiny Toon Adventures , the film Space Jam (1996) in the crowd scenes (here performed by Frank Welker ), and Tweety's High-Flying Adventure (2000) in Italy have brought Charlie back out of retirement. The Frisky Puppy character that Jones paired with Claude Cat in several '50s shorts bears a close physical resemblance to Charlie. Charlie Dog made a cameo appearance in The Looney Tunes Show episode "Father Figures". He is seen at a pet store where he was attacked by Henery Hawk (who was looking for a chicken). Charles M. Wolf Charles M. Wolf (also known as The Big Bad Wolf or as his wife calls him, Charlie) is a dimwitted wolf who appeared in Red Riding Hoodwinked (1955) and Hare-Less Wolf (1958). His name is only given in the second feature and apparently spoofs animator  Chuck Jones , whose real name was Charles Martin Jones. In his first appearance, his design resembled a modified version of Sylvester. But in his later appearance, his design was greatly simplified to make it look aardvark-like Add a photo to this gallery Claude Cat Claude Cat (a pun on the homophone "clawed cat") had his origins in several other cat characters used by Chuck Jones from 1940 to 1945. These cats were mostly similar in appearance and temperament, with black fur and anxious personalities. For example, in the 1943 film The Aristo-cat (the character's first speaking role), Jones paired his unnamed cat against the mind-manipulating mouse duo, Hubie and Bertie . Jones redesigned the neurotic feline for the 1948 film Mouse Wreckers (perhaps to distinguish him from Friz Freleng 's popular puss, Sylvester ). The short is another Hubie and Bertie vehicle, only this time, the antagonist they antagonize is Claude, drawn as he would appear in all future cartoons: yellow, with a red shock of hair and a white belly (his exact markings would vary from cartoon to cartoon). In this as in all future Claude Cat cartoons, Jones' careful attention to personality is easily evident. Claude is a nervous and lazy animal. His attempts to protect his home from the manipulative mice Hubie and Bertie prove futile as the rodents torment him by (among other things) putting aquariums in all the windows to make Claude think he's underwater or by nailing his furniture to the ceiling. Jones set the mice on Claude once more in the 1950 film The Hypo-Chondri-Cat . This time, the miniature Machiavellis convince the neurotic Claude that he's dead. Claude would run afoul of the mice once more in 1951's Cheese Chasers and against another mouse duo in Mouse Warming in 1952. Jones added another idiosyncrasy to Claude's id in another 1950 film, Two's a Crowd . Here, Claude is scared out of his mind by a diminutive dog named Frisky Puppy, newly adopted by Claude's owners. The main theme, however, is jealousy as Claude's attempts to oust the intruder repeatedly fail due to the cat's intense cowardice - a running gag has Claude repeatedly shooting up and clinging to the ceiling after the pup playfully comes up behind him and barks. in a form of a series of loud yelps, in a high register. At the end, however Claude gets revenge by pulling the same trick causing the dog to comically leap up and cling to the ceiling. Jones repeated the scenario with slight variations in Terrier Stricken in 1952 and No Barking in 1954 (the latter featuring a cameo by Tweety Bird ). In future cartoons, Jones recast Claude as a silent villain, still possessing his full set of neuroses . This stage of the character's evolution is best exemplified by the 1954 film Feline Frame-Up . Here, Claude convinces his owner that fellow pet Marc Antony is trying to eat the precious kitten Pussyfoot. Marc Antony is tossed out, allowing Claude the run of the house. That is, until Marc Antony outwits the cat and makes him sign a confession admitting to his crimes. Claude was played by voice actor Mel Blanc and after classic films, Joe Alaskey using a quirky, strangulated voice similar to that of Marvin the Martian (but without Marvin's precise enunciation). Jones retired Claude in the late 1950s. He was concentrating on other characters, such as Wile E. Coyote and Pepé Le Pew . Nevertheless, the character enjoys some popularity as one of Jones' more humorous, if forgotten, creations. In Bah, Humduck! A Looney Tunes Christmas , Claude Cat has a very brief cameo as an employee going home for Christmas. Claude Cat filmography (13 shorts): The Aristo-Cat (1943) - with Hubie & Bertie & prototype-Hector; the feline's first appearance with the mice Terrier Stricken (1952) - with Frisky Puppy Feline Frame-Up (1954) - with Marc Antony & Pussyfoot; his first pairing with Marc & Pussyfoot & his final speaking appearance(at one line at the end) No Barking (1954) - with Frisky Puppy, Tweety (cameo) & Marc Antony(cameo); his final pairing with Frisky Cat Feud (1958) -- with Marc Antony & Pussyfoot; his final pairing with Marc & Pussyfoot & the final appearance of all three characters. Claude Hopper Claude Hopper is a prideful (and stupid) kangaroo in the Looney Tunes series, not to be confused with Hippety Hopper. He only appeared in the theatrical short Hop and Go , where he was taken advantage of by Scottish rabbits . His voice is similar to the Disney character Goofy . His voice was provided by Pinto Colvig , the original voice of Goofy. Claude Hopper made an appearance in the crowd scenes of Space Jam during the basketball match against the Monstars. Clyde Bunny Main article: Clyde Bunny Conrad the Cat Conrad the Cat starred in a few shorts in the 1940s all directed by Chuck Jones. He first appeared in the 1942 short The Bird Came C.O.D. [1] before featuring in Porky's Cafe (1942) and Conrad the Sailor (1942). [2] He was voiced by Pinto Colvig , the original voice actor of Goofy . Cookie Main article: Cookie Cool Cat and Colonel Rimfire Cool Cat was a tiger (whose design was very similar to that of The Pink Panther and Snagglepuss ) who wore a stylish green beret and scarf. Unlike most other Looney Tunes characters, Cool Cat was unapologetically a product of his time. He spoke in 1960s-style beatnik slang and acted much like a stereotypical laid-back 1960s teenager — he was often seen strumming a guitar or traveling cross-country in his dune buggy . One cartoon — McKimson's Bugged by a Bee — depicted him as an alumnus of " Disco Tech " playing varsity football against the long-haired team from " Hippie University".. However, most of Cool Cat's cartoons dealt with his encounters with Colonel Rimfire (both voiced by Larry Storch ), a fussy, British-accented big-game hunter armed with a shotgun. Rimfire essentially acted as the Elmer Fudd to Cool Cat's Bugs Bunny , but was used only by Lovy. Cool Cat bears the distinction of starring in the very last cartoon produced at the classic Warner Bros. Cartoons studio: Injun Trouble in 1969. Shortly after this cartoon was produced, the venerable animation studio shut down for good. His cartoons can easily be distinguished from most of the other Looney Tunes cartoons, for they feature an updated Looney Tunes logo with stylized animation, a 1967 remix of "The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down" by William Lava , and featuring the then-current Warner Bros.-Seven Arts logo (a combination of a simple W and 7 inside a stylized shield outline). Classic shorts: (1967-1969) Cool Cat appeared in the 2000 direct-to-video movie Tweety's High-Flying Adventure voiced by Jim Cummings . Cool Cat and Colonel Rimfire are the only W-7 Arts characters to make any further appearances, beyond the classic era shorts, to date. Cornbread the Bird Cornbread the Bird is the name of a young, clever bluebird that starred in the Warner Bros.' Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series of animated theatrical cartoons. Cornbread has appeared in a total of three classic cartoons. His appearance was slightly changed in all three cartoons. "No Barking" - Debut appearance; Cameo. "Father of the Bird" - Paired with Sylvester. "Swallow the Leader" - Paired with Black and White Cat. Count Blood Count Count Blood Count (originally voiced by Ben Frommer and later by Bill Farmer , Frank Welker and Jeff Bennett ) is a vampire from the Warner Bros. Looney Tunes animated shorts. The Count's first appearance was in the 1963 short, Transylvania 6-5000 . In this short, Bugs goes to Transylvania and looks for a telephone at what he thinks is a motel (but is in reality an ominous castle). At the castle, Bugs meets Count Blood Count and is given a room for the night (much to his chagrin) by the blood-thirsty vampire. Unable to sleep, Bugs skims through a magic book and reads it aloud. When the Count appears above the bed and tries to suck Bugs' blood, he turns into a bat when Bugs says "abracadabra". Later, when Bugs says "hocus pocus," the Count turns back to human form just outside the castle window, where he falls into the moat. Later, while wandering around the castle, Bugs sings the aforementioned magic phrases, turning the Count into a bat, then back to a vampire. When the Count states that he is a vampire, Bugs turns into an umpire. When the Count turns into a bat, Bugs turns into a baseball bat and hits him (despite the Count's bat form wearing glasses). The Count tries to crush Bugs with a piece of the floor only to turn into a bat and get crushed many times. Amused by the results, Bugs says random words which turn the Count into a whole range of things: "abraca-pocus" turns the Count into a being with his bat head and human form body, while "hocus-cadabra" does the opposite (the Count's human head with his bat form's wings). When Bugs says "Newport News," the Count turns into Witch Hazel , another Looney Tunes character. Finally, through the incantation "Walla Walla Washington," Bugs turns the Count into a two-headed vulture . Seeing an opportunity to be rid of the vampire, Bugs calls over a female two-headed vulture from earlier in the episode (named Emily and Agatha). Emily and Agatha are immediately smitten with passion, while the Count is immediately smitten with fear, and the female vultures amorously chase the terrified Count away into the distance, musing, "Isn't it romantic? I always said, four heads are better than one!" Soon, Bugs finds a telephone and calls for a ride home. While waiting, Bugs hums and accidentally turns his ears into a pair of bat wings. Bugs then changes his mind and decides to fly home, using his new bat-winged ears. Count Blood Count would reappear many years later in various Looney Tunes-related media. He was used as the final boss in the video game Bugs Bunny & Taz: Time Busters , and voiced by Joe Alaskey . He was also used as an enemy in Bugs Bunny Crazy Castle 4. He appeared in the "Fang You Very Much" segment of the Tiny Toon Adventures episode "Stuff That Goes Bump in the Night" attempting (with hilariously painful results) to suck the blood of series regular Elmyra Duff only for any light to turn the Count into a bat. He appeared in the The Oddball Couple episode "Hotel Boo More", which was an almost exact copy of the Bugs Bunny's " Transylvania 6-5000 " episode. He appeared in an episode of The Sylvester and Tweety Mysteries called "Fangs for the Memories". He most recently appeared as Count Muerte in an episode of Duck Dodgers titled "I'm Gonna Get You, Fat Sucka" (voiced by Jeff Bennett ) in which he aimed to suck the fat of the Eager Young Space Cadet . In the end Eager Young Space Cadet manages to defeat him by getting him to eat a pound of garlic shaped like himself causing him to disintegrate. In the episode, his appearance was based on that of Count Orlok , the vampire from the silent film Nosferatu . He also appeared in "Till Doom Do Us Part" as one of the members of The Legion of Duck Doom where he was somehow revived. The Count's voice was sampled for the Gorillaz track "Dracula", which features the lines "Rest is good for the blood!" and "I am a Vampire!". Unnamed Coyote He appears in Ride Him, Bosko! in the opening scene Crazy Crows The Crazy Crows (named Jose and Manuel) are two Mexican crows in the Merrie Melodies and Looney Tunes films. They appeared twice in the series in the cartoons Two Crows From Tacos , and Crows Feat . Jose and Manuel also appear in the 1996 film Space Jam. The Crusher The Crusher is a brutish professional wrestler in 1951's Bunny Hugged (directed by Chuck Jones ). He is voiced by John T. Smith . A similar character named The Champ appears in the 1948 cartoon Rabbit Punch . Crusher also appeared in a Tiny Toon Adventures episode featuring two songs by They Might Be Giants : Particle Man (as a wrestler) and Istanbul (Not Constantinople) (as a henchman). Crusher also had a cameo role in Carrotblanca as a doorman, and appeared in an episode in The Sylvester and Tweety Mysteries . He also appeared in two episodes of Duck Dodgers , voiced by John DiMaggio . Crusher appeared on the web show "fast food" on looneytunes.com. In the 2003 film, Looney Tunes Back in Action , The Crusher makes a cameo as one of the judges on DJ's stunt performance. Crusher was a boss character in the Super NES video game Bugs Bunny Rabbit Rampage . Seen in the background are various Looney Tunes characters, and Pepe Le Pew is waving a pennant that reads "Le Crusher". The Crusher appeared in The Looney Tunes Show episode "Jailbird and Jailbunny" as an inmate at the prison where Bugs and Daffy are incarcerated in. The Crusher next appeared in the episode "Fish and Visitors," as a wrestler on television. He also appeared in two Merrie Melodies segments "Blow My Stack" (as one of the characters at Clarence Cat's anger management group) and "Yellow Bird". Curt and Pumpkinhead Curt and Pumpkinhead are hillbilly brothers in that appear in the Merrie Melodies series of shorts. Curt has long, black beard, and Pumpkinhead has an orange beard. They are armed with a gun. They also wear a tall hat. They debuted in Holiday For Drumsticks , against Daffy Duck and Tom Turkey. Their second and final appearance was in Hillbilly Hare , attempting to kill Bugs for no apparent reason. D Main article: Dr. I.Q. Hi Doctor Frankenbeans Doctor Frankenbeans is a mad scientist who appears in Hair-Raising Hare and Water, Water Every Hare as an enemy of Bugs. He went unnamed in classic cartoons, and was given his name in the video game Looney Tunes: Acme Arsenal in which he was the main antagonist. He is the creator of Gossamer . [3] In the Duck Dodgers episode "Enemy Yours," Doctor Frankenbeans appears as Dr. Woe (voiced by Maurice LaMarche ) who is one of the Martian Commander X-2's enemies. Also in the webtoon, Island of Dr. Moron he is known as "Dr. Moron" and gives life to a carrot which he uses (in addition to Gossamer) to destroy bugs. Doctor Jekyll Dr. Jekyll appeared in some Warner Bros. Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies animated shorts including Hyde and Go Tweet , Hyde and Hare ,and The Impatient Patient . Dodsworth Dodsworth is a fictional cat from the Merrie Melodies series loosely based on W.C. Fields . He is depicted as a larger lethargic cat with marking almost identical to Sylvester. He was very lazy and was proud of that fact. His attempts to coerce a white kitten to do his work for him ultimately backfire. Donkey Donkeys have appeared in many Looney Tunes shorts. A donkey first appeared in Falling Hare and also showed up in Robin Hood Daffy, where Daffy is seen riding one. The Drunk Stork Main article: Egghead Egghead, Jr. Egghead, Jr. debuted in 1954's Little Boy Boo , and made two subsequent Looney Tunes appearances in 1955's Feather Dusted and 1960's Crockett-Doodle-Doo . Egghead, Jr. is a large-headed and very intelligent baby chick and appeared in several shorts with bumptuous Foghorn Leghorn (also a character directed by McKimson and voiced by Blanc). The only child of Miss Prissy , a widow hen, Egghead , Jr. was bookish and never talked (though he mumbled when he counted playing hide-and-seek with Foghorn in Little Boy Boo ). Foghorn would try to teach him to play games like baseball and cowboys and Indians, with the intent that he act more like a typical boy, but invariably resulting in bodily injury for Foghorn. In 1991, Egghead Jr. appeared in the Tiny Toon Adventures episode "Hog-Wild Hamton"; he's Hamton 's neighbor and he doesn't like being disturbed, so when a wild party takes place at Hamton's house and the guests refuse to keep the noise down, Egghead takes matters into his own hands. Egghead Jr. also makes a cameo in Star Warners. Elmer Fudd Main article: Foxy Fred Sheepdog Fred Sheepdog is a sheepdog with black bangs, and has a resemblance to Sam Sheepdog . He is the co-worker to Sam and appears in Sheep Ahoy and Don't Give Up the Sheep . For reasons unknown, he is referred to as "Ralph" in the beginning of the cartoons, and "Fred" at the end. He was voiced by voice actor Mel Blanc . Frisky Puppy Frisky Puppy is a young puppy who loves to play. He appeared in three cartoons, opposite Claude Cat , all directed by Chuck Jones . Frisky often sneaks up on Claude when Claude is trying to get rid of him, making the cat jump to the ceiling. With his loud barks and yelps, and obsessed with scratching himself because of fleas, Frisky seems to cause a lot of trouble for Claude. Since the puppy's first appearance, Two's a Crowd (1950), where Frisky was a present for the mistress of the house, Claude was always trying to get rid of Frisky, since the fact if Claude does not get along with the puppy then the cat can go. And it seems from the start that Claude hated Frisky, possibly due to Frisky's hyper active self. The Claude/Frisky storyline continued from Terrier Stricken (1952) to No Barking (1954). All the shorts portray Frisky winning over Claude, with the exception for Two's A Crowd, where the puppy loses to Claude in the end. G Main article: Gabby Goat Gabby Goat is a goat who was created by Bob Clampett to be a sidekick for Porky Pig in the 1937 short Porky and Gabby , directed by Ub Iwerks , who briefly subcontracted to Leon Schlesinger Productions , producers of the Looney Tunes shorts. The cartoon focuses on the title characters' camping trip, which is foiled by car trouble. Storyboard artist Cal Howard supplies Gabby's voice. Gabby looks like Porky with a beard, horns, and scowl. The goat's chief characteristics are his irritability and short temper, traits that make him a natural foil for the shy, easy-going Porky. The concept didn't play out as well as the animators would have liked, however; audiences felt that the goat's behavior was too offensive to be funny. Gabby only appeared in two more cartoons. The first was Porky's Badtime Story (Clampett's first cartoon as director ), where roommates Porky and Gabby are almost fired from their jobs for sleeping in and showing up late. They vow to get to sleep early that night, but various problems keep them awake all night. The cartoon was later remade in 1944 as Tick Tock Tuckered , featuring Daffy Duck in Gabby's role as Porky's co-star. The third and final appearance of the character was in Get Rich Quick Porky , where Porky and Gabby dig for oil. Both Porky's Badtime Story and Get Rich Quick Porky were produced in 1937. Recently uncovered storyboards show that Gabby Goat was originally planned to appear in the 1938 short Porky's Party . However, that role was later filled by a penguin character with a similar personality. Gee-Man Gee-Man is Buddy 's dog and helper. His only appearance to date was in the short  Buddy the Gee Man . George is a Sylvester-like pussycat who has appeared in Lighthouse Mouse and Cat-Tails For Two . General Gracias General Gracias is a mouse general who is friends with a fat mouse named El Supremeo. His only appearance to date was in  A Message to Gracias . General Gracias with El Supremeo. Add a photo to this gallery General Robert E. Lee General Robert E. Lee is a civil war general of the Confederate Army who is mentioned in the short  Rebel Without Claws .  Sylvester  attempts to disguise himself as the general in order to intercept  Tweety Bird  and the message for the general. Sylvester , disguised as General Robert E. Lee. Add a photo to this gallery Giovanni Jones Giovanni Jones is an opera singer that debuted in Long-Haired Hare . He was singing "Largo al Factotum" from The Barber of Seville until Bugs playing his music at the same time disrupted Giovanni enough to confront Bugs and destroy his instruments. After the final attack, Bugs does various pranks upon Giovanni at his performance leading up to him disguising himself as Leopold Stokowski where he conducts Giovanni into holding a singular high G note until Giovanni can hardly endure the strain. His face turns different colors as he squirms and unravels his formal wear. Bugs leaves his glove hovering in the air and steps outside to order a pair of earmuffs which are delivered instantly after Bugs places the order in the mailbox. Bugs returns to the stage to find Giovanni has obeyed the glove and is still singing the high note but is now thrashing about on the floor banging his fists, his face still turning various colors. Finally, the top of the concert hall's shell shatters and tumbles down on top of Giovanni. For the encore, a roughed-up Giovanni appears out of the rubble to take a bow. Witnessing one last piece of the amphitheater balanced on a steel beam above Giovanni, Bugs again cues the singer to close out his performance with the high note so that the piece falls and crushes him off camera. In The Looney Tunes Show episode "Customer Service," Giovanni Jones' design is used to portray the unnamed manager of Copy Place. He first appears where he temporarily suspends Tina Russo after she snaps at a rude customer. However, he later reinstates her because he himself could not cope with the foolishness that came with working Tina's desk and admits that he had no idea what it's like dealing with those people. Especially since the customer he was having problems with at the time was Yosemite Sam who wanted Copy Place to print his money. Goopy Geer Goopy Geer was the last attempt by animator Rudolf Ising to feature a recurring character in the Merrie Melodies series of films. Goopy is a tall, lanky humanoid dog with scruffy whiskers and long, expressive ears. In all of his animated appearances, Goopy is depicted as light colored, but in an early promotional drawing for his first cartoon, he had black fur. A month after Goopy Geer's first cartoon had been released, Walt Disney released a cartoon with a character named Dippy Dawg —renamed "Goofy" in 1934, and notably referred to as "G. G. Geef" in 1950s shorts—whose overall appearance was very similar to that of Goopy Geer. Due to the proximity of the two cartoons' releases, there is little chance that either character was intended to be a copy of the other. Instead, both characters may have been inspired by earlier Ising drawings shown to Walt Disney, as with the Foxy - Mickey Mouse similarity. Like most other early sound-era cartoon characters, Ising's Goopy has little personality of his own. Instead, he sings and dances his way through a musical world in perfect syncopation. Ising only featured the character in three cartoons. In the first, Goopy Geer (April 16, 1932), he plays a popular pianist entertaining at a nightclub . In Ising's other two Goopy films, both in 1932, he cast the dog first as a hillbilly in Moonlight for Two (June 11, 1932), then as a court jester in The Queen Was in the Parlor (July 9, 1932). All of these cartoons also feature Goopy's unnamed girlfriend who debuted without her gangly consort in the earlier Merrie Melodie Freddy the Freshman (February 20, 1932). Goopy would make a cameo in the Bosko cartoon Bosko in Dutch (January 14, 1933), but after Ising left Warner Bros. that same year, Goopy and other recurring Merrie Melodies characters were retired, to be later replaced by such recurring characters as Sniffles the Mouse, Inki and the Mynah Bird, the Curious Puppies, and, on two occasions, Porky Pig (a character who was certainly more prevalent in the black and white Looney Tunes). Many of the Merrie Melodies nonetheless remained high-quality one-shot cartoons, until 1943, when the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies merged and became generic. Goopy Geer had a small role in the 1990s animated series Tiny Toon Adventures . In the episode " Two-Tone Town " (September 28, 1992), Goopy, reprising his role as the happy-go-lucky pianist from his first cartoon, meets the series' stars when they visit the "black-and-white" part of town. His appearance in this cartoon is updated somewhat, and seems to be based on early promotional drawings where his fur is black, rather than his actual cartoon appearances. Goofy Gophers Main article: Granny The Gremlin A gremlin who likes to torment people/animals on planes or near planes. He has a laugh which sounds like:Ha Ha Ha Ha Hee Ha Ha!He first appeared in Falling Hare where he tormented bugs bunny. He later appeared in Russian Rhapsody on a plane with other gremlins that are caricatures of people at termite terrace. He made a cameo in Kitty Kornered as a disguise for one of the alien invaders.He last appeared in Space Jam (film) in the crowd scenes and made a cameo in one episode of The Looney Tunes Show at the pizzariba. Grover Groundhog Grover Groundhog is a character in the Merrie Melodies series of cartoons. His first and only appearance was in the short One Meat Brawl . Gruesome Gorilla Main article: Gruesome Gorilla Gustavo Gustavo is Speedy Gonzales 's posse member, friend, and cousin on some occasions. Gustavo is often seen alongside, a short, fat unnamed mouse. Gustavo, himself, is tall and has a snout-like nose. He bears a resemblance to Speedy's cousin Slowpoke Rodriguez. Gustavo usually plays a supporting role, and he never became a major star in the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies cartoons. Gustavo appears in The Looney Tunes Show 's Merrie Melodies segments " Queso Bandito " and " Pizzarriba ". H Main article: Henery Hawk Hector the Bulldog Hector the Bulldog is an animated cartoon character in the Warner Bros. Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series of cartoons. Hector is a muscle-bound bulldog with gray fur (except for A Street Cat Named Sylvester and Greedy For Tweety , where his fur is yellowish) and walks pigeon-toed. His face bears a perpetual scowl between two immense jowls. He wears a black collar with silver studs. Hector first appeared in 1945's Peck Up Your Troubles , where he foils Sylvester's attempts to get a woodpecker. He also appeared in A Hare Grows in Manhattan , leading a street gang composed of dogs in a Friz Freleng -directed short; this is also the first short where the dog speaks & the only cartoon where the dog also took the antagonist role. After those shorts, Hector is a minor player in several Tweety and Sylvester cartoons directed by Freleng in 1948 and throughout the 1950s. His usual role is to protect Tweety from Sylvester, usually at Granny ’s request. He typically does this through brute strength alone, but some cartoons have him outsmart the cat, such as 1954's Satan's Waitin' , wherein Hector convinces Sylvester to use up his nine lives by pursuing Tweety through a series of extremely dangerous situations. In most of his appearances, the bulldog is nameless, though he is sometimes referred to as Spike. Hector never got his name till Fowl Weather (which was also his first speaking role). Freleng probably did not intend the character to be the same bulldog as the Spike he paired with Chester the Terrier in other cartoons. Fans frequently confuse Hector for Spike or Marc Antony, but by right, the three bulldogs are actually not the same. Hector mostly featured in cartoons directed by Friz Freleng. However, it made cameo appearances in several cartoon shorts not directed by Friz Freleng (e.g. Mouse Wreckers ; directed by Chuck Jones). His colorization and character design varies in shorts not directed by Friz Freleng; e.g. in Cheese Chasers (Jones, 1951), Hector's character design and fur color looked prototypical to Marc Antony. Hector’s most prominent role was as a regular cast member in the animated series The Sylvester and Tweety Mysteries . In the cartoon, he plays Granny 's loyal guardian. The show makes Hector's low intelligence his Achilles heel , as Sylvester is constantly outwitting him, and has him designed similar to Marc Antony. Originally played by Mel Blanc , Hector is currently voiced by Frank Welker . Hector made a cameo in Tweety's High-Flying Adventure as the Brazilian counsellor. Here in the film, his character design has been reverted to this traditional classic-era design; and is seen dressed as a pirate. In the film, he was also voiced by Frank Welker . Hector also appears in the video game Bugs Bunny & Taz: Time Busters where he guards one of the time gears in Granwich. He is a member of the studio audience in Sheep, Dog, 'n' Wolf . Hiawatha Hiawatha is an Indian boy supposedly modeled after Disney animator Ward Kimball in the Bugs Bunny cartoon Hiawatha's Rabbit Hunt . Hiawatha seemed to be very dumb and his voice was similar to Cecil Turtle or Beaky Buzzard. Hippety Hopper Main article: Hubie and Bertie Hugo the Abominable Snowman Hugo is a large, rather naive, and easily fooled Abominable Snowman who really likes bunny rabbits. He likes to name his pets "George" and tried on two occasions to make Bugs Bunny his pet. He seems to be an actual snowman, as he melted when exposed to the sun too long. His character is a takeoff on Lennie Small in Of Mice and Men . "George" refers to Lennie's friend George Milton in the novel (and movie). Hugo appears in the episode The Abominable Snow Rabbit when Bugs and Daffy Duck run into him after accidentally traveling to the Himalaya Mountains. In Spaced Out Bunny , it was shown that he was captured by Marvin the Martian and brought to Mars , where Marvin attempted to give Bugs to him as a pet. In both appearances, he was voiced by Mel Blanc . He later made brief appearances in Tiny Toons Adventures and Tweety's High Flying Adventure , this time voiced by Frank Welker . In the latter he had a different colour scheme here and was also shown to like cats as well as rabbits. Hugo also appeared in Looney Tunes: Acme Arsenal . I Inki Inki is a little African boy, who starred exclusively in the Merrie Melodies series of animated cartoons. Inki usually wears a simple loincloth, armband, legband, earrings, and a bone through his hair. He never speaks, is usually seen hunting jungle creatures, and is similar to the characteer " Little Hiawatha ," from the Silly Symphonies cartoons. He usually co-stars alongside the Minah Bird, a droopy, sad faced black bird with an uncanny ability to overcome dangerous situations. Inki filmography Caveman Inki (1950) Instant Martians The Instant Martians are bird -like slaves of Marvin the Martian. They made their debut appearance in the animated short Hare-Way To The Stars . They have made few appearances since then, including The Bugs Bunny/Road Runner Movie. They appear as enemies in the Area 52 stage of the Looney Tunes: Back in Action video game. J Jose and Manuel Jose and Manuel are two Mexican cat brothers. Jose is tall and stupid, and Manuel is short and fiesty. Jose and Manuel are not to be confused with The Crazy Crows, who were named Hosea and Manuel. The two cats made their debut appearance in the Looney Tunes short Mexicali Shmoes , which introduced Speedy 's cousin named Slowpoke Rodriguez . Junior the Cat Junior the Cat is a cat that appears in the Looney Tunes series of animated cartoons. Junior only appeared in the short Mouse-Placed Kitten . He was adopted by mouse parents named Clyde and Matilda. Clyde convinces Matilda that they cannot keep him. Unwillingly, they give up their son and bring him to a human home. Years later, they come to visit Junior, but Junior's owner wants him to kill the two mice. Junior tries to cover up for his parents, usually resulting in punishment. Junior Rooster Junior Rooster is a baby rooster, that appeared in the Looney Tunes series of cartoons. Junior was usually co-starred with Daffy Duck or Foghorn Leghorn . Junior Rooster appeared in two cartoons: The Up-Standing Sitter , with Daffy Duck and Broken Leghorn , with Foghorn Leghorn. Junior Rooster is not to be confused with Egghead, Jr. . K K-9 Template:Infobox character K-9 is a green cartoon Martian dog in the Warner Brother's Looney Tunes series of animated shorts. He is closely associated with Marvin The Martian as K-9 is Marvin's pet dog and sidekick in some Looney Tunes productions. He has a few resemblances to Disney's Pluto. K-9 premiered in the short Haredevil Hare , where he and his owner Marvin tried to thwart Bugs Bunny , who had stumbled on the pair's plans to destroy the Earth. He is given his first speaking role in this short, seeming quite unintelligent and gullible. That changes in later shorts where K-9 carries an air of superiority over his owner. In recent Warner Bros. productions, K-9 only plays small cameo roles in video games and films, such as Sheep, Dog, 'n' Wolf , Space Jam , and the 2003 film Looney Tunes: Back in Action . He has a starring role in two episodes of Duck Dodgers : "K-9 Quarry" and "K-9 Kaddy", in which he saves his master from dangers, and is berated by an oblivious Marvin, in a similar manner to the Porky and Sylvester shorts. The second of these episodes set him against Martian versions of the Goofy Gophers , in an obvious reference to Pluto's adversarial relationship with Chip N Dale . Killer Mice The Killer Mice are group of mice that pull deadly pranks on Porky Pig , in a strange hotel. Sylvester , trying to save his master, gets all the blame for the chaos, and is considered to be a scaredy cat. The Killer Mice have a resemblance to Hubie the Mouse . The Killer Mice first appear in the 1948 cartoon Scaredy Cat , and then in the 1954 cartoon Claws for Alarm . L Leo Leo is a drunken human asking for approval from his peers at a party in the cartoon, Norman Normal . Leo Lion Leo Lion is an animated cartoon character in the Warner Bros. Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series of shorts. Leo made his debut in the Merrie Melodies short The Lyin' Mouse . Leo's second short The Lion's Busy , proved Leo to be even dumber than Beaky Buzzard. Leo's last two cartoons dealt with Bugs Bunny in Hold the Lion, Please , and Acrobatty Bunny . Add a photo to this gallery The Leprechauns The Leprechauns are two characters (one with a black beard an the other with an orange beard) that have appeared in the classic Looney Tunes short The Wearing of the Grin . In this short, Porky Pig does not believe in leprechauns, and the two leprechauns to decide to teach Porky a lesson by pulling pranks on him. They also have seen in the crowd scenes in Space Jam and appeared in Sylvester and Tweety mysteries. Cameo Appearance In Histeria. Add a photo to this gallery Little Blabbermouse Little Blabbermouse is an anthropomorphic mouse featured in the Warner Bros. Merrie Melodies shorts. His name is a pun on the term blabbermouth. Blabbermouse first appeared in the 1940 Merrie Melodies short Little Blabbermouse . In this short Little Blabbermouse goes on a tour with other mice around a Drug Store where the products live up to their names. The annoying non-stop talking mouse after much pestering the tour guide mouse and a close encounter with a cat gets a mouthful of Alum making him speak gibberish. His second was the 1940 short Shop, Look and Listen , which has basically a similar plot except the scene is a grocery shop, they do not encounter a cat and Little Blabbermouse ends up gift wrapped. Little Blabbermouse has never been featured in any future short. Little Kitty A nervous cat who serves as a love interest for Beans. Voiced by Bernice Hansen . Little Red Riding Hood Main article: Little Red Riding Hood Little Beaver Little Beaver is the boyfriend of a young Indian girl in his debut short, The Daffy Duckaroo . Daffy was almost kissed by him (Daffy was disguising himself as the Indian girl at the time). M Machine Gun Mike Machine Gun Mike is a mobster. His only appearances were in  Buddy the Gee Man  and  Porky Pig's Feat . Magic Groundhog A groundhog that was able to preform magic in "Get Rich Quick Porky" and made a cameo in "Now That Summer Is Gone". Marc Antony and Pussyfoot Main article: Melissa Duck Merlin the Magic Mouse Merlin the Magic Mouse was a nightclub magician (he usually preferred to be called a prestidigator , though he could never pronounce this correctly) who traveled around for work. Much of the humour of the character derived from the fact that, while he was often regarded as a cheap stage magician, he knew some very real and powerful magic tricks. His magic words were typically " Atascadero Escondido !" Merlin also has a sidekick, appropriately named Second Banana, which is a slang term for a magician's assistant. Daws Butler provided the voice of Merlin and Second Banana in the first short, Merlin the Magic Mouse; Larry Storch performed the voices for the other four films. Merlin is loosely based on W. C. Fields . Michigan J. Frog Main article: Minah Bird Miss Cud Miss Cud is a cow and a School teacher in I Haven't Got a Hat . She is also an ice-skater in Alpine Antics . She made another appearance in Porky's Moving Day where her house is almost washed into the sea. Monkey Monkey is a character seen making cameos in various Looney Tunes shorts. His first appearance was in the short  Hurdy-Gurdy Hare . He has also appeared in the shorts  Canary Row ,  Room and Bird , and  Devil May Hare . His appearance is mostly the same throughout his 4 appearances, except in Devil May Hare, where he is slightly redesigned. Main article: Nasty Canasta Nick 'O' Teen Nick 'O' Teen is a fat man made of smoke who torments Porky Pig with his Tobbaco products in Wholly Smoke . He never appeared in any other cartoons or made any cameos. Norman Norman is the main protaginist of the short Norman Normal . The Nutzy Crows Two Nazi crows who try to get rid of Daffy Duck from their warfields in the short Daffy - The Commando . The leader crow is nameless, but his assistant (whom he always hits on the head with a huge mallet) is named Schultz. It is revealed that the leader actually hates Adolf Hitler and only works for him because he has to, and the leader has a mother in the telephone scene. The crows have never appeared in Looney Tunes/Merrie Melodies media since then, but the cartoon has fallen into public domain in recent years, and has appeared on many PD VHS/DVDs, a few with actual artwork of the crows. The cartoon also has VHS tapes (but no DVDs) where the cartoon is featured as the main cartoon, and a few of those tapes have the crows. NOTE:The leader crow has been unofficially renamed Von Vulture. O Oliver Owl Oliver Owl is a snooty owl who was first seen in I Haven't Got a Hat , as well as being a movie director in Hollywood Capers . His appearance is similar to "Owl Jolson" in I Love to Singa (1936). He finally appeared in re-designed version in Plane Dippy , where he and Little Kitty find a puppy, and they both teach the puppy to do tricks. Oil Salesman A salesman with a large mustache that tries to sell a piece of land supposedly full of oil to Porky and Gabby in Get Rich Quick Porky . P Pancho Pancho is a Mexican Bandit. He is similar in appearance to Nasty Canasta . His only appearance was in  Viva Buddy . Penelope Pussycat Main article: Pepé Le Pew Pete Puma Pete Puma debuted in the November 15, 1952 Rabbit's Kin , a Merrie Melodies animated short directed by Robert McKimson , from a story by Tedd Pierce . Animation was by Charles McKimson , Herman Cohen, Rod Scribner , and Phil De Lara. He is voiced by Stan Freberg . Though Pete Puma made only two appearances, in Rabbit's Kin and in Pullet Surprise , he is often vividly remembered by cartoon fans, especially for his bizarre, inhaled, almost choking laugh, called "ihhhhh" (based on comedian Frank Fontaine 's "Crazy Guggenheim" character). In Rabbit's Kin, Pete is chasing a young rabbit (named Buster Rabbit by some fans; and though he is called Buster at least once, in the cartoon Bugs repeatedly calls him 'Shorty'), who asks Bugs Bunny for help. Bugs is eager to oblige, and subjects Pete to some of his trademark pranks. Pete Puma's voice was used in a Sylvester cartoon titled Mouse and Garden , in 1960. More recently, he has made occasional appearances on Tiny Toon Adventures (as the Acme Looniversity janitor), episodes of The Sylvester and Tweety Mysteries , co-starred with Foghorn Leghorn in Pullet Surprise (voiced again by Freberg in all of these appearances), made a cameo appearance in the crowd scenes of Space Jam , Carrotblanca (as a waiter), Tweety's High-Flying Adventure , Bah, Humduck! A Looney Tunes Christmas , and is a supporting character in the Looney Tunes comic books. Pete appears in The Looney Tunes Show episode "Reunion" voiced by John Kassir . He is shown to be a friend of Daffy Duck and Marvin the Martian . He also appears in "Devil Dog", as a zookeeper. Then in "To Bowl or Not to Bowl" as Daffy's teammates. Also in "Sunday Night Slice" where he works at Speedy 's pizza restaurant, which was called Giradi's, and once again in "Working Duck" where he was watching the cart of EnormoCorp's muffin man. Peter Bunny Peter Bunny is a naughty, disobedient and irresponsible brown rabbit who wears a red shirt and instantly flouts his mother's instructions. He has several siblings in Country Boy (1935), where he plays hooky and raids a vegetable garden. He has a baby brother to take care of rescue from a weasel in My Green Fedora (1935). Petunia Pig Main article: Petunia Pig Polly Polly is a common name given to a parrot. He first appeared in the short  Buccaneer Bunny , being owned by the pirate  Yosemite Sam . Polly, as he appears in Buccaneer Bunny . Main article: Porky Pig Porky Pig Juniors The Porky Pig Juniors (also known as The Quintuplets) are a pair of pigs. They first appeared in the short  Porky's Romance . Pierre (Lumberjack) Pierre is a Lumberjack and  Bosko 's Enemy. His only appearance to date was in  Bosko the Lumberjack . Piggy Piggy first appeared as a fat, black pig who wears a pair of shorts with buttons on the front. His coloration and dress are identical to those of the Walt Disney character Mickey Mouse before the advent of color film. John Kenworthy argues that, considering the fact that some sketches of mice which Hugh Harman had drawn in 1925 were the inspiration for the creation of Mickey Mouse, Harman and Ising never intended to copy Disney. [4] Piggy's name came from one of two brothers who were childhood classmates of Freleng's, nicknamed "Porky" and "Piggy". [5] Animator Rudolf Ising introduced Piggy as a second character after Foxy to star in the Merrie Melodies series Ising was directing for producer Leon Schlesinger . Nonetheless, Ising had only made two Piggy shorts in 1931 before he went on to create Goopy Geer. The animators who took over the Merrie Melodies cartoons dropped the Piggy character (as well as his girlfriend Fluffy) and turned the series into a string of one-shots. Despite their clichéd lead character[ citation needed ], Ising's two Piggy shorts are well received by some critics. The first is the 1931 short You Don't Know What You're Doin'! . Here, Piggy visits a surreal night club where he heckles and plays with the club's jazz band. This was followed by Hittin' the Trail for Hallelujah Land , also in 1931. Here, Piggy plays a steamboat captain who must rescue a drowning Uncle Tom . Due to its stereotypical portrayal of the Uncle Tom character, the cartoon is included among the so-called " Censored 11 ", Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies shorts that are withheld from circulation due to their heavy use of ethnic stereotypes . In 1936, animator Friz Freleng redesigned Piggy for colour film. Piggy was given lighter, more Caucasian -like colour with distinguishing birthmarks. The redesigned character appeared as a gluttonous child in a large family of pigs in At Your Service Madame (which gives his full name as Piggy Hamhock), [6] where he leads his fellow siblings in foiling a bum's attempt to rob their mother. A year later he starred in Pigs Is Pigs in which his gluttony takes center stage. [6] This would be his final appearance. After that he was discarded with his character traits transferred for a time to Porky Pig . Pincus Pig Pincus Pig is Porky's uncle. He gave Porky a "genuine Oriental Silkworm" in the cartoon Porky's Party. Pinky Pig Main article: Pinky Pig Playboy Penguin Playboy Penguin is a character in the animated cartoon Looney Tunes, created by Chuck Jones in the late 1940s and early 1950s. He debuted in 1949's Frigid Hare and he re-appeared in 8 Ball Bunny . Playboy Penguin is a mute skating baby penguin that seeks Bugs Bunny for help. From his debut episode, an Eskimo tries to catch him until the little penguin found Bugs Bunny and wants him to help avoid the Eskimo hunter. Then, in his second episode with Bugs, the penguin either wants to go home in Antarctica or go to Hoboken to perform in the show. Playboy Penguin also appears on The Sylvester and Tweety Mysteries and Space Jam . He also makes a cameo in the DS game Duck Amuck. Filmography Space Jam (1996)-appears as auditor Bah, Humduck! A Looney Tunes Christmas (2006)-appears as customer Miss Prissy Miss Prissy or Prissy is typically described as an old spinster hen , thinner than the other hens in the chicken coop, wearing a blue bonnet and wire-rimmed glasses. The other hens describe her as "old square britches". The premise of her cartoons are centered around the fact that the other hens are ridiculing Prissy. Her first appearance was in the 1950 short An Egg Scramble , the only cartoon featuring her and Porky Pig , in which the other hens are making fun of the fact that she cannot lay an egg (because she think it's embarrassing). Her next appearances are centered around Foghorn Leghorn . In Lovelorn Leghorn (1951), she is set on finding a husband and in Of Rice and Hen (1953) she is looking to have children. However, in Little Boy Boo (1954) she is depicted as a widow with a child Egghead Jr. and with a much more extensive vocabulary in long sounding words than her trademark "yeeesss". A Broken Leghorn (1959) and Strangled Eggs (1961), featuring Henery Hawk . In these shorts, it is usually Foghorn who is pursuing Prissy for his own selfish needs. [7] Miss Prissy also appeared in The Looney Tunes Show episode "The Foghorn Leghorn Story" voiced by Grey DeLisle . She played Mama Leghorn in Foghorn Leghorn's movie called "The Foghorn Leghorn Story." Private Snafu R Ralph Phillips Ralph Phillips is an imaginative boy who likes to daydream about all kinds of things he sees around him. For example, in From A to Z-Z-Z-Z , Ralph, while attending school, daydreams about flying in the air like a bird, fighting off mocking numbers on a blackboard and Indians (this scene was later edited because of some Native American stereotypes and some violence), dispatching a dangerous saber-tooth tiger shark, and finally punching out a huge opponent in the boxing ring and leaving the school for the day as Douglas MacArthur . From A to Z-Z-Z-Z was nominated for an Academy Award . Ralph appeared in a further Looney Tunes episode, Boyhood Daze , where he was sent up to his room for breaking a window with a baseball, wherein he indulged in similar daydreaming, and in the theatrically diverted TV pilot Adventures of the Road-Runner . In more recent years he has figured in issues of the DC Comics Looney Tunes comic book as well. A more mature Ralph Phillips was also featured as an Army recruit in two cartoons produced specifically as military recruitment promotions, 90 Day Wondering and Drafty, Isn't It? , both directed by Jones. Ralph Phillips was voiced by child actor Dick Beals (who would later be known for playing young boys in future projects due to a glandular problem). The older version was voiced by Warner Bros.' regular voice actor Mel Blanc , in 90 Day Wondering, and by Daws Butler , in Drafty, Isn't It?. Ralph has a cameo as an unseen character in the Chuck Jones-directed animated adaption of The Phantom Tollbooth . He calls the protagonist Milo near the start of the film (where he speaks with the voice of June Foray and is referred to by name), and briefly speaks with Milo again just before the film ends. Ralph Wolf Main article: Ralph Wolf and Sam Sheepdog Red Hot Ryder Red Hot Ryder appeared in Buckaroo Bugs . He is a dimwitted cowboy, assigned to bounty hunt and dispose of the Masked Marauder (who is Bugs Bunny). He somewhat resembles Yosemite Sam, minus the beard and mustache. His voice is provided by Mel Blanc , sounding like Cecil Turtle or The Flintstones' Barney Rubble. Road Runner Main article: Wile E. Coyote and The Road Runner Robot Rabbit The Robot Rabbit is a machine made by the ACME Pest Co. and it's purpose is to capture rabbits for it's master. It's only appearance is in the short,  Robot Rabbit . Robot Pilot The Robot Pilot is a robot that is built to fly a plane. His only appearance is in  Hare Lift  where he activated the parachute. Rocky and Mugsy Main article: Rocky and Mugsy Rover Rover is Elmer Fudd's dog in the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series. Several shorts feature him, as a minor role. Of course, the joke is that Elmer can't pronounce the name right, calling him "Wover." Rover is a usually a loyal dog, but can become aggressive to Elmer when he feels threatened. Rover shares a close resemblance to Barnyard Dawg in Robert McKimson -directed shorts, as his design varies in shorts directed by different directors. Rover first appeared in the black and white short Porky's Pooch , originally paired with Porky Pig . His next two appearance were in To Duck or Not to Duck and Hare Remover , with Elmer Fudd and this time with an entirely brown color scheme. His final two cartoons with Elmer Fudd developed his permanent color scheme in A Mutt in A Rut and Don't Axe Me . Roxy Main article: Colonel Shuffle Shep A glory stealing an unscrupulous dog that appeared in "Fresh Airedale", about a dog that keeps taking credit for the good deeds of a cat and placing blame on the cat. Sloppy Moe Sloppy Moe is a hillbilly who appeared in Injun Trouble and its remake Wagon Heels . He would go around quoting "I know something I won't tell, I won't tell, I won't tell!" to the tune of London Bridge is Falling Down . When Porky Pig is cornered by Injun Joe, Sloppy Moe reveals that Injun Joe is ticklish and proceeds to tickle Injun Joe with his beard and hands enough to cause Injun Joe to fall off the cliff enough to stretch the entire United States enough to cover the entire area. With the United States colonized, Sloppy Moe then tickles Porky. Sloppy Moe was voiced by Mel Blanc . In the Tiny Toon Adventures episode "New Character Day," a cartoon called "The Return of Pluck Twacy" has Sloppy Moe parodied as a criminal named "Ticklepuss" (voiced by Frank Welker ). When Ticklepuss attacks Pluck Twacy and states that ducks are ticklish in the ears, Pluck Twacy states that ducks don't have ears. Ticklepuss places fake ears on Pluck Twacy and proceeds to tickle them. Remembering what Duck Twacy would to at a time like this, Pluck Twacy subjects himself to pain enough to drive Ticklepuss away. Sniffles and Mary Jane Main article: Sniffles Slowpoke Rodriguez Slowpoke Rodríguez ("Lento Rodríguez" in Spanish , though some more recent translations call him "Tranquilino") is described as "the slowest mouse in all Mexico " from the country side of Mexico, and is a cousin to Speedy Gonzales , who is known as the fastest. However, he mentions to his cousin that while he may be slow in the feet, which he is best known for, he's not slow in "la cabeza" (the head). He speaks in a monotone voice and seems to never be surprised by anything. While he is the slowest mouse in all of Mexico he has been shown to have certain other (more extreme) methods of protecting himself. Slowpoke only appeared in two cartoons alongside his cousin. The first, Mexicali Shmoes (1959), ends with two lazy cats, Jose and Manuel, the former learning the hard way that Slowpoke carries a gun (though the gun bit has been edited out of this cartoon in recent years). The second, Mexican Boarders (1962), revolves around Speedy trying to protect Slowpoke from Sylvester the Cat , but in the end, Slowpoke demonstrates his ability to hypnotize Sylvester into becoming his slave. This short (which was later edited into Bugs Bunny's 3rd Movie: 1001 Rabbit Tales ) contains a possible allusion to a marijuana habit when Slowpoke sings La Cucaracha . Despite his few appearances, "Lento Rodríguez" is an immensely popular character in Latin America . Slowpoke also appears alongside Speedy in a commercial for Virgin Media 's broadband service in the UK. Squirrel The Squirrel is a type of chimpmunk that usually lives in the trees. A squirrel first appeared in The Tree's Knees. Another one later appeared in A Corny Concerto. Speedy Gonzales Main article: Speedy Gonzales Spike the Bulldog and Chester the Terrier Spike the Bulldog and Chester the Terrier are animated cartoon characters in the Warner Bros. Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series of cartoons. Spike is a burly, gray bulldog who wears a red sweater, a brown bowler hat , and a perpetual scowl . Chester is just the opposite, a small and jumpy terrier with yellow fur and brown, perky ears. The characters starred in only two shorts, both directed by animator Friz Freleng . The first of these films was 1952's Tree for Two . In it, Chester tells his idol Spike that he knows of a cat that they can beat up. The cat is Freleng's own Sylvester , but every time Spike thinks he has the cat cornered, a runaway zoo black panther appears in Sylvester's place, thrashing the dog instead. Spike gets easily sent into a panic when he thinks Sylvester is going to kill him and runs away to hide, giving Sylvester the chance to get revenge. When Chester decides to have a go of it, however, Sylvester finds himself at the little dog's mercy. By the cartoon's end, Spike and Chester have switched roles; Spike is the fawning sycophant , and Chester the smug prizefighter. The characters' second outing came in the 1954 film Dr. Jerkyl's Hyde . Spike (here called "Alfie" and with an English accent) is once again after Sylvester, only this time it is Sylvester himself who pummels the poor pooch, thanks to a potion that transforms him into a feline monster . Chester, of course, never sees this transformed Sylvester, thinking his buddy is being beaten by the tiny tomcat . The final loss of face for Alfie is his being thrashed by a fly that has also been affected by the potion, as it occurs in front of Chester's eyes. In both of these cartoons, Spike is performed by voice actor Mel Blanc , and Chester is performed by Stan Freberg . In modern Warner Bros. media, Spike's voice is provided by Joe Alaskey , Fans frequently confuse Spike for Hector in a red sweater but by right they are actually not the same. The pair also appear in the 1996 film Space Jam as a pair of paramedics during the basketball game. Another bulldog character appeared in other cartoons with Sylvester and Tweety , but this character is not Spike; he is officially known as Hector the Bulldog . Several Tom and Jerry cartoons produced by MGM also featured a character named Spike the Bulldog (and his son, Tyke), Coincidentally, WB now owns the Tom & Jerry cartoons as well (through Turner Entertainment). This is another character, unrelated to the Spike used by Freleng. Also, several Tex Avery-directed cartoons produced by MGM also featured a different-versioned character named Spike the Bulldog, which also appeared in the Droopy series of cartoons. Again it is also unrelated to the Spike used by Freleng, too. Swenson Main article: Tasmanian She-Devil The Hep Cat This unnamed feline is a black-and-white cat who looks prototypical to Sylvester The Cat. He first appeared in black-and-white in the 1941 Porky Pig short Notes to You , directed by Friz Freleng. He appeared for the first time in color in Double Chaser (1942). He would later reappear in shorts such as The Hep Cat (1942); the first color Looney Tunes short, The Fifth-Column Mouse (1943) as a Hitler -like antagonistic cat, and lastly in Birdy and the Beast (1944), as Tweety's antagonist. After Birdy And The Beast, the character is eventually discarded and then redeveloped as the official feline character Sylvester. The cat appeared in a total of 5 shorts; three directed by Friz Freleng, and two directed by Bob Clampett. The Three Bears The Three Bears are a family that consists of Papa Bear (sometimes called Henry), Mama Bear, and Junior Bear (sometimes spelled Junyer or Joonyer). Animator Chuck Jones introduced the trio in the 1944 cartoon Bugs Bunny and the Three Bears . In the short, Papa Bear tries to feed his starving family by having them act out their roles in the traditional fairy tale from which they derive their name. Unfortunately for them, when they were out of porridge, Mama substitutes carrot soup for it, and the "Goldilocks" they lure turns out to be none other than Bugs Bunny . For the bulk of the series, Voice actors Billy Bletcher , Bea Benaderet , and Stan Freberg played Papa, Mama, and Junior, respectively. However, in the initial entry Mel Blanc played Papa, and Kent Rogers played Junior (Freberg assuming the role after Rogers's death in World War II ). After the classic shorts, Will Ryan and Joe Alaskey play Henry and Mama while Junior is still voiced by Stan Freberg. Jones' bears as introduced in the short are perhaps the first film satire of the American nuclear family and how its traditional roles were coming under increasing scrutiny in the 1940s. Papa is a loud-mouthed, short tempered and often abusive shrimp, while Junior is an oversized, muscular, buffoon. The two are constantly at each other (usually Junior at Papa's wrath), leaving Mama Bear as the innocent (and deadpan) middle-bear, although she often resorts to thwacking one of them with a rolled-up newspaper to keep the peace. As Jones himself was never shy to point out, this cartoon and others in the series anticipate the failings and foibles that would later make the sitcom All in the Family such a success. Jones brought back the Bears for his 1948 cartoon What's Brewin', Bruin? , this time sans Bugs. Here, alpha-male Papa Bear decides, after losing a card game, that it's time for the Bears to hibernate . Like any good family should, Mama Bear and Junior Bear obey, but Mama's snoring and Junior's creaky cradle keep Papa from getting the sleep he himself advocated. Junior's voice is here supplied by Stan Freberg , who would retain the role for all future Three Bears cartoons, including The Bee-Deviled Bruin and Bear Feat , released on Looney Tunes Assorted Nuts , both in 1949. Mama Bear made a cameo appearance in the 1950 Daffy Duck short The Scarlet Pumpernickel . 1951's A Bear for Punishment , the last film in the series, is often considered the funniest, and it is perhaps the most satirical. This time, it's Father's Day , and Mama and Junior's well-intended gifts do nothing but dishonor the perturbed Papa. Jones later stated that many of the scenarios in the short were derived from his own experiences. Jones retired the Three Bears in 1951. The influence of the series would linger, however, as other studios copied or altered the idea. Aside from Norman Lear 's aforementioned All in the Family, Famous Studios repeated Jones family scenario in their Baby Huey series of cartoons. The Bears' cartoons most significant impact was perhaps on Jones himself, as these films (along with the Hubie and Bertie and Charlie Dog shorts) represent some of Jones's earliest work. Mama Bear of the Three Bears can be briefly spotted in a brief headshot during the final scene of the 1988 film Who Framed Roger Rabbit . In the early 1990s, the Three Bears were brought back and featured several times in the TV series Tiny Toon Adventures . Most famously, they appeared in an updated "90's version" of the classic Three Bears fairy tale (with Elmyra playing the part of Goldilocks), which parodied suburbia and the mass commercialism prevalent in American society. In the episode, "Prom-ise Her Anything", Mama Bear is seen as a lunch lady . Papa Bear also appeared as the vendor in "Garage Sale of the Century" in Animaniacs . In Looney Tunes: Back In Action , the Bears are tourists in Paris . They run into DJ Drake ( Brendan Fraser ), whose trousers have rocketed off into the air leaving him in his underwear. DJ steals Papa Bear's trousers so he can save Jenna Elfman 's character from a villain. Tina Russo Tina Russo is a female duck that appears in the 2011 Cartoon Network series The Looney Tunes Show . She is Daffy Duck's girlfriend. She made her debut appearance in season one, volume three, episode twelve of the series in "Double Date." Daffy "wins" a romantic dinner for two and asks Tina, who is working at the Copy Place. Surprisingly, the two find that they are perfect for each other and have a lot in common. Tina has appeared in many episodes since then, in "Bugs and Daffy Get a Job," on a date with Daffy, "That's My Baby," taking care of her sister's kid, "Beauty School," becoming a hairdresser, "The Shelf," giving Porky a pep talk and helping Bugs with remodeling advice, and "Muh-Muh-Muh-Murder," at Daffy's surprise party. In "Daffy Duck Esquire," Bugs and Daffy meet Tina's father Frank as Daffy passes himself off as a lawyer to impress him. Tom Turk Tom Turk is a turkey who appears and co-stars with Daffy in the animated shorts Tom Turk and Daffy (1944) and Holiday For Drumsticks (1949). In "Tom Turk and Daffy," Tom Turk starts as a target for a thanksgiving dinner and by the end it is Daffy who is doomed to be the dinner, but manages to cliff hang that possible fate. Tommy Turtle Tommy Turtle is character from the Merrie Melodies series of animated shorts. He was a member of the class in I Haven't Got A Hat and a referee in Alpine Antics . Tweety Main article: Tweety Tweety's Owner Tweety had several different owners in the cartoons before ending up with Granny. They mostly were designed to be kept around to beat up Sylvester as punishment for attempting to eat Tweety. She appeared in  Tweetie Pie  and  All a Bir-r-r-d . Tweety's Master Tweety's Master is a giant that owned Tweety , and an enemy of Sylvester . His only appearance to date was in  Tweety and the Beanstalk .
Acme
What former first lady, following a family intervention for her alcohol consumption problem, founded an addiction clinic in Rancho Mirage, Ca in 1982?
R R Ruthless People (1986) (***, comedy) Rabid (1977) (**, sci fi, horror, vampire) (5-20-02) (D.-David Cronenberg; Marilyn Chambers, Frank Moore, Joe Silver, Patricia Gage, Susan Roman) Motorcycling Chambers has an accident outside an institute and is operated on there—bad choice, you never know what they are doing at those institutes. A minor side effect of the surgery is that she develops a serious craving for human blood. The way she gets it is unique for a vampire, but it does have strong sexual overtones. What is worse is that she is contagious and starts a plague. This is goremeister Cronenberg’s second full length film and he took a break from his more extreme styles here. It is also one of porn star Chambers’ attempts to break into serious films. She shows skin here and as much acting talent as many other young starlets, but she just never made it. O ther vampire films . Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) (****+ Adventure) (D-Steven Spielberg, Harrison Ford, Karen Allen , Paul Freeman, John Rhys-Davies) Academy Award Winners n Art Direction-Set Direction, Film Editing, Sound, Special Visual Effects, Cinematography, Special Achievement Award. Spielberg and Lucas, who conceived this, are both enamored with the Saturday Matinee Cliff Hanger. For those who lacked this "one of lives greatest pleasures", these were short adventure films that preceded the Saturday movie along with the news (yes, the Weekly News used to be shown at the movies). The hero or heroine were always left at the end of each sequences in the most dastardly dangerous predicament and generally with absolutely no way out. Thus, leaving the hapless child fretting over their fate for a whole week. The first few minutes of the next week were devoted to extricating them--sometimes by outright dishonesty (what happened the last week was sometimes completely changed to get them out of a truly impossible dilemma). You can bet these babies guaranteed that we were first in line the next weekend, regardless of what the movie was. Even a kissy, kissy romance didn't stop us. Spielberg and Lucas have raised The Cliff Hanger to fine art and succeeded in making movies where one cliff hanger after another raises the adrenaline to cardiac arresting levels. Raiders is arguably one of the finest adventure movies ever made. Every action, every word , every fold in the clothes is crafted into a seamless whole. The actors and actress are perfect. And the movie came in under budget and early!! Just prior to W.W.II, archaeologist, patriot, and adventurer Ford is sent after THE Ark of the Covenant, which the Nazi also seek. The Ark is a weapon of such power that no army that ever carried it into battle has lost. Thus, begins an epic struggle of good and evil with superb actions, special effects, humor, and dialog. For sheer adrenaline rush, for example, the truck chase is one of the best ever put on film (See, however, THE BEST in Road Warrior). Check out Raiders. While your nervous system will be a long time in forgiving you, you won't regret it. If you saw it years ago, I guarantee that you will find much new and refreshing in it. The drinking contest between Karen Allen and a local in Tibet and the subsequent fight and destruction of the bar are some of the most perfectly constructed and gorgeously choreographed ever put on film--these alone would be worth the price of admission. An amusing anecdote accompanies Ford's delightful sword fight with the huge Arab warrior. Ford was suffering from dysentery and the fight required consider acrobatic effort. When it came time for the fight, Ford thought "There has to be a better way." The rest is history, as they say. Beginning Raising Arizona (1987) (****; humor) (D.- Joel Coen, Produced by Ethan Coen; Nicolas Cage, Holly Hunter, Trey Wilson, John Goodman, William Forsythe, Sam McMurray) The Cohen brothers' (Blood Simple) delightful little off beat piece of black humor. The more times I watch it, the funnier it gets. The convenience store robbery is as funny as any piece of slap stick ever put on film. Sonnenfeld's surrealistic wide angle and low angle views of this insanity make it work. You will never forget your perspective on the kid and his gun. An inept convenience store knock off artist Hi (Cage) and his police officer Ed (Hunter) fall in love, marry, and she quits working. Unfortunately, no children but, with a little imaginative criminal activity, there is a solution. The plot is complicated by two worthless and witless ex-cons (fabulously played by Goodman and Forsythe) who escape and impose themselves on the hapless couple. A contract for a hit is taken up by the Lone Biker of the Apocalypse who makes Dracula look like a nice guy. Does this sound totally off the wall? Well, it is. The premise and the previews were so outrageous when we first saw them that we felt no movie could possibly fall lower, but then favorable reviews started coming out and we chanced it. Off beat, unsettling, bizarre, and outrageous. But very funny. Nicholas Cage is the riotous, absolutely dead pan narrator of travails that would try Job. Hunter is superb in a comedic straight man's role. Wilson is delightful as Nathan Arizona, Sr. head of a furniture store who would make your worst used car salesman huckster look good. And the Lone Biker--well, sweet dreams. The only place I found weak was the ending dream. However, given how certain items had to be tied up, I cannot think of an alternative that would be better. Be warned, there tend to be two classes of people: those that love Arizona and those who don't have the foggiest idea where the humor is. Sort of like Dog and Cat People or Mac and PC lovers. Ebert, for example, doesn't seem to get one laugh out of it and analyzes it to death. (revised 8-8-95) Trivia Question: What was the name of the company that Cage worked for? You can pick it up from the logo on their uniforms. (8-8-95) Beginning Raging Bull (1980) (****+, docudrama) (D.-Martin Scorsese; Robert De Niro, Cathy Moriarty, Joe Pesci, Frank Vincent, Nicholas Colasanto, Theresa Saldana) A cinematic black and white tour de force that will leave you limp. From the opening scene you know you are in for the ride of a lifetime. A lone boxer, clad in leopard robe, is warming up. Alone, totally isolated, surrounded by darkness--a metaphor for the man’s life. Only the arena isn’t empty as we slowly realize. Raging is the true story of the rise and fall of the middle weight fighter Jake LaMotta. The story of a vain, insecure man who brings about the destruction of everything that he wanted. This is a low, grubby story, but it is told with superb acting (Academy Award for De Niro), awesome cinematography, world class editing by Thelma Schoonmaker (Academy Award) and Scorsese, a superb script by Paul Schrader and Mardik Martin, and an integration of sound and visual imagery that is breathtaking. Raging was rated the best film of the 1980s, and clearly is on a relatively short list of the best films ever made. The story is simple. Jake (De Niro), a promising prize fighter, and his manager brother, Joe (Pesci), make some deals with the mob along the way to get to the top. LaMotta marries Vicky (Moriarty). His low intellect, his jealousy and his unbridled appetites ultimately cost him everything. Even at the end he is unable to understand his part in his fall and continues to blame everyone else. De Niro is Jake. He trained as a fighter for two years. Knowledgeable boxers said that if he had been a professional, he would have been in the top 20 in the country. His prowess and single mindedness were demonstrated in one scene in the gym where Jake is sparring with his brother (Pesci), who has on protective body gear. As the scene moves to others in the gym, we hear a yelp from Pesci. Even with the body armor, De Niro has in reality broken one of Pesci’s ribs. Also, in LaMotta’s waning years, he put on a lot of weight. De Niro didn’t feel this could be done properly with padding, so he gained 40 pounds. However, Pesci lost weight for his appearance in later life. Pesci had had a disastrous film career and was retiring when Scorches saw him on a late night TV show. He was so impressed that he called Pesci up and offered him the role--the rest, as they say, is history. De Niro and Pesci are both very improvisational actors who worked flawlessly off of each other. Much of the interplay and dialogue that you see was not in the script, but flowed from their interactions. Moriarty wasn’t even an actress. Pesci had seen her in a beauty contest and told Scorsese that she would be perfect. The face of an angel and the accent of a longshoreman. Unlike the others she was young and inexperienced, but nevertheless gave a very credible performance. However, there was one scene where they felt she wasn’t up to it. De Niro was to slap her. Scorsese and De Niro felt that her reaction would not be satisfactory if she knew it was coming. So, after much soul searching De Niro agreed to slap her in the scene without warning. What you see in the film is her authentic reaction. One of the most recurrent images and sounds that is literally seared into your brain is the flash of the ever present press cameras. The press camera flash bulbs used in the making of the film cost $50,000. The accompanying sound was from master sound man Frank Warner. Unlike many sound people, Warner does not keep libraries of his sounds; after each film, he burns all his tapes. He claimed that he does not wish to repeat himself, but wants every effort to be completely new. Another place where sound is used extraordinarily effectively is in the background. I’m not sure whether you respond to these at a subliminal level or not, but once you recognize their existence, they add a completely new dimension. Animal sounds are frequently mixed in. The roar of the blood thirsty crowd clearly includes savage animals. In one scene De Niro is beating his brother as the wives and children struggle to pull him off and the background noise clearly includes screeching monkeys in a monkey house. Scorsese loves to use real people rather than actors where ever possible. In the masterful tracking shot from the dressing room to the rink, the ringmaster announcing LaMotta is a real fight announcer. Unfortunately, he also suffered from film fright and froze up whenever they shot the scene. This is an incredibly complex scene and could not be shot very many times. Finally, the editor, Shoonmaker, told Scorsese that the viewer's attention would be riveted on other parts of the scene, and they would never notice that he wasn't actually making the announcement. She was right. When you watch the scene closely, you will see the announcer with his microphone dangling limply in his hand as the announcement is being made. Also, that is Jake's actual handler putting Vaseline on De Niro's lips. You may also recognize the shot where Sugar Ray is about to finish LaMotta. It appears to use the same vertigo technique developed by Hitchcock in Vertigo. The fight sequences are stunning. Brutal. Surrealistic. Realistic. Totally overwhelming your conscience. Scorsese had never seen a fight until De Niro forced him to go to one. The blood on the rope was taken from this experience. In out takes from the scene where De Niro is cursing the neighbor to shut his dog up, there was a sound man outside the window. Every time De Niro leaned out the window, the sound man would make a joke that would crack De Niro up. This happened several times including one where De Niro hangs out the window shaking (laughing as we know), trying to contain it to continue the scene, finally gives up, stands up, throws up his hands and bursts out laughing. De Niro's love and experience with children is clearly shown in the film and out takes where he is at the dinner table with a toddler on his lap. As the scene progresses, he is also continually working the child and the silverware on the table to keep the baby from hurting himself, getting into trouble, or becoming fretful and ruining the scene. This is not something you just pick up. It requires lots of experience and a genuine pleasure in dealing with children. To get the dazed, unsteady appearance, De Niro would turn in circles until he was dizzy. He would also move around with his trainer on his shoulders until his legs were actually unsteady. The final beating was filmed with 90,000 feet of film before editing. The fist striking De Niro is actually just an empty glove. Review based on Roger Ebert's frame by frame analysis at the 1996 Virginia Film Festival. In addition, he had guest Thelma Schoonmaker who edited the film and showed delightful out takes. (1-26-98) Beginning Rainmaker, The (1997) (***1/2, drama) (D.-Francis Ford Coppola; Matt Damon, Danny DeVito, Jon Voight, Jon Voight, Mary Kay Place, Mickey Rourke, Danny Glover) Slick, well acted, and very enjoyable film based on John Grisham's best selling novel. This long labyrinthic novel is stripped down, streamlined, and shoehorned into a little over two hours. Yet Coppola (director and writer) has done the job so skillfully that the essence of the book is preserved and only occasionally is one aware of missing pieces. A young, broke Rudy Baylor (Damon) just out of law school finds that the only way to eat is to work for an ambulance chasing law firm. The boss "Bruiser" Stone (Rourke) cuts a mephistophelean deal. It may not be pretty, but if you pull out all the stops you can make a pretty good living. Deck Shifflet (DeVito) is very able and who, while he hasn't passed the bar exam in six tries, has a keen sense of human nature, how to find the dirt, and how to find suitable legal precedents. These two underdogs are presented with a young man dying of leukemia and an insurance company that was more than willing to take money from a lower-class family until it is time to pay out. The company's lawyer is oily, high priced Leo Drummond (Voight) who will happily teach the unpolished neophyte a little humility on the altar of experience. All of this leads us into a confrontation of youthful idealism against a SYSTEM. As a romantic side plot we have an abused young woman (Danes). Throw in an eccentric landlady Miss Birdie (Wright), who insures that Rudy stays in good physical shape. The final key player is the judge (Glover) who is a liberal, but he won't bend the law to accommodate his sympathy for the case. We've seen it all before, but Rainmaker is pitched as entertainment. Under these conditions, you judge success by style, nuance and your enjoyment level. At this level I thought Rainmaker succeeds admirably. I rooted for these underdogs; I enjoyed the machinations, the characters, and the interpersonal interactions. Of course, there are flaws. Even a fresh law student wouldn't be blindsided by some of Voight's traps or as appallingly na�ve in courtroom etiquette as Damon frequently was. (11-17-97) Beginning Rampage (1992) (**1/2, drama) (D.-William Friedkin, Michael Biehn, Alex McArthur, Nicholas Campbell, Deborah Van Valkenburgh, John Harkins, Art La Fleur, Billy Greenbush, Royce D. Applegate, Grace Zabriskie, Carlos Palomino, Andy Romano) Linear, almost matter of fact documentary portrayal of a serial killer and, especially, the aftermath and trial. Prosecutor Biehn is driven to prove McArthur legally sane for crimes that only a madman could commit. Terse, brutal, believable, provocative. The violence is not graphic, but this is one disturbing movie. Definitely not for all tastes. Rampage does not give simple answers to profound questions, but does provide a good jumping off point for heated visceral-intellectual discussions afterwards. McArthur is frighteningly, believably detached. He is like a run-away truck. No amount of defensive planning and structuring of your life can stop him from flattening you as he jumps the curb and plows down the side walk. (5-9-94) Beginning Ran (1985) (****, drama, war) (12-7-98) (D.-Akira Kurosawa; Tatsuya Nakadai, Akira Terao, Jinpachi Nezu, Daisuke Ryu, Mieko Harada, Peter Hisashi Igawa) Ran is a King Lear and Mac Beth rolled into one and set in feudal Japan. This is a TRAGEDY in the Greek sense with simple, direct dialogue that does not suffer by being subtitled-- after the first minute or two you forget subtitles. Breath-takingly photographed with classic Kurosawa touches such as battle scenes and pageantry that can only be seen to be believed. Incidentally, Kurosawa was 76 (yes, 76) when he completed Ran, the very best of his movies that I have seen. (reviewed 1992) Beginning Rapture , The (1991) (***1/2, drama) (D.-Michael Tolkin, Mimi Rogers, Kimberly Cullum) A bored, alienated telephone operator fills her life with sex and drugs until she finds salvation in God through a group that preaches the impending second coming and the apocalypse. Taut, brutal, and completely unpredictable. Very disturbing, unbalancing, and as timely as the Texas Branch Davidian standoff. The Rapture, like a brick in the face, will not be enjoyed, but it will not be soon forgotten either. Well done and acted, provocative, and likely to generate vigorous arguments. Warning: There are at least two radically different interpretations of what transpires. Those with strongly held religious beliefs may find either one painful and offensive. (3-9-93) Beginning Rashomon (1951) (****, drama) (12-7-98) (D.-Akira Kurosawa, Toshiro Mifune, Machiko Kyo, Takashi Shimura) Kurosawa's classic movie on truth, reality, and human nature. For this review, I define reality as what actually happened and truth as an accurate retelling from the speaker's view point. While Kurosawa's phenomenal cinematic talent was not yet at its peak, the story more than makes up for any shortcomings. Three men in feudal Japan weather a storm in an abandoned Rashomon temple. The story unfolds as two relate the tale of a rape/murder to the third. The story is told in flashbacks through the eyes of the participants. Unfortunately, there seems to be little relationship between the retellings. Rashomon is more about why what is said than about what is said. The fascination comes from trying to reconstruct reality from the eye witness accounts. As it turns out, just as in any human dealing, there are many truths. However, even with multiple truths, you will be hard pressed to arrive at even one satisfactory reality; you can develop convincing reasons for every story to be flawed. Even as simple a question as the murder weapon remains cloaked in the conflicting stories. See this movie with friends. As with my family, you will then spend more time discussing afterwards what actually happened than you spent watching it. A final, intriguing question is to reconstruct the stories that the three temple participants will tell of what transpired during the storm. Rest assured, they will little resemble each other. The movie is subtitled, but the script, actions, and emotions are so direct that you will quickly forget the subtitles. (11-30-92) (8-5-96) Beginning Rat Race (2001) (**, comedy) (9-3-01)(D.- Jerry Zucker; Breckin Meyer, Amy Smart, Whoopi Goldberg, Lanei Chapman, Vince Vieluf, Seth Green, Cuba Gooding Jr., Jon Lovitz, Rowan Atkinson, John Cleese) Rowan Atkinson, John Cleese) First let me say that humor is highly individualized and many people like Rat Race. I am a fan of slapstick and low humor. Nevertheless, I didn’t think much of Race. Never confuse motion with action. Race has plenty of motion, but very little action. Although it does manage a few delightful laughs scattered throughout. Race is basically a remake of Its a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. Six groups are selected by an eccentric Las Vegas casino owner, Donald Sinclair (Cleese), with a 2 million dollar prize offered to the first to get to a train locker in Silver City, New Mexico. Greed has never made people prudent, ethical, or even honest, and the race is on. The contestants include narcoleptic Mr. Pollini (Atkinson or Mr. Bean), husband Randy Pear (Lovitz), a much hated (especially in Vegas) NFL referee (Cuba Gooding Jr), a straight arrow lawyer (Meyer), a just reunited mother/daughter (Goldberg, Chapman), and a pair of dopey brothers (Green, Vieluf) with Vieluf being all but unintelligible for a very modern reason. What they don’t know is that Sinclair is not as altruistic as he sounds, which leads to one of the most entertaining subplots in the film. The machinations and travails form the film as others are added to and deleted from this motley crew. The pace is furious and, in my opinion, most jokes miss their mark. The exceptions are the Sinclair skullduggery, the radar, and the squirrels. It is too bad that the previews gave much of the squirrel skit away—I hate it when they do that! It was apparently filmed in Calgary. If it was all done there, I was impressed by the sand dunes and what looked like salt flats. In summary if you are in the right mood and want a few laughs, a night at the Jefferson wouldn’t be a total waste. Beginning Rats, The (2002) (**, horror) (2-17-03) (D.-John Lafia; M�dchen Amick, Vincent Spano, Shawn Michael Howard, Daveigh Chase, Sheila McCarthy) Made for Fox TV. MacBeth you expected? It was a snowy evening. Rats was just the trash drive-in film to curl up with. It didn’t disappoint. It has all the things you would expect. An attractive woman and a quirky good looking rat catcher with a grudging respect for his adversary. A menace. A city with an upcoming convention that doesn’t want anything made public that might alarm people. The menace is bright, genetically engineered rats carrying Wheels Disease (whatever that is, it isn’t good). The film has a nice edgy opening. The FX of mountains of rats aren’t bad. A few nifty surrealistic scenes such as the use of the black light. Respectable acting. The hordes of real rats are quit well done. In short, a mindless throw away where you can kibitz about what they are doing wrong and try to predict the next move. However, far and away the best part of the film was the “making of”, which was both educational and entertaining. The man who supplied the rats, Brian Gibbs, has enormous respect for the little rodents and their abilities. As he said when they called him up and asked him if he would do the film, he leaped at the chance. “I have been dying to do a movie like this.” We get lots of opportunities to see how they handled the rats and got them to do what was wanted. As the little girl said “They are cool.” Amick commented they were adorable. The director and handler do a nice job of making a hundred or so rats look like an army. While I didn’t see a notice about no animals being hurt, there is no doubt from the fondness with which they were treawted, no one would have dared hurt one of the rodents. Review based on DVD at Beyond Video. Beginning Raven, The (1963) (**, comedy, horror) (D.-Roger Corman; Vincent Price, Boris Karloff, Peter Lorre, Hazel Court, Jack Nicholson, Olive Sturgess) Amusing tongue in check, satirical take off of early horror films by shlock meister Corman. Price is a magician turned recluse after the death of his beloved Lenore. Enter boozing Lorre who has been turned into a raven by evil sorcerer Karloff. Throw in Price's nubile young daughter and Lorre's son--Nicholson is so young as to be absolutely unrecognizable, and a power struggle between too major magicians and you have it. Lorre is a trip as the self-serving raven/magician. Price is suitably gullible. Karloff exudes evil charm. Nicolson actually appears to be in some of his own stunts--Corman would not have had enough money for a stunt double that looked like Nicholson. The climactic confrontation isn't bad given the budget and state of FX then. Amusing, but likely to be of greatest intest to Lorre, Karloff, Price and early horror fans. Beginning Razorback (1984) (**, horror) (D.-Russell Mulcahy; Gregory Harrison, Bill Kerr, Chris Heywood, Arkie Whiteley) An awful B level premise: a giant man eating boar. Although not all the animals are four legged. When a man's wife disappears in the Australian outback, he searches for her, but some questions are better left unanswered. Nevertheless, cunning direction and amazing set ups bring you some truly disturbing visual images. In particular, if you get a chance, at least watch the first five minutes. You will never again look at a wind mill in the same way; although in retrospect the lighting is physically impossible. The night hunt scene and the slaughter house are also very disturbing, athough the slaughter house is too polished and perfectly seedy to be real. (11-9-92) Beginning Reality Bites (1994) (***, comedy) (D.-Ben Stiller, Cast: Winona Ryder, Ethan Hawkes, Ben Stiller) The Graduate of the nineties post-college generation X. Valedictorian Helena (Ryder) sums it up in her graduation speech. After describing in glowing detail how her parent's generation have screwed everything up, she says: "The answer is simple. The answer is... The anwer is... " Long pause as she shuffles through a stack of note cards. "I don't know!" She and her friends try to survive post-college trauma. The personalities range from hedonistic anarchism to "I just want to carve out a small piece of the world and make a go of it." How they cope, mope, bum, bum off of each other, and manage to stay afloat is the primary thrust of Reality. Everyone of them picks up some scars; reality in the real world does bite. Hawke has been fired from 12 jobs, and is proud of every firing. Hawke and Yuppie (Stiller) both end up vying for Ryder's affection in their own characteristic ways. To the extent that there is a plot, this triangle is it. Many generation Xers are furious about Bites, claiming it in no way, shape, or form represents their generation. Others revel in it as being the defining film of their generation. I recognize every one of the types portrayed in SOME of my current students; it is real. Also, every single one of the characters and virtually every one of the situations (except AIDS, but we had Vietnam and nuclear holocausts) affected my generation. While Bites is a cross section of generation X, it is also a cross section of my generation. I am sure that, in a somewhat modified form, it is a cross section of my parent's generation. Human nature doesn't really change that much; the ancient Greeks complained about their loud, rude, disrespectful children in a way that Helena's father can more than relate to. Bite has a lot of cute scenes, charming actors and actresses, and an appropriate hard pounding rock score. It doesn't make much of a point, but then I don't think it intended to. It just wanted to be a slice of life of people in transition to adulthood (or what passes for adulthood in our society). How does Bite stack up to The Graduate? In my opinion, Graduate is a much better film. It is better acted, a lot funnier, and with a more coherent plot. However, this is Stiller's directoral debut. Does Graduate say any more about human nature and rites of passage? Not really. Both choose a microcosm of recognizable types and problems, and both remind us of our basic common humanity. The story is by Helen Childress. It appears she may play a waitress in the film. (8-8-94) Beginning Real Life (1979) (***, satire, comedy) (12-31-04) (D.-Albert Brooks; W.-Albert Brooks, Monica Mcgowan Johnson; Dick Haynes, Albert Brooks, Matthew Tobin, Albert Brooks, J.A. Preston, Joseph Schaffler, Phyllis Quinn, James Ritz, Clifford Einstein, Harry Einstein, Mandy Einstein. Karen Einstein, James L. Brooks, Zeke Manners, Charles Grodin, Frances Lee McCain)  If you want to see a much better piece of social satire than Stepford Wives, check this one out. Long before reality TV, Brooks insightfully savaged our voyeuristic lust for seeing others lives, and for interfering with them when they didn’t live up to our expectations of drama and excitement. The goal of the study is to record a real family living out real life and converting it into a riveting movie. The monitoring is supposed to be non-intrusive; the mechanism is a hoot. Unfortunately, everyone including the psychologists, has conflicting agendas, and it is rarely to just watch the dynamics of a normal family. Even, or perhaps especially, the creator of this experiment Brooks (Brooks) cannot stop himself from meddling and becoming emotionally involved in the experiment. We get to watch its creation, implementation, and ultimate self destruction. The humor ranges from droll to slapstick. It doesn’t always connect. But given when this was made, Brooks was amazingly insightful about the direction and degradation of modern TV. Rear View Mirrors--Things to look for: Innumerable errors can creep into even the most carefully checked movies. One frequent, easily detectable glitch is the rear view mirror problem. This is not an error, but a deliberate film-making trick. If you look closely, you discover that in many scenes shot through car or truck windshields, there is no rear view mirror on the windshield, although the attachment point may be noticeable. This ruse prevents the mirror from obscuring the actors. The In-Law has an entertaining example. Peter Falk and Alan Arkin are being pursued in a car. To shake the pursuers, they repeatedly race around a section of divided highway, jumping the media to change direction. However, the rear view mirror miraculously disappears and reappears on each jump and straight away shot! (4-26-93) Beginning Rear Window (1954) (****, crime, thriller) (D.- Alfred Hitchcock; James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Wendell Corey, Thelma Ritter, Raymond Burr, Judith Evelyn) In an industry where suspense is now so often dictated by more gasoline, dynamite, and fake blood, Rear Window is a superb treat. It is, essentially, a perfectly crafted thriller where I hung on every nuance from the opening seconds to the end. Stewart is an action photographer confined to a wheel chair while his broken leg heals (a little too close, a little too slow on the race track during the crash--but what a shot). He lives in an apartment overlooking a big city court yard. In the oppressive summer heat, everyone leaves their windows open. His high fashion model girl friend (Kelly) and he are on the verge of a split up over their incompatible life styles. With the exceptions of his high spirited nosy nurse (Ritter), Stewart's sole daily activity is getting to know his neighbors vicariously. This tranquil, if not idyllic existence, is shattered when he thinks he discovers a murder and goes about trying to prove it on the basis of all but nonexistent evidence. At what point does Stewart's neighborly curiosity cross the line into active Peeping Tomming? Stewart should have remembered the adage about curiosity and the cat. Since many of you have probably not seen the film, or not seen it recently, I'll refrain from letting any more "cats" out of the bag. Virtually everything works to perfection. The courtyard (a single set) is a microcosm of life. The characters, even though we can only see them at a distant and hear their muffled words are believable and immediate in their humanity. The plot ticks along with the precision of a Swiss watch and the predestination of a collision as two trains rush toward destruction on the same track at night. The only potential weak spot was Kelly's part where, with any other job, her immaculate coiffure and classy dress would have been out of place. However, her job allows Hitchcock to indulge his fantasies within the plot. Turn out the lights. Pop in the tape--or better yet the video disk, and watch suspense with style. (2-12-96) Beginning Red Corner (1998) (**1/2, drama) (1-11-99) (D.-Jon Avnet; Richard Gere, Bai Ling, Bradley Whitford, Byron Mann, Peter Donat, Robert Stanton) Gere is a strong supporter of the Dalai Lama and a staunch foe of Red China, so his strong bias permeates the film. I do not know how accurate his portrayal of their legal system is. This review is based solely on the story itself. Jack Moore is in China to clinch a big deal. A young woman he picked up turns up dead in his bed, and the evidence is pretty compelling as to his guilt, although he remembers nothing about the killing. This throws him into an Orwellian legal system that would make Kafka's The Trial look positively fair. Yeulin (Bai Linga) is his court appointed lawyer who suggests plausibly that he plead guilty and throw himself on the mercy of the court--it might save his life, since contrition is a good way to absolve yourself. The first half of the film I think does a very good job of fueling our paranoia as Jack discovers, through trial and error, the nature of the legal machine into whose blades he has been thrown. Unfortunately, the last half of the film is totally implausible and muddled, and loses the fine mood established in the first half. So you might quit after he gets to the American embassy. On the subject of the American embassy, Jack's treatment at the hands of the American embassy is apparently pretty accurate. Contrary to the viewpoint of the public, these embassies are there to further our relations with the host country, not necessarily to look out for our citizens. When these two areas conflict, our citizens frequently end up on the short end of the stick. Beginning Red Dragon (Prerelease comments) (9-30-02) With the release of Red Dragon this Friday, I thought it appropriate to dust off my review of the original Manhunter and update it with information on the DVD. Why does Hollywood insist on remaking excellent movies? Stupid question! Money. Manhunter was based on the riveting Harris novel Red Dragon. Michael Mann made this into a perfect thriller Manhunter, one of the most mesmerizing nail biting films to come out of Hollywood in years. Harris later wrote Silence of the Lambs, an interesting novel that was distinctly second rate compared to the original, but it did give him an opportunity to further explore Hannibal Lector, a character that Harris clearly found fascinating.  This was then made into the Academy award winning film of the same name starring Jody Foster and Anthony Hopkins. While the chemistry between Foster and Hopkins is stellar, I never felt that Silence rose to the same level as Manhunter. The film went too much for the shock and gore value. Manhunter with the exception of a brief bit of violence in the middle and the climax was purely at a psychological level. What has been rarely mentioned over the years is that Brian Cox played the original Lector and, while is role was much smaller, it established one of the most chilling screen characters in years. In my opinion it is every bit as good as Hopkins’ performance. Judging from the trailer, Red Dragon will fill in some of the background from the novel before it resumes in the present. The novel is very convoluted and Manhunter had to make some concessions to shorten it, so there may be some differences in story line. In addition, it appears that they may have gone with the original whole body art tattoo that Mann filmed and then rejected in Manhunter. Incidentally, in the new film they apparently had to extensively use computer graphics editing to reduce the age of Hopkins for the much younger Lector. In summary, while I want to see what they do with the new film, I find it difficult to believe that Hollywood will improve on it. My recommendation is go see the original (at Sneak Reviews) before you see the remake. Red Planet (2000) (***, 50s sci fi, space opera) (3-12-01) (D.- Antony Hoffman; Val Kilmer, Carrie-Anne Moss, Tom Sizemore, Benjamin Bratt, Terence Stamp) Check your credibility at the door and you are in for a satisfying white knuckle sci fi film. Pick the total illogic and the scientific fallacies apart over dinner later. The year is 2025. Our world, polluted beyond redemption, is dying and taking down the responsible party with it. Our sole hope is to terraform Mars. Launches of algae have been going well and Mars is showing lots of green and, therefore, oxygen production. Suddenly something goes wrong, the algae disappears, and a mission captained by Bowman (Moss) is sent up to try to salvage the situation. Suffice it to say, starting with a meteor shower, if anything can go wrong, it will go wrong. Four men are left stranded on Mars with limited oxygen and a steadily dwindling set of options. The tension builds well. Their behavior is realistic. The end is pretty standard, but the getting there is fun. The effects are adequate. And, oh, that Martian landscape! The moon would almost look hospitable by comparison. Judging from the credits much of it was shot in Australia. I’ve added that to my list of places to visit. Red Planet is showing at least until Thursday this week at the Jefferson and is definitely a BIG screen movie. So if you like 50s style sci fi, do give it a look. Review based on the DVD. Beginning Red Rock West (1993) (**1/2, crime drama) (D.-John Dahl; Nicolas Cage, Dennis Hopper, Lara Flynn Boyle, Timothy Carthart, J. T. Walsh, Dan Shor) Entertaining and unpredictable film noir thriller. Lots of twists and turns. Cage is an out-of-work driller who wanders into a bar, is mistaken for someone else, and is offered a "job". He accepts the job sight unseen, only to find that it is a lot more than he bargained for, especially when the the real hiree, Hopper, shows upand, to say it mildly, Hopper is put out. To give any more away would be unfair. Cage is suitably unsettled and resourceful, and Hopper is his delightfully unhinged self. I thought the first half held together very well with a lot of fine black humor. The second half got a bit too heavy and predictable and never rose to the fine tone of the first part. Nevertheless, an entertaining evening for film noir buffs. (2-21-95) Beginning Red Tent, The (1971) (***, docudrama) (D.- Mikhail K. Kalatozov; Peter Finch, Sean Connery, Claudia Cardinale, Hardy Kruger, Massimo Girotti) Fascinating story of the 1928 attempt by an Italian expedition to reach the North Pole by dirigible. The story revolves around the crash, the attempts to get help, and the rescue. In particular, we are left with the moral dilemma of the captain who was apparently destroyed by his actions. However, whether his behavior was correct or not makes for fascinating post-game quarterbacking. Connery's performance as the arctic explorer, Amundson, is top flight as always. Amundson had lived by polar exploration and had beat the doomed Scott expedition to the South Pole by days. His story, thus, has its own ironic twist. As best we can tell the main story points are accurate including the red tent, but we have been unable to confirm the actual fate of the Italian captain. (4-10-95) Beginning Red Violin , The (1999) (****, historical costumer, drama)  (6-28-99)  (D.-Francois Girard; Carlo Cecchi, Irene Grazioli, Samuel L. Jackson, Sylvia Chang, Colm Feore, Don McKellar, Greta Scacchi, Jason Flemyng) Beautifully rendered multi-century tale of the activities surrounding a beautiful violin. The story begins in 1681 as Nicolo Bussotti (Cecchi) puts the finishing touches on his masterpiece, which will also prove to be his last violin and one of the most perfect acoustical machines in the world. A complicated set of flash forwards to the present where the violin is being auctioned off coupled with flashbacks reveals the twisted path the violin takes in arriving on the block. Five tales reveal the impact the violin had on those around it and of those around it on the violin. Each of the stories, though brief, reveals a great deal about the individuals involved and their basic humanity. The participants range from the young to the old, the virile to the infirm, the rich to the poor, the ethical to the unscrupulous, the zealot to the victim, and those deserving of the violin and those not. Most are complex and very human in their weaknesses and strengths. The stories sweep the globe from Italy, to Austria, to England, to China, and finally Canada. And all of this is set to the prophetic Tarot cards as a local woman spins the future to Bussotti's pregnant wife. As with all fortune tellers and prophets, little is as it seems and everything is as told. The story telling is fluid, mesmerizing. The transitions seamless yet jarring. The cinematography beautiful and appropriately ethereal or frenzied as required. And the sound track. Yes, the sound track. Haunting, rousing, beautiful orchestral pieces and violin solos. Don't miss this one in the theater where you will get the full visual and aural effect! Ultimately, the apparently disconnected threads do come together in the auction house, but not in the way that we might have expected. Every detail is significant. Finally, as many times during the story, we are left with moral ambiguity. Also, the violin has its own secret. The film is a gem for seeing with friends so that you can discuss it afterwards. At 126 minutes the film is long, but it didn't seem so. I have tried to refrain from giving away too many details since much of the pleasure is in the unraveling of the stories. So don't let anyone tell you more. Beginning Ref , The (1994) (***1/2, humor) (D.-Ted Demme, Kevin Spacey, Judy Davis, Denis Leary, Richard Bright, Robert J. Steinmiller, Jr Glynis Johns, Adam LeFevre, Christine Baranaski) Forget the misleading name. The Ref is not about sports, but has strong roots in O'Henry's The Ransom of Red Chief. A thief, Gus (Leary), in a bungled jewel robbery on Christmas eve in a small New England town takes the Chasseurs (Spacey, Davis) hostage. By the end of the movie Gus, masquerading as their shrink, is juggling the couple, their blackmailing juvenile son (Steinmiller), the husband's disfunctional brother and his wife (LeFevre, Branaski) and their family, and a wealthy male-crushing mother (Johns) who would reduce Attila the Hun to a quivering lump of fearful jello. In short, a family unit so disfunctional that the Borgia's would disown them. Throw in a drunken Santa Claus and an equally disfunctional get away driver (Bright), a guard dog named Cannibal who chews up billiard balls like dog candy, and jail begins to look like paradise. The Chasseurs are so intent on savaging each other that they only occassionally acknowledge their dangerous situation as hostages and, even then, it usually requires Gus to wave his gun in their faces. Unnecessarily profane and a bit strident at first, it does settle into a deliciously nasty rhythm where I eagerly anticipated the next round. One series of scenes in particular nearly killed me. The wife, the world's most deadly cook, serves a Christmas dinner with a fourth century Scandanavian motif. Everyone is wearing a Santa Lucia crown of lighted candles at the dinner table! As the savageries flow, the thief tries to keep the lid on, and everyone tries to figure out what they are eating and how they can avoid eating it, remember that all heads and pronouncements are crowned with these burning candles. Unlike many sight gags, this one takes a while to sink in. The longer it went on, the more ludicrous and the funnier it got. A satisfying, although not overly believable ending. Spacey and Davis never met before filming; they screen tested against other actors and actresses at different ends of the country. Nevertheless, their chemistry is outstanding. (3-27-94) Beginning Reference Material : I am sometimes asked where I get information on films. In addition to books, I use the following: Premiere Magazine is an invaluable source of information on actors, upcoming films, video releases, gossip, and techniques. One of my favorite features is their Classic Scene where they provide the setup for, and then one page of, dialogue in a critical scene. More than once we have used that to run out and view a film that we had not seen recently or had never seen. For those interested in F/X, the trade magazine Movie Magic is informative and frequently amusing. Also, as I wrap myself around a cup of coffee in the morning, the Today Show frequently interviews actors and this supplies a stream of tidbits. There are now several excellent online data bases and sources that provide information. My favorites are: http://www.cineville.com/ which provides up to date information on what is going on in Charlottesville including what is showing at what theaters. This is a good way to find out what is at the Jefferson Theater and their show times. http://www.mrqe.com/lookup? The Movie Review Query Engine, which has over 78000 reviews of over 13000 films. http://www.suntimes.com/ebert/ebert.html Roger Ebert's current and archived reviews back to 1985 plus essays and other commentary. While I frequently disagree with his reviews, I always find them insightful and entertaining. http://www.bmonster.com/ The URL says it all. Designed and written by Marty Baumann, this is an amusing and insightful overview of everything related to B monster movies. Available by e-mail subscription. http://us.imdb.com/search Probably the most valuable single source on films. The Internet Movie Database (IMDb) provides useful information on over 170,479 titles with over 2,462,516 entries and is expanding continuously. Just about everything you want to know about a film is available including filmographies for actors, directors, writers, composers, cinematographers, editors, production designers, costume designers, producers, plot summaries, character names, movie ratings, awards, etc. http://www.afionline.org/home.html The American Film Institute's Web Page. One of the leaders in conservation of American films. http://www.mrcranky.com/ Mr Cranky is the dark side of the movie review Force. He has never seen a movie that he didn't dislike. Ratings start at "One bomb" ("Almost tolerable"), drops to "Four Bombs" ("As good as a poke in the eye with a sharp stick") for real dogs, and in a family publication, I cannot print his description of the lowest rating, "Dynamite". Irreverent, tasteless, sophomoric, and frequently quite amusing. Available by e-mail subscription. (11-9-98) Beginning Relentless (1989) (*1/2, thriller, crime, drama) (D.- William Lustig; Judd Nelson, Robert Loggia, Leo Rossi, Meg Foster, Patrick O'Bryan, Ken Lerner) Nelson is a serial killer. Its too bad his first victim wasn't Relentless. No style, no suspense, and not believable. Beginning Relic, The (1997) (***, horror) (D.-Peter Hyams; Penelope Ann Miller, Tom Sizemore, Linda Hunt, James Whitmore, Clayton, Rohner, Chi Muoi Lo, Thomas Ryan, Robert Lesser) Slick, entertaining genre film. One too many artifacts is brought to the Chicago museum and supplied with a cornucopia of the city's most delectable at a gala evening function. Of course, the scientists and curators are so fixated on their money maker that they insist on ignoring the warning signs. In a genre where there is rarely much new, good and bad are differentiated by style. Relic does a fine job of setting mood and some creative suspense scenes. I really like the juxtaposition of the search of the catacombs (done with a preponderance of faceless low angle shots) and the arrival of the main course--I mean guests. Also, unlike much horror, they supplied tantalizing glimpses of the creature rather than rushing him. However, when you finally get the creature, Kothoga, it is a gem. Stan Winston' monster, presumably done by stop action and puppets, is absolutely magnificent! One of the most fluid, life-like creatures in a long time, although parts (no pun intended) were reminiscent of Predator. One awesome image was the fire at the end. The chemistry between police Lieutenant D'Agosta (Sizemore) and Dr. Margo Green (Miller) is good. Lo plays a delightfully oily self-aggrandizing scientist Greg Lee. So, if horror is your cup of tea, Relic delivers a solid, if predictable, evening. (7-28-97) Beginning Remains of the Day, The (1993) (****, drama) (D-James Ivory, Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson) Don't miss it. Another gem from that producer-director team Merchant and Ivory. Set to the gathering storm of WWII a head housekeeper (Thompson) and head butler (Hopkins) have a distant romance that is both unspoken and not even acknowledged by either. This isn't about events but about people. Hopkins lives only to serve his lord. To allow himself any outside interest or information would give him opinions and feelings possibly inappropriate for this task. Additionally, his position provides him with absolute stability, something which he loves above all else. Thompson is more open but ultimately as incapable of expressing her feelings as he is, although she appears to have mainly fallen victim to the cultural prohibition of a woman being the one to bring up the subject of romance with an unresponsive male. Only two such superbly gifted actors as Hopkins and Thompson could have pulled this off. It isn't what is said, but by everything that isn't said and how it isn't said that creates the enormous power of the character studies. By the end, the war has come and gone, nothing has really happened, and yet this is one of the most moving dramas I have seen in a long time. I was as taut as a high tension wire within minutes, kept on edge throughout, and took hours afterwards to unwind. In visceral feelings and with the absence of anything really happening, it reminds me of the disturbing Picnic at Hanging Rock. The supporting cast is outstanding, the story seamless, the cinematography stellar, and the low level sound track consistently unsettling as befits the subject. As a bit of trivia, Hopkins' daughter from his first, and disasterously unsuccessful, marriage has a bit part as the maid who wakes up the dying father. He was estranged from her for years but they are now on good terms, and he arranged with the director to have her play in the movie. (3-22-94) Beginning Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins… (1985) (**1/2, action, crime, humour) (D.-Guy Hamilton; Fred Ward, Joel Grey, Wilford Brimley, J.A. Preston, George Coe, Charles Cioffi, Kate Mulgrew, Michael Pataki, William Hickey) Based on the popular Destroyer books by Richard Sapir and Warren Murphy whose only intent is to entertain with no social significance whatsoever (Oh, also to sell a bizillion books). The film shoots for the same tongue-in-cheek style and comes close to working. Ward is a New York cop recruited and trained by a secret society to avenge the world's wrongs. Grey is the diminutive oriental master who can dodge bullets by hearing a certain muscle move as the trigger is pulled. The interplay between the two, especially during the training is a lot of fun, but at a hair over 2 hours it just drags too often. Too bad. With the title, it was clearly intended as a series, and Ward and Grey clearly had a ball. (7-31-95) Beginning Replacement Killers (1998) (***, crime, action) (D.-Antoine Fuqua; Chow Yun-Fat, Mira Sorvino, Michael Rooker, Kenneth Tsang, Jurgen Prochnow) Given some of the reviews, I went into Replacement expected to dislike it. I was wrong, although you do have to take it on its own terms. With the opening scene, I was captured. Replacement is an exercise in style and mood. Lush. Dark. Brooding. A superb integration of visual and aural elements that kept me entranced from beginning to end. Yun-Fat, a well known Chinese actor and long time collaborator of John Woo, who produced the film, is John Lee, a killer for Mr. Wei (Tsang). However, there are limits to what John will do, which sets in motion the chases, shoot outs and killings that follow. Acting is not a prerequisite for films of this type but Yun-Fat and Sorvino do more than necessary. Yun-Fat moves and looks like the world-weary man he is. His almost stoic face manages to convey deep inner feelings. Sorvino is brassy and believable. The villains are worthy. The plot is almost superfluous as its primary reason is just to blend the scenes together. Being produced by Woo, we expect and get the operatic, elegantly choreographed violence. Woo fans will not be disappointed. However, that isn't what I really liked about the film. Indeed, I could have used less violence. Replacement was edgy, disorienting, and unbalancing. Even from the opening scene; you don't even know what country you're in. In terms of style, creating an alien world, and sucking you in, I kept thinking about Bladerunner. I am very much a visual-aural person, and Replacement knew how to use these approaches and grab me at a deep, subconscious level and drag me through the film. While others may not enjoy it, I liked it. Yun-Fat wished his first entry into American films had not been a violent actioner, but I liked what I saw and wouldn't mind seeing him in other types of films. As an aside, he is extremely knowledgeable about all of the armament that he uses. So the apparent ease with which he assembles the rifle probably didn't require any extra practice for the film. (4-13-98) Beginning Requiem for Akira Kurosawa and Toshiro Mifune. (12-7-98) This past year was a sad one for film. We mourn the passing of the great Japanese director Akira Kurosawa (1910-1998) and one of Japan's greatest actors Toshiro Mifune (1920-1997). While Mifune's first film (which he got by accident) was not with Kurosawa, his second, Drunken Angel, was. This led to a long and fruitful collaboration. Some of their most influential films were joint. Rashomon is the definitive study in human perception and "the ultimate statement of the unknowability of truth", and the name of the film alone is adequate to describe a situation. The Seven Samurai is the definitive samurai/western. The Hidden Fortress was the model for Star Wars. Throne of Blood was one of Kurosawa's tributes to Shakespeare--set in feudal Japan. Yojimbo was the inspiration for Sergio Leone's A Fistful of Dollars. Indeed, Leone's enormously popular Spaghetti Westerns (filmed in Italy and Spain by an Italian director with multinational casts) were inspired by the work of Mifune and Kurosawa. In fact, the "Man with No Name" (Clint Eastwood) was adapted from Mifune in Yojimbo, and while Mifune didn't have the filthy cigar, he clearly had something that could be interpreted as one. Mifune, in addition to being a great actor, was also a marvelously physical martial artist. I include below reviews of several of their films. Also, I couldn't resist including a very early review of Kurosawa's Ran. I also include links to several entertaining and relevant sites: Kurosawa: (all URLs one line with no breaks) Mifune: http://cgi.pathfinder.com/time/magazine/1998/int/980112/cinema.html (all URLs one line with no breaks) Beginning Repo Man (1984) (**1/2, sci fi, humor) (6-4-01) (D.-Alex Cox; Emilio Estevez, Harry Dean Stanton, Vonetta McGee, Olivia Barash, Sy Richardson, Tracey Walter, Susan Barnes, Fox Harris, The Circle Jerks) Review based on the DVD from Sneak Reviews. And now for something completely different. In this cult classic things couldn’t get any weirder. It involves a crazed Los Alamos scientist (Harris) on his way to Los Angeles in a Chevy Malibu. Ongoing wars between two groups of car repossessers and between the government and The United Fruitcake Outlet. A not-too-bright punk kid, Otto (Estevez), gets suckered into the not so gentle art of repossessing cars by Bud (Stanton). Possible aliens. A government that wants the car back badly—but quietly. A crazed, or perhaps not, philosopher (Walter) who won’t drive because “the more you drive the less intelligent you are.” The most normal people in this world of grunge, rock, and drugs are marginalized, and it goes down hill from there. And I’ve only touched the surface. Completely off the wall. Totally unpredictable. And frequently very funny in an off-beat way. In short a unique experience. Oh, yes. Since the director could not get product endorsements (you’ll know why when you see it), they have a running and very funny sight gag involving name brand products in movies. Their only product endorsement was Pine Tree car scent. For using it, they got a crate of car scents. The DVD has trailers and a voice over commentary by the director and some of the actors. Although I didn’t watch all of it, it was almost as offbeat as the film itself. Real guerrilla film making and a lot of insight into the mentality of the people who do it. When you listen to the commentary, you discover that the humor isn’t so far fetched after all. After they signed Harris on as the scientist, they discovered he couldn’t and wouldn’t drive. Since he spends the entire movie driving, this required a little creative editing. The director loved Stanton and Harris because they had the “old remnant of the west cadaver look.” The film actually made it to TV, but was cut by the censors to 55 minutes, so they had to pad it. Like Caddyshack, Repo Man is filled with quotable lines. Just remember. “It happens sometimes. People just explode.” Don’t say I didn’t warn you. Beginning Reptile, The (1966) (**1/2, horror) (12-31-03) (D.- John Gilling; Noel Willman, Jennifer Daniel, Ray Barrett, Jacqueline Pearce, Michael Ripper, John Laurie, Marne Maitland) Solid piece of beautifully atmospheric Hammer Studio schlock. A young man in a small Cornish village meets a sudden death. “Heart failure.” Trust me, not in a Hammer film with a name like this one. His brother Harry (Barrett) and new bride Valerie (Daniel) inherit his house. After a less than cordial greeting from the locals, the local pub owner Tom (Ripper) suggests: “If you take my advice you’ll sell it.” Of course not. This is a horror film. Enter the abrasive Dr. Franklyn (Willman), who has the social graces of a praying mantis, and his lovely daughter Anna (Pearce), who is clearly dominated by her father. The film largely depends on and succeeds with build up, atmosphere, and nifty 1900’s sets. The creature itself works best when only vaguely seen and suffers when you get a good look at it, although I have seen worse. Whenever Dr. Franklyn is on the screen, your have a steadily increasing sense of dread. The dinner party is a little gem. Go into Reptile in the right mood, don’t expect a totally logical flow and you are in for an edgy and entertaining evening. Incidentally, the reason you see so many repeat actors in the Hammer films is that it was a people friendly family-run business. Once people worked for them, they tended to go back. Beginning Reptilicus (1962) (Turkey, sci fi) (D.-Sidney Pink; Carl Ottosen, Ann Smyrner, Mimi Heinrich, Asbjorn Andersen, Marla Behrens) A frozen tail of a great reptilian beast found in the tundra regenerates into a whole creature that terrorizes Denmark. So bad that we laughed throughout. Dialogue and acting so wooden a fence post would look good. A steady stream of pompous riotously inappropriate and mistimed lines from the American general, although the scientists weren't much better. A monster less threatening than the average child's toy. One of the most extensive uses of stock footage that I've seen in years. And, for crying out loud, a long travelogue tour of Copenhagen in the middle--maybe the Danish government subsidized the film. A real corker of inattention to details was the 1 gallon of drug that they put in a tiny bazooka shell. I guess it was a metric gallon! If the human race ever comes down to the crunch, I hope we muster better military and scientists. Apparently, the general never watched the 50s sci fi Tarantula or he would have known exactly how to solve his problem. The woman scientist actually does serve a minimal function besides looking good; however, even moderate feminists will be cheering for the monster. (2-24-97) Beginning Reservoir Dogs (1992) (***, crime, drama) (1-15-01) (D.-Quentin Tarantino; Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Michael Madsen, Chris Penn, Steve Buscemi, Lawrence Tierney, Randy Brooks, Kirk Baltz, Edward Bunker, Quentin Tarantino) Tarantino’s directorial debut. He has always acknowledged the input of previous films in his work, but he spins them in unique ways. Dogs shows deep roots in The Asphalt Jungle and The Killing. Ultraviolent, nihilistic story of a horribly bungled diamond heist. After an opening diner scene with the gang, the story is told in flashbacks as the survivors meet at the warehouse and go over what happened. All of the gang members are given code names since most don’t know each other. Mr. White (Keitel) arrives with the terribly wounded Mr. Orange (Roth). Mr. Pink (Buscemi) then comes convinced that they were set up by an informer in the group. The rest of the story plays out as the others gather, the end game unfolds, and we learn details about each character and the heist in flashbacks. Like a cage full of wounded animals they self-destruct. Each character is interesting in his own right. Mr. White’s fondness for, and defense of, Mr. Orange brings about one of the pivotal events of the film. The psychotic Mr. Blonde (Madsen) is one of the most horrific screen monsters in years. Mr. Pink (Buscemi) is one of the quirkiest, yet rational, of the group. The gang lord Joe Cabot (Tierney) is avuncularly lethal; he is also right at home here having played some of the great film noir heavies. The acting is uniformly excellent. The story disturbingly well told. The cinematography fine. The music, frequently brought to you via a fictitious radio program written and spoken by Roger Avary, adds to the imbalance. You will not soon forget "Stuck in the Middle". The film shows many of the roots that came to fruition in Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction. The extended, frequently blackly humorous, conversations and the story telling style. Here it is more profane, blacker. The marijuana story is a classic. This is not an easy film to watch; however, as with Pulp Fiction, it is not AS violent as it seems. Much of the horror is off screen or seen at a distance. But it is brutal and disturbing and not for the squeamish. Review based on the nicely letterboxed DVD available at Sneak Reviews. The DVD contains some textual information. Beginning Return of Martin Guerre, The (1982) (***1/2, historical docudrama) (D.- Daniel Vigne; G�rard Depardieu, Nathalie Baye, Roger Planchon, Maurice Jacquemont, Bernard Pierre Donnadieu) Based on a true incident. Very hard-edged story of soldier (Depardieu) returning to his wife (Baye) after 7 year absence during the brutal and dehumanizing Hundred Years War. As with many returning people, he has changed-but in this case a lot. He is much more civilized, articulate, and loving to his wife. Is he an imposter or the real thing? If an imposter, why do people accept him and treat him as they do? Absolutely fascinating psychological study and story with many plot twists and turns. Don't let anyone tell you about it beforehand. Even if they did, I think you'll still enjoy it. Excellent performances by Depardieu and Baye. Remade in 1993 as Sommersby . (3-14-95) Beginning Richard III (1995) (***1/2, drama) (12-21-97) (D.-Richard Loncraine; Ian McKellen, Annette Bening, Jim Broadbent, Robert Downey, Jr., Nigel Hawthorne, Kristin Scott-Thomas, Maggie Smith, John Wood, Adrian Dunbar, Edward Hardwicke) And now for something completely different again. This is Shakespeare's Richard III set in a Fascist 1930s England. Ian McKellen is Richard. Physically deformed, brilliant, erudite. And with a mind infinitely more misshapen and ugly than his body. The opening two scenes leave us with two seminal impressions: A man with no more humanity than an insect and a man whose honeyed words soothe as he plots other's doom. For those unfamiliar with the plot, Richard slays his way to the throne while taking whatever he wants and destroying others for the sheer pleasure of the power. As in any Shakespearean play, evil ultimately brings about its own destruction. McKellen is perfect as Richard. Suave. Cunning. Absolutely ruthless. The ultimate sociopath, although Shakespeare didn't have the term. A man who seeks revenge on everyone for his physical deformity. And he even manages to play the political correctness card. The supporting cast is first class. Particularly noteworthy are the Duke of Buckingham (Broadbent??) as his second in command and the assassin. Both men ultimately and believably rebel over Richard's excesses. The dialogue is all the original Shakespearean. The play appears to be the original Shakespearean rather than the later altered version by Colley Cibber. The dialogue is spoken like normal English, flows smoothly, and is easily understood. But what makes this such a marvelously fascinating story is the flawless integration of the Shakespearean dialogue against a modern technological society. It works. This includes power boats, tanks, aircraft, sex, drugs, and both still and motion picture film. The escape of the queen mother to France by aircraft is handled without so much as a disturbing ripple. Even the famous line "A horse! A horse! my kingdom for a horse." fits perfectly. The film also plays with our expectations. The Tower of London isn't what we expect, but is even more disturbing and foreboding. The continual presentation of a Fascist state provides the backdrop that nurtures his rise to power. The ending does deviates from the original and Richard's reaction seemed out of place to both my wife and myself. My recommendation: Turn out the lights. Pop in the tape of Richard III. Be disturbed.  Beginning Ride the Pink Horse (1947) (***, noir, crime, drama) (D.-Robert Montgomery; Robert Montgomery, Wanda Hendrix, Fred Clark, Thomas Gomez, Art Smith) Classic noir about embittered WWII veteran Gagin (Montgomery); Vietnam wasn't the only war with its share of dysfunctional basket cases as revealed in many film noirs. Gagin is out to take revenge on unscrupulous businessman Hugo (Clark) for killing his friend. The action is set in a small New Mexico town during fiesta. The principals include a young Indian girl Pila (Hendrix) who sees an aura of death and disaster around Montgomery and tries to help, a federal agent (Smith) out to get Hugo honestly, and hard drinking Pancho (Gomez) who owns a dilapidated merry-go-round that is much sought after entertainment by the locals. Unlike much noir, Gagin's fall is self-inflicted. He doesn't succumb through a moment of weakness; he is just dumb, totally misjudges his opponent, and ignores the counsel of those trying to save him. The plot has many of the stylized, unrealistic elements that are mandatory to noir so don't look too closely at the plot logic. Horse is ultimately a morality play driven by sin, greed, love, hate and possible redemption. Much of the action revolves around the merry-go-round from which the film gets its title and which could form the nucleus of salvation. Most of the acting is classic noir, but Gomez has a ball in an over the top performance. An interesting point is the old man effigy, Zozorbra, that they carry through town. He represents the gloom and all that went wrong during the year. During the festival he will be burned, and with his demise a clean bright new year can be started. To the best of my knowledge, this is only a Santa Fe tradition that was started early this century, but it is a most spectacular and powerful ritual. When I saw it in 1983, Zozorbra was about 30 feet high and wailed, moaned, and gesticulated as he was consumed. Although Zozorbra is only alluded to once in the film, it seems clear to me that the writer had a connection between the protagonist and the old man--rejuvenation is possible, but only through trial and pain. In my opinion, the director missed a great chance by not incorporating the burning. If you ever get a chance, do watch them burn old man gloom usually in September. Beginning Ride with the Devil (1999) (***. War, drama) (2-26-01) (D.-Ang Lee: Skeet Ulrich, Tobey Maguire, Simon Baker-Denny, Jeffrey Wright, Jewel, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, James Caviezel, Thomas Guiry) The film begins at the onset of the Civil War in Missouri and ends not long after Quantrill’s raid (massacre is the more correctly applied historical term) on Lawrence, Kansas. Jake Roedel (Maguire) and his close friend, Jack Chiles (Ulrich), are about to experience up close and personal the effects of a civil war. The area is polarized into the Southern Bushwackers and the Union Jayhawkers. Neighbor against neighbor. No slight too small for retribution. Ride is more a study in human nature than an intimate human drama. As in so many wars, Jake starts with illusions and ideals of the rightness of his cause. As the war drags on and the brutality and ruthlessness of both sides escalates, killing and survival dominate their lives. Ultimately, these become self perpetuating ends in themselves with no thought or concern for the reasons or for alternatives. Ride is about possible redemption and destruction. Who will choose which path and why? As with real people, the issues and behavior are complex. Besides friendship there is a love story involving Sue Lee Shelley (Jewel) who does a credible job. George Clyde (Baker-Denny) fights along side his ex-slave Daniel Holt (Wright). Motives and loyalties are never simple. Lee’s story telling is cold, almost clinical. This deliberate distancing allows the viewer to objectively watch the characters as the story unfolds without excessive emotional involvement. However, this also leaves you unattached to the characters, so that their fates are not of deep significance. The film is slow and deliberately paced. These factors have contributed to the negative reviews. Nevertheless, the story is interesting. The behavior realistic. The cinematography beautiful. The cavalry battles are spectacularly staged; the actors all went through a three week boot camp and were highly conversant with their weapons. Patterson, MO doubles as Lawrence, KS. The streets were covered with dirt, the telephone poles removed, and a number of Civil War re-enactors were used in the battle. Review based on the beautiful DVD transfer at Beyond Video. It includes a wide screen version as well as production notes and backgrounds on several of the actors. Beginning Rififi (1954) (****, noir, crime) (5-21-01) (D.- Jules Dassin; Jean Servais, Carl Mohner, Magali N�el, Robert Manuel, Perlo Vita (Jules Dassin)) Review based on the newly released DVD available at Sneak Reviews. Film noir. The Americans developed it during the war, but it took the French to recognize it and name it: Film noir or black film. That didn’t stop some great noir being made in France by the French; however, Rififi is a French oddity because it was actually done by an American director. American director Dassin was a master of noir with such gems as Brute Force and The Naked City until the House UnAmerican Activities (HUAC) went after him. Essentially they were pounding on the front door while he was escaping to France out the back door. In France he created Rififi (aka Du Rififi Chez Les Hommes). While it doesn’t get any blacker than this, it is also one of the great grandparents of all caper films. Four French hoods, led by master strategist Tony (Servais), prepare to knock over a gem store. Their safe man is Cesar, an Italian womanizer, who speaks only Italian. Cesar is played by Dassin; see the supplementary DVD material for why. The planning is meticulous. The operation flawless. What isn’t flawless is human nature, and critical human errors are made before, during and after the heist that leads to this being one of the blackest of noirs. Nevertheless, the film is leavened with humor, although much of it is black. The story telling is relentless. The tension palpable. The acting is first rate. The cinematography is stunning and beautifully bleak black and white. The new DVD has a stellar transfer. There are subtitles available or you can get it dubbed. We watched the subtitled version. The jewel heist is a 28-minute masterpiece. No music. No spoken words. Only the actual sounds. The DVD has fascinating extras. The out takes and production stills are striking. But it is the interview with the director that crowns the DVD. We had no idea how far reaching and devastating was the influence of HUAC outside of the United States. Dassin reveals how it nearly destroyed his career even in France. Also, Dassin provides anecdotes about others in the US that further demonstrates the dehumanizing and destructive influence of HUAC. The film is ultra-low budget, but Dassin explains how he managed to assemble a perfect crew. He also had trouble with the producer who wanted more sunlight—which would have been totally wrong for this bleak film. His description of the original book, its quirky writer, and their interactions over the table with a gun sitting on it is a gem. “Where is my book?” The concept of using French gangsters was actually quite radical. Dassin was given one weekend to read the book and decide whether he would take the job, but it was written in such a baroque and opaque local dialect that he ended up having his agent read it and tell him what was going on. Dassin was so appalled by the story that he was going to refuse to do it. However, as he said, his children had to eat. But then when has artistic genius been stymied by a little problem like an impossible story? Check out the DVD and be prepared for a stunning but bleakly disturbing evening. Beginning Riff Raff (1991) (unrated, drama, humor) (D.-Ken Loach; Robert Carlyle, Emer McCourt, Ricky Tomlinson, Jimmy Coleman, George Moss, David Finch) Highly rated by some who consider it bitingly funny, but I just couldn't watch it. The struggles of a young man (Carlyle) fresh to London who signs up for a construction job. Some of the dialects are almost incomprehensible (this isn't the first time that I realized the English do not all speak English). In fact, the situation is so bad that the film was released in this country with subtitles! When I saw previews in the theater, I discovered that the subtitles didn't always match the spoken words, much like other subtitled films. Review based on the unsubtitled version. (4-21-97) Beginning Right Stuff, The (1983) (****, docudrama) (D-Philip Kaufman, Sam Sheppard, Scott Glenn, Dennis Quaid, Ed Harris, Barbara Hersey, Fred Ward) (193 min.) Based on Thomas Wolfe's novel, this is a panoramic view of the early US. space program. Although sometimes the brush strokes are too broad, it is full of delightful characters and situations, humor, black humor, and cliff hanging action. Even for me (old codger that I am), it is far enough back that I couldn't remember all the details and frequently wasn't sure what was going to happen. The "story" loosely revolves around the test pilot Chuck Yeagers. The real Yeagers is still a firebrand supersonic flier and played a brief role as a bartender; he has more recently been seen advertising products on the TV. The aerial footage and action are breathtaking. At the end you are left with the feeling that this is the way it really was: hyperkinetic energy, excitement, risks, and people who would do anything to get into the space program and into space. These people march to a different drummer than most of the rest of us--but now you can at least pick up on the rhythm if not follow all the patterns. Academy Awards in Film Editing, Best Original Score, Sound, and Sound Effects Editing. I know its long. I know the subject sounds incredibly boring. It isn't. Trust me on this one. Check it out. (12-12-92) Beginning Ring, The (2002) (***1/2, horror) (7-21-04) (D.-Gore Verbinski; W.-K�ji Suzuki (novel), Ehren Kruger (screenplay); Naomi Watts, Martin Henderson, David Dorfman, Brian Cox, Jane Alexander) After having watched and really enjoyed Ringu , we thought we’d check out the American remake. Given Hollywood ’s record on remakes we were not expecting much. We were wrong. Up to a point, The Ring follows the original very closely with the tape, the journalist Keller (Watts), her son Aidan (Dorfman), and the ex Noah ( Henderson ), then it adds it own twists and turns.  What it succeeds in doing is being a taut, chilling, very disturbing ghost story that stands on its own. Again style, cinematography, pacing, sound and music all conspire to slip past our mental defenses and expose our emotional core to the underlying terror of the story. As with the original, it is beautifully atmospheric. Ring is more graphic than the original. The plot is more convoluted. The video is more complex—too complex in our opinion. Each film has strengths the other lacks, and some weaknesses. Ring, for example, addresses the final moral question head on, while Ringu glosses over it. Ring on the other hand, adds unnecessary complexity and gore. But both work independently of the other and are must-sees for fans of classic horror films. Incidentally, we recommend seeing Ringu first, as Ring is full of little bits of homage to the original. The DVD has a short by the director that expands on the story line and fills in meanings for some of the extraneous elements in the video tape.  The son, again, is a standout and perfect for the part; expect to see more of him. As an aside Brian Cox as the bereaved father and husband makes a devastating and timely remark to the reporter, Keller, when he thinks she is just preparing to exploit another tragedy. “What is it with reporters? You take one person’s tragedy and force the rest of the world to experience it, spread it like sickness.” Ringu (1998) (***1/2, horror) (7-21-04) (D.-Hideo Nakata; W.-K�ji Suzuki (novel), Hiroshi Takahashi (screenplay); Nanako Matsushima, Miki Nakatani, Hiroyuki Sanada, Yuko Takeuchi, Hitomi Sato, Yoichi Numata, Yutaka Matsushige, Katsumi Muramatsu, Rikiya Otaka) Let’s begin by recognizing that there is rarely anything genuinely new in horror. What separates the gems from the dregs is style and nuance. Ringu has plenty of both. It is a classic style ghost story where most of the horror comes from a growing sense of unease and dread as the plot unfolds rather than from blood, gore, and things jumping out at you. Not to say that there aren’t some starts, but this is a much more leisurely excursion into fear than your usual mad slasher film. If slashing and gore is your boat, skip Ringu.   The story begins with a teenager saying that she and several of her friends saw a weird video tape the other day, and that anyone who watched it is supposed to die in a week. Prophetic. The story unfolds as a young newswoman Reiko (Matsushima) picks up on the threads of the story and begins to piece together what happened. She should have heeded the adage about curiosity and the cat; but the Japanese may have a different version of that one. She is about to drag her young son Yoichi (Otaka) and ex-husband Koichi (Muramatsu) into a terror from which there may be no escape. As in any good ghost story, much of the fun is in watching the plot unfold, so that is all you are getting on the story.  What I can tell you is that the cinematography and the sound are beautifully atmospheric and unbalancing. Or in many places the absence of music. In short a very disturbing movie in spite of the absence of explicit gore. The acting is good with the son being amazing. There are many excellent set pieces as when the newswoman views the video of a car accident or the initial exchange between the son and his father. The video itself is truly bizarrely disturbing.  You are not sure what you have seen, but as the film progresses some things become clearer—too clear. The name incidentally, comes from either the ring on the video, the ringing phone, or both. Your choice. My wife and I think that the film had a few too many red herrings, or alternatively elements that if properly put together could have made a stronger ending. But one gets good ghost stories so seldom, why quibble over the details? Beginning River's Edge (1986) (**1/2, docudrama) (D.-Tim Hunter; Crispin Glover, Keanu Reeves, Ione Skye Leitch, Roxana Zal, Daniel Roebuck, Tom Bower, Constance Forslund, Leo Rossi, Jim Metzler, Dennis Hopper) Based loosely on a true incident where a high school student killed his girlfriend and then brought members of his clique to view the body. Inexplicably, it was days before anyone reported what had happened. I had a lot of trouble evaluating what the director was doing. Was he trying to get into the minds of these kids and explain their deviant behavior? Was it out and out exploitation? Or did it just seem like an intriguing starting point for a bizzare story? So in the absence of details about the real incident, I am forced to interpret this as just a fictional account of some very sick youths. Glover was the self-appointed head who used his charisma to persuade the group that it would be a violation of group solidarity to rat. Dennis Hopper was a disenfranchised Vietnam veteran who supplied his own brand of paranoia and psychopathology to the group. As presented, the members of the group are the lost elements of any school, the alienated ones who cut class and are perpetually spaced out or drunk. Their home life, or lack thereof, is generally a contributing factor. In the final analysis, I think the director failed. If his intent was to discuss in an enlightened fashion the morality and psychology of the actual event, he didn't make clear the boundaries to allow intelligent discussion. As pure fiction, I think it failed. Glover was good as the wired leader, but I didn't think that his charisma was adequate to manipulate the group. The most glaring weakness in my opinion was the Hopper character. While appropriately sick, he added gratuitously to the story but his omission could have sharpened the plot, which was ultimately about the students. In spite of my criticisms, River is an intriguing glimpse into diseased or dysfunctional youth. As portrayed, much of what happened has a sick air of reality. (1-15-96) Beginning River of Death (1989) (*1/2, adventure) (D:-Steve Carver; Michael Dudikoff, Donald Pleasence, Herbert Lom, Cynthia Erland, Robert Vaughn, L.Q. Jones, Sarah Maur Thorp) Dudikoff journeys up river and finds death, lost city, and Nazis (Vaughn and Pleasence) bent on taking over the world. Based on Alistair MacLean's novel. Too bad there isn't a touch of the style that made MacLean's early books a pleasure to read even when the plots didn't really work--which was most of the time. (3-18-96) Beginning River Wild, The (1994) (***, adventure, thriller) (D.-Curtis Hanson, Meryl Streep, David Strathairn, Kevin Bacon, Joseph Mazzello) Hanson (Hand that Rocks the Cradle) knows how to craft taut, satisfying formula thrillers. Failing marriage has Boston husband and wife (Streep and Straithairn) and their 10 year old son (Mazzello) taking a white water trip in Montana for the boy's birthday. Forget any past impressions of Streep as a dainty little thing. Here she is a highly experienced rafter, and looks and acts the part. On the river, they encounter Bacon and his cohorts who are robbers/murderers on the run posing as fellow rafters. Contact leads to kidnapping, beatings, and murder. After an initial honeymoon, Bacon, using her family as hostage, expects Streep to get him and the money down the river through the all-but-unpassable class 5 plus "The Gauntlet", a murderous confluence of three rivers. Bacon with his good looks, easy banter, and quick wit is a charming sociopath who woos the wife and the impressionable son. He also kills with the ease and total lack of emotion or remorse of a praying mantis eating its mate when its function is done. Streep is excellent as the resourceful, take charge rafter. Mazzello is emminently believable. Strathairn is played a bit drily, but is adequate. The plot is nothing new, some of the plot development is far fetched or even illogical, and the pacing is a bit slow at times. However, Hanson knows how to let the river and breathtaking Montana and Oregon more than make up for these shortcomings. River will reacquaint your system with adrenaline. River reminded me of why rafting is such rush. I've never been on anything this awesomeit just seemed like it with those walls of water rushing at you. When Streep signed on she thought that it would be shot with her in a raft on the bank with guys shaking it while the cameras rolled. Wrong! Most of the time that is her (and probably the others) in the raft out in the thick of it. She got quite good at it and commented that this Streep was closer to the real one than her other parts. Many of the shots were done with a camera mounted on or off the front of the raft, which unbalanced it and made the tense even more exciting. Also, much of the shooting was done in the wilderness, and everyone was helicoptered in every day including Bacon, who hates helicopters. For those who get the bug to white water after watching River, you don't have to go to Montana or Oregon. Some of the best white water rafting in the country is as near as three hours in West Virginia. You can get it easy or, if white-knuckle-and-premature gray is your wish, then the controlled release Gauley will drain your adrenals. (10-3-94) Beginning Road Runner/Coyote celebrated its 50th anniversary on September 19. (9-20-99) Surrealistic Southwestern landscape (actually patterned quite realistically after parts of Utah and Arizona), stylized mayhem, and the terrors of technology run amok have delighted audiences young and old for five decades. The creator of this winning combinations was Chuck Jones. The last of the original series was made in 1963, although one prologue, Chariots of Fur, was done 5 years ago. The Coyote had actually been around for a while before this; he had tried matching--or better put mismatching--wits with Bugs Bunny. However, the real breakthrough was the introduction of the Road Runner. The cartoonists were struggling to come up with an appropriate adversary when they had the brilliant idea of using a road runner. These birds were plentiful in the area, and as Jones put it "They were fast". No lie! They can do 30 mph on the ground. The rules were simple in the final formula. The Road Runner never really fought back. Wile E. Coyote, in spite of his genius IQ, failed because of his ineptitude, lack of common sense, and the failure (or generally more often misinterpretation of the technical specifications) of the imaginary ACME equipment used in the pursuit. They were also not sure what noise the Road Runner would make when providence answered their prayers. Another cartoonist came down the hall carrying a huge stack of papers that he could not see over; to clear the way, he was going "Beep. Beep." The rest is history. One of the finest collections of excerpts from the Coyote series is in the Bugs Bunny Road Runner Movie. This not only provides the distilled best of the Road Runner-Coyote but also Wile E. versus Bugs Bunny. Not to be missed by lovers of the genre. Chariots of Fur is true to the original, but lacks the bite. In my opinion, it is worth seeing primarily for its historical interest. As Jones said they were barely paid a living wage. But at 80ish, he is doing well with three galleries devoted to this favorite topic, and he recently netted over $200K for a painting of his friends. The security cameras in his studios are labeled as being from the fictitious ACME. We assume they work more reliably than the Coyote's items. In the modern politically correct view, many would consider the originals quite violent. However, as Jones said, the violence is stylized and of the same level as the Keaton and Chaplin violence. Certainly, I don't remember any of my friends bashing each other with mallets, and I never had (or have) any desire for violence after seeing one of these magnificent cartoons. Beginning Road to Eldorado, The (2000) (***, animation, comedy) (10-11-04) (D.- Bibo Bergeron, Will Finn; voices by Kevin Kline, Kenneth Branagh, Rosie Perez, Armand Assante, Edward James Olmos) Charming bit of fluff that entertains children while not insulting adults. Tulio and Miguel (Kline and Branaugh), two con artists in Spain in the 1500s, end up with a map to Eldorado, the fabulous city of gold. Escaping Spain one jump ahead of the angry mob that they have conned, they arrive in the New World and get a chance to follow up on their map. They will have trials, tribulations, meet a priest Tzekel-Kan (Assante) eager to sacrifice everyone in sight to appease his gods, a beautiful runaway (Perez), and discover a marvelous new world. Fine characterization, humor (some guardedly adult), decent animation, and a passable set of music make for an evening that allows you to enjoy the children’s reactions and have a decent time watching the film. Beginning Road To Perdition (2002) (***1/2, crime, drama) (7-22-02) (D.- Sam Mendes; Tom Hanks,  Paul Newman, Tyler Hoechlin, Jude Law, Daniel Craig, Stanley Tucci, Anthony LaPaglia, Jennifer Jason Leigh) Written by David Self from the novel by Max Allan Collins and Richard Piers Rayne. Taut. Brutal. Fascinating. As with Mendes first film American Beauty, from the beginning we have a good idea of how the story will play out. The only questions are how you will get there and what revelations will occur during the odyssey. The time is 1931 and the story is told from the viewpoint of 12 year old Michael Sullivan, Jr. (Hoechlin). His father Michael (Hanks) is a mob enforcer known as The Angel of Death who works for John Rooney (Newman). Rooney raised Michael like a son and Michael is clearly and even literally Rooney’s right hand. Rooney has an actual son Connor (Craig). As with many gangsters, Michael Sr. leads an outwardly normal life complete with wife and two children. He is neither a brutal nor overly intelligent man. While he is not particularly demonstrative towards his family, he does love them. However, he is methodical and very good at what he does, and he feels that he owes Rooney for everything in his life. His eldest son, Michael Jr., does not know what his father does for a living but, like many 12 year olds, has become curious. Curiosity and the cat come to mind. This youthful nosiness precipitates a sequence of events of tragic proportions. Michael Sr. doesn’t realize it but he is about to get a fateful lesson in the relationships of blood, honor, and vengeance. Because much of the fascination on first viewing is the way in which the story unravels, I will provide no more details. The cinematography by Conrad L. Hall is stunning. It leaves an overwhelming memory of cold, dark and rain. The stunning lighting of one room through the rain drenched windows reminded me of the scene in In Cold Blood where the killer Blake, about to be executed, appeared to be crying because of similar lighting on his face. Surprise. Hall was the cinematographer on both films. The plot unravels in slow motion but with the inevitability of an express train bearing down on a car stalled on a railroad crossing. There will be revelations for all concerned--enough to last a lifetime. Hanks is one of our great actors and manages a superb performance where ever so much is conveyed with ever so few words. Newman is stellar as Rooney, who wants to do the right thing in his own skewed way. Law is unique as Maguire, a Chaplinesque newspaper reporter and killer. His job provides him with inconspicuous mobility and information. It also gives him an opportunity to make additional money from one of his sick pleasures. The rest of the cast provides great support for the principals. To disavow you of any feelings of honor and respect for the adults, Rooney has the telling line "There are only murderers in this room, Michael. … And there is only one guarantee--none of us will see heaven." I think the film can get a little too taken with itself. Some of the music can become overbearing; give the audience a little credit for subtlety. Nevertheless, an intriguing well told tale with stellar acting and cinematography. Beginning Road Warrior aka Mad Max 2 (1981) (****, action, sci fi) (D.-George Miller; Mel Gibson, Bruce Spence, Vernon Wells, Mike Preston, Virginia Hey, Emil Minty, Kjell Nilsson), Australian with Mel Gibson). In a post apocalypse Australia Gibson joins a group of survivors defending an oil well. They are trying to produce enough gas to make it to the coast and survive the onslaught of an absolutely ruthless road gang. A good action film rises or falls on the merits of the bad guys; these thugs epitomize evil but with their own strict code of honor--in short, great villains. Wells is fabulous. This movie has the BEST road chase scene EVER put on film. The fabulous chase in Raider of the Lost Ark looks like a Sunday school picnic in comparison. If you accept the premise, the plot follows exquisitely with attention to details that is a true labor of love: Why does a very cautious survivor use his shotgun the way he does? Why does he pick up a crowbar rather than the shotgun as the weapon of choice when he approaches the deserted gyrocopter? Why does the tanker smoke, but not catch fire? When Gibson leaves the compound at night, notice the barely visible man oiling Gibson's leg brace so it won't squeak as he tries to sneak past the gang. These details could have been ignored, but not if you want a first class production. If you are into car chases, you must see Bullitt (1968 ***) (San Francisco) and The French Connections (1971 ****) (under the El). These chases may (?) look a little anemic to the younger generation. This is rather like the Victorians saying that "Shakespeare would be more interesting, if only he didn't use so many clich�s". These movies are the standards on which modern car chases were built. Go back and check out the roots. Beginning Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) (***, action) (D.-Kevin Reynolds; Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Christian Slater, Alan Rickman, Geraldine McEwan)This is a high spirited thoroughly enjoyable medieval romp that works in spite of a monorail performance by Kevin Cosner and a romance with Lady Marian that strikes as many sparks as a wet towel. Spectacular action, humor, good costumes and settings. Allen Rickman (terrorist leader in Die Hard) is the sheriff of Nottingham and does a real job on him. You'll either love or hate this performance. Beginning Robot Monster (1953) (turkey, sci fi) (D.-Phil Tucker; George Nader, Claudia Barrett, Selena Royle) A Hollywood Classic. Awful, beyond human comprehension. So bad that it makes Ed Wood's Plan 9 from Outer Space look positively polished. I cannot imagine why it wasn't the centerpiece of the Golden Turkey Film Book. A space invader destroys all human life except for a small band hiding in a canyon and those he spends the movie trying to kill. The destruction of earth is footage pilfered from a One Million BC complete with giant lizards. The alien monster? Well, the director was going to use a space-suited alien. However, he could get a better deal on a gorilla suit and a diving helmet. So this shaggy diving gorilla goes bounding around the Los Angeles canyons. To add insult to injury, his space communicator is a bubble machine with feeler. My heart goes out to the actors. How embarrassing. Pray they used pseudonyms. I cannot remember if the actor in the gorilla suit remained mercifully anonymous. See also Plan 9 .(5-1-95) Beginning Rob Roy (1995) (**1/2, action) (D.-Michael Caton-Jones; Liam Neeson, Jessica Lange, John Hurt, Tim Roth, Eric Stolz, Brian Cox) Stunningly photographed in Scotland. A story of Rob Roy's travails with his ruthless English lord. The story is shallow, and the only actors given much opportunity are the villains and they run with it. Almost soporific for about the first half hour, before it livens up. The high point is Tim Roth's marvelous characterization of a foppish young lord. His dainty exterior manners hide an interior of pure animal lust and appetites. Actually, I do animals an injustice. Roth rapes, kills, robs, and destroys for pleasure rather than need. He is also a superb swordsman where his mannerisms give him a gamesmanship edge over those foolish enough to accept his face value. Also, it is good to see Brian Cox, the orginal Lector in Manhunter , once again manipulating souls; the scene on the island is classic Lector. The climactic sword fight is beautifully choreographed and worth sticking around for; it is clear that Neeson and Roth do most if not all of their own work. (9-11-95) Beginning Rock, The (1995) (***, action) (D.-Michael Bay; Sean Connery, Nicolas Cage, Ed Harris, Michael Biehn, William Forsyth) First the rating. This is a family average that ranged from very good (***1/2) to so-so (** to **1/2). My guess is that this will be fairly representative. Ed Harris is a general who finally rebels against the US sweeping the deaths of soldiers in covert operations under the rug and disavowing their actions and families. His solution is a hostage style take over of Alcatraz with all of San Francisco under the gun. Cage is an FBI agent who specializes in chemical weapons. Connery is a jailed non-person and the only man to ever successfully escape from The Rock, which suddenly makes him a very valuable commodity indeed. After this, you can begin to fill in the blanks. However, as with most actioners, don't look too closely at the plot. Connery and Cage are at their quirky best and their chemistry is quite diverting, if not always unpredictable. The various assaults and counter measures have some fine moments of suspense, but the director's timing is frequently off and he has a strong tendency to equate motion with action. The frenetic and derivative San Francisco chase comes to mind. Thus, many of the set pieces and their build ups which should have you ripping the armrests off are just ho-hums. In my opinion, see Executive Decision for the proper way to do it. The cinematography is good, Alcatraz is as bleak and forboding a piece of real estate as you could find in your worst nightmares, and some of the scenes work as they should. So if you don't go into Rock expecting too much and turn off your analytical facilities, it can be an entertaining flic. And no, you never do find out who shot JFK. As a technical point, nerve agents, as horrible as they are, do not corrode the skin, nor does atropine protect you from a massive exposure. (6-17-96) Beginning Rocket Ship X-M (1950) (**1/2, sci fi, classic) (6-25-01) (D.- Kurt Neumann; Lloyd Bridges, Osa Massen, Hugh O'Brian, John Emery) Bleak cautionary tale of the nuclear age. Probably the first film based around the atom and space travel. It beat the more literate The Day the Earth Stood Still by about a year. Neumann also managed to beat out George Pal’s Destination Moon even though X-M was started later. Neumann planned on, and successfully capitalized on, the advertising and hoopla over Moon. X-M was a true B picture: ultra low budget, quick and dirty shooting. The original used all stock V-2 test footage to represent the X-M even though the single stage V-2 bore no resemblance to the multistage X-M. A crew of 5, four men and one woman, a chemist, set off for the moon. Then, due to technical problems, scientific miscalculations and possibly divine intervention they end up on Mars. What they find on Mars leads to their consuming goal of warning earth about the dangers of nuclear weapons. The film is in black and white except for the Mars portions, which are in sepia. The barren Martian surface was shot in Death Valley. The film is a riot to watch in terms of the scientific errors. Unlike Destination Moon, X-M doesn’t use weightlessness and other physics at all correctly. The difference between mass and weight is totally misinterpreted. It has some of the most ludicrous examples of technobabble to ever fall on your ears. Notice the roar of the meteor storm and the direction the clouds move past the port holes. Actually on thinking about it, I’m not sure that X-M uses any physics correctly. The briefing before lift off is a hoot as the time counts down and the crew hobnobs with the press; then at about 6 minutes before lift off suggest that it might not be a bad idea to get onto the ship. The bomber jackets, side arms, and hunting rifle as standard equipment on a moon expedition does strike one as little out of place. Even though the woman is a first-class scientist, the film will really raise the blood pressure on even the most easy-going feminists—but this was 1950. Bridges thought that the inclusion of the love scene at the end was ridiculous and wanted it taken out since he felt that under the circumstances no normal people would behave that way. However, that element actually seems to have hit a responsive cord with the viewers, and I believe that under the pressure of the situation it is not that unreasonable. The version that you are most likely to see (DVD, tape) is not the original theatrical release. Wade Williams, who loved the film, bought it for $2000 in the 70s, replaced the V-2 footage with a more modern model that looked like the original design and added some Martian footage. Apparently he is one of the people seen in a distant shot ( [email protected]) . For further info go to the B-Monster web page at http://www.bmonster.com/scifi21.html. Ultimately, however, X-M is cautionary, not science. In this regard it doesn’t work too badly. A must see for all fans of vintage sci fi. Review based on the recently released DVD available at Clemons Undergraduate Library. Beginning Rock Horror: This is not a movie but a description of a limited class of horror movies--those in which heavy metal or a guitar is used in some way as an instrument of death. I, of course, would never watch any of these movies (well, most of them), but for the aficionados of the genre, I lifted some from Guitar World ("Freak Previews", August 1992). Please consult the original for extended campy reviews. Some of these gems and Guitar World's ratings are as follows: Trick or Treat (****), Shock'em Dead (*****), Rocktober Blood (**), Slumber Party Massacre II (****), Terror on Tour (***), Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park (****), Black Roses (****), Rock'N Roll Nightmare (*), Rock'N Roll Mobster Girls (*)--from, I kid you not, Demolition Films, Shredder Orpheus (***)--not to be confused with anything related to the gentle sport of snow boarding, Phantom of Paradise (****), New Year's Evil (**), Rockula (**), and The Decline of Western Civilization: The Metal Years (*****). The last is actually a very well reviewed documentary and it is only the presence of large numbers of disreputable rock musicians on the screen that give it a horror rating by Guitar World. For calibration, I give Trick or Treat about **1/2 out of **** with the most memorable scene being Ozzy Osbourne as an overbearing evangelical preacher Aaron Gilstrom struck down by a demon-induced myocardial infarction while preaching on the evils of rock music.?? I have also seen parts of the forgettable Slumber Party Massacre II where a demon-wielded guitar comes complete with wood-working and nubile-young-woman-dispatching attachments. (3-9-93) Beginning RocknRolla (2008) (***, crime, gangster, black humor) (12-12-08) (WD.-Guy Ritchie; Nonso Anozie, David Bark-Jones, Geoff Bell, Morne Botes, Idris Elba, Tom Hardy,Toby Kebbell, Thandie Newton, Karel Roden, Tom Wilkinson) Ritchie is back to his roots ala Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch. Criminal low lifes who are frequently playing solitare with a deck missing at least one card. Snappy dialogue. Convoluted plot with more twists than a rollercoaster that folds back on itself in totally unexpected ways. A droll voice over that sets everything in perspective, at least to the extent that his films can be put into perspective. This one involves land deals, the Russian mob, a gang lord Lenny Cole (Wilkinson) who considers double crossing local boys good for them since it builds character when they end up owing millions to someone who considers knee capping minimal punishment, and his black sheep drug- addicted stepson Johnny Quid (Kebbell) who is a rocker who has managed to die several times (great for sales), a fabulous McGuffin that threads through the entire film, a sexy femme fatale Stella the accountant (Newton) who is to die for (as many will), and a long sought after mole in the local underworld who for decades has been putting the locals away. It is filled with Ritchie dialogue that rolls off the tongues of people who aren't necessarily very bright, but do depend on a glib tongue for survival. In my opinion, the whole doesn't work anywhere near as well as the previous two, but it does have entertaining twists, some rich black humor, and some nearly indestructible Russian heavies. How can you not like a film populated with characters with names like Tank, Fred the Head, Mumbles, One Two, Handsome Bob, and Waster - frequently given with appropriate or facetious meanings. In short an interesting diversion from the tripe that generally fills the theaters. It had an almost vanishingly short run in Charlottesville. As with his earlier films, profane, although the English is easier to understand in this one than the previous two. Beginning Roger & Me (1989) (***, documentary) (D.-Michael Moore) He does know how to put a spin on images. If I ever gave him the time of day, I would be justifiably concerned about how it would be broadcast. Homey, savagely satirical documentary based on closing of GM plant in Flint Michigan with the loss of 40,000 jobs. The basis of the film is Moore's attempt to track down GM chairman, Roger Smith, in order to "explain" what happened to the town. A real piece of Americana. Beginning Romancing the Stone (1984) (***1/2, romantic adventure) (D.-Robert Zemeckis, Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner, Danny DeVito, Zack Norman, Alfonso Arau, Manuel Ojeda) Turner plays a homely wallflower (I know it's hard to believe), but enormously successful woman's romance novelist. She finds herself trying to rescue her sister in South America from conniving low life (one played masterfully by DeVito--the man you love to hate). They are after a map she has, which leads to a fantastic gem. Unfortunately, an evil military officer also covets the gem. The uptight Turner finds herself allied with an arrogant self-centered adventurer, Douglas. On the surface, both characters are ugly ducklings in their own ways. Through shared risk and personal discovery, mutual respect develops, and each discovers the others inner beauty and spirit. Turner's transformation to the self-assured heroine of her own novels and Douglas' change to a prince worthy of Turner is credible and forms the emotional and dramatic core of the movie. Romancing came out shortly after Raiders of the Lost Ark and my first reaction on seeing the previews was "Rip off!" Not so. A delightful, imaginative adventure comedy in its own right. Sharp dialogue and wit, fine action and suspense, excellent villains (both evil and comedic), and outstanding and believable chemistry between Turner and Douglas. A fun evening for all. (2-15-94) Beginning Romeo Is Bleeding (1994) (**1/2, crime drama) (D.-Peter Medak; Gary Oldman, Lena Olin, Annabella Sciorra, Juliette Lewis, Roy Scheider, David Proval, Will Patton, Larry Joshua, James Cromwell, Julia Migenes, Dennis Farina, Ron Perlman) Panned rather viciously by critics, who cannot seem to agree on what was good and bad in the movie. I am more forgiving, but will add yet another interpretation of the high points of the film. Jack Grimaldi (Oldman) is a corrupt cop assigned to the witness protection program. He ends up responsible for the death of his buddies and is given the job by a mobster Don Falcone (Schieder) to eliminate the hit woman Mona (Olin) who was responsible for the killings. The director attempts to play the movie as a black comedy. Olin is over the top with her Mona, as a woman who loves death, destruction, seduction, and killing-and if she can combine all of them in one, so much the better. In my opinion, the movie doesn't work as black humour, as a send off of film noir, or as a good crime drama. What did work for me, and made the movie fascinating to watch and analyze afterwards, was Oldman's interpretation of Jack. Jack is driven by an overactive libido, which makes him a natural mark for Olin, and an obsession with money. He feeds (literally) all of his money into a hole in his backyard. Using it for his pleasure never crosses his mind. He is like the miser whose sole gratification is in looking at his fortune, running his fingers through it, and seeing the pile grow. These two obsessions make him cheat compulsively on his wife and eagerly destroy his respected position as a police officer. As with so many criminals, the consequences of his actions are totally hidden by his need for instant gratification and by a keen sense of rationalization, no matter how divorced from reality. An absolutely fascinating performance that more than compensates for the film's weaknesses. The story is told in a film noir flashback style with a voice overlay by the proprietor of a remote desert filling station. Pay attention to what, and how, you are told. (4-17-95) Beginning Romy And Michele's High School Reunion (1997) (comedy, **1/2) (D.- David Mirkin; Mira Sorvino, Lisa Kudrow, Janeane Garofalo, Alan Cumming, Julia Campbell, Camryn Manheim) Two young air heads, Romy (Sorvino) and Michele (Kudrow), are at the bottom of the food chain and just making it in Los Angeles. They are almost clueless, their lives are on hold. Learning of the upcoming 10 year high school reunion in Tucson brings back many unpleasant memories. However, they would like to go back and see old, but unresponsive, love interests and to learn how those in the "A" group managed. With uncharacteristic imagination, they decide to go back projecting a more upscale image than they have achieved. This subterfuge sets up the last half of the film. The film works because they are not pathetic. While they understand at some level that they aren't much, they still truly enjoy most of their life, and they genuinely like each other. Ultimately, their adaptation and enjoyment is far more than many people with far more brains and money ever achieve. Garofalo, as one of the few really successful people in the class, has a pivotal role in creating defining crises throughout the film. The interplay and timing between Kudrow and Sorvino is perfect. They have the fluid banter of two close friends who can and do complete each other's sentences. Their expressions when a thought actually manages to rise to the surface of their brains is priceless. Kudrow is the less mentally keen of the two and reprises her TV role. Sorvino, who has ably demonstrated her dramatic flair, proves a comedic natural. The viciousness of childhood is brought home through a series of vignettes, which sets the stage for much that happens in the reunion. By the end, everyone has learned something about themselves or about others. For me, the primary weakness of the film is the inability to maintain a consistent comic tone. There is just too much dead space. In summary, Reunion is a throw away no brainer with about as much substance and staying power as Romy and Michele, but I did grin and laugh a fair amount. (5-19-97) Beginning Ronin (1998) (***, action) (4-1-00) (D.-John Frankenheimer; Robert De Niro, Jean Reno, Stellan Skarsgard, Skipp Sudduth, Jan Triska, Natascha McElhone) Ronin were basically the hired guns of feudal Japan. They were samurai whose lords had been killed and they roamed the land taking on jobs as available. Our group of international killers who assemble in Paris at the beginning are their modern counterparts. I won't go into detail as much of the fun is learning about the characters, discovering their relationships with each other, and watching the labyrinthic plot unravel. Suffice it to say that it involves crosses, double crosses, multiple crosses, murder, mayhem and action. Do keep an eye on the critical briefcase. The plot is driven by everyone wanting it, but are the contents important? Frankenheimer is a talented filmmaker and Ronin shows it. The all-star cast is first rate with De Niro and Reno being in top form. However, Ronin is style over substance. Don't analyze the plot. Just go along for the ride. Ronin is filled with beautifully choreographed setup and action scenes and great character interactions. Review based on the excellent DVD release. As interesting as the film is, I found the DVD track of the film with the director's voice-over comments fascinating. The director commented on why and how different scenes in the film were set up along with anecdotes about the film. It turns out the scene where the two men go over the railing in the coliseum was not planned; the two stunt men got a bit too rambunctious. They weren't wearing any padding and were lucky to escape with no serious injuries, but it looks great. You also get to see the several endings filmed and can pick the one you like. The film also has a couple of continuity errors that we caught. In the coliseum the pursued loses his glasses in a fall and keeps running without picking them up; how convenient that he is wearing them moments later and the director avoided pointing this out. In another scene the gang's car is racing surreptitiously towards a rendezvous--going the wrong way down a narrow one way street. Actually, this may not be an error; the director may just have liked the balance of the car barreling down a single lane with cars parked on either side pointing in the opposite direction. So if you are interested in a stylish actioner and can check your credulity at the door, give Ronin view. Beginning Rope (1948) (***1/2, suspense) (9-6-99) (D.-Alfred Hitchcock; James Stewart, John Dall, Farley Granger, Cedric Hardwicke, Joan Chandler, Constance Collier, Douglas Dick) Only Hitchcock would have the audacity to conceive such a film. Only Hitchcock would have the studio clout to make such a film. And only Hitchcock could pull it off. This is Hitchcock's first color film and it is an experiment. Hitchcock wanted to make the film in 10 minute, unbroken segments--the running time of one film cassette. NO post-film editing! NO cuts! The story: for the thrill, and to show how clever they are, two young men (Dahl, Granger) plan to kill an old schoolmate and then host his family and friends to a dinner party to be served over the hidden corpse. Based on the real-life Leopold-Loeb murder case from Patrick Hamilton's play. Among the guests is their smug, eccentric past professor (Stewart). Does it work? I think so! The editing is done in the set up and camera movements, and it is amazingly fluid and efficient at telling the story. The acting is excellent. Dall, in particular, as the dominant partner is coolly malevolent as he controls the evening and keeps his weaker partner (Granger) under control. Stewart plays a rather unsympathetic character; he wanted this part to deliberately help break his post-war hero goodie-goodie image. His character's growing puzzlement and amazement as he realizes his complete misreading of human nature is very realistic. The timing is incredible. There is one scene where the action is synchronized to a swinging door. Now for some details. It was a nightmare for the actors and everyone else involved. Since nothing could be edited, a single error in a shot meant it had to be completely redone. They never managed more than one shot per day. The floor had countless cues for directing the actors' action. Since, even in '48, the cameras were pretty massive (a special one was developed for the film), the walls and furniture had to move in and out of the way as the scene progressed. Hitchcock claimed that the movements were so quiet that the vocal was actually recorded live. In fact, Stewart claimed at least some of the scenes were post dubbed by the actors because of noise. This was the first film of which I am aware that unfolded in REAL time. High Noon is the classic where time is a character in the film. A major portion of the Rope set was the New York skyline in the background, and the story is set in the evening as the sun sets. The back drop was a magnificent 35' mural. 5 miles of wires, 8000 light bulbs, 250 neon signs, and 126 kW of power were used to light up the building and skyline as the evening progressed. The color of the lighting had to change as the sun set. All of this was worked out in great detail with a timing schedule of what happened exactly when. Further, there were clouds in the sky. These were spun glass and were also moved in a carefully programmed schedule during the periods when the camera was not viewing them. Hitchcock ultimately recognized that this approach was antithetical to all of his editing rules and styles. To get the sound right for the people in the distance at the end, Hitchcock had the microphone mounted 6 stories up and had a group of people at ground level respond to the shot. For the approaching police sirens, the sound people just wanted to use a stock siren and vary the level. This was unacceptable to Hitchcock, who had them hire an ambulance and have it approach the microphone, siren running, starting two miles away. Was it a complete success? It was after all very uncinematic. Stewart probably summed it up best. "I think he realized later that giving up the device of the cut was giving up the tools for pacing, for impact. It was worth the trying--nobody but Hitch would have tried it. But it really didn't work." So check out Rope and decide for yourself. Details from Truffaut's Hitchcock and The Dark Side of Genius: The Life of Alfred Hitchcock by Donald Spoto, 1983 (Ballatine Books). Beginning Rope of Sand (1949) (**1/2, drama, adventure) (D.-William Dieterle, Burt Lancaster, Paul Henreid, Corinne Calvet, Claude Rains, Peter Lorre, Sam Jaffe, John Bromfield, Mike Mazurki) Solid, although dated story of intrigue in a company controlled diamond field in Africa. Lancaster is a returning guide who wants payback for his brutal treatment years earlier and basically will stop at nothing to get it. Lancaster is a bit slow for reasons of plot development and the love interest is rather unrealistic, but cinematography (the stunning opening for example), crisp action, and the believable tension between savage, but intelligent, security officer and refined but pragmatic company official (Henreid and Rains) rings true. The desert is Arizona, not Africa. The outstanding sandstorm fight was originally staged during a real standstorm. It was so thick that the actors had to have their mouths rinsed out every few minutes. Trust me, they really do get that thick; sometimes you cannot see more than a few feet. What realism! What exploitation of raw nature! Too bad after everyones' work, the filming just didn't look right, and what you see was actually restaged on a sound set. (6-27-94) Beginning Rosemary's Baby (1968) (****, classic, horror) (orgininal review much earlier, reprinted 9-18-00) (D-Roman Polanski, Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes, Ruth Gordon) Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the video store, someone cons you into renting a baby movie. Subtly scripted story of the seduction of innocence by Satan. The snake couldn't have done a better job. Oh, how respectfully dressed and amiable comes the end of the world. An unsuspecting young wife is drawn inexorably into becoming the receptacle for the Anti-Christ. A believably shocking ending. Outstanding performances (Gordon got Best Supporting Actress Oscar), pacing, and plot. In contrast to much horror, a great deal of this one is set in well lighted, "safe" places. Again, don't let its age fool you. It will be a long time after the movie before your muscles loosen up. A must see. Beginning Rounders (1998) (***1/2, drama) (D.-D.-John Dahl; Matt Damon, Edward Norton, John Malkovich, Gretchen Mol, John Turturro, Martin Landau) Rounders is a taut, well-acted film about poker and life. Mike (Damon) pretty much has it all with a beautiful girlfriend and a promising future as a lawyer. He also has a compulsive bent for poker at which he is very good. We see a full range of types. Marks at the Atlantic City gaming tables might as well be carrying signs saying "take me". Knish (Turturro) is a technician who plays it safe and tight and makes a very good living. Worm (Norton) is the adrenalized risk taker who pushes the situation until it is on the edge--or over it. He is the closest to the true "lose everything" addict we see, but even he is as much a con man as a true addict. Matt falls in between Knish and Worm; he likes the adrenaline, but generally doesn't like to take irrational risks. However, he likes the adrenaline too much to keep what he has. Teddy KGB (Malkovich) is the gang-connected, high stakes gambling master, who ends up with his hooks in Matt and Worm. Jo (Mol) is the girlfriend who understands Matt's words of wisdom and knows when to fold. It is fascinating to watch Worm play Matt for what Worm lusts after--another adrenaline fix. Worm is truly dangerous. He doesn't care who goes down with him. Matt is interesting to watch as he makes bad decisions based on perceived friendship and his own need for that adrenaline rush, albeit more subdued than Worm's. But he does know what he is doing--"I know all the reasons I shouldn't be here." KGB is likewise a manipulator and one can reasonably doubt whether his final outburst is real or just an attempt to sway others' long-term behavior. Landau is Matt's professor, who make the pivotal observation "What choice? Destiny chooses us." This really isn't true, people like Matt and Worm create their own destiny in response to their needs, but to them it looks and feels like destiny. We get a lot of insight into gambling, the tricks and the psychology. The recent The Negotiator provided minitutorials on lying and negotiating in much the same way Rounders does on poker. Also, in terms of the psychology of risk taking, Rounders has a lot in common with the excellent House of Games. In Rounders there is a great scene where a group of New York sharks discover themselves at the same table in Atlantic City. If they had wanted to play each other they wouldn't have left New York. And do their eyes light up when fresh blood sits down. As Matt says, they didn't help or hurt each other, but "It was like the Nature Channel. You don't see piranha eating each other." The film is taut and well shot. The sound track and music perfect. The cast and acting is excellent. The plot is somewhat contrived, but we are really interested here in the characters' response to the unfolding situation. In spite of the claustrophobic structure, Rounders is best viewed on a big screen. Film Facts: http://us.imdb.com/Title?Rounders+(1998) (9-21-98) Beginning Rounders, The (1965) (**1/2, western, comedy) (D.- Burt Kennedy; Glenn Ford, Henry Fonda, Sue Ane Langdon, Hope Holiday, Chill Wills, Edgar Buchanan, Kathleen Freeman) Charming bit of fluff about two cowboys (Ford, Fonda). These two losers know exactly where they stand in the grand scheme of things, and still manage to enjoy life to the hilt. They could be more, they could do more, and they know it. However, there are just all those other things that keep getting in the way. During a six-month slice of their life, one of these things is a contrary saddle horse that surely inherited some of its genes froms Mephistopheles himself. Throw in midnight skinny dipping with a couple of exotic dancers, a few other subplots, and an off the wall assortment of characters and you have a fun 85 minutes without any redeeming social value or offense. However, the two cowpokes wouldn't have wanted it any other way. (10-3-94) Beginning Roxanne (1987) (**1/2, comedy, romance) (D.-Fred Schepisi; Steve Martin, Daryl Hannah, Rick Rossovich, Shelley Duvall, John Kapelos, Fred Willard, Max Alexander, Damon Wayans) Yet another charmingly light weight modern variation on Cyrano De Bergerac. Martin is the respected and honored fire chief in small ski town (actually beautiful Nelson, B.C.). His brash articulate exterior (his bar put down of a rude drinker is a beauty) is just one way of covering up his enormous insecurity over his schnozzle (nose, even huge nose, does not do it justice). Martin brings in an expert (Rossovich) to train his ineptly eccentric fire crew. Astronomer Hannah (Roxanne) arrives to catch a comet and instantly enchants both men. Rossovich is crude and does nothing for her until bashful Martin starts coaching him as his proxy. The path of true love is never smooth and with Martin's prime opposition vying for her affection with Martin's able assistance, it could hardly get harder. Roxanne is a bit more frenetic and physical than Cats & Dogs and has a more complex cast of misfits (ignoring the turtle), but the travails and complications are instantly recognizable. The cast, especially the principals, are pleasant and their chemistry works. Not a knee slapper but a steady stream of smiles through the human suffering to the satisfactory resolution. (5-20-96) Beginning Royal Flash (1975) (***, action, humor) (D.-Richard Lester; Malcolm McDowell, Alan Bates, Florinda Bolkan, Oliver Reed, Britt Ekland, Lionel Jeffries, Tom Bell, Alastair Sim) Recently shown on cable. To call Captain Harry Fleshman (McDowell) a worthless bounder, an opportunist, a womanizer, and a coward would do him an injustice. Fleshman has raised all of these to an art form. Due to a fortuitous and misinterpreted disaster, Harry is also a celebrated military hero. In Victorian England Fleshman crosses swords, among other things, with a hair brush wielding opera singer (Bolkan), Otto Von Bismark (Reed), a queen in need of a husband (Ekland), and an iron fisted (literally) henchman (Jeffries) to name only a few. McDowell is perfect as the quick talking, charmingly boyish Fleshman who can turn into a quivering coward in a heart beat. However, he is not above rising to heroic heights--although not always for heroic reasons. The cast is excellent. The humor ranges from droll to slapstick. Jolly good fun where everyone looks like they are having a grand time. Script by George MacDonald Fraser, from his novel. (8-25-97) Beginning Rules Of Engagement (2000) (***, war, drama) (4-10-00) (D.-William Friedkin; Tommy Lee Jones, Samuel L. Jackson, Guy Pearce, Philip Baker Hall, Ben Kingsley, Bruce Greenwood, Anne Archer) My *** rating is given grudgingly. Read on. Rules is both a brutal war actioner and a suspense courtroom drama. Colonels Hays Hodge (Jones) and Terry Childers (Jackson) have a very close connection dating back to the Vietnam War as we discover from the opening minutes. Spring forward to the present. Childers has become the Marine warrior's warrior. Hodge has managed a painful stay in the Marines. Childers is involved in a disastrous raid to extricate Ambassador Mourain (Kingsley) and his family from the embattled embassy in Yemen. The dead and dying has created a media disaster that necessitates a scapegoat for the government, and Childers is it. This leads to the courtroom drama with Major Biggs (Pearce) as the gung ho prosecuting attorney who wants justice and the clearing of the Marine Corp. name opposed to Hodges, a mediocre lawyer, an ex-drunk, and a total cynic. But a man who owes everything to Childers. The theme of Rules can be summarized in one line from the film. "We all have our priorities". Everyone in Rules has their priorities and acts on them. Human beings are messy creatures and the conflicting and overlapping priorities form the tapestry of the film. Virtually everyone in the film has to make painful choices and live with the consequences. No one at the end will remain untouched by their, and others', actions. While the film clearly has it own spin on the actions of the principals, it does not give clean answers to some of the complex moral dilemmas presented. Many of the things that transpired are left like open wounds to be worried over and discussed later. The film does not give your clean dramatic Hollywood ending to the courtroom scene. I consider this a plus and more realistic. Others are upset by the lack of clean closure or, perhaps, left without the satisfaction of seeing an on-screen comeuppance. Regardless of whether you like the theme, the acting is superb. Jones and Jackson are stellar, always a pleasure to watch. The chemistry between these two men bound by blood is exceptional. So what didn't I like? In my opinion the director did not play fair with his audience. After building the entire film around one set of images, he changes the ground rules. Unfair. In spite of this, in my opinion, major transgression, the acting and the overall story more than make up for it. Be forewarned, the film has scenes of great violence and extraordinarily disturbing images that it likes to revisit often. Beginning Runaway Train (1985) (***1/2, action, drama) (D.-Andrei Konchalovsky; Jon Voight, Eric Roberts, Rebecca De Mornay, Kyle Heffner, John P. Ryan, T.K. Carter, Kenneth McMillan, Stacey Pickren) Based on the screenplay by Akira Kurosawa and shows the master's touches. A brutal, taut, thinking person's action film that was much underrated at the box office. Two convicts escape from a maximum security Alaskan prison in the dead of winter, hide on an engine, and then try to survive when the train breaks loose and runs away across the Alaskan tundra. Superb cinematography, heart stopping action, fine acting. The life and death problems of the humans are juxtaposed against the real star of the film, the train, coupled with the Alaskan winter, in which man was not intended to survive. The engine is tons of implacable, enormously powerful, gray, ice encrusted steel with no exterior signs of humanity but an engine number. To the train, the survival of the trapped humans is no more important than that of flies as it thunders inexorably towards destruction. Beginning Run Lola Run (1998) (fantasy, crime, ***1/2) (12-13-99) (D. and W.- Tom Tykwer; Franka Potente, Moritz Bleibtreu, Herbert Knaup, Armin Rohde, Joachim Krol) Opening with a frenetically fractured view of our world, we are presented with a statement and a question: "Always the same question. Always the same answer?" Lola addresses a life and death question with multiple answers. Set to an insinuating techno pop sound track, marginalized Lola (Potente) tries to save her worthless boy friend, Manni (Bleibtreu), who has lost a gangster's 100,000 Deutsch Marks. She has only 20 minutes. And to do so, she has to run--the woman is in marvelous shape. Oh, did I forget to mention that when all doesn't go so well, she gets additional shots at making life come out right? And with each replay, things unravel a little bit differently. The film is almost continuous action. The set up is a bit slow, but this is necessary to set the rhythm and flow, and the plot line, which allows you to anticipate what will happen in the replays. The film is hyperkinetic and high spirited. I found myself totally wired by the end. Lola is full of twists and turns. It is alternately funny, brutal, surrealistic. I won't give any plot away, but I will warn you that you have to watch each play very closely. Subtle, but significant, changes appear without warning. Life or death hangs on seconds different in timing. In summary, I really enjoyed Lola. The energy, the action, the visuals, the music, the twists, the suspense were delightful. And it makes for good post-viewing discussion. For example, how much of anything did she remember from try to try? Everyone looks like they are having a good time. In German with respectable subtitles that are not a detriment to your enjoyment. Just remember, "We all have our bad days." Lola is not, however, a mainstream film; you were warned. Beginning Running Man, The (1987) (**1/2, sci fi, action) (7-23-04) (D.- Paul Michael Glaser; Arnold Schwarzenegger, Maria Conchita Alonso, Richard Dawson, Yaphet Kotto, Jim Brown,  Jesse Ventura, Erland Van Lidth, Marvin J. McIntyre, Gus Rethwisch, Professor Toru Tanaka) Solid grade B escapist entertainment. Why do you go to film like this? If it is acting, subtlety, and style, you are in the wrong theater. How about mindless entertainment? Bingo. Running Man delivers a healthy dose of Saturday evening escapism along with a dose of satire. Not much else, but then that is all that it promises. A mixture of Bladerunner, Death Race 2000, and Soylent Green.   A totalitarian government manages to control a starving population with a mixture of force and the ultimate TV game show, The Running Man. The contestants are turned loose and everyone gets to watch them being hunted down by five (if necessary) of the nastiest brutes (Fireball, Captain Freedom, Dynamo, Buzzsaw and Subzero) you could find. If you survive long enough, you get an all expense paid lifetime vacation to paradise. If you lose, you are lucky to fit into a coffin. Cop Ben Richards  (Schwarzenegger) discovers the hard way how corrupt and manipulated the system is that ends with a once in a lifetime opportunity to star as the principal in The Running Man. The show is hosted by real emcee Damon Killian ( Dawson ) playing in effect himself. In a very unflattering way this is the role of a lifetime where the excesses of modern TV are scathingly revealed. Running Man was before the current crop of reality TV shows, but we could see it coming even then, and such visionaries as Robert Scheckley wrote about it years ago. Indeed, Running Man could easily have been written by him 50 years ago, although the film is based on the novel by Richard Bachman (Stephen King). The violence is moderately graphic. The satire is scathing as Dawson strives for still higher point rating and doesn’t care what happens to anyone who gets in the way. Arnie is up to his usual one liners and his foil, Amber (Alonso), is excellent although as portrayed, is an amazingly idealistic newswoman who still hasn’t gotten it. But she is about to. Their chemistry is good. The action sequences are entertaining, although ultimately a bit repetitious. Everyone does a respectable job with Dawson being depressingly believable. Here is the ultimate merging of game shows and reality shows. Also, the film makes the point, even more important today than when it came out, that photographic proof – isn’t! Can it happen? In 1987, I’d have thought probably not. Today, I am much less sanguine.  For a classic Robert Scheckley story on this sort of game show check out http://www.scifi.com/scifiction/classics/classics_archive/sheckley5/sheckley51.html Run Silent, Run Deep (1958) (***, war, drama) (6-24-02) (D.- Robert Wise; Clark Gable, Burt Lancaster, Jack Warden, Brad Dexter, Don Rickles) This looks like a WWII submarine picture, but it actually has deeper roots in Moby Dick. Commander Richardson (Gable) has his submarine sunk out from under him in the death trap of the Bungo Straits by an exceptionally capable Japanese destroyer, the Akakazi. Chained to a desk in Pearl, he longs for revenge. He gets his opportunity and makes Lieutenant Jim Bledsoe (Lancaster) his second in command. There is an ongoing conflict between the two men especially as the Ahab portion of Gable asserts itself. How many is he willing to sacrifice on the alter of his great white whale, and how will the first mate and crew react? Well acted, taut action sequences, and an intriguing plot line make for an entertaining evening. Rickles is barely recognizable in his dramatic role. The effects are amazingly good, although the submarine shots don’t always match up. Review based on the excellent wide screen Turner Classic Movies showing. According to Robert Osbourne, this is the only role Gable had that didn’t involve a romance. Also, contrary to the on-screen antagonism of Gable and Lancaster, they got along extremely well. Beginning Rush (1991) (**1/2, drama) (D.-Lili Fini Zanuck, Jason Patric, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Sam Elliott, Max Perlich, Gregg Allman) First directorial effort by Zanuck is gritty, brutal, and atmospheric. When you exit you feel like you need a shower. Fine cast helps make weak crime drama touching and believable. Undercover cops Patric and his new partner Leigh infiltrate a big local drug scene possibly ruled by the almost nonspeaking Allman, whose mere presence still overshadows everyone. Patric is one of those brassy young men who views himself as indestructible. To get into the inner circles, he is willing to take drugs to prove he is not a narc. As many others, he is sure that addiction is merely a state of mind that affects only the weakand that certainly doesn't include him. For him, a few nights of soaked sheets and no problem. Addiction and dragging his partner down with him turn out to be only some of his problems. He should have remembered: Whoever fights monsters should see to it in the process he does not become a monster. (Friederich Nietsche) Patric and Leigh's descent into hell is painfully believable; indeed, it is hard to see how undercover narcs don't all fall prey to this malady. Perlich does a fine supporting role as a small time dealer trapped in the middle who eventually develops a set of ethics he can believe in. Nastily appropriate score by Eric Clapton. (7-19-94) Beginning Rushmore (1999) (**, drama, humor?) (6-7-99) (D.-Wes Anderson; Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Olivia Williams, Seymour Cassel, Mason Gamble) Max (Schwartzman) is a 16 year old student at Rushmore, a prep school. He is very bright, but unfocused. He wants to, and does do, everything but study. And he is even good at these things since he puts all his energy into them. He is managing to squeak by with his wits and by being a masterful manipulator. He is also on fellowship since his father is a barber (Cassel). However, the headmaster (Cox) has finally had it and puts him on "sudden death" warning. Max falls for the attractive kindergarten teacher, Miss Cross (Williams), as does local steel magnate Blume (Murray) whom Max is manipulating to get to Cross. Max is a manipulator, but Cross isn't interested, which leads Max to increasingly fixate on her and brings the film to near tragedy. The biggest problem with the film was focus, Max's problem. Was it comedy? A tragedy? A teenage angst film? It seemed like it wanted to be The Graduate for the 90s, but Max wasn't Dustin Hoffman and the situations weren't comparable. Indeed, at times, with his intellect and cunning, he was just plain scary. Murray's character was in its own way equally immature, and I never warmed up to him either. Ultimately, the film just doesn't know where it wants to go, and by the end it was a mess. Beginning Ruthless People (1986) (***, comedy) (D.-Jim Abrahams; Jerry Zucker, David Zucker; Danny DeVito, Bette Midler, Judge Reinhold, Helen Slater, Anita Morris) A philandering tycoon, a shrewish wife (Midler makes Katrina in The Taming of Shrew a sympathetic character), and a blackmailing mistress for openers. DeVito, who had been planning to murder his wife finds his prayers answered when a young couple, down on their luck, kidnap the wife and threaten to kill her if he does not pay up--which of course he won't. Unfortunately for him, they wouldn't harm a hair on her head. The plot revolves around the interactions and transformations of most of those involved. Everyone gets what they deserve, but not necessarily what they believe they deserve. DeVito is priceless as the Machiavellian tycoon who merrily shafts a wrong number caller with the same gleeful enthusiasm that he plots the demise of his wife. Midler's transformation from dumpy spoiled witch (pity the poor kidnappers) to reasonable human being is fun to watch and believable. (2-22-93) Beginning
i don't know
What unit of measure was once defined as the length of three grains of barley laid end to end?
Conversion Calculator / Conversion Calculator Conversion Calculator Use this conversion calculator to convert between the most common units. A full list of unit converters is available at unitconverters.net . conversion calculator To: Measuring Weight and Distance Why do countries use different systems of measuring weight and distance? The reason is because, historically, a variety of systems for measure and weight evolved in different geographical regions. The use of pounds and ounces in England and the U.S. to measure weight goes back a long way in history. Systems of Measuring Weight In the eighth and ninth centuries of the Common Era, Arab civilization flourished in the Middle East and Spain. The Arabs were skilled mathematicians, and they used coins as units of weight – a minted coin could not easily be cut or shaved to reduce its weight. The Arabs used a coin called a silver Dirhem as the basic measure of weight – it was roughly equivalent to 45 grains of barley. Ten dirhems made a "wukryeh," and this was translated into Latin – the language used in most of Europe – as an "uncia." That's where we get the word for "ounce." The Arabs traded with all the countries of Europe. In the "Hansa" cities of northern Germany, a region of great shipbuilding and trading, a pound was established as equal to sixteen ounces, or 7200 grains of silver. This was the standard adopted in Great Britain in the eight century, but King Offa, who ruled the country at the time, ran out of silver! So he reduced the pound to 5400 grains of silver, and it stayed that way until the Norman King William came from France and conquered England. King William set up samples of the pound and the ounce in the Tower of London, where he could be sure they wouldn't be tampered with. Anglo-Saxon countries have used pounds and ounces ever since to measure weight. The British pound sterling, or GBP, was equal to one pound weight of silver in King Offa's time. But, when Queen Elizabeth I ruled England in the 16th century, the Avoirdupois weight system was adopted. This was a form of measure traditonally based on the weight of coal. The name derives ultimately from French avoir de pois ("goods of weight" or "property"). The avoirdupois pound contains 7,000 grains, or 256 drams of 27.344 grains each, or 16 ounces of 437 1/2 grains each. It is used for all products not subject to apothecaries' weight (for pharmaceutical items) or troy weight (for precious metals). Since 1959 the avoirdupois pound has been officially defined in most English-speaking countries as 0.45359237 kilograms. In Asia, very different systems of measuring weight evolved. In Ancient India, a measure of weight called the "Satamana" was equal to the weight of 100 Gunja berries. In China, the first emperor Shi Huang Di created a system of weights and measures in the third century Before the Common Era. The basic weight was called the shi, and was fixed at about 60 kilograms (132 pounds); the two basic measurements, the Chi and the Zhang, were set at about 25 centimeters (9.8 inches) and 3 metres (9.8 feet), respectively. And the Chinese came up with a special way to ensure accuracy. A special size of bowl was used for measurements, and it not only had to be of a certain size, but, when you struck it, it had to make a specific sound. If it didn't hit the right pitch, the measurement was off. The Metric System – Weight and Distance Together In Europe, the modern metric system was developed first in France by two astronomers, Jean-Baptiste Delambre, and Pierre Mechain, at the end of the 17th century. Based on their labors, in 1790, the Prince de Talleyrand proposed a bill to the French Assembly to establish the metric system as the unified system of measurement for the country. The French National Academy of Sciences was tasked with its definition. The Academy created a system that was, at once, simple and scientific. The unit of length was to be a portion of the Earth's circumference. Measures for volume were to be derived from the unit of length, thus relating the basic units of the system to each other and to nature. What made the system particularly attractive was that larger and smaller multiples of each unit were to be created by multiplying or dividing by 10 and its powers. This made it very easy to use. The Commission assigned the name meter to the unit of length. This name was derived from the Greek word metron, meaning "a measure." The physical standard representing the meter was to be constructed so that it would equal one ten-millionth of the distance from the North Pole to the equator along the meridian running near Dunkirk in France and Barcelona in Spain. The initial metric unit of weight, the "gram," was defined as the mass of one cubic centimeter (a cube that is 0.01 meter on each side) of water at its temperature of maximum density. A kilogram is a thousand grams. The cubic decimeter (a cube 0. 1 meter on each side) was chosen as the unit for capacity. The fluid volume measurement for the cubic decimeter was given the name "liter." By 1900, a total of 35 nations -- including the major nations of continental Europe and most of South America -- had officially accepted the metric system. The U.S. is one notable exception. Systems of Measuring Distance The same is true of the U.S. in its use of the "mile," as opposed to the kilometer (a thousand meters). The U.K. officially recognizes the kilometer, but if you buy a car there, the spedometer will give the speed in miles per hour. The mile and the foot all come to us from ancient Rome, where measurements were based on the number 12. For example, the 12 divisions of the Roman "pes," or foot were called unciae. Our words "inch" and, as we have seen, "ounce" are both derived from that Latin word. The Latin word "mila," on the other hand, was based on the measure of one thousand paces by a Roman legion. The mile today is equal to 1,760 yards (approximately 1.609 kilometers). It was adopted in England by Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th century. The "yard" as a measure of length can be traced back to early kings of England. They wore a piece of clothing around the waist that could be removed and used as a convenient measuring device. The word "yard" comes from the Saxon word "gird" meaning the circumference of a person's waist. Using the Calculator Choose on the left side the unit you wish for conversion, and on the right side, the unit you wish to convert to.
Inch, Edinburgh
What opium addicted English poet, who died on July 25, 1834, wrote such works as The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, Christabel, and Kubla Kahn?
inched : definition of inched and synonyms of inched (English) 8 References   Usage The inch is a commonly used customary unit of length in the United States , [1] Canada , [2] [3] and the United Kingdom . [4] For the United Kingdom , guidance on public sector use states that since 1 October 1995, without time limit, that the inch (along with the mile, yard and foot) is to be used as a primary unit for road signs and related measurements of distance and speed and may continue to be used as a secondary or supplementary indication following a metric measurement for other purposes. [4]   Measuring tape calibrated in 32nds of an inch   International inch From July 1, 1959, the United States and countries of the British Commonwealth defined the length of the international yard to be exactly 0.9144 metres . [5] [6] Consequently, the international inch is defined as exactly 25.4 millimetres . This creates a slight difference between the international units and American surveyor's units which are described in the article on the foot . The international standard symbol for inch is in (see ISO 31-1 , Annex A). In some cases, the inch is denoted by a double prime , which is often approximated by double quotes , and the foot by a prime , which is often approximated by an apostrophe . For example three feet two inches can be written as 3′ 2″.   Equivalence to other units of length   Mid-19th century tool for converting between different standards of the inch 1 international inch is equal to: 100 points ((1 point = 0.01 inches), as used by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology for measuring rainfall before 1974. [7] 1,000 thou (also known as mil) (1 mil = 1 thou = 0.001 inches) 1,000,000 microinches (1 μin is one millionth of an inch.) ≈ 0.02778 yards (1 yard is equal to 36 inches.) 2.54 centimetres (1 centimetre ≈ 0.3937 international inches.)   Historical origin The English word inch comes from Latin uncia meaning "one twelfth part" (in this case, one twelfth of a foot); the word ounce (one twelfth of a troy pound) has the same origin. The vowel change from u to i is umlaut ; the consonant change from c (pronounced as k) to ch is palatalization (see Old English phonology ). In some other languages, the word for "inch" is similar to or the same as the word for "thumb"; for example, French : pouce inch/thumb; Italian : pollice inch/thumb; Spanish : pulgada inch, pulgar thumb; Portuguese : polegada inch, polegar thumb; Swedish : tum inch, tumme thumb; Dutch : duim inch/thumb; Sanskrit : angulam inch, anguli finger; Slovak : palec inch/thumb; Hungarian : hüvelyk inch/thumb, Danish and Norwegian : tomme / tommer inch/inches and tommel thumb. Given the etymology of the word "inch", it would seem that the inch is a unit derived from the Foot unit in Latin in Roman times. King David I of Scotland in his Assize of Weights and Measures (c. 1150) is said to have defined the Scottish inch as the width of an average man's thumb at the base of the nail, even including the requirement to calculate the average of a small, a medium, and a large man's measures. [8] However, the oldest surviving manuscripts date from the early 14 century and appear to have been altered with the inclusion of newer material. [9] The earliest known reference to the inch in England is from the Laws of Æthelberht dating to the early 7th century, surviving in a single manuscript from 1120. [10] Paragraph LXVII sets out the fine for wounds of various depths: one inch, one shilling, two inches, two shillings, etc. "Gif man þeoh þurhstingð, stice ghwilve vi scillingas. Gife ofer ynce, scilling. æt twam yncum, twegen. ofer þry, iii scill." [11] [12] An Anglo-Saxon unit of length was the barleycorn . After 1066, 1 inch was equal to 3 barleycorn, which continued to be its legal definition for several centuries, with the barleycorn being the base unit. [13] One of the earliest such definitions is that of 1324, where the legal definition of the inch was set out in a statute of Edward II of England , defining it as "three grains of barley , dry and round, placed end to end, lengthwise". [13] Similar definitions are recorded in both English and Welsh medieval law tracts. [14] One, dating from the first half of the 10th century, is contained in the Laws of Hywel Dda which superseded those of Dyvnwal , an even earlier definition of the inch in Wales. Both definitions, as recorded in Ancient Laws and Institutes of Wales (vol i., pp. 184,187,189), are that "three lengths of a barleycorn is the inch". [15] Charles Butler, a mathematics teacher at Cheam School , in 1814 recorded the old legal definition of the inch to be "three grains of sound ripe barley being taken out the middle of the ear, well dried, and laid end to end in a row", and placed the barleycorn, not the inch, as the base unit of the English Long Measure system, from which all other units were derived. [16] John Bouvier similarly recorded in his 1843 law dictionary that the barleycorn was the fundamental measure. [17] Butler observed, however, that "[a]s the length of the barley-corn cannot be fixed, so the inch according to this method will be uncertain", noting that a standard inch measure was now (by his time) kept in the Exchequer chamber, Guildhall, and that was the legal definition of the inch. [16] This was a point also made by George Long in his 1842 Penny Cyclopædia , observing that standard measures had since surpassed the barleycorn definition of the inch, and that to recover the inch measure from its original definition, in the event that the standard measure were destroyed, would involve the measurement of large numbers of barleycorns and taking their average lengths. He noted that this process would not perfectly recover the standard, since it might introduce errors of anywhere between one hundredth and one tenth of an inch in the definition of a yard. [18] Before the adoption of the international inch (see above), the United Kingdom and most countries of the British Commonwealth defined the inch in terms of the Imperial Standard Yard . But Canada had its own, different, definition of the inch, defined in terms of metric units . The Canadian inch was defined to be equal to 25.4 millimetres , the amount later accepted as the international inch.   Metric or decimal inch Further information: List of strange units of measurement#Metric inch and Metric foot A metric inch (25 mm instead of 25.4 mm) was the equivalent of an inch under a former proposal for the metrification and unification of the English system of measures. In Sweden , between 1855 to 1863, the existing Swedish "working inch" of ≈24.74 mm was replaced by a "decimal inch" of ≈29.69 mm which was one tenth of the Swedish foot. Proponents argued that a decimal system simplifies calculations. However, having two different Swedish inch measures (and the English inch on top of that) proved to be complicated. So in a transition period between 1878 and 1889 the metric units were introduced as the overall standard measures. However, the various inches survived some time in building and construction trades.   Scottish inch A Scottish inch ( Scottish Gaelic : òirleach) was a Scottish measurement of length. It equals 1/12 ft in Scottish measures , and 1.0016 inches in imperial units (about 2.5441 cm). [19] It was used in the popular expression Gie 'im an inch, an he'll tak an ell, in English "Give him an inch and he'll take an ell", first published as "For when I gave you an inch, you tooke an ell," by John Heywood in 1546. [20] (The ell , equal to 37 inches or about 94 cm, was in use in England until 1685.) [21] A Scottish square inch was equivalent to 1.0256 imperial square inches and 6.4516 square centimetres.   See also
i don't know
What's missing: Australian Open, US Open, Wimbledon
What awaits Serena at the US Open? - The Championships, Wimbledon 2017 - Official Site by IBM What awaits Serena at the US Open? Wimbledon.com looks at what Serena can expect to face, and what we can expect from her at the US Open. READ MORE By Mark Hodgkinson It's the vulnerability that makes the Serena Williams narrative so compelling this summer. Even more compelling than during last year's US Open when the same player was presented - before she ran into Roberta Vinci in the semi-finals - as Serena The Invincible.  Of course, this isn't the first time in her tennis life that Williams has looked a little shaky, but now the uncertainty has hit just as she seeks to confirm her place as the greatest in history. After winning this summer's Wimbledon to put herself level with Steffi Graf's record, the dominant figure of this generation has the opportunity at the US Open to become the first woman of the professional era to score 23 Grand Slam singles titles. But she is hardly going to be walking out into the Arthur Ashe Stadium wearing the cloak of invincibility (a Nike dress will have to suffice).  Not when she has only won two matches since defeating Germany's Angelique Kerber in the Wimbledon final. Missing from the North American WTA hard-court swing because of a shoulder injury, Williams did compete at the Olympic tennis tournament, but she only made it through a couple of rounds before she was beaten by Ukraine's Elina Svitolina, producing a performance littered with double-faults. 186 Williams is guaranteed to tie Steffi Graf's record for the most consecutive weeks spent as the world No.1  The result is that Williams, who has been the world No.1 since February 2013, has found her alpha status under threat from Kerber. But for Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic, who defeated Kerber in the Cincinnati final, the German would be heading into the final Grand Slam of the year at the top of the standings, and Williams would have been bumped down to beta, seeded second at her home slam.  Once you add the US Open fortnight to the tally, Williams will have spent 186 consecutive weeks as the No.1, which will equal Graf's record. But it is by no means certain that she will leave New York on the top line of that list. Kerber could replace her, as could Spain's Garbine Muguruza and Poland's Agnieszka Radwanska (though Kerber is much better placed, since she is only defending third-round points from last year). For many, the ideal finish to the Grand Slam year would see Williams and Kerber meet in the final, as in that scenario they would be playing for the No.1 ranking as well as for the title. After their meetings in the Australian Open and Wimbledon finals - Kerber was the champion in Melbourne, while Williams triumped at the All England Club - this is starting to look like something that has been missing for so long at the top of the women's game: a genuine rivalry.  You might say that Williams' vulnerabilities have never been as exposed to the wider tennis world, and to the public, as they are right now. In part, that's thanks to an all-access documentary, recently aired, that followed her last season as she attempted to become the first player since Graf in 1988 to accomplish the calendar-year Grand Slam. Undefeated in Melbourne, Paris and London, she came unstuck against Vinci in one of the greatest upsets in tennis history, which left her "in a dark hole". It's a different landscape for Williams this season. After defeats in the Australian Open and Roland Garros finals this season, there had been some concern about when - or if - she would achieve parity with Graf on 22 majors.  That concern had evidently spread to Williams herself. After equalling Graf's tally on Centre Court, she declared that "enjoying the moment" was the sole entry on her agenda, given that the pressure of chasing No.22 had proved so debilitating.  For the best, though, the pursuit of history is unending. The time to enjoy the moment is over, and Williams will once again be swinging for sporting immortality at Flushing Meadows. She will never again play at the US Open under the same weight of expectation and pressure as she did last summer, but questions persist, particularly in light of Rio. And yet, all this doubt surrounding Williams could end up working to her benefit - it certainly did at Wimbledon.
French Open
Sara Jane Moore spent 32 years in prison for attempting to assassinate which president a mere 17 days after Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme tried?
Andy Murray wins Wimbledon, but what’s next on his agenda? Andy Murray wins Wimbledon, but what’s next on his agenda? Andy Murray celebrates during his Wimbledon win on Sunday Credit: PA Charlie Eccleshare 11 July 2016 • 2:41pm After defeating Milos Raonic to win his second Wimbledon title yesterday , Andy Murray insisted that his best is yet to come. Reflecting on winning his third grand slam trophy, Murray said: “Everyone’s time comes at different stages. Some come in their early 20s, some mid -20s. Hopefully mine is still to come.”  Watch | Wimbledon 2016: men's singles final highlights 02:18 So after ending his three-year slam drought, what’s next for the victorious Murray? Davis Cup tie against Serbia Such is tennis’s bulging calendar that Murray should only have had a few days rest before his next assignment: trying to almost single-handedly help Great Britain defeat Serbia in the Davis Cup quarter-final. For once though it looks like Murray will put himself first and listen to his aching body. Murray is in need of a rest After the final yesterday Murray hinted that he would pull out of the Serbia tie to try and make sure he has recovered from Wimbledon in time for the Olympics. And he added today: "I spoke to (GB captain) Leon (Smith) last night at the ball briefly. I'm genuinely calling him after here. I'd say it's looking unlikely but, even if I don't play, I'm still probably going to go anyway just to be there with the team.” Murray Majors timeline compared with greats The Olympics Assuming Murray does pull out of the Davis Cup tie, we probably won’t see him until July at the Montreal Masters, which he won last year. The next big priority though is the Rio Olympic Games in August where the Scot has a singles gold medal and a mixed doubles silver to defend. Murray will also line up with his brother Jamie in the men’s doubles, and the way he’s playing at the moment you wouldn’t bet against him coming home with a hat-trick of medals. Watch | Wimbledon 2016: watch Andy Murray lift men's singles trophy 25:02 The US Open The next grand slam event is the US Open in September, where Murray will go in as second-favourite for the tournament. The favourite of course will be world No 1 Novak Djokovic, but many will expect Murray to win his second consecutive major, especially if the Serb continues to feel the effects of a hugely draining last 12 months. Murray won the tournament in 2012 and were he to win it again, it would mean he and Djokovic would have split the four majors in 2016. The world No 1 ranking Murray is still almost 5,000 ranking points behind Djokovic, but suddenly the prospect of him jumping up a place to the summit of the game seems a lot more realistic. Speaking on The Tennis Podcast yesterday , former Wimbledon finalist Mark Philippoussis said the No 1 ranking is attainable for Murray in the next couple of years. ‘Without a doubt there are more grand slams in his future,” the Australian said. “He’s got Lendl back in his corner, and when I heard that I knew those two were going to be a dangerous combination.  “It seems like a big mountain to climb to catch Djokovic, but today was the first step, a huge first step.” Overtaking Novak Djokovic is a target for Murray 2017 and seeing to unfinished business Murray’s mission now is to win as many grand slams as possible, and start getting towards a total that reflects his talent and longevity at the top of the sport. September’s US Open is the first chance Murray will get to add to his tally of three, and then it will be onto the Australian Open in January. Murray has lost five finals in Melbourne and will be desperate to finally end his hoodoo there. If he does win down under he will have won three out of the four majors, potentially setting up the chance to complete the career grand slam at the French Open in June.
i don't know
Which 1950's legends backing band was known as The Comets (or His Comets)?
Michigan Rock and Roll Legends - BILL HALEY AND HIS COMETS BILL HALEY AND HIS COMETS Category: Inductees Bill Haley And His Comets Bill Haley, one of the pioneers of rock and roll music, was born on July 6, 1925 in Highland Park, Michigan. His mother was a classically trained pianist and his father played both the banjo and mandolin. Bill and his family then moved to Pennsylvania. It was there, at the age of thirteen, that Haley received his first guitar as a Christmas gift. His father, William Sr., taught young Bill to play the basic chords and notes by ear. Soon Bill found he was able to listen to a song on the family radio and pick it out on his guitar, note for note.    Bill was a professional guitarist at age fifteen, and by the age of eighteen, he had made his first record. During the 1940’s Haley, dressed in cowboy gear, toured the Midwest with various country bands.    In 1944, Haley joined the Down Homers, replacing Kenny Roberts who had joined the Navy during World War II. When Roberts rejoined the band after the war, Bill returned to Pennsylvania and became a popular disc jockey. Calling himself “the Rambling Yodeler”, he formed his own group, the Four Aces of Western Swing, to play on his radio show.   Kenny Roberts went on to have a successful solo recording career as "The Jumpin' Cowboy", and in the early 60's hosted his own popular children's television show at WNEM-TV in Saginaw, Michigan.   In 1949, Bill formed a new band called Bill Haley and The Saddlemen. They made a number of country recordings that failed to create much interest. In 1951, however, Haley recorded a cover of Jackie Brenston’s R & B hit “Rocket 88”. Although the song only sold 10,000 copies, it was Haley’s most successful recording. It convinced him that high-energy music that kids could sing along to, clap to, and dance to, would be popular. In 1952, Bill and the band had a hit with “Rock The Joint” on the Essex label. It was an early example of what became known as rockabilly. As a result, Haley decided to drop the cowboy image and rename his band 'The Comets'.     The first release under the new name in 1953 was Bill’s own composition, “Crazy Man Crazy”. The song became Bill Haley and His Comets' biggest hit to date. "Crazy Man Crazy" is also significant in that it was the first rock and roll record to make the Billboard pop charts at # 15.   In 1954, Haley signed with Decca Records. His first recording for his new label was a cover of “Rock Around The Clock”, a song originally released by Sunny Dae in 1953. Bill’s version of the song didn’t sell that well when it was first released. It was its follow-up record, a cover of Joe Turner’s “Shake, Rattle And Roll”, that became Haley’s first gigantic success when it reached the Billboard Top Ten and sold over a million copies in 1954. “Rock Around The Clock” was then re-released in 1955 after it was used on the soundtrack of Blackboard Jungle, a movie about high school juvenile delinquents. The song being played over scenes of young delinquents or “hoods” led viewers to identify Bill Haley as a rock and roll rebel. This first use of a rock and roll song in a film helped make Bill Haley and His Comets one of the most popular recording artists of 1955 and 1956. “Rock Around The Clock” was Bill’s biggest hit and has been  estimated to have sold over thirty million copies worldwide.   Bill Haley was now one of the hottest recording artists in the country and was generally regarded as the leading figure in the new field of rock and roll music. Bill and the band followed up “Rock Around The Clock” with the hit “Razzle-Dazzle” during the summer of 1955. They finished the year with the two-sided hit “Burn That Candle/Rock-A-Beatin’ Boogie”. Haley lost three key members of the Comets over money issues at this time.  They left to form their own group called the Jodimars.   Despite having to add three new members, the hits continued in 1956 with “See You Later, Alligator”, “R-O-C-K”, “The Saints Rock ‘N’ Roll”, “Hot Dog Buddy Buddy”, “Rip It Up”, “Don’t Knock The Rock”, and the instrumental, “Rudy’s Rock”. Bill also starred in two early rock and roll movies, Rock Around The Clock and Don’t Knock The Rock, that helped make him an international star.   By 1957, however, the fortunes of Bill Haley and His Comets had started to sag in the United States. Bill and his band mates were 10 to 15 years older than the new leaders of rock and roll that included Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, Ricky Nelson, and the Everly Brothers. With his pudgy frame and famous spit curl hair-do, Bill looked more like some teenager’s uncle than a rock and roll star. In addition, the Comets’ musical sound had also not changed with the years and had begun to sound a little old-fashioned to teen record buyers. 1957 singles, “Forty Cups Of Coffee” and “(You Hit The Wrong Note) Billy Goat”, did not make the Top 40. To make matters worse, the year’s final release, “Mary, Mary Lou/It’s A Sin” complete with picture sleeve, failed to chart at all.   Bill Haley and His Comets made a brief comeback in 1958 with their last Top 40 hit, the humorous rocker “Skinny Minnie”. However, the follow-up single, “Lean Jean”, continued the band’s slide and did not crack the Top 40. Haley’s last two chart entries were the instrumentals, “Joey’s Song” and “Skokiaan (South African Song)”. But by the middle of 1960, Bill had faded completely from the Billboard charts.   Haley and His Comets were still considered a major attraction overseas during the time their star was fading in the U.S. In Germany, a riot occurred among teenage fans at a sold-out 1958 Berlin concert. The incident, at which 17 were injured and 18 were arrested, made the international news and further established Haley as a symbol of rock and roll rebellion in Europe. Bill was even more popular in Great Britain where he and the band toured to a wildly enthusiastic reception. Haley’s popularity among his English fans was such that “Rock Around The Clock” had re-entered the British singles charts an amazing seven times by 1974.   Starting in 1969 and continuing through the early years of the 1970’s, Bill Haley and His Comets were a popular part of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival shows that were promoted by Richard Nader throughout the United States. The 1973 film Let The Good Times Roll includes performance footage of Bill and the band from one of these concerts. “Rock Around The Clock” even returned to the Billboard Top 40 in 1974 after it was used as the theme song for the hit television series Happy Days.   Suffering from alcoholism and dementia, Haley died of a heart attack in 1981 after living in semi-seclusion for several years. Prior to his death, he reportedly had become bitter over his career decline and refused to perform or even grant interviews. Bill Haley was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, but The Comets were not included.    Bill Haley and His Comets were inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends in 2005.   Five members of the original band, Marshall Lytle, Johnny Grande, Dick Richards, Franny Beecher, and Joey D'Ambrose, all in their 70’s and 80’s, were still performing together as The Comets up until 2006. They had all played and recorded with Haley during the glory days of the 1950’s and could still rock the house. Grande's death and Beecher's retirement has put the future of this legendary band in doubt.   In 2007, Bill Haley and His Comets' recording of "Rock Around The Clock" was voted # 2 on the list of the Top Ten Legendary Michigan Songs.  In 2009, the band's first Top Ten hit, "Shake, Rattle And Roll", was also voted in.   In 2012, the Comets were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as the result of a special committee formed to identify situations in which backing groups should be recognized along with the original lead singer. Video:   In a clip from the 1956 movie Don't Knock The Rock, Bill Haley And His Comets perform "Hot Dog Buddy Buddy" complete with four sexy female dancers in short shorts at www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYzy8gWLkt0   Dr. J. Recommends “Rock The Joint” Roller Coaster Records CD. This collection contains the early and essential Essex recordings including “Rocket 88” and “Crazy Man Crazy” “Bill Haley And His Comets - From The Original Master Tapes” MCA CD. This set collects the essential Decca hits from 1954 - 1956 that made Haley an international star. From The Bookshelf Sound And Glory by John W. Haley (Bill’s son) and John von Hoelle, Dyne-American Publishing 1990. “The incredible story of Bill Haley, the Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll and the music that shook the world”. Internet and Video Links: www.billhaley.co.uk/   This British fan site has been operating since 1997. It has some good photos and quite a few links to other sites related to Bill Haley And His Comets. You can watch some great Bill Haley video by clicking on www.youtube.com/ . Type Bill Haley in the Search box at the top of the page and click on the video that you want to watch.   
Bill Haley
Ricardo Montalban extolled the "soft Corinthian leather" in what model of car, produced from 1975 to 1983?
header Referenced from www.spotify.com Music Style:Rock n Roll Profile: Bill Haley & His Comets was an American rock and roll band that was founded in 1952 and continued until Haley's death in 1981. The band, also known by the names Bill Haley and The Comets and Bill Haley's Comets (and variations thereof), was the earliest group of white musicians to bring rock and roll to the attention of white America and the rest of the world. From the end of 1954 until the end of 1956 the group would place nine singles into the Top 20, one of those a number one and three more in the Top Ten. [1] Bandleader Bill Haley had previously been a country performer; after recording a country and western-styled version of "Rocket 88", a rhythm and blues song, he changed musical direction to a new sound which came to be called rock and roll. Although several members of the Comets became famous, Bill Haley remained the star. With his spit curl and the band's matching plaid dinner jackets and energetic stage behaviour, many fans consider them to be as revolutionary in their time as The Beatles or the Rolling Stones were in theirs. Following Haley's death, no fewer than six different groups have existed under the Comets name, all claiming (with varying degrees of authority) to be the official continuation of the group led by Haley. As of early 2008, three such groups are still actively performing in the United States and internationally. Early history and Rocket 88: The band initially formed as Bill Haley and the Saddlemen c. 1949–1952, and performed mostly country and western songs, though occasionally with a bluesy feel. Many Saddlemen recordings would not be released until the 1970s and 1980s, and highlights included romantic ballads such as "Rose of My Heart" and western swing tunes such as "Yodel Your Blues Away". The original members of this group were Haley, pianist and accordion player Johnny Grande and steel guitarist Billy Williamson. Al Thompson was the group's first bass player, followed by Al Rex and Marshall Lytle. During the group's early years, it recorded under several other names, including Johnny Clifton and His String Band and Reno Browne and Her Buckaroos (although Browne, a female matinee idol of the time, did not actually appear on the record). Haley began his rock and roll career with a cover of "Rocket 88" recorded for the Philadelphia-based Holiday Records label in 1951 which sold well and was followed up a cover of a 1940s rhythm and blues song called "Rock the Joint" in 1952 (this time for Holiday's sister company, Essex Records). Both songs were released under the increasingly incongruous Saddlemen name. It soon became apparent that a new name was needed to fit the music the band was now playing. A friend of Haley's, making note of the common alternative pronunciation of the name Halley's Comet to rhyme with Bailey, suggested that Haley call his band The Comets. (This event is cited in the Haley biographies Sound and Glory by John Haley and John von Hoelle, and Bill Haley by John Swenson.) The new name was adopted in the fall of 1952. At that time, the members were Haley, Grande, Williamson, and Lytle. Grande usually played piano on record, but switched to accordion for live shows as it was more portable than a piano and easier to deal with during musical numbers that involved a lot of dancing around. Soon after renaming the band, Haley hired his first drummer, Charlie Higler, though Higler was soon replaced by Dick Boccelli (a.k.a Dick Richards). During this time (and indeed, as late as the fall of 1955), Haley did not have a permanent lead guitar player, choosing to use session musicians on record and either playing lead guitar himself or having Williamson play steel solos, instead. Slap-back bass, one identifying characteristic of rockabilly, was used the Comets' recordings of "Rocket 88", "Rock the Joint", "Rock and Around the Clock", and "Shake, Rattle, and Roll".[2] [edit]National success and Rock Around the Clock In 1953, Haley scored his first national success with an original song called "Crazy Man, Crazy", a phrase Haley said he heard from his teenaged audience. Haley later claimed it sold a million copies, but this is considered an exaggeration. "Crazy Man, Crazy" was the first rock and roll song to be televised nationally when it was used on the soundtrack for a 1953 television play starring James Dean.Haley and His Comets recorded "Rock Around the Clock". Haley's biggest hit, and one of the most important records in rock and roll history, sales of "Rock Around the Clock" started slow but eventually sold an estimated 25 million copies (per the Guinness Book of World Records) and marked the arrival of a cultural shift. Initially, "Rock Around the Clock" was only a modest success. Much more impressive was "Shake, Rattle and Roll", a somewhat bowdlerized cover version of the Big Joe Turner recording of earlier in 1954. The record was a best one of Decca's best selling records in that year.[3] The song was the seventh best selling record in November of '54.[4] Although Haley's "Shake, Rattle and Roll" never achieved the same level of historical importance as "Rock Around the Clock", it actually predated it as the first major international rock and roll hit, although it did not attain the Number 1 position in the American charts, but became his first Gold Record. When Elvis Presley recorded the song in 1956, he combined Haley's arrangement with Turner's original lyrics but failed to score a substantial hit. Late in 1954, Haley also recorded another hit, "Dim, Dim The Lights", which was significant as the first R&B song recorded by a white artist to cross over to the R&B charts. The (belated) success of "Rock Around the Clock" is attributed to its use in the soundtrack of the film Blackboard Jungle, which was released in March 1955. The song, which was re-released to coincide with the film, rose to the top of the American musical charts that summer and stayed there for eight weeks, the first rock and roll record to do so. Ambrose's acrobatic saxophone playing, along with Lytle on the double bass -literally on it, riding it like a pony, and holding it over his head- were highlights of the band's live performances during this time. Their music and their act were part of a tradition in jazz and rhythm and blues, but it all came like a thunderclap to most of their audience. In late 1954, Haley and His Comets appeared in a short subject entitled Round Up of Rhythm, performing three songs. This was the earliest known theatrical rock and roll film release. In 1955, Lytle, Richards and Ambrose quit the Comets in a salary dispute and formed their own group, The Jodimars. Haley hired several new musicians to take their place: Rudy Pompilli on sax, Al Rex (a former member of the Saddlemen) on double bass, and Ralph Jones on drums; in addition, lead guitarist Franny Beecher, who had been a session musician for Haley since Cedrone's death in the fall of 1954, became a full-time Comet and Haley's first performing lead guitarist. This version of the band became even more popular than the earlier manifestation, and appeared in several motion pictures over the next few years. Other hits recorded by the band included "See You Later, Alligator" in which Haley's frantic delivery contrasted with the Louisiana languor of the original by Bobby Charles, "Don't Knock the Rock", "Rock-a-Beatin' Boogie", "Rudy's Rock" (the first instrumental hit of the rock and roll era) and "Skinny Minnie". In 1956, Bill Haley and His Comets appeared in two of the earliest full-length rock and roll movies: Rock Around the Clock, and Don't Knock the Rock. Decline in popularity: The band's popularity in the United States began to wane in 1956–57 as sexier, wilder acts such as Elvis and Little Richard began to dominate the record charts (although Haley's cover version of Little Richard's "Rip It Up" - which was released in direct competition - actually outsold the original). After "Skinny Minnie" hit the charts in 1958, Haley found it difficult to score further successes Stateside, although a spin-off group made up of Comets musicians dubbed The Kingsmen (no relation to the later group of "Louie, Louie" fame) did score a hit with the instrumental, "Weekend" that same year. Overseas, however, Haley and his band continued to be extremely popular, touring the United Kingdom in February 1957, during which Haley and his crew were mobbed by thousands of fans at Waterloo Station in London at an incident dubbed the Second Battle of Waterloo by media. That same year, the Comets toured Australia and in 1958 enjoyed a successful (if riot-dominated) tour of the European mainland. Bill Haley & His Comets were the first major American rock and roll act to tour the world in this way. Elvis who was on duty in Germany visited them backstage at some shows. During an off day in Berlin they performed two songs in the Caterina Valente movie "Hier Bin ich Hier Bleib Ich" (Here I Am Here I Stay). Back in the U.S., Haley attempted to start his own record label, Clymax, and establish his own stable of performers, most notably Philadelphia children's show hostess Sally Starr and the Matys Brothers. Members of The Comets were commissioned to work as session musicians on many of these recordings, many of which were written or co-written by Haley and/or members of The Comets. The Clymax experiment only lasted about a year. In 1959, Haley's relationship with Decca collapsed and after a final set of instrumental-only recordings in the fall, Haley announced he was leaving Decca for the new Warner Bros. Records label. Mexico and the late 1960s: In 1961–1962, Bill Haley y sus Cometas (as the band was known in Latin America) signed with the Orfeon Records label of Mexico and scored an unexpected hit with "Twist Español", a Spanish language recording based on the Twist dance craze that was sweeping America at the time. Haley followed up with what was, for a time, the biggest selling single in Mexican history with "Florida Twist". Although Chubby Checker and Hank Ballard were credited with starting the Twist craze in America, in Mexico and Latin America, Bill Haley and His Comets were proclaimed the Kings of the Twist. Thanks to the success to "Twist Español" and "Florida Twist", among others, the band had continued success in Mexico and Latin America over the next few years, selling many recordings of Spanish and Spanish flavored material and simulated live performances (overdubbed audience over studio recordings) on the Orfeon label and its subsidiary, Dimsa. They hosted a TV series entitled Orfeon a Go-Go and made cameo appearances in several movies, lipsynching to some of their old hits. Haley, who was fluent in Spanish, recorded a number of songs in the language, but the vast majority of the band's output during these years were instrumental recordings, many utilizing local session musicians playing trumpet. There was also some experimentation with Haley's style during this time; one single for Orfeon was a folk ballad, "Jimmy Martinez", which Haley recorded without the Comets. In 1966, the Comets (without Bill Haley) cut an album for Orfeon as session musicians for Big Joe Turner, who had always been an idol to Haley; no joint performance of "Shake, Rattle and Roll" was recorded, however. In a 1974 interview with BBC Radio, Haley said Turner's career was in a slump at this time, so he used his then-considerable influence with Orfeon to get Turner a recording session. The Comets' association with Orfeon/Dimsa ended later that year. By 1967, as related by Haley in an interview with radio host Red Robinson that same year, the group was "a free agent" without any recording contracts at all, although the band continued to perform regularly in North America and Europe. During this year, Haley—without the Comets—recorded a pair of demos in Phoenix, Arizona: a country-western song called "Jealous Heart" for which he was backed by a local mariachi band (and similar in style to the earlier "Jimmy Martinez", and late-60s-style rocker called "Rock on Baby" backed by a group called Superfine Dandelion. Neither recording would be released for 30 years. In 1968, Haley and the Comets recorded a single for the United Artists label, a version of Tom T. Hall's "That's How I Got to Memphis" but no long-term association with the label resulted. In order to revive his recording career, Haley turned to Europe. Revival: By the late 1960s, Haley and the Comets were considered an oldies act. The band's popularity never waned in Europe, and the group signed a lucrative deal with Sonet Records of Sweden in 1968 that resulted in a new version of "Rock Around the table" hitting the European charts that year. The band would record a mixture of live and studio albums for the label over the next decade. In the United States in 1969, promoter Richard Nader launched a series of rock and roll revival concert tours featuring "oldies" acts of the 50s and 60s. One of the first of these shows, held at the Felt Forum at Madison Square Garden in New York City, resulted in Haley receiving an eight-and-a-half minute standing ovation following his performance, as Nader related in his recorded introduction to Haley's live album Bill Haley's Scrapbook, which was recorded a few weeks later at New York's Bitter End club. The band appeared in several concert films in the early 1970s, including The London Rock and Roll Show and Let the Good Times Roll. After 1974, tax and management problems prevented Haley from performing in the United States, so he performed in Europe almost exclusively, though he also toured South America in 1975. The band was also kept busy in the studio, recording numerous albums for Sonet and other labels in the 1970s, several with a country music flavor. In 1974, Haley's original Decca recording of "Rock Around the Clock" hit the American sales charts once again thanks to its use in American Graffiti and Happy Days. Late career: In February 1976, Haley's saxophone player and best friend, Rudy Pompilli, died of cancer after a nearly 20-year career with the Comets. Haley continued to tour for the next year with a succession of new sax players, but his popularity was waning again and his 1976 performance in London was critically lambasted by music media such as Melody Maker. That year, the group also recorded an album, R-O-C-K at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio for Sonet Records. In early 1977, Haley announced his retirement from performing and settled down at his home in Mexico. According to the John Swenson biography of Haley, the musician was quoted as saying that he and Pompilli had an agreement that if one died, the other would retire. The Comets continued to tour on their own during this period. In 1979, Haley was persuaded to return to performing with the offer of a lucrative contract to tour Europe. An almost completely new group of musicians, mostly British - including Pete Thomas (saxophonist) - were assembled to perform as The Comets, and Haley appeared on many TV shows as well as in the movie Blue Suede Shoes, filmed at one of his London concerts in March 1979. A few days later, a performance in Birmingham was videotaped and aired on UK television; it was released on DVD in 2005. During the March tour, Haley recorded several tracks in London for his next album with Sonet, completing the work that summer at Muscle Shoals in Alabama; released later in the year, the resulting album Everyone Can Rock & Roll was the last release of new recordings by Bill Haley before his death. In November 1979, Haley and the Comets performed for Queen Elizabeth II, a moment Haley considered the proudest of his career. It was also the last time he performed in Europe and the last time most fans saw him perform "Rock Around the Clock". In 1980, Bill Haley and His Comets toured South Africa but Haley's health was failing and it was reported that he had a brain tumor. The tour was critically lambasted, but surviving recordings of a performance in Johannesburg show Haley in good spirits and good voice. Nonetheless, according to the Haley News fan club newsletter and the Haley biography Sound and Glory, planned concerts such as a fall 1980 tour of Germany, and proposed recording sessions in New York and Memphis were cancelled—including a potential reunion with past members of the Comets—and Haley returned to his home in Harlingen, Texas where he died in his sleep of an apparent heart attack on February 9, 1981. In April 1981, Bill Haley & His Comets returned to the British musical charts once again when MCA Records (inheritors of the Decca catalog) released "Haley's Golden Medley", a hastily compiled edit of the band's best known hits in the style of the then-popular "Stars on 45" format. The single reached No. 50 in the UK but was not released in the United States. In 1987, Bill Haley was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. At that time, supporting bands were not also named to the hall. This policy has since changed and efforts have been under way for several years to have The Comets also named to the Hall. Bill Haley and His Comets have also been inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame and, in July 2005, the surviving members of the 1954–55 Comets (see below) represented Haley when Bill Haley and His Comets were inducted into Hollywood's Rockwalk, a ceremony also attended by Haley's second wife and youngest daughter. The Comets placed their handprints in cement; a space was left blank for Haley. In 2005, Bill Haley And His Comets were inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame. Two of the band's recordings have been voted Legendary Michigan Songs: "Rock Around The Clock" in 2007, and "Shake, Rattle And Roll" in 2009. The Comets: More than 100 musicians performed with Bill Haley & His Comets between 1952 and Haley's death in 1981, many becoming fan favorites along the way.[1] Several short-lived Comets reunions were attempted in the 1980s, including one contingent (organized by Baltimore-based piano player Joey Welz who was briefly a Comet in the mid-1960s) that appeared on The Tomorrow Show, and another run by an Elvis Presley impersonator named Joey Rand (this group later lost a legal action over the right to use the Comets name). The Comets, featuring musicians who performed with Haley in 1954–1955, reunited in 1987 and are still touring the world as of 2007, playing showrooms in the United States and Europe. They have also recorded a half-dozen albums for small labels in Europe and the United States. This version of the group has also been credited as Bill Haley's Original Comets, and in circumstances where the use of the Comets name is in dispute, A Tribute to Bill Haley and The Original Band. The basic line-up of this group from 1987 to May 2006 consisted of Marshall Lytle (bass), Joey Ambrose (sax), Johnny Grande (piano), Dick Richards (drums) and Franny Beecher (guitar). British singer Jacko Buddin augmented the group on vocals during most of their European tours, with Lytle taking over on vocals for US/Canadian tours beginning in 2000 and full-time in Europe in the mid-2000s. Since they connected with Klaus Kettner's Rock It Concerts (Germany) in 1991 they have played hundreds of shows all over Europe, dozens of TV shows and in March 2007 pre-opened the Bill-Haley-Museum in Munich, Germany (www.rockithydra.de). Two additional groups claim the name Bill Haley's Comets and have extensively toured in the United States since forming in the 1980s: one originally Haley's 1965–68 drummer John "Bam-Bam" Lane, the other run by Al Rappa who played bass for Haley off-and-on between late 1959 and early 1969 (some media promotion for Rappa erroneously states that he joined the group in 1956). Both these musicians claim trademark ownership of the Bill Haley's Comets name; this dates back to Lane and Rappa (during a period when they worked together as one band) winning a trademark infringement lawsuit against the aforementioned Joey Rand group in 1989. Both Rappa and Lane's bands have, from time to time, recruited other former Comets for their line-ups (for example, in 2005, Rappa joined forces with Joey Welz), but for the most part the bandleaders are the only regular members who have worked with Bill Haley directly. Lane died in 2007 but his group continues to perform, led by bandleader Lenny Longo, who has no direct Bill Haley connection. In March and July 2005, the members of the 1954–55 group, now billed as simply The Comets after decades of controversy over the use of the name, made several high-profile concert appearances in New York City and Los Angeles organized by Martin Lewis as part of celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of rock and roll, the release of Blackboard Jungle, the 50th anniversary of "Rock Around the Clock" hitting Number 1, and the 80th birthday of Bill Haley.[2][3] During a July 6, 2005 concert at the Viper Room in West Hollywood, The Comets were joined on stage for one song by Gina Haley, the youngest daughter of Bill Haley; at a similar appearance in March they were joined by Haley's eldest son, John W. Haley. In 2006, The 1954–55 Comets spent much of the year in residence at Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater in Branson, Missouri (their second season at the theater is scheduled to begin on March 30, 2007). Meanwhile, the John Lane edition of Bill Haley's Comets recorded a new album in Tennessee in early 2006 which has yet to be released. On June 2, 2006, Johnny Grande, keyboardist with the 1954–55 Comets and an original founding member of the band, died after a short illness. The following month, 85-year-old guitarist Franny Beecher announced his retirement, though he was at one point announced as participating in an early 2007 tour of Germany. The three remaining original Comets (Lytle, Richards, and Ambrose) continue to perform in Branson with new musicians taking over the keyboard and lead guitar positions. During September 2006, PBS in the United States aired a series of programs videotaped in Branson during the spring of 2006; these shows include the last recorded performances of the complete Original Comets line-up including Grande. John "Bam-Bam" Lane died on February 18, 2007[4] but his edition of Bill Haley's Comets is expected to continue touring, with the 2006 recordings to be released in Lane's memory. On October 27, 2007 ex Comets guitar player Bill Turner opened the afore mentioned Bill-Haley-Museum in Munich, Germany. Several tribute bands patterning themselves after The Comets are also active in Europe, including Phil Haley and His Comments in Great Britain, and the Bill Haley and His Comets Revival (also known as Bill Haley's New Comets) in Germany[5]. Artist
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July 27, 1789 saw George Washington sign the bill that created the first ever Federal Agency under the US constitution, the Department of Foreign Affairs. By what name is the department currently known?
AllGov - Departments     In July 1789, Congress and President George Washington approved legislation establishing a Department of Foreign Affairs, making it the first federal agency to be created under the new Constitution. In September of that same year, additional legislation changed the name to the Department of State and assigned to it a variety of domestic duties, including managing the US Mint, taking the census and maintaining the Great Seal of the United States. Most of the domestic duties were eventually turned over to other federal departments and agencies during the 19th century, putting the State Department primarily in charge of foreign affairs.   The nation’s first Secretary of State was Thomas Jefferson, appointed by President Washington on September 29, 1789. Despite this duty as the nation’s top diplomat, Jefferson preferred a more inward or domestic perspective on how the United States should move forward—that is, focusing on the unexplored continent rather than becoming involved in developments in Europe. Those who agreed with Jefferson’s philosophy came to be known as “Jeffersonians.” The Federalists, led by Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton, supported the development of a strong international commerce and the creation of a navy capable of protecting US merchant vessels.   The Federalists and Jeffersonians also disagreed over US foreign policy in regards to political events in Europe. After the outbreak of the French Revolution in 1789, the Federalists distrusted France and encouraged closer commercial ties to England, while the Jeffersonians preferred to support the new French Republic. Conflict in Europe among France, Britain, and Spain in the late 1790s resulted in President Washington declaring American neutrality. The Jay Treaty with Britain (1794) and the Pinckney Treaty with Spain (1795) aimed at preserving this neutrality.   Jefferson’s efforts to ally the US with France suffered a serious blow as a result of the XYZ Affair , a diplomatic incident between French and American diplomats that resulted in a limited, undeclared war known as the Quasi-War. US and French negotiators restored peace with the Convention of 1800 , also known as the Treaty of Mortefontaine.   During most of the 1800s, the US concentrated on its westward expansion, beginning with the Louisiana Purchase and other agreements that greatly enlarged American territory on the North American continent. The most pressing foreign affairs problems for American diplomats were the Barbary Wars of 1801-1805 and 1815-1816 and the outbreak of the War of 1812 with Great Britain. A critical event came in 1854 when Commodore Matthew Perry sailed to Japan and successfully opened up the then-isolated island nation to American trade.   It wasn’t until after the end of the Civil War, from the 1870s to the beginning of the 20th Century, that the US began for the first time to seriously engage itself overseas. In 1867, the federal government purchased the territory of Alaska from Russia. Between 1878 and 1880, Commodore Robert Shufeldt commanded the USS Ticonderoga on a mission to Africa, the Middle East, and Asia in an attempt to further open those regions to American trade. The most significant international event for the US came in 1898 with the outbreak of war with Spain. The Spanish-American War led to the US gaining control of the Philippines (and turning it into a quasi-colony) and asserting its authority over Cuba. Also in al1898, though entirely separate from the war, the US annexed the Hawaiian Islands .   At the dawn of the 20th Century, the United States began to behave as an international power and took steps to protect American territories and aggressively expand its international commercial interests. These policies included the promotion of the “Open Door” policy in China and the attachment of the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine that formally announced the intention to use military force to defend the Western Hemisphere against European incursions. At the same time, President Theodore Roosevelt oversaw the construction of the Panama Canal (only after the US aided the cause of Panamanian independence from Colombia), which would have profound economic implications for American trade.   The United States also began to compete with Mexico for political influence over Central America. United States Marines were sent to Nicaragua with the objective of ensuring the rule of a government friendly to American political and commercial interests and preserving political stability in Central America. Although officials within the administration of President William H. Taft saw themselves as intervening to ensure good government, many Nicaraguans became increasingly alarmed at what became a foreign takeover of their political, banking and railroad systems.   Following its intervention in Nicaragua, the US invaded and occupied Haiti from 1915-34 and the Dominican Republic (1916-1924 ).   After years of stalling, the US finally entered World War I in 1917 in an effort to help England and France defeat Germany. Germany’s resumption of submarine attacks on passenger and merchant ships in 1917 was the primary motivation behind President Woodrow Wilson’s decision to lead the United States into the conflict. A little more than a year later, the “Great War” was over, but the US continued to play a major role in the post-war international scene, with Wilson’s Fourteen Points , the Paris Peace Conference and the Treaty of Versailles and the founding of the League of Nations in 1920 .   Disillusionment with WWI, and fear of international commitments that could lead to war and economic uncertainty curbed US involvement in global affairs during the 1920s and 1930s. The United States, however, did not retreat into complete isolation, as the necessities of commercial growth dictated continued government support for overseas private investment that drove both American engagement with Latin America and the rebuilding of Europe in the 1920s. With the rise of fascism in the 1930s, concerns began to grow in the US over threats to international peace from Japan, Germany and Italy.   Isolationists were determined to keep the US out of the wars in Europe and Asia. Congress passed a series of neutrality acts designed to prevent the United States from being drawn into the widespread international conflict that some US officials believed was inevitable. Then, on December 7, 1941, the Japanese attacked the US naval installation at Pearl Harbor, and the United States formally entered the Second World War, which would last until 1945.   As WWII wound down, American officials took part in important international talks at the Bretton Woods Conference in 1944, the Yalta Conference in 1945, Potsdam and meetings that led to the creation of the United Nations . Although Yalta and Potsdam involved critical talks between the US and the Soviet Union, American distrust of Communism lingered after the war, and US diplomats soon began to warn of the Soviet Union’s efforts to spread Communism throughout war-torn Europe and beyond. The US government, led by the State Department, soon adopted a policy of containment as composed by George F. Kennan, a career State Department official. The policy ultimately led to a combative posture on the part of the US vis-à-vis the USSR, setting the basis for the Cold War that ensued between the two Superpowers over the next 40 years.   As part of American efforts to curb the expansion of Soviet-backed Communist movements, US diplomats in Europe helped implement two major strategies designed to stabilize and protect Great Britain, France and the rest of Western Europe. These two strategies were the Marshall Plan , a multi-million-dollar campaign by the US to rebuild European economies, and the formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a military alliance designed to protect Western Europe from Soviet invasion.   The Soviets first tested the West’s military resolve in 1948 when they cut off access to West Berlin by land. Refusing to allow the USSR to claim full possession of the former German capital, President Harry Truman launched the Berlin Airlift in which the US Air Force flew round-the-clock supply missions into the city for the next year to keep its residents from starving. The airlift ceased after the Soviets conceded and reopened the roads and train routes into West Berlin.   In the ensuing decades of the 1950s and 1960s, other major Cold War flashpoints occurred. Two of the most volatile were the Soviet Union’s crushing of rebellions in Hungary in 1956 and Czechoslovakia in 1968. Both independence movements were greatly encouraged by the US. An even more critical series of events were the Bay of Pigs invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis , the latter almost bringing the US to the brink of nuclear-armed conflict with the USSR. During the remainder of the 1960s and into the early 1970s, US foreign policy was largely preoccupied with the war in Vietnam.   The war in Vietnam continued into the presidency of Richard Nixon, who initially sought a resolution to the conflict in Southeast Asia by decreasing the number of troops on the ground while extending air raids into Cambodia and Laos. However, the combination of domestic anti-war fervor and Congressional determination to extend limits on Presidential war power meant that finding an end to the conflict was a political necessity. The administration introduced the policy of “Vietnamization,” a program designed to shift the responsibility of the war from the US to the South Vietnamese, allowing the United States to gradually withdraw its troops from Vietnam. Although this process was not successful, the United States negotiated a peace agreement in 1973 and withdrew from South Vietnam, which soon fell to the Communist regime in the north.   As the Nixon Administration worked to end the Vietnam War, National Security Adviser and Secretary of State Henry Kissinger worked toward achieving détente with the Soviet Union. Arms limitation talks with the Soviets reduced military spending and established formal commitments to future discussions between the two powers. President Nixon and Secretary Kissinger also reached out to the other major Communist powers and cleared the way for future American recognition of the People's Republic of China.   During the late 1970s the US and USSR escalated tensions in Europe over the deployment of a new generation of medium-ranged nuclear missiles. This provoked huge protests in the early 1980s in London and other major Western European cities calling for the US to withdraw its Pershing II and cruise missiles. Meanwhile, American and Soviet arms control negotiators discussed offers to pull the weapons out of the European Theater. Little progress was made until a new reformist leader, Mikhail Gorbachev, took control of the Soviet Union. As part of his promises to change the domestic ( Perestroika ) and foreign ( Glasnost ) policies of the USSR, Gorbachev reached a breakthrough agreement over nuclear missiles with President Ronald Reagan at the Reykjavik summit in 1986. The accord led to the signing of the Intermediate Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty the following year that withdrew all such weapons from Europe, and marked the beginning of the end of the Cold War between the two superpowers.   During the 1980s, US foreign policy was heavily involved in thwarting Socialist regimes (Nicaragua) and revolutionary movements in Latin America. The Reagan administration’s fiercely anti-Communist orientation led to one of the biggest foreign policy scandals in US history when it was revealed that White House and other administration officials secretly sold arms to Iran to gain the release of Western hostages and then diverted the money to the Contra rebels, all without Congressional approval.   In 1989, the Berlin Wall fell, which began the reunification of East and West Germany. In 1991 the Communist government of the USSR collapsed in the wake of a failed coup to overthrow Gorbachev, bringing to power Boris Yeltsin. The change in government led to warmer relations between the United States and Russia, as the US led economic efforts, such as passage of the Freedom Support Act of 1992 , to help the former Soviet Union transition from a command economy to a free market one. With the fall of the Iron Curtain, Europeans all over the continent looked forward to new era of peace and prosperity.   That hope was quickly dashed when a bloody civil war erupted in the Balkans in 1992. Lasting three years, the war in Bosnia was viewed as NATO’s first big post-Cold War test. Instead of intervening with military forces, NATO countries stayed out of the conflict, in part out of concern over how Serbia’s ally, Russia, might respond. NATO inaction allowed Serbian paramilitary forces to conduct ethnic-cleansing campaigns against Croats and Muslims, the worst single incident occurring in Srebrenica in July 1995.   The failure on the part of NATO to stop the slaughter was still fresh in the minds of American and Western European leaders when, in 1999, the predominantly Albanian province of Kosovo tried to secede from Serbia. This time NATO air strikes were ordered to keep Serbian military units from rampaging through Kosovo. Thousands still perished in the fighting. Following the end of hostilities, a UN peacekeeping mission was established to maintain the peace while US and European diplomats negotiated a way for Kosovo’s independence.   The 1990s also marked the beginning of the United States’ growing concern over Islamic terrorism. The 1993 truck bombing of the World Trade Center, and later the bombings of US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania and the USS Cole in Yemen, caused a realignment of State Department policies toward finding ways to address the threat of attacks against US targets. This shifting of priorities was cemented on September 11, 2001, when hijackers crashed American commercial jetliners into the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon. From that point on, the No. 1 priority of US foreign policy was combating terrorism, leading to the military invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. In 2003, President George W. Bush, pursuing a policy of “preventive war,” invaded and occupied Iraq.       The US Department of State functions as the diplomatic wing of the federal government, handling matters of foreign affairs with other nations and international bodies. The State Department’s primary job is to promote American foreign policy throughout the world. This task involves a multitude of issues ranging from trade and commerce to cultural interests to security measures. Employing diplomats and career Foreign Service personnel, the State Department interfaces with representatives of foreign governments, corporations, non-governmental organizations and private individuals.   Dozens of large offices and programs handle the vast responsibilities of the State Department, including geographically-based and subject-oriented bureaus that function as the frontline of the US diplomatic corps.   Among the leading components of the State Department are:   Regional Issues Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs : A key diplomatic office within the State Department, the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs is responsible for implementing American foreign policy in Europe and Eurasia. The bureau promotes US political and economic interests in the region on issues ranging from NATO enlargement to energy supplies to the war on terrorism.   Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs : The Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs (BWH) staffs and operates US embassies and consulates throughout the Western Hemisphere. BWH staff implement US foreign policy by negotiating with representatives of foreign governments, meeting with foreign economic and political leaders in and out of government, coordinating various types of US foreign aid, and preparing groundwork for visits between higher US officials and foreign representatives. BWH also has a planning staff, which formulates policy toward other nations in the Western Hemisphere, subordinate to the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, the Secretary of State and the President.   Bureau of African Affairs : The Bureau of African Affairs is responsible for advising the Secretary of State on issues relating to sub-Saharan Africa. The bureau seeks solutions in three key areas: the consolidation of democratic gains among African nations, expanding economic growth and stemming the spread of HIV and AIDS.   Despite pledges by the administration of George W. Bush to help stem the spread of the disease, funding requests for AIDS programs in Africa went down in consecutive years. Also, an attempt to reinvent foreign aid through the Millennium Challenge Corporation has not succeeded as planned by the administration.   Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs : The Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs (EAP) is responsible for carrying out diplomatic relations with more than two dozen foreign governments, ranging in size from China to Fiji. Security, counter-terrorism and free trade are some of the major policy issues that EAP addresses with public and private officials from this part of the world. In fact, the bureau has played a key role in negotiations with North Korea over that nation’s efforts to develop nuclear weapons. The head of the bureau has been both praised and criticized for his work on the Korean nuclear accord and other aspects of his diplomatic work.   Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs : The Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs (NEA) deals with American foreign policy and diplomatic relations with Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and Yemen. Regional policy issues that NEA handles include the war in Iraq, Middle East peace, terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, and political and economic reform.   Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs : The Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs handles US foreign policy with the countries of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Two of the most critical policy areas that the bureau oversees are Afghanistan, which is still trying to recover from the rule of the Taliban in the 1990s and the US-led coalition that invaded the country in 2001, and Indian-Pakistan relations—a longstanding source of tension and conflict between two nuclear powers. The leadership of the bureau has come under criticism during the George W. Bush administration for its lack of knowledge about Pakistani politics and its deference to the office of Vice President Dick Cheney, who reportedly calls the shots on US foreign policy towards Pakistan.   International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico : IBWC is a bilateral government body charged with maintaining border and water agreements along the international border between the United States and Mexico. The commission’s American section (USIBWC) is overseen by the State Department, and its origin dates back to the 19th century. The USIBWC’s structure and many functions are defined by treaties signed during the first half of the 20th century. Some experts have argued that the commission is long overdue for change, and recently the US side of the IBWC was engulfed in controversy stemming from the leadership of its top official, an appointee of President George W. Bush.   East-West Center : The East-West Center was created by Congress in 1960 to serve as a catalyst to strengthen relations and understanding between the United States and Asian and Pacific nations. The East-West Center coordinates research, educational classes and cultural interactions. At times the center has been criticized for being too centered on corporate and business concerns between US and Asian markets—especially now that a majority of the members of the center’s Board of Governors have been appointed by the Republican governor of Hawaii, Linda Lingle, and by Secretary of State Condolezza Rice.   American Institute in Taiwan : The United States established the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) on Jan. 1, 1979, after it switched diplomatic recognition of China to the communist mainland. The AIT is a private, nonprofit corporation that received federal money and serves as a de facto embassy.   Asia Foundation : The Asia Foundation (TAF) was established as a Central Intelligence Administration (CIA) proprietary in 1954 with the mission “to undertake cultural and educational activities on behalf of the United States Government in ways not open to official U.S. agencies.” TAF stresses that it is a non-profit, non-governmental, and non-endowed organization, depending “solely on monetary contributions from donors to accomplish its work.” However, the bulk of its funding comes from grants made by the US government and the State Department, and an annual appropriation from Congress, with some additional support from other governments (OECD members and Asian countries), grant competition, individual donors, multilateral organizations and private corporations and foundations. The foundation is privately run, and its offices throughout the region are known to have a relatively high level of autonomy. In the post-Cold War era and after a thawing of relations between the US and China, TAF’s development strategy has evolved to focus primarily on neoliberal development practices—including liberalizing market reforms and good governance initiatives.   Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction : Since April 2003, Congress has allocated more then $46 billion towards Iraq reconstruction. The Special Inspector General for Iraq (SIGIR) is a temporary federal agency that takes on the role of a watchdog for the abuse of funds intended for Iraq reconstructions programs. SIGIR continually assesses all projects and programs in Iraq in order to ensure that all money is accounted for and is used effectively and efficiently by officials of the US and Iraqi governments as well as American contractors. Since 2004, SIGIR has issued 73 audit reports and seized more than $17 million in assets. SIGIR’s work has also led to the arrest of five individuals and the conviction of four for defrauding the US government.  However, SIGIR has noticeably failed to control corruption and cronyism in the awarding of contracts and the use of funds once they arrive in Iraq.   Fighting HIV/AIDS President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief: The President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) is a pledge of $15 billion over five years (2003-2008) to fight the global HIV/AIDS pandemic. The legislation that authorized PEPFAR also established the State Department Office of the US Global Aids Coordinator (OGAC), which oversees all international AIDS funding and programming. The State Department and OGAC—along with the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the Departments of Defense, Commerce, Labor, and Health and Human Services, and the Peace Corps—are responsible for administering PEPFAR. Through three strategic program areas (prevention, care and treatment), the initiative was intended to prevent 7 million new infections, treat 2 million people living with AID-related illnesses, and provide care and support for 10 million persons affected by AIDS. In its first two years, PEPFAR reportedly provided support for 471,000 people in 114 countries. Most of these were in 15 “focus countries”—a list that currently includes Botswana, Cote d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Guyana, Haiti, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam and Zambia.   Although considered a much-needed surge in the global fight against HIV/AIDS, PEPFAR is widely criticized for slow bureaucracy and restrictive policies. Most notably, recipient countries are required to spend the majority of funding for prevention of sexually-transmitted HIV/AIDS on abstinence-until-marriage programs—to the exclusion (and more often, prohibition) of condom-related education; organizations working with commercial sex workers are bound by morally based restrictions; funding is prohibited from being used by organizations that provide abortion services; and the US will not fund safe needle exchange programs for IV drug users, despite the proven efficacy of such programs. Generally, the US is accused of flagrantly ignoring scientific and statistical evidence and instead imposing an ideological agenda on countries, organizations and individuals in need. The US has also been criticized for pushing expensive brand-name pharmaceuticals in the programs instead of affordable generics, thereby greatly decreasing the number of individuals who receive treatment.   Diplomats, Embassies and Travel Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations : OBO is responsible for the buildings that house America’s overseas embassies, consulates and missions. The bureau conducts much of its work using domestic contractors who handle the building of new embassies. Since the 1998 bombings of American embassies in east Africa, the federal government has conducted the largest construction effort in US diplomatic history to upgrade diplomatic posts and secure them against terrorist attacks. Problems have arisen, however, in the course of several high-profile embassy projects, including the sprawling new complex in Baghdad, Iraq.   Bureau of Diplomatic Security : As the second largest component of the State Department, the Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS) is part law enforcement agency, part intelligence operation, responsible for protecting the personnel, information and property associated with America’s embassies and other diplomatic posts. The bureau also provides protection in the US for the Secretary of State, the US Ambassador to the United Nations and foreign dignitaries below the head-of-state level who visit the United States. DS employs almost 500 special agents in more than 150 countries, along with hundreds of private security guards through contracts with companies such as Blackwater USA. The use of private contractors created a huge controversy for DS in the fall of 2006 when Blackwater guards killed numerous civilians in Baghdad, Iraq, as a result of an attack on a convoy carrying American diplomats.   Office of the Chief of Protocol : The Office of the Chief of Protocol primarily advises and assists the president, vice president and secretary of state on matters of diplomatic protocol, or etiquette. The office arranges detailed itineraries for foreign dignitaries visiting the United States and accompanies the president on official travels abroad. It also plans and executes diplomatic ceremonies and dinners, oversees the accreditation of foreign ambassadors and manages the Blair House , which is the president’s guest residence for visiting foreign leaders.   Office of Foreign Missions : OFM claims three basic missions: 1) to provide services for foreign diplomats living in the United States, 2) to monitor the activities of these foreign diplomats so that they do not abuse their immunity status, and 3) to treat foreign diplomats in such a way that their countries will treat US diplomats stationed overseas in the same manner. OFM is authorized to impose restrictions of services on a foreign government and its diplomats if that government imposes them on the US. OFM is also authorized to enter into negotiations with that country to remove those restrictions once secure, fair treatment is given American officials in the other country.   Bureau of Consular Affairs : The Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA) is in charge of issuing passports for American citizens intending to reside, conduct business, study or travel abroad. It also provides alerts and warnings concerning potentially dangerous conditions in foreign countries and assists US citizens abroad on a variety of issues, including helping those who want to vote by absentee ballot when they’re out of the country, those who are involved in international adoptions, or those who fall victim to crime, accident or illness. In addition, the bureau provides services to citizens of other countries seeking visas to visit or reside legally in the United States and conducts research to determine who qualifies for a visa and which applicants may be attempting to get into the country to engage in harmful activities. The bureau also serves as a liaison between the State Department and overseas embassies and consulates on visa matters. In March 2008, the Bureau of Consular Affairs was the focus of media scrutiny when it was revealed that the passport files of presidential candidates Hillary Clinton, John McCain, and Barack Obama had been breached.   Fighting Crime Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs : Located within the Office of the Under Secretary for Political Affairs for the State Department, the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) is charged with combating the worldwide drug trade and other major crimes through programs involving other federal agencies and national governments. Despite its name, INL is not a true law enforcement agency, operating instead as a source of funding to assist law enforcement personnel, either in the US or other countries. No longer is it strictly an anti-narcotics office, working on other serious cross-border crimes, such human trafficking. However, anti-drug operations are still the dominant mission of the bureau. These operations, as well as its efforts to help stabilize Iraq, have resulted in the INL becoming a focal point of controversy in recent years.   Andean Counterdrug Initiative : The Andean Counterdrug Initiative (ACI) is a program operated by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs responsible for supporting anti-drug initiatives in Colombia and other South American countries. ACI grew out of a controversial legislation, Plan Colombia, which supported various drug wars in South America. The program seeks to eradicate coca and induce local farmers to plant alternative crops. But for all the money that has been spent towards stemming the flow of illegal drugs into the United States from South America, little progress has been made in reaching this goal.   Rewards for Justice : The Rewards for Justice program (RFJ) authorizes the Secretary of State to offer money for credible information that can be used to capture or kill international terrorists. The program may also provide protection and relocation services for the informant and his or her family. Despite captures and killings reportedly undertaken as a result of intelligence tips, Rewards for Justice has detractors. Some say the program promotes reckless bounty hunting. A few have also voiced concerns about the credibility of received tips, while others wonder if any amount of money can overcome deep-seated ethnic loyalties in places like Afghanistan. Still others question the recent US preference for killing militant-Islamic suspects using precision-guided bombs, pointing out that bombings might hurt counter-insurgency efforts, which are based on gaining trust and cooperation, in Muslim countries. Indeed, critics frequently assail ads and other promotional materials for lacking cultural sensitivity. On the other hand, coaxing people with money to turn in their peers has been a tactic used since antiquity. Many see this particular program as a way of fighting terrorism with capitalism and an enthusiastic fundraising effort developed around it for a time.   Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons : The Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons (G/TIP) coordinates United States activities in the international battle against modern-day slavery, including sexual exploitation and involuntary labor; manages US funding for anti-trafficking efforts across the globe; and is responsible for submitting a yearly Report to Congress on foreign governments’ successes and failures in meeting the minimum standards set by the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA) in regards to steps taken to prohibit human trafficking, assist victims, and cooperate in investigating and extraditing traffickers.   Culture, Information and Propaganda Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs : The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs was established to bring together students and professionals from the United States and across the world in hopes of building stronger relationships between countries. The bureau funds and sponsors many programs for international education exchanges to promote their objective of cultural learning and mutual understanding.   National Endowment for Democracy : NED provides grants to media outlets, human-rights groups and other organizations for the stated purpose of fostering democracy in foreign countries.   Bureau of International Information Programs : The Bureau of International Information Programs is the main propaganda arm of the US government towards the rest of the world. Responsible for producing and distributing information about the United States to an international audience, the bureau attempts to foster understanding and good will towards the US with an eye towards creating an environment receptive to US security and economic interests. The bureau was created in 1999 out of the remnants of the US Information Agency when it was merged with the State Department, and it has attempted to brand itself as a more high-tech and modern office. In addition to news reports and publications about the United States, the bureau recently unveiled a new website , designed to reach a younger audience with multimedia presentations, videos and podcasts. The director of the Bureau of International Information Programs reports directly to the Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs.   Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation : AFCP is one of several programs administered by the Cultural Heritage Center, a division of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). It is the only component of the US government that provides grant support to heritage preservation in developing countries. Projects are chosen from those proposed by US Ambassadors in 120 countries that the State Department deems eligible. AFCP grants are awarded in areas ranging from providing technical support for the restoration of buildings that are hundreds of years old to aiding in documentation to saving threatened traditional crafts. Controversy surrounds some of the actions of Maria P. Kouroupas, the executive director of AFCP, as it also did when she previously held similar positions for the Cultural Property Advisory Committee.   Art in Embassies Program : Art in Embassies Program (AIEP) promotes America’s art and artists by borrowing original works of art by US citizens for display in approximately 180 US embassy residences worldwide. These exhibitions are collections of art loaned from galleries, museums, individual artists, and corporate and private collections. Each exhibition is developed collaboratively between a United States ambassador and one of AIEP’s curators.   Other Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration : PRM is responsible for helping refugees around the world either through assistance to international and non-governmental organizations or by admitting refugees to the United States. PRM administers and monitors American contributions to international and non-governmental organizations to assist and protect refugees abroad. It oversees admissions of refugees to the US for permanent resettlement in coordination with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services. PRM has been criticized for not helping more Iraqis enter the US during the ongoing violence in Iraq, and its onetime leader was accused of being unqualified to run the bureau.   Bureau of Economic, Energy and Business Affairs : The State Department’s Bureau of Economic, Energy and Business Affairs (EEB) is one of the federal government’s leading voices for promoting US economic interests across the globe. EEB implements policies involving international trade, investment and finance, economic development and sanctions, debt policy, terrorist financing, energy security, telecommunications and transportation. It also actively promotes opportunities for American businesses. Since 9/11 the bureau has increasingly supported the government’s Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) while carrying out its economic mission. This includes promoting US sanctions against Iran, which has continued to do business with numerous American corporations—including those with close ties to the Bush administration. In fact, annual US trade with Iran actually doubled under President Bush.   Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs : OES is responsible for the integration of matters relating to the environment, science, and technology into United States foreign policy. It works closely with the White House, Congress, US government agencies, universities, non-governmental organizations, and private citizens, as well as other State Department bureaus. Among the specific areas OES addresses when representing the US in making agreements with other nations: Bio-terrorism, climate change, conservation, fisheries, forests, international health issues, oceans, the use of outer space, and wildlife.    Bureau of Verification, Compliance, and Implementation : VCI is responsible for ensuring that appropriate verification requirements and capabilities are fully considered and integrated into the development, negotiation, and implementation of new arms control, nonproliferation, and disarmament treaties, agreements, and commitments. It also serves as the main liaison to the US Intelligence Community and other key policymakers for verification and compliance issues.   Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor : The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) is one of three bureaus that comprise the Office of the Under Secretary for Democracy and Global Affairs within the State Department. (See also Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs and Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration ). The DRL is perhaps best known for the annual country reports it generates on human rights practices around the globe. Starting with a congressional mandate and a humble 286 pages in 1977, these reports have become one of the most trusted and comprehensive sources of information for human rights advocates and officials.   The bureau also administers a multi-million dollar grant portfolio, including the Human Rights and Democracy Fund (HRDF), financing a wide range of human rights and democracy programs worldwide. Programs are carried out regionally or on a country-specific basis, focusing on issues such as press and religious freedom, civil society building and democratic reform, labor rights and women’s initiatives. The bureau is expected to help formulate and implement US policy abroad—especially with regard to the State Department’s increased emphasis on democratizing “transitioning countries.” Recent typical projects include the training programs Internews Pakistan , National Democratic Institute South Asia and Trust for the Americas Western Hemisphere   Triple Canopy Inc                                                            $418,051,498   One of the biggest spenders within the State Department is the Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS). In addition to its almost 500 special agents, DS employs private security contractors. This supplemental security force has been used largely in Iraq due to the extremely unstable climate in the country since the US invaded in 2003. Before the Iraq war, the use of private contractors by DS was limited to small efforts in Afghanistan and Bosnia. Currently, DS contracts with three large companies to help guard State Department personnel: Blackwater USA ; DynCorp International ; and Triple Canopy .   Blackwater USA, founded in 1997 by three former Navy SEALs, provides a variety of protective services in Iraq, using 987 employees, of whom 744 are Americans. Blackwater was one of the original companies providing security services to the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA), including protection for CPA chief Paul Bremer, as well as other CPA employees and visiting dignitaries. Its staff includes former military, intelligence and law enforcement personnel.   DynCorp International evolved from a company formed in 1946 that provided support and services to US military aircraft and weapons systems under Air Force contracts. Named DynCorp since 1987, it was acquired in 2003 by Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) and now has nearly 14,000 employees in 30 countries. DynCorp has 151 personnel in Iraq (100 are American) to provide police training and related services in Iraq. The company also does work for the State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.   Triple Canopy, founded in September 2003, brags of having “former tier-one military special operations” personnel in its leadership. Triple Canopy’s two founders and co-chairman both served with the US Army Special Forces, one with Special Forces “Delta Force” unit. It employs the largest number of private guards in Iraq, almost 1,500, of whom only 224 are American.   (By Jennifer K. Elsea, Congressional Research Service) (PDF)     Passport Files of Presidential Candidates Improperly Accessed In March 2008, embarrassed State Department officials admitted that three employees working for private contractors and one department employee had breached the passport files of Barack Obama, Hilary Clinton and John McCain.  The information could be used to access social security numbers and credit reports, as long with other private information. Sixty percent of people who process passports are contractors. The contract employees worked for Stanley Inc. of Arlington, Virginia, and The Analysis Corp. (TAC) of McLean, Virginia. On September 22, 2008, Lawrence Yontz, a fromer analyst for the State Department Bureau of Intelligence and Research, pleaded guilty to reading the passport applications of about 200 politicians and celebrities. Passport Snooping Gets Fed Intelligence Analyst Up to Year in Prison (by David Kravets, Wired)   New Embassy Construction Criticized Despite the State Department’s goal of building diplomatic facilities more quickly and efficiently, serious problems continue to plague some projects. In a November 2003 GAO report (PDF), the Government Accountability Office reported that 22 construction projects were either behind schedule or going over budget. By June 2006, things had improved, with new embassies going up three years faster this decade than in the 1980s or 1990s, according to a 2006 GAO report (PDF). But then a single mortar shell opened up a whole new controversy for the State Department and OBO.   In May 2007, Iraqi insurgents attacked the area in Baghdad where the US was building a new $600-million embassy. A mortar shell smashed into the partially built embassy, damaging a wall and causing minor injuries to people inside the building. It also exposed enormous problems in the management of the construction project.   The contractor in charge, James L. Golden, attempted to alter the scene of the blast, according to government officials. Furthermore, the State Department’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) prevented other State Department officials from investigating the incident.   US Ambassador Ryan Crocker banished Golden from Iraq, but Golden continued to oversee the construction of the Baghdad embassy and serve as the liaison with the new contractor, Kuwait-based First Kuwaiti General Trading and Contracting Co. It was also discovered that OBO continued to use Golden on other projects.   The embassy has been plagued by other deficiencies. The electrical system in the dining facility of a nearby guard camp malfunctioned when it was tested. State Department officials defended its contractor, First Kuwaiti, and blamed Houston-based KBR, Inc., which was hired to operate the facility. Meanwhile, First Kuwaiti said it stood by the quality of its work. In January 2008, a media story revealed that the firefighting systems were defective, and that State Department leaders rushed to declare the new embassy complex completed, ignoring the concerns of the department’s professional fire experts. Criminal probe into U.S. Embassy in Iraq construction (by Warren P. Strobel and Jonathan S. Landay, McClatchy Newspapers)   Blackwater and Other Private Security Contractors Immune from Prosecution The use of private security companies by the State Department in Iraq came under national scrutiny in September 2006 following a firefight in Baghdad involving a group of Blackwater armed guards. While providing security for a convoy transporting US diplomats, the Blackwater guards opened fire in a traffic circle, killing 17 Iraqis. The company justified the deadly response by claiming the convoy had come under attack from insurgents. Iraqi officials and some US military personnel questioned the accounts of the Blackwater guards. A team of Justice Department and FBI investigators traveled to Iraq to conduct a two-week investigation.   A grand jury was convened in late 2007 to examine the shootings. However, federal prosecutors were not sure if the contractors could be prosecuted under US law because of a grant of immunity to Blackwater and other private security companies by the former US occupation government in Iraq. Further complicating the matter was the limited immunity that State Department investigators offered Blackwater guards as part of their investigation into the shootings.   The Blackwater controversy also exposed longstanding tensions between the State Department and the Pentagon over the use of private security companies by diplomats. Prior to the September firefight, US military leaders had complained about a lack of coordination from State Department officials when companies such as Blackwater (which the Pentagon also uses) were out in the field providing security. Military officers argued they, not the State Department, should have control over the security guards, whose aggressive behavior interfered with military operations and undermined US efforts to win Iraqi hearts and minds. Following the September incident, State and Defense officials agreed to a memorandum of understanding that gave US military leaders in Iraq more input over the use of the private guards, but still left the State Department in full control of its contractors. Immunity Deals Offered to Blackwater Guards (by David Johnston, New York Times)   Blackwater Sniper Kills Iraqi Guards Prior to the September shooting incident, Blackwater was embroiled in controversy when one of its snipers killed three Iraqi guards. The sniper opened fire from the roof of the Iraqi Justice Ministry, killing a 23-year-old guard for the state-funded Iraqi Media Network, who was standing on a balcony across an open traffic circle. Another guard rushed to his colleague’s side and was fatally shot in the neck. A third guard was found dead more than an hour later on the same balcony.   Eight people who responded to the shootings—including media network and Justice Ministry guards and an Iraqi army commander—and five network officials in the compound said none of the slain guards had fired on the Justice Ministry, where an American diplomat was in a meeting. An Iraqi police report described the shootings as “an act of terrorism” and said Blackwater was at fault. The media network concluded that the guards were killed “without any provocation.”   State Department officials defended Blackwater’s actions. Based on information from the Blackwater guards, who said they were fired upon, the State Department determined that the security team’s actions “fell within approved rules governing the use of force,” according to a DS official.   US officials and the security company offered no compensation or apology to the victims’ families. “It's really surprising that Blackwater is still out there killing people,” said Mohammed Jasim, the Iraqi Media Network’s deputy director.   A Blackwater spokesperson said the company’s guards came under “precision small-arms fire” and that the shooting was absolutely provoked.   An internal review of the State Department’s handling of private security contractors found serious deficiencies in the agency’s supervision of contractors, including Blackwater. The bureau’s director, Richard J. Griffin, was forced to resign after the report was released.   State Department Anti-Drug Operations Criticized In 2003 Assistant Secretary of State Bobby Charles advocated for the use of aerial spraying to combat poppy production in Afghanistan. Charles warned that the drug problem in the country was threatening to “devour” the Afghan government. Charles wanted to use a version of Roundup to kill poppy plants, claiming the pesticide was safe to use. Afghanistan officials refused to accept the idea, and eventually INL backed off.   In the fall of 2007, the Bush administration asked Congress to authorize $1.4 billion worth of equipment to Mexico and six South American nations to combat drug cartels. The proposal included communications equipment that the State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics would send to help track drug leaders. But members of a House committee attacked the plan, arguing it was time to spend more to “curb the appetite” for drugs. Committee members also cited concerns about corrupt Mexican military and police who might misuse equipment. Among the equipment to be sent to Mexico were helicopters for use in training military personnel.   Bush Goes Around Congress to Appoint Refugee Official Ellen Sauerbrey served almost two years as the assistant secretary of state in charge of the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration—but that was only because President George W. Bush appointed the Christian conservative during a break in Congress. The President made the recess appointment because Congressional Democrats questioned Sauerbrey’s qualifications for the job, calling her another “Michael Brown,” the former head of FEMA who was forced to resign in the wake of the federal government’s poor response during Hurricane Katrina in 2005 who had no background in emergency planning.   Prior to running PRM, Sauerbrey had had no experience managing a refugee program. Instead, she had served as ambassador to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women—where she opposed international programs that supported abortion or contraception. Before that, the longtime Republican had worked as a TV talk show host and twice ran, unsuccessfully, for governor of Maryland.   Rewards for Justice The Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program is one of the least known but most noteworthy efforts run by the State Department. An international variant of “America’s Most Wanted,” RFJ was created in the 1980s when criminal behavior began attracting popular attention in the United States. In the case of Rewards for Justice, the focus is on getting ordinary citizens (either from the US or other countries) to contribute information that leads to the capture or killing of terrorists. Since 9/11, the program has seen its funding go up as the Bush administration placed a premium on neutralizing “bad guys.”   For--from the Right At a time when the threat of terrorism is at its greatest in US history, ordinary citizens should be encouraged to aid in the battle to thwart those bent on harming American citizens or interests. By doing so, the US government stands a greater chance of maintaining the safety and security of the country. As former Secretary of State Colin Powell put it, “One of the most powerful tools we have for tracking down terrorists abroad is the State Department’s Rewards for Justice Program. It gives us millions of additional pairs of eyes and ears to be on the lookout. It puts potential informants in every place a terrorist might try to operate or to hide.” Trampling Terrorists: A how-to guide (by Deroy Murdock, National Review)   Against--from the Left Critics of the program say RFJ promotes reckless bounty hunting. There is also the concern that the financial motive may lead to questionable tips received by US officials. Some wonder if any amount of money can overcome deep-seated ethnic loyalties in places like Afghanistan. Still others question the recent US preference for killing militant-Islamic suspects using precision-guided bombs, pointing out that bombings might hurt counter-insurgency efforts, which are based on gaining trust and cooperation, in Muslim countries. Bush’s Terrorism Tip Program Unravels (by Deep Harm, Daily Kos)     Bush Administration AIDS Program One of the most ambitious, and controversial, foreign policy programs under the current Bush administration is the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Run by the State Department, through the newly created Office of the US Global Aids Coordinator (OGAC), PEPFAR has spent $15 billion over five years (2003-2008) to fight the global HIV/AIDS pandemic. The program was reauthorized for five years on July 30, 2008. During the reauthorization debate, numerous suggestions urfaced about how PEPFAR should be changed.   Practical suggestions for reforming the many contentious issues at stake in PEPFAR policy include: removing the prohibitions and “morality clauses” that complicate and impede funding disbursement to some of the most needy and vulnerable sectors of society, including Congressional earmarks for abstinence-only-until-marriage programs (recently reformed, see below) and the suppression of contraceptive and condom education and distribution; the anti-prostitution oath and prohibition of safe needle exchange initiatives. Although President Bush specifically exempted PEPFAR funding from the global gag rule (which prohibits US aid from funding family planning services that provide abortion information or services), there is still confusion about administering family planning services and the rule prevents successful implementation of dual family-planning/reproductive health and HIV/AIDS instruction and services.   2008 Reauthorization Bill The House approved the President’s Reauthorization Bill in early April 2008. The legislation wasconsidered a compromise, evidencing a response to critical feedback - albeit one critics find incomplete and counterproductive. The one-third “abstinence only” requirement for prevention funds replaced with “balanced funding” for ABC programs based on country-specific evidence - however, the bill imposes a requirement that countries report to Congress if AB programs constitute less than half of spending on programs aimed at preventing sexual transmission, which critics label “confusing.” The 55% floor for treatment provisions was also eliminated. The Bill retains the anti-prostitution pledge requirement, and permits groups to use PEPFAR funding for HIV testing and education in family planning clinics - but not for contraception or abortion services. (That is, the programs that are allowed to integrate HIV testing, counseling and education services with family planning must already receive U.S. funding - and therefore abide to the global gag rule). The result is a failure to truly integrate family planning and HIV/AIDS initiatives.  
United States Department of State
Anchored by the star Altair, what animal does the constellation Aquia represent?
The Constitution For The United States, Its Sources and Its Applications - History The Constitution For The United States Its Sources and Its Application A The Constitution For The United States The Federal Convention and The Creation of the U.S. Constitution How It All Started . . . After the Declaration of Independence in 1776, there were thirteen little free countries in place of the thirteen colonies. Most of the animosities and jealousies of colonial times still continued. There was a political atmosphere of the Balkan states about this aggregation of small republics. They were flimsily held together by a document known as the Articles of Confederation . It was not a constitution; it did not make a nation; it was a sort of treaty, and was called by the men of the time "a league of friendship." In the Continental Congress, which consisted of a single legislative chamber, each state had one vote. When a question was put, the delegates from a state would get together and agree on the vote from that state, if they could. If they could not agree the state did not vote. The affirmative vote of nine states was required to carry any measure. The Continental Congress had no power to make laws binding individuals. Its action was upon the states as political entities, and not directly upon the citizens. But, even at that, it could not compel a state to do anything. The Congress was, in fact, not a legislative but a diplomatic body. Its members were really ambassadors, and their attitude toward Congress, and toward each other, bore all the historic distrust and caution which ambassadors are supposed to have. Many disputes between the states arose, and on numerous occasions between 1788 and 1789 the air was explosive with threats of interstate wars. New York, for example, considered herself much aggrieved because the farmers of New Jersey brought chickens and vegetables to New York City and sold them there. This took wealth away from New York, so the New Yorkers said, and transferred it to the foreign state of New Jersey. Connecticut people, too, were draining the life-blood from Manhattan. They brought firewood down to the city and sold it from door to door. Then, with New York's money in their pockets, they would go back to the thrifty state of Connecticut, while New Yorkers worried through the sleepless nights wondering how it would all come out in the end. There was a thorough misunderstanding of the principles of trade; and an inordinate value was set on currency. This narrow provincial sentiment was encouraged by the farmers of New York state. They had produce to sell, and it appeared monstrous to them that the New York state government, which ought to have protected them in their rights, allowed the citizens of other states to get the city trade. They might have got the trade themselves by making their prices lower, but that is exactly what they did not want to do. After awhile the New York legislature acted. A tariff law was passed. Every chicken that came from New Jersey, every cabbage from Connecticut, had to go through a custom house and pay duty before being allowed to enter the state of New York. Connecticut and New Jersey applied themselves to ways of retaliation. The Connecticut merchants decided to boycott New York. The New Jersey method was different. On Sandy Hook the state of New York had put up a lighthouse. The New Jersey legislature passed an act for taxing the little scrap of land on which this lighthouse stood, and the tax was made one hundred and fifty dollars a month. There was another dispute between Connecticut and Pennsylvania which became so bitter that Connecticut was on the verge of declaring war. Long before the Revolution settlers from Connecticut had migrated to lands in northern Pennsylvania. Although they made their homes within the borders of that state they continued to follow the Connecticut laws; and, in fact, considered their communities as a part of the state of Connecticut. After the Revolution Connecticut claimed this Wyoming Valley, notwithstanding the fact that it did not touch the state of Connecticut at any point. In the quarrel that ensued men were killed and the dormant Pennsylvania militia bloomed into uniforms and bayonets. Connecticut was about to send an army to protect the people whom she supposed to be her citizens. Finally the matter came before a special federal court, organized under the Articles of Confederation, and the disputed territory was awarded to Pennsylvania. Under the Confederation no state could keep a standing army. That was a function of the general government, but the revenue of Congress was so insignificant that it could never afford the luxury of soldiers, and its army was a very small, disarticulated skeleton. Congress could not levy a tax. Its authority in this direction was limited to requisitions on the states, apportioned on the basis of the real estate value of each state. The payment of the requisitions was farcical in the extent of its delinquency. In 1781 it was estimated that the continental government would require nine million dollars during the next year. It was thought that four millions might be borrowed, and the remaining five millions raised through requisitions. At the end of the year only $422,000 had been paid in the treasury. Of the requisitions levied in 1788, less than one-fifth had been received in the continental treasury by 1785. Each state maintained its own custom house and laid duties on foreign goods according to its own notions. In 1781 Congress, worn to despair on the subject of money, asked permission of the states to collect, for continental expenses, a duty of five per cent on all imports. This seemed to be a feasible way out of the money trouble, but it came to nothing. All the states but New York agreed to this five per cent impost. New York flatly declined, so nothing could be done. In the meantime five years had been consumed in wrangling. There were times when the continental treasury did not possess a single dollar of coin, though a huge depreciated volume of continental paper currency was in circulation. In 1786 New Jersey came out with a statement that she had been badly treated; and she declared that she did not intend to pay any more requisitions or to contribute in any manner to the general scheme of things until New York stopped collecting a tariff on New Jersey goods. Nothing could be done about it. Congress was entirely lacking in executive authority. The President was merely the presiding officer of Congress. He had no more power than the chairman of a mass meeting. To get rid of the army, quietly and without trouble, was the chief un-public question that disturbed the ruling minds in 1788. It intruded itself sadly, like a ragged and unwelcome guest, in the victory festivals of the period. The soldiers had been treated shamefully, and there was an apprehension in Congress that these patriotic protectors of the nation might kick Congress out of doors and take charge of affairs. Washington managed to disband the army, or most of it, before it was aware of being disbanded. His method was to give furloughs to batches of men, to send them away in groups or singly, and then to send them their discharges later. The idea behind these tactics was to get rid of the soldiers without paying them, though Washington himself wanted them to be paid, as his letters prove. In behalf of Congress it must be said that they had no funds to pay the soldiers; on the other hand it must be said that they made very little effort to raise money for this purpose. The plain fact is that the commercial element of the country which had come into authoritative prominence was tired of the whole crew of patriots. They wanted to disperse the army as soon as .possible. The country was full of business schemes and wartime fortunes were growing in arrogance. Eighty soldiers mutinied at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in June, 1788. They marched on Philadelphia and appeared in front of the State House where Congress was in session. Congress called on the Executive Council of Pennsylvania, meeting in the same building, for protection, but the Council was afraid to bring out the militia, as it was thought that the militia might join the mutineers. The soldiers declared that they wanted their pay and intended to take it from the treasury. They pointed their guns at the Congressional windows but did not fire them. There was a rough play-boy air about the whole proceeding. Congress sent an urgent message for help to Washington -- who was then at West Point -- and without waiting to see what the result would be, the members of Congress unheroically slipped through the back door and made their way through a golden June sunset to Princeton in New Jersey, thus abandoning the seat of government to eighty mutineers and a sergeant. Washington was very efficient in cases of mutiny. He sent fifteen hundred troops -- best-fed and best-clothed of the army -- to Philadelphia at once. That ended the mutiny. Some of the mutineers were whipped, but nobody was shot. The fleeing Congress, wounded in the sphere of dignity, abjured Philadelphia and decided to remain at Princeton. The members were given tea and liquor by the delighted inhabitants, who assured them of protection. Notwithstanding its grotesque adventures, the Continental Congress managed to exist. It held one large asset. The western territory -- everything from the Appalachians to the Mississippi -- had been turned over to Congress by the states. Nearly all the schemes for financing the government, and for liquidating the public debt, revolved around this western land. It was, indeed, an immense domain. It is interesting to reflect that if the government had held it to this day the entire expense of the national budget could have been met from its rentals. The insignificance of Congress was well known in England. In negotiating the peace treaty the commissioners of the United States, representing Congress, agreed to recommend to the states that no bar or hindrance be placed against the collection of debts due to British merchants by American citizens. They also agreed to recommend that the seizure of loyalists' property be discontinued. At first, the British wanted to be paid for the effects of loyalists taken during the war. Franklin pointed out that sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander; and that, in such a case, he would expect the British government to pay for property destroyed by British troops. The argument was dropped by both sides, and the conclusion was that Congress should urge the states not to molest the loyalists any more. Such a recommendation was made by Congress, but it had small effect. In some parts of the country, particularly in the South, loyalist property was seized right and left after the conclusion of peace. As for the collection of debts to British merchants made before the war, it was almost impossible to find either a judge or a jury who would pass favorably on these claims; and their validity drifted into the realm of legal fictions. The British had agreed, on the signing of the treaty, to give up their forts in the Northwest Territory. Years passed, and they still held on to these posts, declaring that they would give them up when the United States had carried out its part of the compact. This attitude seems reasonable, but it did not appeal to the Americans of the 1780's. Just at the end of the war, another blow had been given to New England commercial aspirations by a British Order in Council which closed the ports of the British West Indies to American ships. Thus, the question which began the war was lost in its successful conclusion. But this closing of West Indian ports was a blessing in disguise. New England ships and sailors had to have some occupation, so in the 1780's we see Massachusetts ships sailing timidly to China with goods which it was thought the Chinese might want. By the year 1800 the Chinese trade was a roaring success, and Yankee merchants were cutting the ground from under the English in that faraway market. In closing the West Indian ports they effectually developed a rival for themselves in the Orient. In the weighty troubles that grew out of the treaty Congress revealed its weakness at every turn. From the first many leading men were dissatisfied with the Confederation, and hoped eventually to replace this feeble "league of friendship" with a closely knit national government. Washington wrote to Hamilton in 1788: "It is clearly my opinion, unless Congress have powers competent to all general purposes, that the distresses we have encountered, the expense we have incurred, and the blood we have spilt, will avail us nothing." A few weeks later he wrote: "My wish to see the union of these states established upon liberal and permanent principles, and inclination to contribute my mite in pointing out the defects of the present constitution, are equally great. All my private letters have teemed with these sentiments, and whenever this topic has been the subject of conversation, I have endeavored to disuse and enforce them." There was a body of intelligent opinion in favor of a monarchy. Strange to say, Washington was not considered, so far as we know, by these advocates of monarchy as a possible King, unless Hamilton had him in mind. He was, indeed, written to by an irresponsible colonel who hinted that he ought to be a King, though this man appears to have represented nobody but himself. Washington was a republican at heart. What he wanted was a republic -- but an aristocratic one -- where the suffrage and the authority would be in the hands of the wellborn and the wealthy. The monarchy movement, if such a vague affair can be called a movement, is obscure. It became so unpopular in the end that its originators, among whom was Nathaniel Gorham and Rufus King, buried it as deeply as they could in their memories. These men felt, evidently, that no plebeian American, however distinguished he might be, was of sufficient prestige to occupy the throne. There is a strong probability that Prince Henry of Prussia, a brother of Frederick the Great, was approached on the subject before the matter was dropped. The spectacle of some gaudy European prince, coming over to occupy a throne in our land of raw liquor and trusty squirrel rifles would have been interesting. This clumsy playing with the idea of a monarchy was hardly more than a sort of moral nostalgia. Certainly any such attempt would have failed miserably, but there was nevertheless a well-grounded effort to create a permanent nobility by an organization of former army officers called the Society of the Cincinnati, in which membership was to be hereditary. Washington was the first president of the society, though he accepted the office, I think, without being aware of the society's intention to influence public affairs. He was displeased with the early conduct of the organization, and resigned from its leadership, but not until he had persuaded the society to drop its hereditary feature. The Society of the Cincinnati exists today as a purely social, and praiseworthy organization. The Confederation was a failure, but commerce and finance were riding on the crest of the wave. The close of the war had found the small farmers, as a class, in acute poverty. By taking advantage of the economic needs of these producers the money-holding groups in the coast cities had been able to get a tight financial grip on almost the whole of the producing class. There were counties in which nearly every acre was under mortgage at high rates of interest. Usury and profit molded themselves into large fortunes. The splendor of business began to shine. The discontent of the common people was snapping at the heels of these primitive money kings. In every legislature there were proposals to repudiate debts, to issue floods of paper money, to impair the value of contracts. In Rhode Island the debtors captured the legislative machinery of the state, and repudiated virtually everything. They made paper money a legal tender and forced merchants and mortgage-holders to take it. Capital in that little state became so unsafe that it got out as quickly as it could. The "shameful conduct" of Rhode Island was a topic at teas and in counting-houses from New Hampshire to Georgia. It was the general opinion that something ought to be done about it. The lawbooks were thumbed, and spectacles rested on learned noses. It appeared that nothing could be done under the Articles of Confederation. Rhode Island was a free state and could act as she pleased. This was bad enough, but even worse was coming. In 1786 an armed rebellion broke out in western Massachusetts and aroused the execration of all who loved peace and profits. The farmers of that region took up arms against the gaunt destitution of their lives. Their lands could not produce enough to pay the interest on mortgages and provide the food and raiment for human necessity. In addition to the burden of debt, taxes had gone up in Massachusetts until they were fifty dollars per capita. Compared with this, the taxes which Great Britain had attempted to impose on the colonies were nothing more than trifling small change. The rebels were mostly veterans of the Revolution. They put themselves under command of Daniel Shays, who had been an officer in the war. Organized with a sort of military discipline, they constituted in fact a formidable force. Lawyers took to their heels, and the frightened judges were ousted from the courts. Debts were to be abolished; everybody was to begin over with a clean slate. On this program of extreme simplicity the rebellion throve for a brief moment. The rebels invoked the Scriptures and pointed to the ancient Jewish law under which all lands were redistributed every seven years. Shays' army of "desperate debtors," as these men were called, created terrific excitement, not only in New England, but everywhere else. Henry Knox, the Confederation's Secretary of War, was sent to Massachusetts at once; the militia was called out; the money-lenders of Boston fluttered in agitation. Washington wrote to Henry Lee, Oct. 31 1786: "You talk, my good Sir, of employing influence to appease these present tumults in Massachusetts. I know not where that influence is to be found, or, if attainable, that it would be a proper remedy for the disorders. Influence is not government. Let us have a government by which our lives, liberties, and properties will be secured, or let us know the worst at once." Jefferson, on the contrary, does not appear to have been at all upset by the Shays episode and, in this, he stands alone among the notables. He wrote to W. S. Smith, "God forbid we should ever be twenty years without such a rebellion." To Mrs. John Adams -- of all people -- he wrote these disturbing lines on Feb. 22, 1787: "I like a little rebellion now and then.... The spirit of resistance to government is so valuable on certain occasions that I wish it to be always kept alive. It will often be exercised when wrong, but better so than not to be exercised at all." The Massachusetts troops eventually drove Shays and his foodless men over the deep-snow hills into New Hampshire. In the meantime Rhode Island sank a notch lower in public estimation by inviting the entire Shays outfit to come to Rhode Island and live. On a wintry day in the New Hampshire hills Shays' forlorn little army petered out. All the forces of society, represented by a swarm of bayonets, surrounded these rebels as they shivered in the snow. When they were asked by General Lincoln, in command of the Massachusetts troops, what they wanted to do, they said that they wanted to go home. He allowed them to go, and Shays' Rebellion came to an end. There was some feeble effort to punish the ring-leaders, but nothing came of it. It seems quite clear that the money ring which ruled Massachusetts was afraid to proceed with prosecutions. After this occurrence the moneyed classes were convinced that affairs were in a sad plight. There was no protection anywhere for capital or investments. A strong, centralized government was urgently needed; the stronger the better. Now, for the first time in American history we see finance lifting its head above land as an object of attention. It had its origin in the public debt. Let us consider, for a moment, the status of the government's financial obligations in the later 1780's. First, there was the foreign debt -- that is, money borrowed abroad by the commissioners of the Continental Congress. This amounted, in 1789, to approximately ten million dollars, with arrears of interest of nearly two millions. Second: The domestic continental debt, which ran up to a principal sum of twenty-seven millions; to which must be added unpaid interest amounting to thirteen millions. Thus, the continental obligations, in all, were a little more than fifty millions of dollars. There is absolutely nothing different now except two hundred and ten years have gone by and zeros have been added. The precise total of the combined state debts is unknown, owing to the slipshod character of the records, but it was around twenty millions of dollars... say, seventy millions for both continental and state debts. This sum of seventy millions represents only the funded obligations, represented by certificates, or bonds. Besides, there was the enormous volume of continental paper currency, which went down and down until it became entirely worthless and passed out of sight. More than two hundred million dollars of it has been issued. Very little of it was ever redeemed, on any terms. The holders of the certificates, or interest-bearing obligations, considered them of small worth; they might be bought readily at prices ranging from one-sixth to one-twentieth of their face value. But, suppose a powerful national government could be put in place of the Confederation... a government in complete control of tariffs and indirect taxation. Let us suppose further that it could be done so quietly and so secretly that men with money would be able to buy up this whole mass of depreciated paper before its holders, principally ex-soldiers and very ordinary people, realized the import of the new authority. Then the next step would be a large fiscal operation by which the new and strong government would assume the entire volume of obligations, both state and continental. In a short time these depreciated certificates would rise to par. Golden dream! A dream it was... but, as the virile, go-getting magazines tell us, there are men who make their dreams come true. The men behind the Constitution made theirs come true, to their great profit. The first difficulty was how to begin. The Confederation had to be abolished. If a public campaign were started to do away with the government and put a new one in its place the substantial citizens of the country would have the whole pack of the debt-ridden and improvident clawing at them; and every little landless theorizer would put forth his plan. Perhaps there were more Shays than one in the country. Some of them might support their fatuous democratic ideas with armies. Besides, a general public knowledge of what they intended to do would vitiate the scheme from the outset. Even the most ignorant holder of certificates would hear of it eventually and keep his government paper, or sell it only at a high price. Into this circle of ideas there came the shrewd notion to call a conference of the states at Annapolis to consider commercial regulations, to devise a uniform system of duties, and so on. After commercial matters had been discussed, then other important matters might be taken up... or the convention might simply drift into a discussion of the general welfare. In this way it might be possible to devise a stronger government and one financially able to assume the debts -- under the guise of a commercial conference. The Annapolis convention, which met in September, 1786, did nothing of any consequence. Only five states were represented. Alexander Hamilton was there... five states and Hamilton, personal secretary to Washington during the Revolution and who became our first Secretary of the Treasury. However, there was a sufficient interchange of views to give the delegates a sense of confidence, so before adjourning they passed a resolution in which they asked Congress to call a convention at Philadelphia, the following May, "to devise such further provisions as shall appear to them necessary to render the constitution of the federal government adequate to the exigencies of the Union, and to report to Congress such an act, as, when agreed to by them, and confirmed by the legislature of every state, would effectually provide for the same." This is how the Federal Convention, which created the Constitution for the United States, came into being. There was something about the Federal Convention that makes one think of a meeting of the board of directors of a large and secretive corporation. Fifty-five sleek, well-to-do gentlemen sitting carelessly in a closed room. Gentlemen who know one another very well. Gentlemen of good manners who apologize for reading their letters in public. Esoteric jokes pass around with snuff-boxes of engraved silver. Mild and polite attendants. Tip-toeing doorkeepers, and keys that crunch loudly in their locks. In the chair of authority sits the impressive Washington... grey inside, but majestic outside. Boredom flickers in his eyes; he is grave, serious and bored. But he has the consciousness of doing his duty, the spiritual uplift of meeting expectations. Posterity has its eye on that assembly, and he knows it. No matter how others may act, posterity shall never say - with truth -- that George Washington failed in his part. At Washington's side sits little Secretary Jackson, fumbling with his bewildered notes. He left them to posterity, too; but posterity has never been able to make head or tail of them. The delegates pledged themselves to secrecy, like a jury in a murder trial, and for four months they met behind locked doors with hardly a whisper of their proceedings reaching the open air. But some of the delegates took notes for their own use. Among the note-takers was James Madison. It is to him that we owe the most complete report of what occurred. During his lifetime he kept his notes in inviolable secrecy. They were published in 1840... fifty-three years after the Convention. The general impression among the people of the country was that the Federal convention's powers were limited to a revision of the Articles of Confederation. This impression did not extend to the men in the Convention, nor to the well-informed elsewhere. Dr. Charles A. Beard, outspoken and scholarly historian, has given us in his Economic Interpretation of the Constitution of the United States, a complete picture of the economic affiliations of each member of the Convention. Dr. Beard's book is based on first-hand research; it is ably documented and is streaming with footnotes and citations; one marvels at the patience of its author with fly-blown records. He has shown that at least five-sixths of the members of the Convention were holders of public securities or in some other economic sense were directly and personally interested in commercial affairs which would benefit by their labors. His data also prove that most of the members were lawyers by profession and that "not one member represented in his immediate personal economic interests the small farming or mechanic classes." Among the members was Robert Morris, friend of Washington, and by far the most important financial figure of the nation. At that time the position of Robert Morris was something like the position of the elder J. P. Morgan one hundred and twenty-five years later. He was the acknowledged arbiter of American business. Gouverneur Morris -- of the same name but not a relative of Robert Morris -- was also a member. This is the Morris, it will be remembered, who complained at the beginning of the Revolution that the people "begin to think and to reason." Slaveholders and Southern aristocrats were in evidence in numbers. Among them were the two Pinckneys and John Rutledge, of South Carolina. George Mason, Washington's former political mentor, sat with the Virginia delegates. He and Washington were not so friendly as in the old days. Mason was a states' rights man, jealous of crystallized authority and looking with a suspicious eye on all kinds of shrewd manipulation. Land speculation and money-lending were among the economic interests of at least thirty-eight of the delegates, including Washington, Franklin, Gerry, Gorham and Wilson. Of the fifty-five delegates Dr. Beard says that the names of forty appear on the records of the Treasury Department as holders of public certificates. The Convention was singularly lacking in doctrinaires, in idealists. Jefferson, the great idealist and humanitarian of the epoch, was in France as the official representative of the government. It was also lacking in a spirit of inquiry. One would naturally think that a body of men engaged in a constructive work of such immense possibilities would summon before them, day after day, citizens of all degrees and from all sections, in an effort to find out what was wrong and what was required to set it right. But they did not do this; they never summoned anybody. To have done so might have revealed the purport of the Convention, and they could not risk that contingency. The Constitution was planned like a coup d'etat; and that was its effect, in truth. As soon as the Convention was organized Edmund Randolph rose and proposed an entirely new plan of government. It had the backing of the Virginia delegates -- including Washington, presumably -- and was supposed to have been the work of James Madison. According to the Virginia plan the national legislature was to consist of two houses. The members of the lower house were to be chosen directly by male citizens entitled to vote. The members of the Senate were to be elected by the members of the lower house from a list of persons suggested by the legislatures of the various states. In both the upper and lower houses the votes were to be by individuals, and not by states. The number of representatives from each state was to be in proportion to its wealth, or to its free inhabitants. An interesting feature was the power of Congress to veto state laws. This would have reduced the state legislatures to rather absurd nonentities. There was to be a national executive, chosen by Congress for a short term, and ineligible for a second term. The Supreme Court, according to the Virginia plan, was to be chosen by Congress, and was to hold office during good behavior. The Virginia plan was, in reality, the basis of the Constitution as it was finally shaped, though it was twisted and turned about so completely in the four months' discussion that it was all but forgotten. The first dissension occurred over the relative representation of the states. Small states like Delaware and New Jersey saw themselves completely overshadowed and outvoted by the large delegations from the more populous states, if representation on the basis of population or wealth were conceded. Rhode Island would have probably taken this side, too, if that little state had been represented at the Convention. Rhode Island was invited, but declined to send delegates. A compromise was reached eventually by giving two Senators to each state, irrespective of size. Alexander Hamilton thought the Virginia plan too liberal. On June 18th, he made a long and interesting speech, in which he set forth his theory of government. His remarks are too extensive for quotation in full, but I shall give a few pertinent extracts: "My situation is disagreeable, but it would be criminal not to come forward on a question of such magnitude . . . I am at a loss to know what must be done -- I despair that a republican form of government can remove the difficulties . . . All communities divide themselves into the few and the many. The first are the rich and well-born, the other the mass of the people. The voice of the people has been said to be the voice of God; and however generally this maxim has been quoted and believed, it is not true in fact . . . It is admitted that you cannot have a good executive upon a democratic plan. See the excellency of the British executive -- he is placed above temptation -- he can have no distinct interests from the public welfare . . ." He went on to say that he was in favor of having an Executive, or President, elected for life on good behavior. The lower house to be elected for three years by the voters of the states; and the Senate to be elected by electors who should be chosen for that purpose by the people. The Senators to remain in office during life. But all that is mere introduction. Here is the milk in this coconut: "The Executive to have the power of negativing all laws -- to make war or peace with the advice of the Senate -- to make treaties with their advice, but to have the sole direction of all military operations, and to send ambassadors and appoint all military officers, and to pardon all offenders, treason excepted, unless by advice of the Senate. On his death or removal, the President of the Senate to officiate with the same powers, until another is elected. Supreme judicial officers to be appointed by the Executive and the Senate. The Legislature to appoint courts in each State, so as to make the State governments unnecessary to it. All State laws to be absolutely void which contravene the general laws. An officer to be appointed in each State to have a negative on all State laws." If we look into these ideas we observe that what he proposes is a monarchy with an elected king. The Executive would have an absolute veto power over the acts of Congress; and this veto would extend even to the state legislatures, as he suggests "an officer to be appointed in each state to have a negative on all state laws." A little too much, this was, for the gentlemen of the Convention. Hamilton never understood the American people, but most of the members of the Convention "knew them very well." However attractive Hamilton's plan may have been to some of the delegates, all realized that it could never hope for adoption in its raw form. Something much more evasive and soft-spoken would have to be framed. Hamilton's plan was received so coldly that his feelings were hurt, and he left the Convention and went home, where he stayed until the Convention had nearly finished its work. Washington felt Hamilton's absence, and wanted him to return. On July 10th Washington wrote to him: "When I refer you to the state of the counsels which prevailed at the period you left this city, and add that they are now, if possible, in a worse train than ever, you will find but little ground on which the hope of a good establishment can be formed. In a word, I almost despair of seeing a favorable issue to the proceedings of our convention, and do therefore repent having had any agency in the business." Very characteristic of Washington. He was the most pessimistic great man in all history. Does not this letter remind you of his complaining epistles written during the Revolution, when he wishes that he had never accepted his position, and how much happier he would be as a private soldier? The letter files of America today are full of communications of this type, written by millionaires and heads of large enterprises. No accomplishment is quite good enough to satisfy them, the country is going to the dogs, profits are falling, salaries are high, labor is getting out of bounds, affairs are beginning to look panicky . . . The true executive mind is not a mind of optimism. Its tendency is to undervalue, to depreciate. Existing on the achievements of others, on the constructive work of subordinates, it spurs those around it to action by taking a gloomy view of their functions and their future. On August 7th the Convention considered the qualifications for suffrage under the new Constitution. The wisdom of Mr. Gouverneur Morris spread around the room. He said, "The time is not distant when this Country will abound with mechanics and manufacturers [he means factory hands] who will receive their bread from their employers. Will such men be the secure and faithful Guardians of liberty?" He concluded that they would not. Dr. Franklin thought that, "It is of great consequence that we should not depress the virtue and public spirit of our common people, of which they displayed a great deal during the war." There was a good deal of talk about "the dangers of the leveling spirit." Most of the members were of the opinion that there should be a property qualification, but the subject was such a delicate one that they decided to leave the matter to the states. Charles Pinckney thought there ought to be a property qualification for members of the national legislature, for the president and the judges -- enough property, he said, to make them "independent and respectable." The trouble with this theory is that experience has shown that wealth does not necessarily make a man either independent or respectable. Mr. Pinckney's assertion inspired the aged Franklin to struggle to his feet and say that some of the worst rogues he ever knew were the richest rogues. There was a bitter North-and-South contest over the question as to whether slaves should be counted in apportioning the number of representatives to the states. This discussion eventually broadened out into a general argument on the slavery question. All the states, except South Carolina, wanted to put "an end to the importation of slaves." If the slave trade was stopped the South Carolina delegates declared that their state would not enter the Union. That moment was the opportunity of Washington's life, and he missed it. He had declared on many occasions that he was opposed to slavery -- and his influence was incalculably great. What would have happened if he had turned over the chair to some one else for a moment and had said from the floor of the Convention that as far as he was concerned South Carolina could stay out of the Union if she wanted to continue in the slave trade? Certainly the Union could have existed without South Carolina... and it is equally certain that South Carolina could not have existed long without the Union. Washington said nothing; he did not express an opinion at the Convention but once, and that was on a trifling question of no weight. What would Jefferson have done in Washington's place? We do not know, we can only guess... and guessing is not the province of the historian. Jefferson wrote in opposition to the slave trade before the Revolution. In writing the Declaration of Independence he inserted a clause against the slave trade which was stricken out by Congress. In 1784 he succeeded in putting the Northwest Ordinance through Congress in the face of bitter opposition. The Northwest Ordinance prohibited slavery forever in the territory north of the Ohio. Whether this would have been his attitude in the Federal Convention -- had he been there -- is a question without a solution. In the end it was decided that, in determining the population basis for representation, a slave should be counted as three-fifths of a person. The New England delegates were not satisfied. They maintained that, if such a provision was adopted, they wanted every horse in New England to be counted as three-fifths of a person. Their argument seems reasonable, for slaves had no more to say about the government than horses. In the matter of slave importation a compromise was made to the effect that slave-catching should continue until 1808. This satisfied South Carolina. The Constitution evolved a series of compromises; everybody was willing to concede something, provided that the main object of a strong government -- and one able to cash in the depreciated paper -- should be the result. The Constitution is a remarkably able production. The intention of its framers was to create an economic document which would protect established and acquired rights; and this intention has been carried out successfully under the smooth flow of phrases. It is highly self-protective, and is skillfully designed to break up and dissipate radical attacks on any of its fundamental axioms, while at the same time it permits a large freedom of movement to those who are entrenched behind it. It is full of curious subtleties which are revealed only after an earnest study. The keystone of the conservatism that it embodies is in the judiciary and the Senate. The judiciary -- the Supreme Court -- possesses a veto power over all acts of Congress which do not fall within the Constitution's narrow limits; and the Supreme Court is a body which maintains an unchanging existence during the lives of its members. But, even before the Supreme Court is encountered, a radical measure must run the gauntlet of the Senate... and the Senate is elected for six years. In the Senate the smaller states have an enormous preponderance, owing to the constitutional principle of equal representation. At the present time (1996) the Senators from twenty-six small states, having an aggregate population of less than one-fifth of the total number of inhabitants of the country, can negative any proposition, although it may have passed the House and represents the desire of four-fifths of the nation's citizens. The Senate is always subject, more or less, to indirect manipulation through the ease with which strong financial interests may control the small states. Gladstone, who represented commercial interests all his life, said that the American Constitution is "the most wonderful work ever struck off at a given time by the brain and purpose of man." Much of the credit for this wonderful work must be given to the brain and purpose of Gouverneur Morris. He was a member of the Committee for Style and Arrangement, which had charge of the actual drafting of the Constitution. Channing makes an interesting remark about the part played by Morris. The actual phrasing seems to have been left to Morris; but he sometimes followed suggestions made by persons who were not members of the committee. The draft of the Constitution when it reappeared in the Convention was widely different in many respects from the project that had been committed to it. By changes in phraseology and arrangement and by the introduction here and there of phrases like "impair the obligation of contracts" the friends of strong government accomplished a large part of the purpose that had brought them to Philadelphia. Washington's part in shaping the Constitution was negligible. He was the presiding officer of the Convention, and, as such, he refrained from taking part in the debates. Lodge and other adulators hazard the opinion that he must have exercised great influence through private conversation, and unofficially, but this is pure assumption. The records of the time do not mention any such conversations. Washington's Diaries contain no comment on the work of the Convention, but are given up chiefly to memoranda as to teas and dinners. On one occasion he went on a fishing trip with Gouverneur Morris to Valley Forge. While Morris was fishing, Washington rode around the old Valley Forge encampment, then silent and haunted by memories. What his emotions were -- if any -- he does not say. There was considerable difficulty in getting some of the states to adopt the Constitution. Some of the legislatures were unruly, and its adoption wavered in the balance. In this crisis Hamilton, Madison and Jay came forward with a series of masterly essays which were published under the title of The Federalist. We have seen what Hamilton's ideas of government were, but now he was all for the Constitution, though he said in private letters that the plan was as remote from his own ideas as anything could be. When the question of adoption was in doubt the opponents of the Constitution circulated a report that Washington was not in favor of it. Upon hearing this rumor he came out with a statement -- expressed in various letters -- that he was for the Constitution, and urged its adoption. One of the most significant facts about Washington's long and distinguished career is that he never formulated any coherent theory of government. Hamilton and Jefferson both worked out distinctly articulated systems of politics. Each stood for a definite, cogent set of ideas of social structure. But there is nothing in the body of American political thought that we can call Washingtonism. At first impression his political character appears utterly nebulous. His writings are a vast Milky Way of hazy thoughts. We turn their thousands of pages, marking sentences and paragraphs here and there, hoping to assemble them and build up a substantial theory of the common weal. Can it be that this huge aggregation of words has no impressive import? We are about to think so; however, when we study them in detail we find that his observations are sensible, sane and practical. Yet, somehow, they do not coalesce; they lack a fundamental idea, a spirit that binds them all together. That was our first conclusion, but then we were thinking in terms of the great philosophies... of Rousseau, of Locke, of Adam Smith, of Voltaire, of Ricardo. Later, one day, we thought of the mind of the large city banker, and we saw Washington's political personality in a flash of revelation. Washington thought as almost any able banker who might find himself in the eighteenth century would think. The banker stands for stability, and Washington was for that. The banker stands for law and order, for land and mortgages, for substantial assets -- and Washington believed in them, too. The banker wants the nation to be prosperous; by that he means that he wants poor people to have plenty of work and wealthy people to have plenty of profits. That was Washington's ideal. The banker does not want the under-dog to come on top; not that he hates the under-dog, but he is convinced that people who have not accumulated money lack the brains to carry on large affairs, and he is afraid they will disturb values. The banker is not without human sympathy; but he is for property first, and humanity second. He is a well-wisher of mankind, though in a struggle between men and property, he sympathizes with property. In this we see Washington's mind. A coherent political philosophy is not an impelling necessity to this type of intellect. Taken from George Washington, the Image and the Man, by W.E. Woodward, Published 1926 The Documents Themselves are Preserved for Posterity, But Are Liberty and Freedom? ONLY TRUE PATRIOTS CAN ANSWER THAT QUESTION. Return to the Preface In Honor and Loving Memory of My Teacher on the Constitution Dean Lewis Hardison, "Pop" August 2nd, 1910 - September 18th, 1982 Reproduction of all or any parts of the above text may be used for general information. This HTML presentation is copyright by Barefoot, October 1996 Mirroring is not Netiquette without the Express Permission of Barefoot Visit Barefoot's World and Educate Yo'Self This set of pages on the Constitution started Mar 23, 1996 Completed Oct 10, 1996 - Last Revised July 4, 2006 Three mighty important things, Pardn'r, LOVE And PEACE and FREEDOM
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What was the first country to get foreign aid from the United States, in 1812, following a devastating earthquake?
2010-2015 U.S. Assistance to Haiti Overview (2015) | U.S. Agency for International Development U.S. Agency for International Development 2010-2015 U.S. Assistance to Haiti Overview (2015) Overview Five years after the devastating 2010 earthquake, Haiti has transitioned to a period of long-term development. With the help of the international community, Haiti has made significant advances. The U.S. post-earthquake strategy for Haiti focuses on four sector pillars designed to catalyze economic growth and build long-term stability. Carried out by a range of U.S. departments and agencies, including the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and others, the strategy is designed to be flexible to maximize areas of success and adjust to new challenges. U.S. assistance to Haiti is having a measurable impact in Haiti’s transition: 328,000 earthquake-displaced Haitians were sheltered; 70,000 Haitian farmers are enjoying increased crop yields and higher incomes; 3,300 new Haitian National Police officers were trained and commissioned; some 5,000 jobs were created so far at the Caracol Industrial Park with more projected as the facility expands, and; almost half of all Haitians can access basic health services U.S.-supported facilities. Much more remains to be done, and the country’s reconstruction and development will continue for many years. The following highlights key accomplishments to date in each of the four pillars of U.S. assistance, outlines course adjustments made, and provides an overview of total U.S. post-earthquake funding to Haiti.   Pillar A: Infrastructure and Energy Key Achievements: Housed more than 328,000 earthquake-displaced Haitians by providing transitional shelters, repairs to damaged homes, support to host families, and rental vouchers. Constructed more than 900 permanent new homes to date. Removed 2.7 million cubic meters of removable earthquake rubble – 36 percent of the estimated 7.4 million cubic meters removed. Rehabilitated and upgraded five electrical substations in Port-au-Prince. Converted cookstoves for 61,000 businesses and households from charcoal to clean liquefied natural gas. Constructed a 10 megawatt power plant servicing the Caracol Industrial Park and 7,000 local households and businesses. Adjustments: From the beginning, private sector involvement was required to supplement the U.S. government efforts to expand port services in the north. However, after considerable due diligence it was determined that private-sector interest for a new port venture in Haiti’s north is not sufficient at this time. Consequently, the U.S. government is providing assistance to the Government of Haiti to renovate and expand port facilities at the existing Cap-Haïtien port that will accommodate a larger volume of containers and increase economic activity in northern Haiti. During implementation of the new settlements program, impediments surfaced to realizing significant new housing construction plans. This led to a shift in permanent shelter programming that emphasizes more innovative ways to help Haitians build homes and communities on their own. The new approach targets a greater role for private sector developers to improve and expand the housing stock, and includes housing finance opportunities for low-income Haitians, neighborhood upgrades, and support to help Haitians transition select temporary facilities into safe permanent communities.   Pillar B: Food and Economic Security Key Achievements: More than 70,000 farmers have increased their crop yields and incomes through use of better seeds, improved farming techniques, and better access to markets. Approximately 33,000 hectares are under improved watershed management and five million seedlings were planted. Fed 400,000 Haitians rendered vulnerable due to tropical storms and drought conditions in 2013. Launched innovative “e-vouchers” in some of Haiti’s poorest areas to improve access to locally produced food through this electronic food voucher safety net. Supported the creation to date of nearly 5,000 jobs in Haiti’s underdeveloped northern region by partnering with the Inter-American Development Bank, the Government of Haiti and the private sector in the development of the Caracol Industrial Park. Provided more than 54,000 agricultural loans and extended approximately $57 million in loan guarantees to the banking system to facilitate easier access to credit for small and medium enterprises. Expanded the use of mobile money making banking services through cells phone possible for the first time for many. Adjustment: In 2014, approximately $13 million was provided to assist more than 200,000 Haitians impacted by drought conditions in the Northwest Department and in La Gonaïve Island. Services included agricultural support, food vouchers, and short-term work programs.   Pillar C: Health and Other Basic Services Key Achievements: Nearly half of all Haitians have access to basic health services at U.S.- supported health facilities. Approximately $1 billion is being invested over five years (2011-2016) by the United States on essential healthcare services in Haiti. The U.S.-supported national measles, rubella, and polio immunization campaign has reached over 90 percent coverage. Supported the reconstruction of Haiti’s University Hospital and other damaged health facilities. Through PEPFAR, HIV/AIDS indicators have dramatically improved over the last decade. In 2014 alone, 900,000 Haitians were tested for HIV and more than 62,000 received life-saving treatment. U.S. support for cholera treatment and prevention as well as assistance for clean water and sanitation is helping to dramatically lower the number of new cholera cases; in November 2014 the Haitian Ministry of Health reported cholera incidence rates down 97 percent since 2011. U.S. support is advancing efforts to eliminate malaria and lymphatic filariasis from Haiti. More than 600 semi-permanent furnished classrooms were constructed after the earthquake, enabling more than 60,000 children to return to school. An early-grade reading program is improving the reading skills of more than 28,000 children, and efforts are underway to expand the program to reach more than a million children. Adjustment: The outbreak of cholera in Haiti in 2010 prompted a swift U.S. response to this public health emergency. $95 million was allocated for diagnosis, treatment and prevention. To ensure sustained focus on this disease, the U.S. government is helping Haiti to integrate cholera services into existing treatment and prevention platforms of other deadly diarrheal diseases.   Pillar D: Governance and Rule of Law Key Achievements: Supported the training of 3,300 new Haitian National Police (HNP) officers in support of the Government of Haiti’s goal to reach 15,000 officers by the end of 2016. Deployed 110 United Nations Police (UNPOL) to advise and mentor the HNP; the current U.S. contingent of UNPOLs is 82. With the New York City Police Department, provided training to a new HNP community policing unit, which doubled in size to 80 officers and operates in several Port-au-Prince neighborhoods. In partnership with the Miami-Dade Police Department, trained and equipped the HNP counter-narcotics unit (BLTS), growing it from about 40 to 197 officers and adding a 20-dog K-9 unit. Helped HNP to improve administrative, logistics, management, and oversight capabilities. Completed construction of six police stations and the presidential security unit barracks. Deployed an electronic financial management system that 35 government offices are using to enhance accountability and transparency of revenue and expenditure. Provided technical assistance to process 4,000 cases of prolonged pre-trial detention, including the release of some 1,000 detainees who had already served their sentences. Provided expertise and training to Parliament to draft, debate and pass priority legislation on anti-money laundering, international adoption procedures, and antitrafficking in persons. Established Haiti’s first electronic judicial case management information system in Saint-Marc that allows the judiciary to track cases from arrival in the prosecutor’s office to court adjudication. Helped reconstruct more than 30,000 case files damaged or destroyed in the earthquake. Began construction of three correctional facilities to help alleviate overcrowding and improve conditions in Haiti’s prisons. Raised awareness of and helped reduce gender-based violence (GBV) by providing cross training to police and justice officials and strengthening capacity and referral networks of civil society partners providing GBV prevention and response services. Supported anti-GBV public messaging and referral services to victims for testing and counseling. Adjustments: The holding of delayed parliamentary and local elections is important for Haiti’s democratic development and to advance progress made in reconstruction and development. The United States advocates for timely free and fair elections in Haiti.  
Venezuela
What hormone are Type I diabetics deficient in?
Venezuela's Independence Day Venezuela's Independence Day Washington, DC July 3, 2013 On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Venezuela as you commemorate the day that Venezuela declared its independence 202 years ago. Venezuela and the United States have much in common. For example, revolutionary leader General Francisco de Miranda also played a part in our own struggle for independence, participating in the Battle of Pensacola in 1781. His contribution is forever memorialized in a monument that stands in the heart of Philadelphia, the original capital of the United States. When a devastating earthquake struck Venezuela in 1812 the United States sent the Venezuelan people the first humanitarian assistance it ever provided to a foreign country. These two examples demonstrate that Venezuela and the United States have shared ties of friendship and common values since the birth of our two nations, and the ties between our people endure. I wish Venezuelans everywhere health, happiness, and hope on the anniversary of your independence. PRN: 2013/0843
i don't know
Lepidopterists specialize in the study of what?
Lepidopterist: Job Description, Salary and Career Outlook Lepidopterist: Job Description,... Lepidopterist: Job Description, Salary and Career Outlook A lepidopterist requires significant formal education. Learn about the degree programs, job duties and job growth projections to see if this is the right career for you. Show me popular schools Focused on studying moths and butterflies, lepidopterists research the nature, behavior and habitats of these insects, often within academic or scientific institutions. Other employment opportunities for lepidopterists can be found in conservation societies, museums and parks. The education needed to become a lepidopterist is significant and often involves the completion of a Ph.D. with a specialization in a particular aspect of lepidoptery. Essential Information Lepidopterists are biologists who study moths and butterflies. They can work in a variety of different environments and can earn degrees in a number of different fields, including biology, taxonomy and natural history. A doctoral degree is generally recommended for anyone interested in lepidoptery. The rate of job growth for wildlife biologists and zoologists is predicted to be slow over the next decade, with a great deal of competition for available jobs. Required Education Doctoral degree in a relevant area Projected Job Growth (2014-2024)* 4% for zoologists and wildlife biologists Mean Salary (2015)* $64,230 for zoologists and wildlife biologists Source: * U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Lepidopterist Job Description A lepidopterist specializes in the study moths and butterflies. This scientist generally has a background in biology, chemistry, zoology, ecology or conservation work. Often, a lepidopterist has not only earned a bachelor's degree in one of these fields, but has also pursued postgraduate work in entomology, taxonomy, biogeography, botany or natural history, culminating in a master's degree and/or a doctorate (Ph.D.) degree in his or her area of specialization within the field of Lepidoptera. Due to the level of specialization, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) advises those interested in pursuing a career as a lepidopterist to strongly consider completing a Ph.D. (www.bls.gov). Responsibilities In addition to working within academia as professors and scientific researchers, lepidopterists are also employed as wildlife biologists, conservation scientists, entomologists and researchers in natural history and science museums, as well as in state and national parks, botanical gardens, conservation societies and natural habitats. These researchers may also work in laboratories affiliated with such institutions. There, the lepidopterists oversee all aspects of the lives of butterflies and moths. Within these organizations, the work often includes conducting research on insects (both living and dead), studying the ideal conditions for moths and butterflies and comparing the lifespan and behaviors of the subjects in the environment. Researchers also analyze changes in the lifespan and habits of these creatures, while hypothesizing reasons for these changes and testing these hypotheses. Salary Information for Lepidopterists and Career Outlook According to the BLS in 2015, a lepidopterist can expect to earn the same average wage of other zoologists and wildlife biologists, around $64,230 per annum. Due to the level of specificity of the work, the BLS also indicates the growing necessity for a doctorate degree. In addition, the BLS noted that applicants face a high level competition for this work, particularly within academia and public institutions. Nevertheless, those interested in such a career will most likely witness the growth of opportunities in the private sphere, leading to an overall projection of 4% growth in wildlife biology from 2014-2024 (www.bls.gov). Prior to applying to a Ph.D. program in lepidoptery, which is generally needed to enter a career in this field, students should have a background in subjects such as biology, zoology, ecology, taxonomy, botany and entomology. They should also be comfortable performing experiments on living and dead insects in order to better understand the nature of the species. The BLS reports that wildlife biologists can expect to see a 4% increase in employment opportunities between 2014-2024, and that aspiring lepidopterists face heavy competition in this very specific field.
Butterfly
True or False - Between 1937 and 1945 Heinz produced a version of Alphabet Spaghetti especially for the German market that consisted solely of little pasta swastikas?
Lepidopterists - definition of Lepidopterists by The Free Dictionary Lepidopterists - definition of Lepidopterists by The Free Dictionary http://www.thefreedictionary.com/Lepidopterists Also found in: Thesaurus , Wikipedia . Related to Lepidopterists: Aurelian lep·i·dop·ter·y  (lĕp′ĭ-dŏp′tə-rē) also lep·i·dop·ter·ol·o·gy (-tə-rŏl′ə-jē) n. The branch of entomology that deals with lepidopterans. lep′i·dop′ter·ist n. lepidopterist (Professions) a person who studies or collects moths and butterflies lepidopterist Someone who collects specimens of butterflies and moths. ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend: bug-hunter , bugologist , entomologist - a zoologist who studies insects Translations lepidopterist [ˌlepɪˈdɒptərɪst] N → lepidopterólogo/a m/f Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us , add a link to this page, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content . Link to this page: zoology References in periodicals archive ? For example, he portrays the microscope as an innovative tool in chapter six when writing about his "ardent adolescent interest in butterflies and moths" (124) and advocates it for use by British lepidopterists who based their classifications "on the microscopic study of organs" as opposed to the Germans "who did their best to ignore the new trends" (124).
i don't know
What are you if you are hirsute?
Your Vagina Isn't Just Too Big, Too Floppy, and Too Hairy—It's Also Too Brown Your Vagina Isn't Just Too Big, Too Floppy, and Too Hairy—It's Also Too Brown Go to permalink Good news, ladies! Society has discovered another new thing that's wrong with you, which means another opportunity for you to make yourself more attractive for your man. Score! Turns out, the color of your vagina is gross and everyone hates it. So bleach that motherfucker. Bleach it right now! In this commercial for an Indian product called Clean and Dry Intimate Wash, a (very light-skinned) couple sits down for what would have been a peaceful cup of morning coffee—if the woman's disgusting brown vagina hadn't ruined everything! The dude can't even bring himself look at her. He can't look at his coffee either, because it only reminds him of his wife's dripping, coffee-brown hole! Fortunately, the quick-thinking woman takes a shower, scrubbing her swarthy snatch with Clean and Dry Intimate Wash ("Freshness + Fairness"). And poof! Her vadge comes out blinding white like a downy baby lamb (and NOT THE GROSS BLACK KIND) and her husband—whose penis, I can only assume, is literally a light saber—is all, "Hey, lady! Cancel them divorce papers and LET'S BONE." Advertisement Needless to say, certain citizens are troubled by this product—which, in addition to just being fucking insane, brings up painful issues about the hierarchy of skin tone within the Indian community . As if it isn't bad enough that darker-skinned people are encouraged to stay out of the sun and invest in skin-bleaching products like Fair & Lovely , and that white actresses are being imported to play Indian people in Bollywood movies, now everyone has to be insecure about the fact that their vaginas happen to be the color that vaginas are??? Splendid! God, I was just saying the other day that my misogyny didn't have enough racism in it. So what are the pro-vadge-bleaching people thinking? Here's a hilarious explanation from a male ad exec: Advertisement It is hard to deny that fairness creams often get social commentators and activists all worked up. What they should do is take a deep breath and think again. Lipstick is used to make your lips redder, fairness cream is used to make you fairer-so what's the problem? I don't think any Youngistani today thinks the British Raj/White man is superior to us Brown folk. That's all 1947 thinking! The only reason I can offer for why people like fairness, is this: if you have two beautiful girls, one of them fair and the other dark, you see the fair girl's features more clearly. This is because her complexion reflects more light. I found this amazing difference when I directed Kabir Bedi, who is very fair and had to wear dark makeup for Othello, the Black hero of the play. I found I had to have a special spotlight following Kabir around the stage because otherwise the audience could not see his expressions. See? It makes perfect sense. We just want our vaginas to reflect more light—is that so wrong? I mean, WHAT IF MY CAR BREAKS DOWN AT NIGHT AND I DON'T HAVE A REFLECTIVE ENOUGH VAGINA? Really, the ultimate one-vagina-to-rule-them-all would glow in the dark like one of those deep-sea fishes. I need my vagina to attract more krill so my husband will fuck me again! (My husband is a whale.) Basically the idea is to get as far away as possible from any color that vaginas actually come in. Because that's what's at the heart of this type of thinking—the perfect vagina would be something that's not a vagina at all.
Hair
In standard poker, what is the best of the following hands?
Hairy Men - AskMen AskMen Messages You have no messages Notifications You have no notifications Shares This post originally appeared on The Good Men Project . It is unedited by AskMen. I love body hair. To me, nothing is sexier than Burt Reynolds in all of his naked, hairy glory on a bearskin rug. Chest hair, leg hair, facial hair… Be still, my heart! I have even come to appreciate a dusting of back hair. Unfortunately, I live in a world that encourages men to remove it all. Chest hair removal harkens back to ancient Egypt, where hair removal was common to protect against fleas, lice and other infestations. In ancient times, lack of body hair was often indicative of civility, with ancient Greek men removing their body hair to appear more youthful and refined, and ancient Egyptian priests practicing hair removal in order to present a pure image to their gods. Male body hair removal was less common in Europe, as body hair was generally accepted in early Christian Europe and even considered lucky by certain groups, such as Jewish Europeans in the Middle Ages. For the longest time, body hair simply wasn’t an area of concern for European men. The influence of Europe in global fashion trends helped hairier men to be seen as sexy throughout the 1960s and 70s. In contrast to the mild popularity of hairless chests in American films in the 1950s, such as Marlon Brando ’s in A Streetcar Named Desire, European productions showed masculine chests in all of their hairy glory. Sean Connery and his furry torso on the beach in the very popular James Bond film Dr. No helped usher in a fantastically hirsute era in which the Burt Reynoldses, Tom Sellecks and Alec Baldwins of the world could bare their sexy man-rugs without shame. Sadly, a recent poll suggested that these days, 49% of women prefer hairless chests. Part of me wonders how this preference has evolved. Like many of the pressures put on women and their bodies, this figure is undoubtedly heavily media-influenced. The late 1980s ushered in another era of hairless chests — from the covers of Harlequin Romances to a hairless Sylvester Stallone slugging out an equally hairless Dolph Lundgren in Rocky IV, to a hairless, shirtless and ripped Brad Pitt in Thelma and Louise or Fight Club in the 1990s. Thus began a pervasiveness within the media of hairlessness as the new norm. It is rare that one sees a chest these days with much more than a treasure trail adorning it. A couple of years ago, a friend of mine confessed to shaving his chest frequently. He said it started when he started to read GQ and saw how different he looked from most of the men in the magazine. He’s an attractive, muscular guy, but felt hopelessly inadequate because of his body hair. I laughed at him at the time and made fun of him for being a metrosexual, but looking back on the experience, I regret teasing him. His shaving wasn’t a result of metrosexuality, but a response to the way men are now taught that they need to look. While the media’s unrealistic expectations of women is well-known and questioned within feminist communities, we need to also address the pressure put upon men to look a certain way. Men shouldn’t be ashamed of their body hair , just as women shouldn’t be ashamed that they’re not necessarily a size two. Your body hair is a part of who you are and it’s not worth being self-conscious about it. Whether you have a hairy chest, a hairy back, or only a patch of fuzz in the center of your chest, you’re sexy. Nothing feels better than lying next to you and stroking your manly chest hair. I beg the men out there to stop shaving, waxing and plucking your excess hair. The modern media might not encourage your body hair, but it is sexy and natural. Men need to start questioning the media’s portrayal of male body hair and accepting themselves for who they are. Show comments
i don't know
Who is captain of the Black Pearl in Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean franchise?
Pirates of the Caribbean (franchise) | Disney Wiki | Fandom powered by Wikia Pirates of the Caribbean (franchise) 40,848pages on Share This page is about the fantasy adventure films produced by Jerry Bruckheimer . For the wikia this page is about, click here . Pirates of the Caribbean is a multi-billion dollar Walt Disney Company franchise encompassing a series of films , two theme park attractions, and spin-off novels as well as numerous video games and other media publications. The franchise originated with the Pirates of the Caribbean theme ride attraction, which opened at Disneyland in 1967, the last Disney theme park attraction overseen by Walt Disney . Disney based the ride on pirate legends and folklore. As of August 2006, Pirates of the Caribbean attractions can be found at four Disney theme parks . Their related films have grossed almost US$4 billion as of 2011. Contents Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017) Video games Adventures in the Magic Kingdom by Capcom featured a stage in which the player had to rescue six civilians from pirates in an island resembling the attraction. Walt Disney World Quest: Magical Racing Tour by Eidos Interactive included a level in which players can race water boats at the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction in Walt Disney World. Pirates of the Caribbean (Originally entitled Sea Dogs II) was released in 2003 by Bethesda Softworks to coincide with the release of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl . Although it had no relation to the characters, it features the movie's storyline about cursed Aztec gold and undead pirates, and it was the first of several games to be inspired by the attraction, prior to this exploring the stories that made Captain Jack Sparrow a legend. Pirates of the Caribbean Multiplayer Mobile for mobile phones Pirates of the Caribbean Online a massively multiplayer online role playing game which was released in Autumn 2007. Kingdom Hearts II features a world based on Pirates of the Caribbean, "Port Royal", taking place during the events of the first film , with movie characters such as Jack Sparrow , Elizabeth Swann , Will Turner , and Captain Barbossa making appearances. In the first visit, the story is directly copied from the film, but partially modified to fit the Kingdom Hearts II storyline, shown with the inclusions of Sora , Donald Duck , Goofy and Pete. The second visit focuses more on Organization XIII 's activities in Port Royal, as well as Sora, Jack, Donald and Goofy's first encounter with Luxord . Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl for Game Boy Advance (Nintendo) and a few others. This game is based on Captain Jack Sparrow's misadventures in the pursuit of saving Ria Anasagasti with his shipmate Will Turner. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, was released for the Nintendo DS, PlayStation Portable, Game Boy Advance and others. Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End was released on May 22, 2007 and was based on the film of the same name which was released on May 25, 2007. It was the first game in the series to be released for a seventh generation console. Pirates of the Caribbean: Armada of the Damned, an action and role playing video game, was being developed by Propaganda Games but was cancelled in October 2010. Lego Pirates of the Caribbean: The Video Game , released in May 2011, is the most recent Pirates game. It features all four films as well as over 70 characters and over 21 levels. [1] Pirates of the Caribbean: Master of the Seas, a gaming app available on Android and iOS. [2] [3] Books Pirates of the Caribbean: Legends of the Brethren Court (5 books) In addition there is a novel written for adults: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Price of Freedom by Ann C. Crispin Adaptations Several additional works have been inspired by the original attraction: In 2000, Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for Buccaneer Gold, opened at DisneyQuest at Florida's Walt Disney World Resort . The attraction allows up to five players to board a virtual pirate ship and attempt to sink other ships with water cannons. Ron Gilbert often has said that the Monkey Island computer game series was the inspiration for Pirates of the Caribbean (especially upon seeing the second movie [4] ), although he has said that he mainly got his inspiration from Tim Powers' book On Stranger Tides (which later inspired the fourth film in the franchise). Within both the film and the Monkey Island 2: LeChuck's Revenge adventure game is a key-carrying dog named Walt, whose name is a nod to Walt Disney and whose appearance is based on the jail scene from the rides. A Pirates of the Caribbean board game Monopoly is manufactured by USAopoly. A Pirates of the Caribbean version of the board game The Game of Life was developed. A Pirates of the Caribbean version of the board game Battleship is produced by Hasbro under the title of Battleship Command. Pirates of the Caribbean was the name of a team participating in the 2005–2006 Volvo Ocean Race. Their boat was named the "Black Pearl." [5] A Pirates of the Caribbean multiplayer online game was released by Disney on Oct. 31, 2007. [6] Characters
Jack Sparrow
The phrase “If red touches yellow, you’re a dead fellow; if red touches black, you’re alright, Jack” is used to distinguish between different types of what?
Pirates of the Caribbean (Franchise) - TV Tropes Pirates of the Caribbean You need to login to do this. Get Known if you don't have an account Share Franchise / Pirates of the Caribbean aka: Pirates Of The Caribbean The Legend Of Jack Sparrow × "This is the tale of Captain Jack Sparrow, Pirate so brave on the seven seas! A mystical quest to the isle of Tortuga, Raven locks sway on the ocean's breeze!" — The Lonely Island ft. Michael Bolton , " Jack Sparrow " Pirates of the Caribbean is a Disney film franchise based on a theme park ride of the same name , centering around the adventures of pirate Captain Jack Sparrow. The series is famous for originally being thought a terrible idea , only to surprise everyone with its huge success, partly due to Johnny Depp and his wild-eyed acting. The film series consists of: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017) Other works: Tropes found in Pirates of the Caribbean:     open/close all folders      A-M  Abnormal Ammo : In the first movie, after tossing most of their cannonballs and excess weight overboard in a failed attempt to lighten the Interceptor and evade the Black Pearl in shallower waters, Will orders the crew to load their cannons with "everything ... anything we have left". This is known as "langridge", a real combat tactic utilizing whatever nails, screws, chunks of wood, broken glass, and other useless bits are left over after fixing and maintaining a ship. Mister Gibbs even uses the term. (Usually it's what you did when you wanted to take out the other guys but keep their ship). Ammunition specially designed to do this is called "grape shot", and consists of many, many tiny iron balls. Although using an undead monkey as ammo may have been pushing the trope beyond Truth in Television . And at several points throughout the films, two cannonballs chained together are. This is Truth in Television as well, as chain shot was designed to cripple a ship by doing a merry number on its rigging or even the mast. Barbossa grabs a set before making port in At World's End to use as a gavel calling the Brethren Court to order. Action Girl : Elizabeth Swann and Angelica. Played with in the first movie when Elizabeth tries to grab a sword to fight off Pintel and Ragetti and can't pull it out of the decoration it's built into. But by Dead Man's Chest, she's all about this trope. Adaptation Expansion : Based on a theme park ride that had no story or characters to speak of, albeit a fan favorite theme park ride that's been popular since the '60s. It has since become a case of recursive adaptation: the ride now features Captain Jack Sparrow. Alas, Poor Villain : All the Big Bads meet their end with sympathetic Famous Last Words . Barbossa: I feel...cold. Davy Jones: Calypso... Beckett: It's just.. good business. Less so with Blackbeard in the fourth film thanks mainly to his Karmic Death , but there is the sad music playing and him trying to reach the one person who cares about him as he withers away... All Myths Are True : All pirate myths at least. Word of God says that the series is set in a sort of mythological Earth, where all of the sea's urban legends are real. All Take and No Give : "Take what you can!" "Give nothing back!" All There in the Manual : Lt. Groves was not named in canon until On Stranger Tides and either was confirmed to have that name either in the credits or by his actor. A lot of Magic A Is Magic A is explained All There in the Manual by the writers as well. Anachronism Stew : Too many to list completely, but here's a quick rundown: First film: 17th-century curled wigs, 18th-century panniered skirts, 19th-century teacups and, strangely, the young Elizabeth saying "okay"!note  "Okay" is older than many people think — there are arguably recorded uses as early as 1790 — but that's still fifty years after the film is set. Elizabeth's corset, while women wore garments that looked like that, would have been technologically impossible to tie so tight it made her ill (no whaleboning yet and without steel eyelets the lace-holes would have torn when she sat down). Oh, and Port Royal was destroyed in an earthquake in 1692 (and subsequently rebuilt, but not as the bustling metropolis seen in the movies). And it wasn't a clean, proper little English town. (A deleted scene reveals their Port Royal is only civilized from the sheltered, upper-class perspective.) Second film: Lord Cutler Beckett's flagship HMS Endeavour. Third film: Until the mid-early 19th century Singapore was a fairly minor fishing village. There's a teddy bear at the end; they weren't introduced until the 20th century. Fourth film: The Navy vessel bears the current Union Flag (with a red saltire for Ireland), which was not used until 1801 (when the Kingdom of Ireland joined the Union). This is particularly odd, since the first movie(set several years earlier) used the correct flag. The appearance of King George II sets the film no later than 1760. The fleet also uses the Blue Ensign, which denotes Atlantic, Pacific and East Indies stations. The correct flag would be the Red Ensign, which denotes West Indies. Also it features Blackbeard as a pirate and Barbossa as a British privateer. Blackbeard didn't become a pirate until after Britain outlawed the practice of privateering. Animal Theme Naming : Present in the leads- Jack Sparrow, Elizabeth Swann. "Will Turner" is a bit more obscure, but is also the name of a real-life English ornithologist, and a tern is a seabird. The missionary in the fourth film is named Philip Swift. "... arson; kidnapping; perjury; piracy; pilfering; depravity, general lawlessness ... impersonating an officer of the Royal navy; impersonating a cleric of the Church of England ..." A bit of Shown Their Work — the 'jaywalking' elements really were hanging crimes at the time, part of what was referred to as the 'Bloody Code'. ('Impersonating a cleric' sounds harmless, but it was the basis of scams like fraudulent marriage and bogus charity collecting. Clergymen also had a certain amount of legal immunity, which some men would falsely claim for.) Furthermore, impersonating a cleric of the Catholic Church remains an offense incurring automatic excommunication to this day, on the grounds that doing so maliciously endangers the souls of others with invalid Confessions and Communions. Artistic License � Biology : Ragetti's false eye shouldn't be able to move along with his real one. On the other hand: magic . Artistic License � Ships : The amount of this in the films could fill a small book. A quick rundown: Jack Sparrow's rapidly sinking dinghy at the start of the first film is impossible. Even if a ship could be uniformly sunk like that, its momentum would certainly tip it forward. The stunt with the upturned boat in the first film would not work. While you could overturn a boat and float it across the water, you could not drag it underwater like a poor-man's submarine unless you were both inhumanly strong and incredibly heavy. Neither the Dauntless nor the Interceptor in the first film could be crewed by only two men in real life even once they are under sail. Lt Gillette even specifically mentions this in relation to the Dauntless when Jack and Will are trying to steal it, though it's still treated as if they'll be fine as long as someone does the work for them, when they most certainly would not. The HMS Endeavour is shown as being overwhelmed by two frigates. In reality, a first-rate ship-of-the-line like the Endeavour could turn both into matchsticks with ease (aside from the fact that one of the frigates is an unsinkable Ghost Ship ), even if they attacked at once. This example, however, is justified; the Endeavour did not shoot back because Beckett was too deep in his Villainous Breakdown to react and his underlings lacked the presence of mind to respond until the Endeavour was already finished. Full-rigged sailing ships cannot be steered simply by spinning the wheel like a car. It takes a lot of trimming of sails, etc. for even a small course change. Though the memorable scene where Jack sweeps Will off the deck with the Interceptor's boom shows at least some awareness of how the helm actually works (The boom itself would have stayed in the same place- it's the rest of the ship that's turned. Allegedly.). The Maelstrom Battle in its entirety, but at least the Dutchman has the excuse of being magic. The Pearl would have filled with water and sunk with its gunports open. Of course, given the Pearl itself was raised by the Dutchman and impossibly fast for its size, one could charitably use A Wizard Did It as an excuse for both. Artistic License � History : No one would simply have hanged captured pirates without a semblance of a trial, such as at the beginning of the third filmnote Unless there were mass kangaroo courts held in Port Royal.... Bait-and-Switch Gunshot : During the final battle in Curse of the Black Pearl. In On Stranger Tides, when Captain Teague shoots the redcoat who had cornered Jack. Though this isn't quite played straight, as the smoke and flash from the actual shot is clearly visible in the background. It's only really a proper bait-and-switch from Jack's POV. Balancing Death's Books : Jack tries this on Davy Jones in Dead Man's Chest. Doesn't exactly work out, but at least it buys him some time. In On Stranger Tides, this is how the Fountain of Youth works: to gain extra life from it, there must be a designated victim for the life to come from. Batman Gambit : Jack through nearly all of Curse of the Black Pearl. Once he sees the medallion and is shown proof that the curse is real, his entire role in the film is hatching a plot to kill Barbossa and get his ship back. His initial idea backfires horribly when Will doesn't cooperate, but rather than give up, Jack just keeps adjusting his plans to fit new developments until he manages a successful execution without interference. In the fourth movie, Angelica has Philip apparently killed in front of Syrena in an attempt to make her cry . She knows Syrena's "too tough" to do so under those circumstances, but crying tears of joy when she later finds out that the man she's fallen in love with is still alive, however... Also in the fourth movie, Barbossa's entire convoluted plan counts: In order to get his revenge on Blackbeard for sinking the Pearl, he joins up with the King's navy as a privateer, uses his well-trained crew and the King's considerable resources to travel to the Fountain of Youth, then takes his revenge on Blackbeard, claims Blackbeard's ship and crew, and uses them to return to piracy. Jack's Poisoned Chalice Switcheroo at the end of On Stranger Tides. Battle Couple : Elizabeth and Will in the third film. Taken to ludicrous extremes when the two actually get married during a balls-out ship-boarding sword/gun fight. Will: Elizabeth! Marry me! Barbossa: I'M A LITTLE BUSY AT THE MOMENT! Jack and Angelica in the fourth film. It doesn't end well. Battle-Interrupting Shout : Frequently. For instance, in On Stranger Tides, Jack halts a row between Blackbeard's and Barbossa's crews to point out that none of them have any real quarrel with one another even if their leaders do. This sways exactly one pirate, while everyone else goes back to fighting. Berserk Button : Bootstrap seeing Will get stabbed by Davy Jones. He then proceeds to tackle Jones in a flying rage, allowing Captain Jack to use Will's hand to stab Davy's heart. This seems to be Captain Teague's reaction to anyone who questions the Pirates' Code or proposes they ignore it for the sake of their own interests. An unfortunate Mook of one of the Pirate Lords learned this the hard way. In the fourth film, Jack lunges for Barbossa's throat and has to be restrained when he learns that the Black Pearl has sunk while Barbossa was its captain. Falling victim to any one of Jack's Indy Ploys , or plans , or Batman Gambits will be a surefire way to set the unwilling victim off. Betty and Veronica : Or rather "Brian and Vincent", with Will as the Brian and Jack as the Vincent with Norrigton supplying the Third-Option Love Interest . Big Bad : Davy Jones led the First Brethren Court to imprison Calypso, allowing man to take control of the seas. This opened the door to... Big Badass Battle Sequence : Nearly every naval battle throughout the first three films. Averted in On Stranger Tides, when a seemingly-pending engagement against the Spanish fleet fails to occur. The Big Damn Kiss : Will and Elizabeth in At World's End, after their marriage at sea. Surrounded by an epic battle, trading blows while exchanging vows, and culminating in an Orbital Kiss a few minutes before Will is killed and comes back from the dead. EPIC. In On Stranger Tides, the fateful kiss, at the end, between Philip and Syrena. The Big Damn Kiss on the edge of the sea at the end of the first and third movie, while the camera goes up and out. Bilingual Bonus : Sao Feng and one member of Davy Jones's crew speak both English and Cantonese. The French-speaking sailor who rows Will out to Pelegosto is telling Will he won't take him any further. In On Stranger Tides, Angelica curses pretty colorfully at Jack in fluent Spanish. The two guys who find Jack's hat in Dead Man's Chest are speaking Turkish, although it is hard to understand all of it from the accent that many non-Turkish people have when speaking it. Black and Gray Morality : The first film started out as White and Gray vs. Black morality , since Jack was the only morally ambiguous character, but by the end of the third film, everyone has an angle and is willing to screw most anyone over for it. (With the possible exception of the monkey. He was apparently only in it because he missed Jack.) The only character who can truly be called evil, however, is Cutler Beckett, who Ted Elliott describes as "a guy who just wants to sell more cheeseburgers when you get right down to it. How evil is that?" The tradition of At World's End continues in On Stranger Tides. Blackbeard is pure evil, Philip is the Token Good Teammate , the Spaniard is a more ruthless version of Commodore Norrington, and everyone else is screwing everyone else over for the prize. Boarding Party : Several boardings by means of swinging ropes, and one less conventional boarding: walking out to the ship in question. Also less conventional is Davy Jones and crew's ability to teleport between ships, which apparently has a fairly narrow minimum and maximum range. Body Horror : From Black Pearl, we have Barbossa's crew's Dem Bones forms revealed by moonlight, from Dead Man's Chest and At World's End, Davy Jones's crewmen are gradually colonized by barnacles and coral, and fused with fish and/or crustaceans until they are barely recognizable as human, and from Dead Men Tell No Tales, Salazar's crew is in a horrific state of decay, such as missing jaws or in one case the entire top half of his skull. Bookends : Barbossa gets the Pearl back at the end of the third movie, as Jack sails off in a dinghy. Listen to the song Elizabeth sings (as a child) at the beginning of the first movie, and Jack singing at the end of the third. Seem familiar? Even more applicable to what Elizabeth's son is singing in the third film's Stinger, as he's about the same age his mom was at the start. The first time we meet piratical Mr. Gibbs, Jack is waking him with a bucket of water. At the close of At World's End, Mr. Gibbs is once again, passed out and Jack wakes him with a cup of... Grog? In the first film, it's mentioned that Jack was marooned on a remote island by Barbossa with only a pistol with a single shot. In the fourth film, Jack does the exact same thing to Angelica. In the first film, Elizabeth's first encounter has her giving Barbossa Will's surname as her own, to which he responds by excitedly repeating it to the whole crew: "Miss TURNER..." When they part company for the final time in At World's End, he respectfully (and a touch affectionately) greets her as " Mrs.Turner," after she has become Will's wife. Similarly, in the first film the pirates ready a boat to take Elizabeth to Isla de Muerta, saying "your chariot awaits, Highness" as a sarcastic and condescending remark. By the time of the third film, Elizabeth is elected Pirate King, and Gibbs says this line quite earnestly as he presents a boat for her. Breakout Character : Jack Sparrow. note "Captain" Jack Sparrow. And how. In the original film, Will is the supposed to be the star (he's The Hero of the Hero's Journey ) and continues to be the access character throughout the next two, but Jack not only stole the show, he made off with the franchise! (Pirate.) They even added him (or at least animatronic duplicates) to the original Disneyland/ Disneyworld Pirates of the Caribbean rides. Break the Cutie : several times, the films appear to be headed this way with regards to Elizabeth, only for the trope to be turned on its ear, especially in the third film. Brick Joke : In the beginning of the first film, Will Turner is working on a sword to present to the governor, who remarks on its unique quality. In the third film, James Norrington stabs Davy Jones with the same weapon, who then calmly removes it and remarks, "mmm... nice sword." Later, Jones uses the exact same sword to stab its creator, Will Turner. Former Commodore Norrington introduces his story to Gibbs in Dead Man's Chest as "Same as you, just a chapter behind." At the end of the scene, once he's been knocked out by Man!Elizabeth, he's heaved into the pigsty, where Gibbs woke up at the end of Curse of the Black Pearl, making him truly just a chapter behind Gibbs. Captain Teague summons a dog to bring the key for the Pirate Codex book (the dog itself is a bit of a Brick Joke , showing up out of nowhere after appearances in the first two movies). When Pintel and Ragetti wonder aloud how the dog managed to get there, Teague responds, "Sea turtles, mate." When Jack and Elizabeth are marooned on a desert island during the rising action of Curse of the Black Pearl, Elizabeth burns all the rum that smugglers have stored there to attract the Navy's attention, prompting Jack to ask " Why is the rum gone? " for the first time. In Dead Man's Chest, Elizabeth (dressed as a man) and Norrington arrive at the dock where the Pearl is moored, and Jack and Gibbs begin to talk to Elizabeth without realizing who she is. When she reveals herself, the following happens: Jack: Elizabeth?! (aside, to Gibbs) Hide the rum. Which quickly becomes a Brick Joke of its own when the crew meets up with Jack in At World's End, and Cotton's parrot cries "Hide the rum!" Call Back : "Goodbye, Poppet." Perhaps the most tear-inducing callback ever. First film: Elizabeth says she's Elizabeth Turner, because her maid convinced her the pirates wanted to kidnap the governor's daughter. They happen to be looking for Bootstrap Turner's child. The last thing Barbossa says to her in the third film is "Mrs. Turner", seeing as she's married Will. On Stranger Tides is filled with these to the first movie, in different subtle sorts of ways that you have to have an eagle eye to spot. In the first movie, Jack was charged with "impersonating an officer of the Royal navy" and "impersonating a cleric of the Church of England". On Stranger Tides opens with Jack impersonating a judge. A judge by the name of Smith. Perhaps he might go by 'Smithy' on occasion? Jack gives his compass to Mr. Gibbs telling him it will lead him to freedom. In the first movie, Jack tells Elizabeth that what the Black Pearl really is is freedom. Cut to the end of On Stranger Tides and Mr Gibbs is sitting on a beach with the Black Pearl in a bottle, waiting for Jack. The cut on Angelica's hand looks just like the cuts the characters in Curse of the Black Pearl get to bleed on the medallions. In At World's End, one of the patrons of Sao Feng's bathhouse can be seen with barnacles littered across his face, neck, and across his arms, just like a Red Shirt crew member of the Flying Dutchman. Likewise, the Sequel Hook at the end of the film is a Call Back to the various accounts of Barbossa's mutiny prior to Curse of the Black Pearl. While visiting Elizabeth in her jail cell in Dead Man's Chest, Governor Swann leans on one of the candelabras next to him. He then trips, proceeding to break a piece of said candelabra, in a similar fashion to Will's introductory scene in Curse of the Black Pearl, where he inspects one of the candelabras in Governor Swann's mansion, but accidentally breaks a piece of it. Captain Ersatz : Many Monkey Island fans believe that Barbossa in the first film and Davy Jones in the sequels are ersatzen of LeChuck, Tia Dalma is the Voodoo Lady, and Will Turner may also derive from Guybrush Threepwood, regardless of whether anyone involved in the films has ever known anything about Monkey Island. (It has been reported that Ted Elliott worked on a proposed Monkey Island film some time before becoming co-writer of the Pirates of the Caribbean series). It's also worth noting that Monkey Island derived inspiration from both the original Pirates of the Caribbean ride, and the original On Stranger Tides novel. As if hammering this home, Philip from On Stranger Tides has an ever closer resemblance to Guybrush. The Cat Came Back / Clingy Macguffin : Norrington's sword returns to its rightful owner. Doesn't do him much good in the long run, though... Jack Sparrow: "This is the day you will always remember as the day you ''almost'' caught Captain Jack Sparrow" , "I'm Captain Jack Sparrow!", "It's Captain ; Captain Jack Sparrow", "Savvy?", "But why is the rum gone?!" Davy Jones: "Do you fear death?" (There's a much longer poetic verse after it that he doesn't use after the first time.) Cutler Beckett: "It's just good business." Pintel: "Hello, Poppet." Will, early in the second movie. Most of Blackbeard's crew when they attempt a mutiny in OST. Elizabeth, who goes from this ◊ . From noble woman to pirate king in only a few short years! Will goes from a blacksmith to full-on pirate and eventually captain of the Flying Dutchman. Norrington started as a Stuffy Brit ... until he changed somewhat. ◊ Chekhov's Gun : Subverted — when Elizabeth attempts to defend herself with one of the swords displayed above the mantle, she finds it is permanently attached to its decorative shield. Played straight with Elizabeth's bedwarmer; she uses it to dump hot coals on the pirates invading her room. Also Jack Sparrow's confiscated effects, including his one-shot pistol and curious compass, all serving a vital purpose. The compass gains even more importance in the second film. Used again in the second movie in Tia Dalma's shack (the locket and the boots). In the third movie, Raghetti's wooden eye turns out to be Barbossa's Piece Of Eight. Jack's own Piece of Eight is debatable, being present in the first two movies before the sequels were even written. Subverted again with the jar of dirt. Jack ends up breaking it. The knife Bootstrap Bill gives to Will is the same one that he uses to carve out Will's heart after Davy Jones is killed. Chekhov's Lecture : Near the beginning of Curse of the Black Pearl, Will shows Jack how to break out of a prison cell by applying the right leverage to the hinges, something which comes in handy in At World's End when Jack is imprisoned in the brig of the Flying Dutchman. Chekhov's Skill : Elizabeth's childhood obsession with pirates comes in handy a few times. In The Curse of the Black Pearl, her knowledge of the Pirate Code allows her to negotiate a Parley with Barbossa and her knowledge of piracy and sailing in general inspires her last-second stunt while the Interceptor is being pursued by the Pearl. In At World's End she becomes a Pirate Lord, and then Pirate King. She also inspires the troops with a speech about the power of piracy. Chewing the Scenery : It may be easier to list who isn't. Special mention has to go to Geoffery Rush, who looks like he's having an absolute blast in every scene. Combat by Champion : Basically the climax of the third movie; the Black Pearl for the pirates, vs. the Flying Dutchman for the EITC. Jack actually proposes that Barbossa and Blackbeard do this while the pirates and troops stand back and lay bets, in the fourth film. The suggestion doesn't go down so well. Jack Sparrow, along with most of the more intelligent pirate characters. Perhaps best summed up by this exchange from the first film, when Jack uses a gun to win a sword fight: Will: You cheated! Jack: Pirate. Lampshaded later on when Will points out he would win in a fair fight. Jack then comments that means he wouldn't have any incentive to fight fair. Astonishingly, also Commodore Norrington, to some extent. He kicked Will in the chest, kicked sand in Will's face and tripped Jack during the fight over the key. Barbossa is not above punching/kicking people during a sword fight. And even Davy Jones pulls off a surprisingly graceful back roundhouse kick. Combat Tentacles : The Kraken, obviously, and also the ones on Davy Jones's face and the rigging of Blackbeard's ship. Comfort Food : According to the Word of God , the reason why Hector Barbossa is always eating apples in the four films is because they're a form of Comfort Food for him. Continuity Creep : The second film contains a few fun nods to some throwaway lines and fan-favorite comedic scenes from the original. The third contains nods to what seems like all of them. See also Chekhov's Gun above. Continuity Drift : In the first couple of films, the pirates running around are all a bunch of independent libertines running around without any concern for anyone else. The third film introduces plot points that amount to pirate government structure and diplomatic contractual obligations. Cool Sword : The small sword that Will Turner makes for Norrington. Everyone who comes into contact with it agrees that it is, indeed, nice . This gets one nameless British marine killed as he picks up the sword in the middle of a battle and spends the same requisite amount of time staring at it rapturously before Davy Jones shows up, kills him and retrieves the sword. Blackbeard's sword, which controls the rigging of the Queen Anne's Revenge, and can apparently control the rigging of other ships as well. It also controlled the wind when pointed, as shown at the end when Barbossa lets down the sails with it, then throws the boat forward by the wind, catching everyone off guard, including Barbossa. Before duelling Blackbeard he claims the sword is nothing to fear away from the Revenge. It seems as if the only redeeming quality of working on the Flying Dutchman under the command of Davy Jones is that you get a really kick-ass sword. Just look at Hadras's. Corporate Warfare : The East India Company are the antagonists of the second and third films in their war on piracy. Critical Staffing Shortage : In the first film Jack Sparrow and Will Turner steal a ship by pretending to attempt to steal another ship, one larger and far more complicated, so that the Navy will come up with the smaller and easier to manage vessel already rigged for sailing. During a later argument Jack nearly flings Will into the ocean, but lets him live because just two people crewing the ship is cutting it close as it is. In the second film it's inverted. The Black Pearl's crew is imprisoned in two halves, and one pirate blurts out that the ship can make do with a crew of just six, prompting a race by both halves to escape first . Later on Jack hires a ton of unqualified surplus sailors not because the ship needs them but because he needs 99 souls to give to Davy Jones in exchange for his own soul going free. Cryptic Conversation : 90% of what Tia Dalma says is this. Cuffs Off, Rub Wrists : Governor Swann in the second film, with visible evidence that they were fastened too tight. Jack in the third film, right after he's shoved into Beckett's cabin. (We don't actually see the cuffs before removal, but since he's a prisoner it's strongly implied he had 'em.) Cursed with Awesome : Literally for Barbossa's crew, in the first movie. And Will in the finale of At World's End. Although Jack views it more as Blessed with Suck due to the absence of port... er, making port. Damn, It Feels Good to Be a Gangster : The pirate lifestyle in general is depicted to be a romanticized badass madcap swash-buckling life of adventure where you get to wear awesome clothes , bed a different salty wench in every port, go through fortunes of doubloons like water, outwit mythical beings , stick it to the man, and most of all have the freedom to determine your life's course. Deal with the Devil : Will makes one with Jack in the first film. "Spring me from this cell and I will take you to the Black Pearl and your bonny lass." In the second, Jack is revealed to have made one with Davy Jones to float the Black Pearl earlier. "You owe me a soul, and its time to pay up." In the third, it's kinda hard to tell who's supposed to be the devil and who the mortal sucker. In the first movie, Jack delivered a formidable one when he shot and killed Barbossa. It's all the more effective since, up 'til that moment, the generally-cheerful pirate hadn't sported any expressions remotely like it. ◊ Davy Jones has a killer stare when he snarls "Do you fear death?" Everybody takes him seriously. The look one of Sao Feng's bath attendants gives Beckett's Dragon after he shoots the other(the insinuation being they were sisters) should've incinerated the man, by all rights. Captain Teague has a mighty fearsome one that cows the entire Brethren Court when it's suggested in his presence that they won't keep to the Code. Jack (who was retrieved from Davy Jones's Locker) Will (who was made captain of the Flying Dutchman after being killed by and then killing Jones) Bootstrap (who was sent to the bottom of the ocean while undead) Barbossa (whom Tia Dalma resurrected) So common, in fact, that Tia Dalma has to justify the aversion with Governor Swann. "Him at peace." Dead Man's Chest: Will: You want me to find this? Jack: No. You want you to find this. Because the finding of this finds you incapacitorially finding and/or locating in your discovering the detecting of a way to save your dolly belle ol' what's-her-face. Savvy? Also Dead Man's Chest: Jack: You want to do what you want to do because you want it. On Stranger Tides: Jack: There is a girl. A female. Of the opposite sex. Deserted Island : Jack is marooned on one, twice, the second time with Elizabeth. Fortunately, he escaped off-screen (subverted in that he explains how he did it ). The titular Dead Man's Chest is housed on another. Distracted By The Shiny : If he didn't take the time to rummage through every nook and cranny for things that could be of value, Jack would have made a lot more effective escape attempts. But he is a pirate... Divine Date : Davy Jones's backstory involves him falling in love with the sea goddess Calypso when he was still a mortal man. She gave him the job of ferrying the souls of those who died at sea to the afterlife with the promise of seeing her once every 10 years, but since Calypso is as treacherous as the sea itself, she failed to show up. This prompted Jones to go rogue and caused his mutation into a squid-man . Does This Remind You of Anything? : When Barbossa calls the brawling Pirate Court to order, he steps onto the table with a pistol in one hand and, curiously, chain shot in the other. During his speech, we get a shot of Jack peering through his legs, where you can clearly see a pair of huge, cast-iron balls . Elizabeth and Jack. Jack and Angelica in the fourth film. Dying Moment of Awesome - Becket's death could be viewed as this. He calmly turns and walks down the stairs (AS THEY ARE EXPLODING BEHIND HIM, casually trailing his hand along the railing. Before coming to a stop, looking at the camera and accepting death. Most seem to see this as Becket being in denial over what has happened and is happening. Most deaths somewhat count in some shape: Jack dies going in a Mano-A-Mano with the Goddamn Kraken , Jones perishes in the middle of a massive whirpool battle while kicking dogs all around, etc Earn Your Happy Ending : According to Word of God , Will is freed from his curse during the Post-Credits scene because Elizabeth remained faithful to him. Also, Philip and Syrena in the 4th movie. And boy, did they earn it. End of an Age : The films are set at the end of the golden age of piracy. Several times through all three films, characters make note of how difficult it's become to make a living as a pirate, with no sign of the change slowing down. Though possibly somewhat averted at the end of the third movie, with Calypso being returned to her proper place as goddess of the sea. And it's obvious in the fourth movie that if an end is coming to the age of piracy and sea magic, Blackbeard never got the memo. Enemy Mine . When your protagonists and antagonists have the same goals and profession, good and bad are "a matter of perspective": In Curse of The Black Pearl, Will and then Norrington both end up having to make deals with Jack (who they hate) to track down Barbossa, and Barbossa makes a deal with Jack (he hates Jack, too) after finding out Norrington is waiting off shore to ambush them. A variation in Dead Man's Chest, where during a three-way sword-fight between Will, Jack and Norrington, as the latter is curb-stomping Jack for all of the misfortune he's endured since the last film, Jack points out that since Will freed Jack from jail, convinced Norrington to let him go, and got Elizabeth, that makes Will more responsible. Norrington pauses for a moment to consider this, turns and immediately begins attacking Will instead. Norrington: Unfortunately Mr Turner... he's right! In At World's End, Barbossa feigns Enemy Mine at first to cover up his true motive, the fact that he needs to call to order the Brethren Court just to get their Pieces of Eight, which he needs to free Calypso, who brought him back, else she'll withdraw her power and let him die again. But by the end, Barbossa plays the trope straight. Also, the Brethren Court seems to be made up of rival Lords who can't stand each other and will break out in a fist-fight at the slightest provocation. They're only united by a common enemy. Also #2: Jack cooks up a plan with Will, who had betrayed Jack to Beckett earlier, because Will wants to stab Jones's heart to free Bootstrap and Jack wants to stab Jones's heart and become immortal. In the fourth film, Jack and Barbossa briefly team up to screw over Blackbeard. Pintel and Ragetti vs. Mullroy and Murtogg in the first film. Barbossa vs. Davy Jones and Jack vs. Beckett (his old nemesis) in the third. Bosun, Maccus, Mercer and "Quartermaster" are Evil Counterparts to Gibbs. In the first film's commentary, Barbossa is called "the dark side of Jack Sparrow" by Ted and Terry. Also, in the fourth film, Blackbeard is arguably this to Barbossa. Evil Plan : Each movie involves a villain seeking a treasure but the specifics vary widely. Evil Versus Evil : The third movie especially. Jones hates working for Beckett and Mercer, rebelling at the earliest opportunity; Norrington does a Heel�Face Turn about midway through after realizing how evil Beckett really is. Not to mention Tia Dalma and Sao Feng's roles in the story. Expanded Universe : The movies have spawned a number of novels, short films, comics, and games. Fainting : Elizabeth does this three times in the first two films. The first instance is genuine (see Of Corset Hurts ), and sets the plot into motion. The second is faked, and accomplishes its purpose. The third is also faked, and is completely ignored (seems you've shot your bolt, Liz). Fantastic Romance : A lot. See also Interspecies Romance . Davy Jones and the goddess Calypso in the second and the third movie. Will after removing his heart and becoming the captain of the Flying Dutchman and Elizabeth at the end of the third movie. Philip and Syrena in the fourth. The Flying Dutchman is equipped with a pair of forward facing gatling cannons . Not bad for a time when all firearms were still loaded manually through the muzzle one shot at a time. The aforementioned flame throwers on the Queen Anne's Revenge. Flanderization : The series, originally an Affectionate Parody and homage to the pirate genre, became a parody of itself after the first film, when all the character traits, quirks, and set-pieces that were more subtle in the first film were turned up to eleven, and subject to relentless self-referencing. Flirting Under Fire : In At World's End, Elizabeth and Will get married under fire, and even share a kiss. Flying Dutchman : Rather literally in the case of Davy Jones. Flynning : Naturally, since every principle actor had to learn to use a sword. Foreshadowing : In Dead Man's chest, the sailor's mention of the long pork on the island of Peligostos, which we learn later on is home to a cannibal tribe. Where we find Jack, believed to be a god by island natives who attempt to release him from his human form. Tia Dalma is later revealed to be the sea goddess Calypso, and released from her human form. When discussing the story of Davy Jones's tragic love, the pirates can't agree on whether it was the sea he fell in love with or a woman tameless as the sea. Tia Dalma tells them that both versions are true, for they are one and the same . And during the same visit to Tia Dialma, you can see : Barbossa's boots and the heart medallion that forms a pair with Davy Jones's In Stranger Tides, the pub where not-Jack actually Anjelica is hiding is named The Captain's Daughter. In the same film, Blackbeard describes Angelica as "a fitting last sight for a doomed soul". Forgiveness : Davy Jones and Tia Dalma can't; Will and Elizabeth manage to. Evidently, Jack also forgave Elizabeth for abandoning him to be eaten by the Kraken. He could easily have treated her the same when the Flying Dutchman started to flounder; instead he unhesitatingly rescued her. The last love scene between Syrena and Philip has him asking her forgiveness for him getting her captured. Fountain of Youth : The original Fountain of Youth, purportedly discovered by Ponce de León, is mentioned as a Sequel Hook at the end of the third movie, and is a central plot elemental of the fourth. Unlike most depictions, its use involves Human Sacrifice . Four-Temperament Ensemble : Jack = Sanguine; Will = Choleric; Barbossa = Melancholic; Elizabeth = Phlegmatic. Although a case could be made that Will and Elizabeth switch places in the end — conveniently in Will's case, given his change of profession in the end: from one associated with fire (Choleric) to water (Phlegmatic). And Elizabeth's corresponding change of profession ( more Choleric to say the least). A Friend in Need : Jack, when it really matters. He readily sacrifices his chance at immortality to save Will's life. And then he does it again to save Angelica. Friendly Enemies : All the main characters are this at various points in the series. Gatling Good : The Triple Guns on the Flying Dutchman. Genre Deconstruction : Of the pirate/swashbuckler genre. None of the pirates are shown in a truly positive light. Sparrow may not be killing indiscriminately but that's because he would prefer to con and swindle people instead. When he's up against someone he truly hates(Barbossa), he doesn't hesitate to go for the kill. Getting Crap Past the Radar : Note Jack clearly stating that four of his rescuers have tried to kill him in the past: Elizabeth, Will and Barbossa in the classic way and Tia Dalma, in a sexual way. There are also many hidden sexual innuendos throughout the trilogy; it may be rated PG-13, but it's still a Disney film. Barbossa's remarks about "pleasurable company". The "mine's bigger" scenes in the third movie where Jack and Barbossa try to outdo each other in seemingly innocent and trivial things, like who has a bigger scope. At the end of the third movie when Jack is bragging to a couple of wenches about how big it (the Black Pearl) is and how it might be frightening at first but they can both have a ride on it. Then when they get to the docks, one of them remarks, "Is that it?" while the other says "It's not very big". "You took advantage of our hospitality last time, it holds fair now you return the favour", and Barbossa tosses Elizabeth to his men who begin pawing at her. In the fourth film, Jack stating that he "support(s) the missionary's (Philip) position." Also in the fourth: Gibbs: (to Jack) I thought you were hell-bent of finding the Fountain of Youth? Jack: I'm still bent! Hellishly so! And this: Angelica: How is it we can never meet without you pointing something at me? Jack also slips in a masturbation joke when he says, "My eyesight's as good as ever, just so you know" in reference to the Black Spot on his hand. (Could also be a syphilis joke- while the Black Spot doesn't look like a syphilis lesion, they usually appeared much like that in art of the day, probably because they would be covered with black stick-on patches) In the third film, Beckett finds his way to Shipwreck with Jack's compass, which Will gave Beckett, so naturally, Barbossa assumes Will's the one who betrayed them. Beckett says Will is "merely the tool of your betrayal" and singles Jack out as it's grand architect. Will says he acted alone. And Jack says, "Listen to the tool." The grin on Jack's face says it all. "Waste not." That one was particularly creepy. There's also this from the fourth film: Angelica: I was innocent in the ways of men! Jack: You demonstrated a lot of technique for someone I supposedly corrupted. This exchange in the second film as the crew are entering Tia Dalma's shack: Gibbs: Watch your back. Jack: It's my front I'm worried about. There were a couple of Get Thee to a Nunnery moments throughout the film slipped in for this purpose. There was Tia Dalma's introduction: Will Turner: You know me? Tia Dalma: You want to know me. Jack Sparrow: There'll be no knowing here! And then Jack's exchange with Angelica, which hinted at an actual nunnery pun: Angelica: What were you doing in a Spanish convent, anyway? Jack: Mistook it for a brothel. Honest mistake. The villains of the first movie. Davy Jones and his crew are a Mix-and-Match Critters variety. The fourth film contains several zombie (of the Voodoo variety) pirates. Good is Boring : More a case of Lawful Good Is Boring; the stoic Norrington has the most to offer as a potential suitor(high ranking naval officer, good breeding, stability), but Elizabeth is drawn to the more hot-headed Will, who is an orphaned blacksmith of a lower social order. Gorgeous Period Dress : Since the movies revolve around pirates, there isn't much of this flavor, but if you pay attention, the movies include a surprisingly great amount of pimped out dresses . Elizabeth dresses like this in the first two movies, before she Took a Level in Badass . And while we're on the subject, Norrington's uniform got pimped when he got promoted to admiral between the second and third movies. A bit more of this in the fourth film, which includes some scenes of British and Spanish court officials and dress-uniformed officers. Gotta Catch Them All : The Curse Of The Black Pearl required the crew of The Black Pearl to track down 882 pieces of Aztec gold to break their curse. As the film starts, though, they've already found them all but one, and they get that one inside the first hour. The Nine Pieces of Eight are needed to assemble the Pirate Lords and complete the spell in At World's End. This actually becomes a plot point as a reason not to kill Jack. The keys to the Fountain of Youth in On Stranger Tides. Gravity Is a Harsh Mistress : In Dead Man's Chest, Jack freefalls what looks like several hundred feet down a canyon and lands little more than dazed at the bottom. We're expected to believe that falling through a few flimsy rope bridges on the way down slowed him up enough. In the fourth film, Jack is exceptionally leery of jumping off a cliff in order to get the silver chalices. It takes Blackbeard threatening to shoot Angelica and one of the zombies throwing the Jack voodoo doll over the ledge to get him to jump. Greater Scope Villain : Lord Cutler Beckett, a Corrupt Corporate Executive who has no respect for Infant Immortality . He also turns Jones into his Dragon by holding his Weaksauce Weakness at gunpoint. Grin of Audacity : "Now bring me that horizon!". Captain Jack Sparrow is very excited he got his ship back. Of course there's a lot more of those throughout the trilogy: it's a swasbucking action show about pirates, what did you expect? Ham-to-Ham Combat : Any time any of the following are onscreen at the same time: Barbossa, Jack Sparrow, Captain Teague, Davy Jones, Elizabeth (in the third movie), Angelica and Blackbeard (in the fourth). Handwave : In-universe example. Whenever something improbable happens, the character insists Sea Turtles were involved Jack claimed to escape the island Barbossa marooned him on by creating a raft made of sea turtles. He actually bartered his way onto a smuggler's vessel when they landed to pick up their rum cache. When Will arives on the island where Davy Jones stashed his heart and Jack asked how he got there, he replied, "Sea Turtles! I strapped a pair of them to my feet!" He was hiding on the Flying Dutchman. The dog that carries the keys to the written version of the Pirate Code. Pintel and Ragetti ask where it came from and Teague says, "Sea turtles, mate." Word of God is that the Dog really did escape the island with sea turtles. Hat of Authority : Generally, a pirate's hat size indicates his or her authority among the crew (with regional variations for the international pirates, such as Sri Sumbaji's turban). In Dead Man's Chest, Sparrow offers to buy Barbossa a "big floppy hat" as part of the deal to be 'commodore' of a pirate fleet. Pintel and Ragetti (the paired comic relief pirates) Barbossa Held Gaze : Will and Elizabeth of have this quite regularly between them in the first movie and the sequel as their romance blossoms. Philip and Syrena have a lot of gaze-holding going on in On Stranger Tides. Heroic B.S.O.D. : Norrington is already in one when the protagonists first meet up with him again in Tortuga in the second movie. Elizabeth has one at the end of the second movie due to her heavy guilt of leaving Jack to die at the hands of the Kraken. Barbossa briefly has one in the third movie after his plan to save the pirates by releasing Calypso backfires on them. Elizabeth manages to snap him out of it. Jack gets a couple of brief ones: When he's in prison in the first movie, before Will frees him After Davy Jones fatally stabs Will in the third movie, before Jack could stab his heart to gain immortality. Jack ultimately breaks out of it by sacrificing said immortality to save Will's life. Heroic Sacrifice : Both played straight and subverted: Norrington as a straight example in the third film and Jack as a subversion in the second (as Elizabeth rightly doubts his courage and "helps him" act appropriately), as well as Norrington also subverting it - or at least playing with it - by taking the empty Dead Man's Chest and running off, commanding the others to abandon him while never letting on that he has the heart of Davy Jones. As a result, he does legitimately save them from danger, but he also gains an excellent excuse to escape with his ill-gotten gains. Heterosexual Life-Partners : Captain Jack Sparrow and Mr. Gibbs are a classic example. Pintel and Ragetti. Word of God says that Ragetti is Pintel's nephew. Honey Trap : In the second movie, Elizabeth lures Jack into kissing her, but this is to allow her plans of chaining Jack against a nearby mast, so the Kraken kills only him, and not all the crew. In the fourth film's London Chase Scene , Jack takes cover inside a wealthy older lady's carriage, and immediately leans over to smooch her behind the ear before resuming his escape. She's apparently not displeased by this event... until she realizes that he's just fled with her jewelled earring in his mouth! Honor Among Thieves : Toyed with constantly. The pirates' code is supposed to enforce this notion, but it's viewed as only "guidelines" when it suits them. Honor Before Reason : At first, just Will, and to a lesser extent Norrington. Later on, even Jack embodies this trope. In Jack's case, though, it's hard to tell where (and whether) he's using reason in the first place. Will: So that's the reason for the... you know. Gibbs: Reason's got nothin' to do with it. "Mr. Sparrow." " Captain Jack Sparrow!" Davy Jones lampshades this in the second movie: Jones: You've been captain of the Black Pearl for thirteen years. That was our agreement. Sparrow: Technically I was only captain for two years before I was viciously mutinied upon. Jones: Then you were a poor captain, but a captain nonetheless. Or have you not introduced yourself all these years as "Captain Jack Sparrow"? Also, in the first movie: Will: We're going to steal that ship? Jack Sparrow: Commandeer. We're going to commandeer that ship; nautical term. And in the 4th movie: "You are Jack Sparrow?" beat "There should be a Captain in there somewhere." When Cutler Beckett mentions Jack Sparrow (sans "Captain") in front of Will and Elizabeth, they both spontaneously blurt out "Captain". Interesting Situation Duel : Several. In Curse of the Black Pearl, Sparrow and Turner's first-meeting fight in the blacksmith's shop. Also Jack and Barbossa's clash in the treasure cave, with the tactical use of immortality. In DMC, Jack, Will and Norrington's three-way swordfight on Isla Cruces, which moves from beach to bell-tower to runaway mill-wheel. In AWE, Jack and Davy Jones's battle in the rigging. In OST, Jack fighting a duplicate of himself, which turns out to be Angelica in disguise. Interspecies Romance : A lot. See also Fantastic Romance . Davy Jones and the goddess Calypso in the second and the third movie. Philip (human) and Syrena (mermaid) from On Stranger Tides. Ironic Echo : Several, especially in the third film. "The Dutchman must have a captain." One is even twisted into a Brick Joke when Pintel asks "Why is all but the rum gone?" , only to be told by Gibbs that the rum was gone. Another one worth mentioning is Mr. Mercer's introductory line, "Evening, Guv'nor." A common British colloquialism, when uttered with snarky , stoic pride, that masks a Slasher Smile , is made even more ironic at the fact that he just caught Governor Swann attempting to flee Port Royal in the middle of the night. An early one from the first film: Elizabeth's "You may tell the captain that I am disinclined to acquiesce to his request." "Parley?" I Want Them Alive : Will is one of the few characters to use this trope to his advantage. Though in his case, Barbossa didn't know it was specifically Will he needed alive until he told him. Lord Beckett's motive for reining in Davy Jones, in the first part of At World's End. Jones had been exterminating the crews of the pirate ships he attacked; Beckett couldn't have that. "I need prisoners to interrogate. This tends to work better if they're alive." Kangaroo Court : The trials in the third and fourth movies are hinted to be this. Karma Houdini : Barbossa in the fourth movie. Not so much in the first. Karmic Transformation : Davy Jones, prior to the events of the movies. Kick the Dog : Cutler Beckett earns the ignominious honor of being the first Disney villain to kill a child, onscreen. In the first scene of the third movie, no less. Davy Jones kills dozens of innocent people in attempting to track down Will and Jack, though which one hits as most insidious - the innocent foreigners who merely chance upon Jack's hat or the trading crew with the stern captain we actually come to know somewhat - remains to be seen. For specific moments, there is also him ordering the defiant crewman who spurned his offer of crewmanship killed immediately and, in a rage, having the survivors of the aforementioned trading ship slaughtered wholesale without even offering them the chance to take his wretched bargain. There's another example from Beckett later. To ensure Jones's loyalty (and to make sure he wouldn't turn against them), Beckett forced and ordered him to kill The Kraken. Judging from his reaction, Jones was quite attached to the giant ship-eating monster, with Beckett even referring to it as his "pet". Blackbeard. Gleefully so . Subverted when he appears to kill Philip, but only uses poison to knock him out. Said subversion is the justified by his using Philip to get Syrena's tear . Barbossa in the fourth film. When his ship and crew are being swarmed by mermaids, he refuses to help or even recognize their plight, passing it off as "seagulls nesting" when the officers point out their crew's screams of terror. Admittedly, it's not like he could have actually saved them, but it was still pretty cold. "Someone make a note of that man's bravery." Killed Off for Real : Norrington, Beckett, Governor Swann, Sao Feng, Davy Jones, and the poor Kraken. Debatable whether or not Tia Dalma fits the bill. Many assume that Tia Dalma was killed, but that Calypso ascended. And now Blackbeard. Although you can never know with him. Kiss of Death : Elizabeth and Jack in Dead Man's Chest. Elizabeth and Sao Feng in At World's End. Elizabeth and Norrington in At World's End. Elizabeth and Will in At World's End. Those who got kissed by Elizabeth all died by Davy Jones's hands (directly or indirectly). Knight, Knave and Squire : In the first movie, Jack is the Knave, Will is the Knight and Elizabeth is the Squire. A defining moment of both Jack and Will's characters is during the sword fight between the two. By the second movie, the dynamic is more or less dropped and they all become Knaves, especially in the third. Love Redeems : In a slightly roundabout way; it's pretty much a given that Will's love for Elizabeth is what leads him to accept his new duties of ferrying the souls of the dead on the Flying Dutchman. This frees the crew from the corruption that Jones had caused with his actions and they also seem to lose their mindless bloodlust. Angelica attempts to do this for Blackbeard. But he's a bad man. Love Triangle : Love Quadrangle between Will, Jack, Norrington and Elizabeth. Lunatic Loophole : Jack rides a wave of them throughout the series. MacGuffin : Several in each movie, usually with Jack's compass or the Black Pearl coming into play at some point. Curse of the Black Pearl had the last piece of Aztec gold and the blood of William Turner. Dead Man's Chest had the Chest and the key to unlock it. At World's End had Calypso and the Nine Pieces of Eight. On Stranger Tides had the chalices of Ponce de León and a mermaid's tear. Jack also becomes one between Dead Man's Chest and the first portion of At World's End. Madness Mantra : "Part of the ship, part of the crew." Repeated by Davy Jones's crew near the end of the third film and, earlier, by Bill Turner when he fully joined Jones's crew. Magic A Is Magic A : The entire series is built around this trope, in accordance with pirate superstition and lore. Or rather, the writers made a concordance out of pirate superstition and lore. Magic Compass : Jack's compass points to whatever the one holding it wants. The Magic Goes Away : Zig-Zagged across the series: In the second film, Isla de Muerta is wiped off the proverbial map by a hurricane. Invoked by Lord Beckett, who believes in the supernatural, but sees progress and expansion as the overriding force in the world. Further invoked by Beckett in At World's End as he doesn't bat an eye to anything on the Flying Dutchman and forces Davy Jones to dispose of the Kraken. Defied by the pirates, who release Calypso specifically so expansion and progress by man across the seas will be more difficult. Cutler Beckett: This is no longer your world, Jones. The immaterial has become... immaterial. In On Stranger Tides, defied by Blackbeard, but invoked by the Spanish, whose actual goal is to destroy the Fountain of Youth, not use it. Malignant Plot Tumor : Cutler Beckett and the East India Trading Company. The company is more-or-less mentioned in passing in the first film, before becoming much more of a threat in the following two films. By the time At World's End rolls around, the combined threat of Beckett and Jones was enough to ultimately unite the world's pirate forces, who up until then were crossing and betraying each other on a regular basis. Meaningful Echo : "You are different. Are you not?" Said first by Syrena to Philip when she explains why she saved him during the mermaid attack; later said by Philip to Syrena when he explains why he came to save her after Blackbeard had tied her up in an attempt to get one of her tears. Pintel saying "Goodbye, Poppet", and Barbossa saying "Farewell, Mrs. Turner" as Elizabeth walked away from the crew of the Black Pearl for the final time in At World's End definitely counts. Meaningful Name : All three of the main characters have names related to birds: Jack Sparrow and Elizabeth Swann being the most obvious. Will Turner, on the other hand, shares the exact same name as a British scientist who studied birds, much like James Bond . There's also a seabird called a tern. The missionary in the fourth film also counts- his full name is Philip Swift, and a swift is a songbird. Tia Dalma's name is an anagram for Dalmatia, a famous haven for pirates. Barbossa's name is rather close to Barbarossa, another famous pirate, and is a mangled version of the Latin for "Beard of Bones". 'Norrington' may be (consciously or otherwise) more or less a compound name of Nelson and Wellington (both commanders were a little young for this period, but it's close; the character- at least in his first appearance- has had a career more like Admiral Nelson's, but is more like General Wellington in personality.) Syrena is Greek for "siren" and, in the movie, is pronounced as the Spanish word for mermaid, "sirena." (Could count as a Bilingual Bonus). Which made the Spanish dub sound like "The mermaid's name will be... Mermaid ". Membership Token : In the first film, the cursed gold coins, in the third film, the nine Pieces of Eight. The paired set of music box/locket . The Aztec gold talisman itself is an Orphan's Plot Trinket which Elizabeth takes from Will. Bootstrap Bill's knife. It's given to Will as a gift from the no-longer-dead Bootstrap. Mexican Standoff : After rescuing Jack in At World's End, the crew quickly devolves into one of these over who gets the Pearl and who gets the map. Just about every main character starts pointing a pair of pistols at different characters, Pintel and Ragetti join in because everyone else is, and pistols change targets about a dozen times over the course of the standoff. Then finally, someone fires... only for it to fail. Cue everyone pulling their triggers and failing. Turns out that all the guns had gotten waterlogged after the fall off the Inevitable Waterfall . That defuses the situation pretty quickly. Will, Norrington, and Jack over the Dead Man's Chest. Jack, Angelica, and Scrum over the mermaid's tear. Mix-and-Match Critters : Davy Jones's fishy crew. Mobile Shrubbery : One rather successful instance with a canoe, and another much less successful one with a potted plant. More Dakka : The Dauntless and the Endeavour bristle with around 100 guns. After all, they are classed as first-rate ships-of-the-line - the navy's most powerful warship class. In the final scene where Beckett commands an attack against the Black Pearl, see the Endeavour's massive array of guns (as the ship sails by) and be scared. Too bad its commander didn't return fire even when he knew he had the upper hand in armament. The Flying Dutchman has a very heavy armament for a standard Fluyt (the ship it's based on), mounting 36 pounders (very few warships carried guns that big). Of course, her triple guns add to this trope. Port Royal was not built on a cliff. Jamaica has plenty of cliffs, but not anywhere near the site of Port Royal. Singapore isn't mountainous. My the waterfalls and mountains of the Florida Everglades are beautiful. Here's what the place really ◊ No Good Deed Goes Unpunished : Jack is recaptured because he enlisted the Navy's help to save Will. And in a karmic turnabout, Norrington decides that this is unjust, gives him a Mercy Lead after the first movie's over, and loses his ship and his commission because of it. Man. Philip the Missionary, the only unambiguously good and decent human being in the entire fourth movie, is basically the plot's punching bag, firmly setting the deeply-cynical tone of the film and the (supposed) new trilogy. Barbossa's hospitality to his captive, Elizabeth, in the first movie. Barbossa to Jack in the first movie. Barbossa: "Gents, you all remember Captain Jack Sparrow! ... Kill him." At World's End features Beckett and Will having tea together to discuss alliances, with Davy Jones spoiling the mood . Played with during Jack Sparrow's audience with the king in the fourth movie. Noodle Implements : To get the ship out from the bottle in On Stranger Tides, Jack will need: "a crossbow, an hourglass, three goats, and one of us will need to learn to play the trumpet, and the other will need to do this (wiggles fingers)". Noodle Incident : "Clearly you have never been to Singapore." Just what sort of run-in are Beckett and Jack referring to, when they talk about "each leaving his mark on the other"? We do know how Beckett marked Jack; Cutler made the above statement whilst displaying the metal 'P' he used to brand Jack as a pirate. Sparrow's mark on Beckett, however, was never explained- the look on Beckett's face when Will asked about it suggests it's a touchy subject. (See the WMG list for a couple fan theories.) The "trick we perfected in new Guinea" Gibbs uses to take care of the guards on board the Queen Anne's Revenge in On Stranger Tides. Jack has a conspicuous new scar in On Stranger Tides; a small red X on his right cheekbone. Such a distinct shape suggests a deliberate infliction, but no explanation is given for it. "What were you doing in a Spanish convent?" He mistook it for a brothel. It was a usual practice for some Spanish kings (namely Philip III and Philip IV) to send their former lovers to convents once they got them pregnant. So, it was not so strange to find some hot women in convents. Not just royal mistresses- it was a valid way of getting rid of any unmarried woman who had somehow disgraced herself. They also sometimes incorporated girls' schools. "... And then they made me their chief." "... impersonating a clergyman of the Church of England..." Oh Crap! : In Curse of the Black Pearl, Barbossa's expression upon realising he's about to die is pretty comical, if you're in a cruel mood ("I feel... cold.") When Jack finds himself surrounded by hungry natives in Dead Man's Chest, he gives a dry, "Oh, bugger." Likewise, Bootstrap's realizing that he was fighting over control of the mooring line with his son upon the Flying Dutchman. Jack's reaction upon seeing the Flying Dutchman's guns: Jack: ... Hardtostarboard... Elizabeth: HARD TO STARBOARD!! A minor example, but just watch Jack's expression change during At World's End when Barbossa calls for Captain Teague. In On Stranger Tides, the mutineers when Blackbeard makes his appearance. When Jack Sparrow looks out at the water to see a massive swarm of mermaids swimming towards everyone. Blackbeard upon being told he drank from the wrong chalice. O.O.C. Is Serious Business : Towards the end of the first movie when Jack shoots Barbossa and Barbossa thinks that Jack wasted his shot. Clever viewers can tell from Jack's cold, steely glare that this is not the case; it's the one time in the entire movie that he's not doing something eccentric. Speaking of Jack acting OOC; it can be hard to tell what is and isn't out of character for a guy whose methods are so mercurial . The only certainty is that anything he does is (virtually) always with the ultimate goal of furthering his own interests. Elizabeth: Whose side is Jack on? Will: At the moment? Jack gets one at the climax of At World's End when Jones stabs Will through the heart and Jack, who has has his self-serving objective literally in the palm of his hand, goes from cruelly gloating over his imminent victory to looking mind-screwed by despair, almost HBSODing . It's brief, but is big enough to make his sacrifice afterward make perfect sense without hefty foreshadowing. Order Versus Chaos : In the first movie, there is no particular moral component to the sides — the three major players are the ruthless Barbossa, the largely self-interested Jack and Norrington , while Will and Elizabeth are mostly neutral. The second and third movie side more fully with Chaos, as all the protagonists become fairly chaotic, while the role as main villain is taken over by Cutler Becket . Orphan's Plot Trinket : The Aztec gold piece and Bootstrap's carving knife are both taken from Will who kept them as mementos from his left-for-(un)dead father. Their ultimate purpose becomes Harsher in Hindsight . Elizabeth ends up in a few in the first couple films, given her position. (What a shame that so many of those pretty frocks met untimely ends.) In On Stranger Tides, Judi Dench's gown. With cleavage. Pirate King : Who actually rules over all the pirates on all the seas in the world. The position itself is chosen by vote (and being pirates, all of them vote for themselves... ), and Elizabeth Swann was voted by Sparrow and herself, breaking the tie and becoming the Pirate King in the third movie. The film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves puts its central character's claim right in the title. It's lampshaded in the third movie that a major part of Jack's mystique is if he somehow plans every detail in advance or just wings it . It can be argued that the entire third movie is a series of interlocking plans , because although all of the plans (except Jack's) are straightforward, they interact in unexpected ways. The wild shifting is lampshaded in On Stranger Tides. Plot Armor : Barbossa is killed, but by the next movie is Back from the Dead . Of course when Jack is killed off and the sequel was inevitable, they had no intention of killing off their fan favorite character. Power Walk : A particularly badass one occurs in the third movie, as Jack, Elizabeth and Barbossa approach the Parlay. Barbossa's crew manages an even more badass one in the first movie, when they walk along the bottom of the sea to ambush the Dauntless. Barbossa himself does it walking to his new ship, Queen Anne's Revenge. With a peg leg to boot! Power-Upgrading Deformation : What happened to Davey Jones and his crew aboard the Dutchman for neglecting their duties. Primary-Color Champion : Although he's more of a Anti-Hero , Jack wears a blue waistcoat and a red bandana, while his arch-nemesis Barbossa wears an orange-brown waistcoat and a green bandana. Privateer : In Dead Man's Chest, Cutler Beckett sends Will to offer Jack Sparrow a Letter of Marque in exchange for his compass. Barbossa becomes one in On Stranger Tides, after encountering Blackbeard, who deprives him of both the Black Pearl and his leg. He "sold out" to the Crown only to get a chance to make even with his nemesis, and he tears his letter of marque at the end. Psychopomp : the role of the Flying Dutchman and her crew is to be The Ferryman to whose who have died at sea. Public Execution : What Will rescues Jack from at the end of the first movie. The third film starts out with a mass public hanging of citizens thought to be involved with pirates, notably including a young boy amongst the victims. He has to stand on a barrel to be tall enough for the noose. Bunches of people show up for the trial and (presumed) subsequent hanging of one Captain Jack Sparrow in the opening of On Stranger Tides. Reality Ensues : The first film ends with Will Turner making a daring broad-daylight rescue of Jack Sparrow as he's about to be hanged. The second film opens with Will Turner being arrested for it. Early in the third film, Will tries to make a secret deal with Sao Feng. Knowing that Will would be double-crossing both Barbossa and Jack by doing so, Sao Feng's immediate response is to ask why he shouldn't expect to be betrayed as well. Recurring Riff : The melody that Davy Jones plays on his organ, and that his and Tia Dalma's music boxes' plays, returns as the melody to "Hoist the Colours". Red Shirts : Incredibly Lame Puns aside, you can write off nearly every English sailor and soldier that appears, even officers and characters with speaking parts. In fact, starting from Dead Man's Chest near any seafaring character who isn't one of the main eight or nine major characters is liable to be dead by the end of whatever movie they're in. Red Shirt Army : The crew of the Back Pearl - especially in "Dead Man's Chest" (where the entire crew is killed except for the same handful of people twice), but continued onward in "At World's End." At least twice (the ends of the third and fourth movies) these two trends coincide and the surviving British join the surviving pirates, but towards the ends of every movie the pirate crews are usually so diminished they should be unable to sail their vessels. This is lampshaded in "Dead Man's Chest" while Will is leading the crew to escape a deadly situation. Will: "Come on! We'll need all hands to man the Pearl!" Crewman: "Actually, you won't need everyone! About six will do." (immediately after, the crewman and everyone but six of the crew is killed all at once). Captain Barbossa does this as well especially in his Hamoff against Jack Sparrow. Barbossa: What ARRR you doing? Sparrow: What are you doing? Barbossa: No, what AAAHHRRR you doing!? Running Gag : "Sea turtles, mate." *slap* "Not sure I deserved that."/"I probably deserved that."note In At World's End, Jack then slaps Gibbs, who sighs and shrugs as if to say, "Yes, I deserved that." "You will always remember this as the day you..." Eunuch. The dog with the keys. "Parley" Sadly Mythtaken : Tons of examples, but mostly because the real legends behind the series' plotlines are tossed aside in favor of the Rule of Cool . Sailor's Ponytail : Most sailors and pirates sports a ponytail that is often worn by swashbucklers. Savage Piercings : The tribe that captures Jack in Dead Man's Chest and Blackbeard's zombies in On Stranger Tides. Scoundrel Code : The Pirates' Code (Or Pirata Codex ) is one that governs the relations of pirates. For instance, if someone says "parley" you have to take them to your captain alive. However, there are a number of caveats to this code. You have to be a pirate in order for the code to apply to you. "The code's more like guidelines, than lateral rules." Is Captain Teague within hearing distance? If he is, then obey the code or he will shoot you without hesitation and neither your captain or mates will complain about it. Sequel Escalation : The second and particularly the third movie featured more and more insanely over-the-top CGI and action sequences, epic plotlines and $300-million budgets. The fourth movie, however, was intentionally scaled back, returning to the more modest and character-driven style of the first film. Sesquipedalian Loquaciousness : Played with in Jack's/Barbossa's crew; all of them speak like this, including the captains themselves, but it doesn't always indicate intelligence. Barbossa: I am disinclined to acquiesce to your request. ( beat ) Means no. Shout-Out : The first film contains numerous highly specific Shout Outs to the theme park ride on which the film is loosely based. The ending of Dead Man's Chest has Will rowing in a coffin to a skull-shaped hut in a swamp, in a scene that's an almost exact duplicate of a scene in Monkey Island , although the writers insist they've never heard of it . There are a number of references to Treasure Island , including: Depp's role as the Jerk with a Heart of Gold mentor. The setup where the new captain of the pirate ship keeps a pet named after the captain he mutinied against . Are we talking about Barbossa and his monkey named "Jack", or Long John Silver and his parrot "Cap'n Flint"? In On Stranger Tides, the reason Blackbeard seeks the fountain is because he receives a warning about a one legged-man, in this case Barbossa. is a Shout-Out to Sergio Leone westerns, complete with a Suspiciously Similar Song 'honoring' Ennio Morricone 's music and a close up on The Good, The Bad... and The Ugly (Davy Jones, who winks at the camera ). Jack's run was said to be inspired by our TBPJMR. The Mexican standoff could be a reference. The musical locket owned by the villain (Jones) with an identical one owned by a good guy with a history with the villain (Tia Dalma, aka Calypso)? Straight from For a Few Dollars More , though the relationship between the corresponding characters is quite different. The scene in the first movie, with the upper class lady getting rid of the alcohol after the lower-class wild man got drunk and started singing the previous night while they're stranded together? Yeah, happened in more than just this movie. In AWE, one of the Boats Of Deceased Souls contains two identical, stoic-faced little girls- rather reminiscent of the Creepy Twins in The Shining . Sparrow's ad-libbed "And then they made me their chief" was a running gag Orphaned Punchline from The Fast Show , of which Depp is a fan. In the fourth film, Blackbeard remarks on how he has to shoot one of his own crew every so often, so they don't forget who he is. This line was also used in the Tim Powers On Stranger Tides novel, but is allegedly (according to the 18th-century book A General History of the Pyrates by "Captain Charles Johnson") a real-life quote from Blackbeard, after he shot Israel Hands (a Real Life crew member whose name Stevenson stole for Treasure Island) in the leg for no apparent reason . At the end of On Stranger Tides, Jack quips to Mr. Gibbs 'It's a pirate's life for me, mate', like the song that plays in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. In a scene in Stranger Tides, Jack and Angelica threaten each other with meat hooks. In On Stranger Tides, when Syrena 's glass coffin breaks, she is forced to walk on land. Her tail changes to legs, and every step causes her agonizing pain. These details are obviously borrowed from Andersen's fairy tale . The scene in On Stranger Tides where Jack blows up the lighthouse is very similar to Ezio's destruction of Borgia towers in Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood . The climax of Stranger Tides evokes recollection of a dilemma from another adventure film. The Fountain of Youth looks suspiciously like the Guardian of Forever , surrounding scenery (and fog!) included. The scene of pirates walking along the seabed with an air-filled upside-down boat held over them is based on an incident in The Crimson Pirate, a 1952 pirate flick with a similar tongue-in-cheek attitude. Beckett's world map painted on a wall recalls the opening of The Sea Hawk , an Errol Flynn movie also featuring a monkey sidekick. Peter Pan in The Curse of the Black Pearl: In the very first scene, Governor Swann's costume looks exactly like Captain Hook. Also, in the final fight, Jack cuts off some of the feathers on Barbossa's hat, just like Peter does to Hook. Snow White in The Curse of the Black Pearl: When Elizabeth refuses Barbossa's apple, believing it's poisoned. Barbossa in the first film. Davy Jones in the second film. Calypso in the third film. Blackbeard in the fourth film. Jack Sparrow's past. Including the sea turtles ... his past relationships with Beckett and Tia Dalma... and raising the Black Pearl from a watery grave . At times, this is subverted: Imprisoned Pirate: The Black Pearl has been stalking these waters for nearly ten years. Leaves no survivors! Jack: No survivors? Then where do the stories come from, I wonder? Slash Fic : At one point the number of hits on Google for "Sparrabeth", "Willabeth" and "Norrabeth" combined were less than the number of hits for "Sparrington" . Sliding Scale of Antagonist Vileness : Barbossa is Affably Evil , Davy Jones is Woobie, Destroyer of Worlds , Beckett and Blackbeard are monsters. So Long, Suckers! : Jack's famous line "You will always remember this as the day you almost caught Captain Jack Sparrow", and nicely lampshaded in the end. Toyed with near the beginning of the second movie. Jack: (hanging from the side of his ship) "You will always remember this as the day that you almost-" *gets drenched by an unusually high wave* "...Cap'n Jack Sparrow." Broken with Blackbeard. Spinoff Babies : Disney has been publishing a line of pre-teen-orientated novels about Jack's teenage years since 2006. Spit Shine : Ragetti does this with his wooden eye a couple times. Later on, Barbossa gives the thing a really good slurp and shoves it back into Ragetti's empty socket. The poor man looks terrified. Stealth Pun : Davy Jones's heart was locked in a locker... which can also be called a chest�his chest. The Stinger : All four films feature an extra scene after the final credits. Strolling Through the Chaos : Lord Cutler Beckett's death scene in the third movie was very much the serious version. He's walking down the stairs, which are blowing up behind him with chunks of wood flying around, when he finally dies. Jack does this in the second movie. After the fight starts, the man starts wandering aimlessly through the pub, randomly trying on people's hats to replace the one he lost at the beginning of the movie. He narrowly avoids getting injured in some spectacularly funny ways (such as ducking to get a dropped hat off the floor and avoiding a flying bottle that smashes on the wall above him). Villainous B.S.O.D. : Davey Jones tried to avoid this by removing his heart . Beckett has a brilliantly-executed villainous BSOD in the third movie, walking down from the quarterdeck in slow motion while his ship is being shot to pieces around him, saying his Catch Phrase : "It's just...good business..." Barbossa's in the first movie is nicely understated. The apple may be a bit much, though. Blackbeard when Jack reveals that he gave the the chalice with the mermaid's tear to Angelica instead of him. Villain Decay : Davy Jones, the most feared being of the seven seas, is (somewhat awkwardly for him, at least) demoted to The Dragon to the stuffed-shirt, civilized Brits in the third film by their possession of his heart, who unaccountably maintain their insistence in the triumph of reason over superstition while ordering Jones around. He gets his thunder back at the climax though- a fair bit of the final battle is him Kicking Dogs , being badass, or a combination thereof. Barbossa, sort of. Very intentional in the fourth movie, although undone by the end of the film, which sees him return to his proper badassery. Visual Pun : In the first movie, Jack is attempting to pick a lock with a bone. It's a skeleton key. And in the third, Davy Jones's Locker is filled with crustaceans that normally appear as stones, or in other words, "Rock Crabs". Vitriolic Best Buds : Jack Sparrow and Will Turner. Jack and Barbossa begin to show shades of this in On Stranger Tides. Voice for the Voiceless : The pirate Cotton had his tongue cut out, so he taught his parrot to speak for him. It speaks entirely in nautical Stock Phrases , though, so the pirates then have to interpret what the parrot says. Gibbs mentions that "nobody's yet figured how" he taught the parrot to do that in the first place. We Named the Monkey "Jack" : Trope Namer . Barbossa reveals they named their undead pet monkey Jack as a joke on the real Jack. Barbossa: [takes medallion from the monkey] Why thank you, Jack. Not you, we named the monkey 'Jack'. Weapon Stomp : In Dead Man's Chest, Elizabeth goes for the rifle, only for Jack to stomp on it. He then kicks it up so he could be the one to fire it. Norrington also did this with one of Davy Jones's Mooks . Also done in On Stranger Tides during Jack's attempted mutiny, which fails regardless. Wham Line : From Curse Of The Black Pearl: "You'd best start believin' in ghost stories, Miss Turner. Yer in one!" Elizabeth: (after kissing Jack) "It's you (the Kraken) wants, don't you see?" She then proceeds to chain him to ship so he can't run away. A rare example of a closing Wham Line: "So tell me, what's become of my ship?" When called upon to cast his vote for the Pirate King, after all the others have voted for themselves, as expected, Jack hesitates for a moment and answers: "Elizabeth Swann." Elizabeth is shocked, and the other Pirate Lords are not very happy with Jack. Who Wants to Live Forever? : Stabbing Davy Jones's heart will make the person who did it become immortal. Will wants to do this, which is bad in his father's eyes as he will choose his fiancée over his father. Not to mention the whole step on land once every 10 years, and having to ferry souls to the afterlife or be turned into a fishman. Teague knows his son well enough to realize this is part of what Jack's planning, and gives him hell about it. It's not just about living forever, Jackie. The trick is living with yourself forever. In the fourth film it turns out that Blackbeard is the only character who honestly wants the Fountain's promised immortality for himself. Angelica wants it for him to prolong her time with her father; the Spanish want to destroy the Fountain, to protect God's exclusive right to dispense eternal life; King George's men, not realizing this, want to stop the Spanish king from claiming immortality; and Barbossa really only wants revenge on Blackbeard. Even Jack decides he'd really rather be remembered forever than actually live that long. Jack: Oh, it's a pirate's life for me. Savvy? Barbossa and his men had this in spades in the first film. Justified because their cursed state made them live forever, but prevented them from experiencing any of the pleasures of being alive. (They couldn't eat, drink, feel the breeze, etc.) That'd be a pretty lousy way to spend eternity. In deleted scenes from the first, Jack is the last immortal pirate cursed by the Aztec gold, but unlike Barbossa and his mutinous crew, actually starts to enjoy the gods' curse. It's only after contemplating that his immortality would make life utterly mundane and have no challenge, that he reluctantly undoes his curse.
i don't know
In bowling, what bird's name is given to three successive strikes?
Turkey - definition of turkey by The Free Dictionary Turkey - definition of turkey by The Free Dictionary http://www.thefreedictionary.com/turkey Related to turkey: Turkey bird Turkey Tur·key  (tûr′kē) A country of southwest Asia and southeast Europe between the Mediterranean and the Black Seas. The region was dominated by many ancient civilizations and peoples, among them the Hittites (1800 bc), the Greeks (8th century bc), and the Persians (6th century bc), and in ad 395 it became part of the Byzantine Empire. The area was conquered by the Ottoman Turks between the 13th and 15th centuries and remained the core of the Ottoman Empire for more than 600 years. Its modern history dates to the rise of the Young Turks (after 1908) and the collapse of the empire in 1918. Under the leadership of Kemal Atatürk, a republic was proclaimed in 1923. Ankara is the capital and Istanbul the largest city. tur·key n. pl. tur·keys 1. a. A large North American bird (Meleagris gallopavo) that has brownish plumage and a bare wattled head and neck and is widely domesticated for food. b. The flesh of this bird, used as food. 2. A related bird (Meleagris ocelatta syn. Agriocharis ocellata) of Mexico and Central America, brilliantly colored and having eyelike spots on its tail. 3. Informal a. A person considered inept or undesirable. b. A failure, especially a failed theatrical production or movie. 4. Sports Three consecutive strikes in bowling. Idiom: talk turkey Informal To speak frankly about the basic facts of a matter. [After Turkey from a confusion with the guinea fowl, once believed to have originated in Turkish territory.] turkey (ˈtɜːkɪ) n, pl -keys or -key 1. (Animals) a large gallinaceous bird, Meleagris gallopavo, of North America, having a bare wattled head and neck and a brownish iridescent plumage. The male is brighter and has a fan-shaped tail. A domestic variety is widely bred for its flesh 2. (Cookery) the flesh of the turkey used as food 3. (Animals) a similar and related bird, Agriocharis ocellata (ocellated turkey), of Central and N South America 4. (Animals) any of various Australian birds considered to resemble the turkey, such as the bush turkey 5. slang chiefly a. a dramatic production that fails; flop b. a thing or person that fails; dud 6. slang chiefly US and Canadian a stupid, incompetent, or unappealing person 7. (Bowls & Bowling) slang (in tenpin bowling) three strikes in a row 8. (Recreational Drugs) See cold turkey 9. talk turkey informal chiefly US and Canadian to discuss frankly and practically [C16: shortened from Turkey cock (hen), used at first to designate the African guinea fowl (apparently because the bird was brought through Turkish territory), later applied by mistake to the American bird] Turkey (ˈtɜːkɪ) n (Placename) a republic in W Asia and SE Europe, between the Black Sea, the Mediterranean, and the Aegean: the centre of the Ottoman Empire; became a republic in 1923. The major Asian part, consisting mainly of an arid plateau, is separated from European Turkey by the Bosporus, Sea of Marmara, and Dardanelles. Languages: Turkish (official), Kurdish, and Arabic minority languages. Religion: Muslim majority. Currency: lira. Capital: Ankara. Pop: 80 694 485 (2013 est). Area: 780 576 sq km (301 380 sq miles) tur•key (ˈtɜr ki) n., pl. -keys, (esp. collectively) -key. 1. either of two large North American gallinaceous birds of the pheasant family, esp. Meleagris gallopavo, with brownish, iridescent plumage and a bare head and neck: domestic forms now kept in many parts of the world. 2. the flesh of this bird, used as food. 3. Slang. a. a person or thing of little appeal; dud; loser. b. a naive, stupid, or inept person. c. a poor and unsuccessful theatrical production; flop. 4. a score of three successive strikes in bowling. Idioms: talk turkey, Informal. to talk frankly and directly, with the intent of accomplishing something. [1545–55; short for Turkey cock and Turkey hen, first applied to domesticated guinea fowl, later confused with the New World bird] Tur•key (ˈtɜr ki) n. a republic in W Asia and SE Europe. 65,599,206; 300,948 sq. mi. (779,455 sq. km). Cap.: Ankara. Compare Ottoman Empire. turkey poult - A young domestic fowl (like a turkey) being raised for food. meleagrine - The adjective form of turkey. wattle - The fleshy part hanging from the neck of a turkey or other bird. turkey - Originally the name for African guinea fowl, it eventually became the name for the Western hemisphere fowl with which the earlier fowl was confused; it is short for turkeycock or turkeyhen. Turkey 1. the political doctrines and achievements of Kemal Ataturk (1881-1938), Turkish general and statesman. 2. support of or adherence to Ataturk. — Kemalist, n., adj. an obsession with Turkey and things Turkish. ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend: domestic fowl , fowl , poultry - a domesticated gallinaceous bird thought to be descended from the red jungle fowl genus Meleagris , Meleagris - type genus of the Meleagrididae: wild and domestic turkeys tom turkey , turkey cock , gobbler , tom - male turkey 2. Turkey - a Eurasian republic in Asia Minor and the Balkans; on the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in 1918, the Young Turks, led by Kemal Ataturk, established a republic in 1923 Dardanelles campaign , Dardanelles - the unsuccessful campaign in World War I (1915) by the English and French to open a passage for aid to Russia; defeated by the Turks Aga , Agha - title for a civil or military leader (especially in Turkey) bulghur , bulgur , bulgur wheat - parched crushed wheat IBDA-C , Islamic Great Eastern Raiders-Front - a Turkish terrorist organization that claimed responsibility for bombing a British consulate and bank in Istanbul; a violent opponent of Turkey's secular government and its ties to the European Union and NATO Jerusalem Warriors - ethnic Turkish Sunni terrorists who are linked with the Turkish Hizballah; killed a United States Air Force sergeant in 1991 Kurdistan Labor Pary , Kurdistan Workers Party , Partiya Karkeran Kurdistan , PPK - a Marxist-Leninist terrorist group of Kurds trying to establish an independent Kurdish state in eastern Turkey Revolutionary People's Liberation Front , Revolutionary People's Liberation Party - an extreme Marxist terrorist organization in Turkey that is opposed to NATO and the United States; attacks Turkish security and military officials Turkish Hizballah - an ethnic Kurdish group of Sunni extremists formed in the late 1980s in southeastern Turkey; seeks to replace Turkey's secular regime with an Islamic state and strict shariah law; responsible for bombings and the torture and murder of Turkish and Kurdish journalists and businessmen; receives support from Iran NATO , North Atlantic Treaty Organization - an international organization created in 1949 by the North Atlantic Treaty for purposes of collective security Anatolia , Asia Minor - a peninsula in southwestern Asia that forms the Asian part of Turkey Balkan Peninsula , Balkans - a large peninsula in southeastern Europe containing the Balkan Mountain Range Middle East , Mideast , Near East - the area around the eastern Mediterranean; from Turkey to northern Africa and eastward to Iran; the site of such ancient civilizations as Phoenicia and Babylon and Egypt and the birthplace of Judaism and Christianity and Islam; had continuous economic and political turmoil in the 20th century; "the Middle East is the cradle of Western civilization" Adrianople , Adrianopolis , Edirne - a city in northwestern Turkey; a Thracian town that was rebuilt and renamed by the Roman Emperor Hadrian Kurdistan - an extensive geographical region in the Middle East to the south of the Caucasus Abydos - an ancient Greek colony on the Asiatic side of the Dardanelles; scene of the legend of Hero and Leander Adana , Seyhan - a city in southern Turkey on the Seyhan River Angora , Ankara , capital of Turkey , Turkish capital - the capital of Turkey; located in west-central Turkey; it was formerly known as Angora and is the home of Angora goats Adalia , Antalya - a port city in southwestern Turkey on the Gulf of Antalya Antakiya , Antakya , Antioch - a town in southern Turkey; ancient commercial center and capital of Syria; an early center of Christianity Canakkale Bogazi , Dardanelles , Hellespont - the strait between the Aegean and the Sea of Marmara that separates European Turkey from Asian Turkey Halicarnassus - an ancient Greek city on the southwestern coast of Asia Minor in what is now Turkey; site of the mausoleum at Halicarnassus Constantinople , Istanbul , Stamboul , Stambul - the largest city and former capital of Turkey; rebuilt on the site of ancient Byzantium by Constantine I in the fourth century; renamed Constantinople by Constantine who made it the capital of the Byzantine Empire; now the seat of the Eastern Orthodox Church Brusa , Bursa - a city in northwestern Turkey Izmir , Smyrna - a port city in western Turkey Pergamum - an ancient Greek city located in the western part of what is now modern Turkey; the technique of preparing sheepskins as parchment was developed here Sardis - an ancient Greek city located in the western part of what is now modern Turkey; as the capital of Lydia it was the cultural center of Asia Minor; destroyed by Tamerlane in 1402 Aegospotami , Aegospotamos - a creek emptying into the Hellespont in present-day Turkey; at its mouth in 405 BC the Spartan fleet under Lysander defeated the Athenians and ended the Peloponnesian War Ararat , Mount Ararat , Mt. Ararat - the mountain peak that Noah's ark landed on as the waters of the great flood receded Aras , Araxes - a river that rises in northeastern Turkey (near the source of the Euphrates) and flows generally eastward through Armenia to the Caspian Sea; ancient name was Araxes Bosporus - a strait connecting the Mediterranean and the Black Sea; separates the European and Asian parts of Turkey; an important shipping route Euphrates , Euphrates River - a river in southwestern Asia; flows into the Persian Gulf; was important in the development of several great civilizations in ancient Mesopotamia 3.
Turkey
Although never actually used in the books, the phrase "Elementary, my dear Watson." is commonly attributed to whom?
THE BOWLER'S BOWLING DICTIONARY THE BOWLER'S BOWLING DICTIONARY One or two definitions are given; in any given application, it¹s usually one or the other, not both. Synonyms are given in parenthesis (synonym) after the definition. Absentee: See Blind Action: Motion of the pins caused by the bowler's technique; generally, the combination of accuracy, rotation (also see), and other factors, causing pin motion which is horizontal, rather than vertical, since a horizontally spinning pin covers more of the lane. Address: Bowler's starting position. (stance) Alley: 1) A group of lanes; 2) bowling establishment; 3) playing surface,usually made of maple and pine boards; urethane lanes may soon outnumber wood lanes. All the way: Finishing a game from any point with nothing but strikes. American Bowling Congress (ABC): The world's largest sports organization and the official rule-making body of tenpin bowling. Anchor: Last man to roll in team competition. Usually the best bowler; i.e., the bowler most likely to get a strike in the "foundation frame" (the ninth frame) and most likely to "strike out." The term originated in 1913 when a bowler (Hans Arfsparger) for the Anchor Brewing team in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, bowled in the fifth position and struck out 94 times in succession. Angle: The direction the ball travels when going into the 1-3 pocket (1-2 for lefties). Recent studies [see reference at end] have shown an optimum angle of 4-6 degrees; less or more angle tends to leave pins as the width of the pocket decreases. Apple: 1) Bowling ball; 2) bowler who fails to come through in a clutch situation. (choke) Approach: 1) Part of the lane from the very back of the ball return area to the foul line. Most approaches are 16' long; they are required by the ABC to be at least 15'. (platform, runway) 2) Start of the bowler¹s motion, ending with the start of the delivery, which is when the ball begins its final swing forward to the release. Armswing: The arc of the bowling arm and hand from the first move toward the line until the delivery of the ball over the line. Arrows: Aiming points embedded in the lane. These five arrows (usually red or black, but may be other colors) are used for targeting. (darts) Automatic foul detector: Light beam at the foul line which sounds an alarm if the bowler's foot crosses it. Penalty for doing so is loss of pins for that ball; the bowler shoots at a new rack of ten pins (which counts as a spare if all are knocked down). (foul, foul line) Automatic Pinsetter: First used in the 1940s, the original editions took note of the pins left, swept the entire area, and reset the pins for the spare. This invention is credited for the great bowling boom of the 1950s; the inventor received $1 million from AMF. Baby ball, Baby the ball: Too delicate, not enough emphasis on delivering the ball with authority; released too carefully. Baby split: Last 5-6 feet of the lane, including the pin deck. (ends) Backup: A ball that falls away to the right (for right-handers) or left (for left-handers). Backup alley: A lane that holds or tends to stop a ball from rolling to the right (or left for left-handers). Balk: 1) An incomplete approach in which the bowler does not deliver the ball; 2) to interfere or cause another bowler to stop his approach or not complete it in his normal fashion. Ball rack: 1) Where the ball rests before it is rolled and after it returns from the pit; 2) the structure used to store house balls. Ball return: Track between the lanes the ball travels on when being returned to the bowler. Ball track: Area on lane where most balls are rolled. Balsa: A slight, powerless hit on the headpin. (thin hit) Barmaid: A pin hidden behind another pin; 1-5, 2-8, 3-9. (bicycle, double wood, one­in­the­dark, sleeper, tandem) Bed: The entire area a lane is set into, from the approach to the pit, including the channels. Bedposts: The 7-10 split. (fence posts, goal posts, mule ears, snake eyes) Beer frame: In team play, when all players strike, the one who doesn¹t must treat (usually liquid refreshments). May also be the low scorer in a designated frame (often the 7th frame). Belly the ball: Increase the width (number of boards ball crosses from its maximum outside position) of a hook from an inside starting angle. Bench work: Any type of conversation or actions intended to upset an opponent. (bench jockeying) Bender: Hooking or curving shot that comes close to the channel before breaking into the pocket. Berlin Wall: Rounding of thumb/finger holes after drilling to smooth their edges. Bicycle: Pin hidden behind another pin. (barmaid, double wood, one­in­the­dark, sleeper, tandem) Big ball: A working hook that enables a bowler to carry strikes on less-than-perfect pocket hits. Big ears: The 4-6-7-10 split. (big four, double pinochle, golden gate) Big fill: Nine or ten pins on a spare, or a double on a strike. Big five: Spare leave of three on one side and two on the other. Big four: The 4-6-7-10 split. (big ears, double pinochle, golden gate) Blended condition: Oil pattern resulting from lanes with a slight depression in the middle; proprietors compensate by "accidentally" over-oiling, resulting in a "regular blended block." If the contrast from the oily center to the dry sides is very great, it's called a "Berlin Wall." A blocked condition around one arrow (usually the second arrow) is a "tunnel block." When the block narrows toward the pins, it¹s a "funnel block." If you can find the edge of a block, the edge will move toward the center as the oil evaporates. A "reverse block" has more oil on the sides and less in the middle; thus the edge will move outward as the oil evaporates (and can be followed outward). Blind: Score allowed for an absent member, usually the average minus ten or a set score (for example, 140 for men and 120 for women); considered a penalty. Many league rules define "Blind" and "Absentee" with different qualifications. (dummy) Blocked lanes: A lane maintenance condition in which oil or some sort of lane finish is used to create a track; almost always results in high scoring. [see "Blended condition"] Blow: A missed spare. (error, miss, open) Blow a rack: Downing all the pins but one. (tap) Board: An individual piece of the lane (total of 40 or sometimes 41) which run its length and are numbered from 1 on the right for right-handers and from 1 on the left for left-handers. Body English: Contortion of arms, legs and trunk in an attempt to steer the ball after it has left the hand. Bonus: In match play, pins awarded for winning the game, usually 30 or 50. Box: A single frame. Bowling shoes: Special shoes for bowlers have a sticky, rubbery sole on the non-sliding foot to act as a brake and a slicker, harder sole on the other foot to allow sliding on the last step. Bowling Proprietors Association of America (BPAA): Trade organization of the people who own bowling centers; publishes Bowling Digest magazine. Break: 1) A lucky shot; 2) a stopper after a number of consecutive strikes. Break of the boards: Area approximately twenty feet from the foul line there the maple boards meet the pines boards. Hard maple boards are used between the foul line and the break of the boards to withstand the impact of bowling balls. (dovetails, piano keys, splice) Bridge: Distance separating finger holes (as opposed to span, the distance between the thumb hole and middle finger hole). Brooklyn: A first ball to the left of the headpin for right-handers, to the right of it for left-handers. (cross) Broom ball: A ball that hits the 1-3 pocket in such a way that the pins scatter as though they were swept with a broom. Bucket: Four-pin diamond on sides or center of lane (2-4-5-8, 3-5-6-9, or 1-2-3-5). (dinner bucket) Burner: When a pin stands on an apparent perfect strike hit. (rap, tap, touch) Buzzard: Three open frames in a row. Call the numbers: Pins left standing are always announced in numerical sequence (1­2­6­7, not 1­2­7­6). Carry: Ability of the ball to knock down the pins (as in "carry more pins"). CC: A 200 game; stands for "double century." Channel: Depression approximately 9.5 inches wide to the right and the left of the lane to guide the ball to the pit should it leave the playing surface. (gutter) Charge: Term used by pros to described a sensational spurt of high scoring. Charts: Records kept by bowlers to remind them of which shot to play on a given lane. Cheesy cakes: Lanes on which strikes come easy. Cherry: Chopping the front pin of a spare leave while a pin behind and/or to the left or right remains standing. (chop) Chicken wing: When a bowler lets his elbow get away from his body during the swing; generally considered an unacceptable style, but has been used by bowlers with physical problems, notably Don Carter, although he used a bent elbow on the backswing only. (flying elbow) Choke: 1) Failure to accomplish objective because of nervousness or fright; 2) cutting arm swing short. (apple) Chop: Chopping the front pin of a spare leave while a pin behind and/or to the left or right remains standing. (cherry) Christmas tree: Hook into the pocket caused by spin on the axis. Conversion: "Making" a spare; i.e., knocking down all the pins that remain with a second ball. Usually used only when remarking on the conversion of splits. Count: Number of pins knocked down on the first ball of each frame. Counting marks: In team competition, it is common to total the number of marks per frame as the frame is completed. A spare or strike is one mark; a double is two marks, a turkey is three. See also "take off a mark." Cracked thumb: Actual cracks that appear on the calluses of a bowler¹s thumb. Cranker: Bowler who uses cranking motion (lift and turn) at the top of the backswing to generate high speed and considerable hooking action. Crawler: A strike produced by missing the head pin. Usually the 4, 2, and 1 fall slowly onto each other in that order (or 6, 3, 1) in domino fashion. Creeper: Hook ball bowler who tends to bend his elbow. Cross: Going to the left side for a right-hander and vice-versa for a lefty. (Brooklyn) Crow hopper: Loose, claw-like grip on ball at release point. Curtain: Anchor man missing in final frame when a spare would have won for his team. Curve: Ball that breaks from right to left (for right-handers) in a huge arc (and vice-versa for lefties). Cushion: Padding at rear of pit to absorb shock of ball and pins. Cutter: Sharp-breaking hook which seems to slice the pins down. Darts: The "arrows" located between 12 and 16 feet beyond the foul line; used for targeting. The ABC requires that each dart be no more than 1­1/4" in width, 6" in length, and must be equidistant from each other. Dead apple, dead ball: Ball that fades or deflects badly when it hits the pins; very ineffective. Dead wood: Pins knocked down but remaining on the lane or in the gutter; must be removed before continuing play. Deflection: The movement of the ball when it comes into contact with the pins and angles away to one side or the other. Delivery: A 200 game or 200 average; see also "par." Dime store: The 5-10 split (5-7 is the "Kresge"). (Woolworth) Dinner bucket: Four-pin diamond on sides or center of lane (2-4-5-8, 3-5-6-9, or 1-2-3-5). (bucket) Dive: The action of a ball that hooks greatly at the last split second. Division boards: Where the pine and maple meet on a lane; see also "break of the boards." D.O.A.: "Dead on arrival"; a ball with no action or power on it often resulting in a split. Dodo: A bowling ball over the legal weight or out of legal balance. Dots: Dots on the approach are used to set the bowler's feet at the start of the approach. Dots on the lane can be used to put the ball down on/toward or to swing thorough a visualized line between the dots and the arrows. Dry, dry lanes: Lanes with very little oil applied to them. Double: Two strikes in a row; scores twenty plus the number of pins knocked down on the next ball. Double pinochle: The 4-6-7-10 split. (big ears, big four, golden gate) Double wood: Two pins when one is directly behind the other; 1-5, 2-8, 3-9. (barmaid, bicycle, double wood, one­in­the­dark, sleeper, tandem) Dovetails: Area of lane where maple and pine boards join. (break of the boards, piano keys, splice) Drive: Another name for alley or lane. Also the revolving action of a ball as it contacts the pins. Dummy: Score allowed for an absent member, usually the average minus ten or a set score (for example, 140 for men and 120 for women); considered a penalty. (blind) Dump the ball: Releasing the ball without bending the knee; may damage the lane. Dutch 200: A 200 game scored by alternating strikes and spares. (sandwich game) Early foundation: A strike in the eighth frame; see also "foundation." Emblem: The logo on a bowling ball, usually signifying the heaviest part of the ball. Ends: Last 5-6 feet of the lane where the pins stand. Correct term is "back ends." Error: A miss. (blow, miss, open) Faith, Hope, Charity: The 2-7-10 or 3-7-10 split. (Christmas tree) Fast: In different sections of the country the meaning is the opposite. In one area (A) it means a lane that allows a ball to hook easily, while in another area (B) it means a lane that holds down the hook. Fence posts: The 7-10 split. (bed posts, goal posts, mule ears, snake eyes) Field goal: Ball rolled between two pins of a wide split. Fill: Pins knocked down following a spare or following two strikes which are added to the ten or twenty pins, respectively, when scoring. Fill ball; fill frame: Final 10th-frame shot which adds ten or less pins. Finger grips: Inserts which can be placed into the finger and/or thumb holes to allow the bowler to both hang onto the ball better and impart spin at delivery. Fingertip: Type of bowling ball grip where the fingers are far enough from the thumb that they can only be inserted into the ball as deep as the first joint. Allows a great amount of spin to be imparted to the ball because of the large span between thumb and fingers, but requires a strong wrist and much practice to master. Fit split: Any split where it¹s possible for the ball to hit both pins. Five-bagger: Five strikes in a row. Flat alley: A lane that despite perfect levelness doesn't run or hold with respect to the action of the ball. Flat arc: The curved path of a ball in process of delivery when it is too low to the approach or off to either side and so not part of a perfect circle. Flat ball: Ineffective ball; few revolutions, little action. Floater: A ball that goes where the lane lets it; the ball is released badly with no particular lift or turn. Flying elbow: See "chicken wing." Follow-through: Motion after release. Should be toward the pin you're aiming at and may include a second "shadow" swing without the ball. Forward pitch: Finger or thumb hole angled toward center of ball. Foul: Touching or going beyond the foul line at delivery. Foul line: The mark that determines the beginning of the lane, 60' this side of the head pin, where the gutters start. Usually red. Has detector lights ("foul lights") and a buzzer to alert your team and opponents to your clumsiness. Crossing it gets you a count of zero for that ball and, if on the first ball, a shot at a new rack of pins. Foundation: A strike in the ninth frame; base for three possible strikes in the tenth frame. Four-bagger: Four strikes in a row. Four-step line: Usually a row of dots closest to the foul line; the dots further back are for five-step deliveries. Frame: A tenth part of a game of bowling. Frozen rope: A ball rolled with excessive speed almost straight into the pocket. Fudge: Decrease revolutions on the ball; a weak shot producing a weak ball, done on purpose to cut down the hook. Full hit: A ball striking near the center of the head pin on a strike attempt or the middle of any pin you may be aiming at. Full roller: A ball that rolls over its full circumference. Funnel block: A hit that doesn't enter the pocket but results in a strike anyway. Getting the wood: 1) A better than average score; 2) making sure you take one pin down (or as many pins as is easily possible) on an almost impossible split. Goal posts: The 7-10 split. (bedposts, fence posts, mule ears, snake eyes) Golden gate: The 4-6-7-10 split. (big ears, big four, double pinochle) Grab: Means the friction between the lane and the ball is good, causing a sudden hook. Grandma¹s teeth: A random array of pins left standing. Grasshopper: An effective ball, particularly on light pocket hits. Graveyards: Low-scoring lanes. In a high-scoring center, applied to the lowest scoring pair. Greek Church: Split leave when three pins remain standing on one side of the lane and two on the other (the pins resemble church steeples). Groove: Ball track or indentation in lane. Also applied to bowler who is performing well and has his approach and armswing almost mechanically perfect. Gutter: Depression approximately 9.5 inches wide to the right and the left of the lane to guide the ball to the pit should it leave the playing surface. (channel) Gutter ball: A ball that goes into the gutter. Gutter shot: Technique developed by pros of rolling ball from extreme edge of lane, usually the first inch. Half hit: Midway between a full and a light hit. Handicap: Pins awarded to individuals or teams in an attempt to equalize competition. Hard way: 1)Rolling 200 by alternating strikes and spares (Dutch 200), 2) Making the 2-7 or 3-10 by deflecting the front pin into the back, rather than hitting both pins with the ball. Head pin: Front or Number 1 pin of a rack. High board: Due to atmospheric conditions, a board in a lane may expand or contract a tiny bit, but enough to change the course of a ball rolling in that area. Most boards contract, leaving a low area or a low board, but it is still (mis)termed a high board. High hit: 1)Ball contacting a pin near its center, 2) A first ball that hits the center of the head pin. Higher: More to the left (for right-handers, and vice versa for lefties). Hold, holding alley: A lane that resists the hooking action of a ball. Hole: 1) The 1-3 pocket, 1-2 for lefties; 2) another name for "split" (railroad), 4) an open Home alley: Favorite lane or pair of lanes for individual or teams. Honey: The headpin or the number 5 pin, varying with local usage. Kitty: Money collected from team members for misses, low games, and other set fines. Used to defray expenses in tournaments or divided equally at end of season. Kresge: Whereas the 5-10 split is called the Woolworth or Dime Store, the 5-7 is often called the Kresge. Lane: Playing surface. Wooden or urethane deck 62'10-3/4" long and 42 inches wide with ten pins spaced one foot apart 60 feet from the foul line. Pins are on and gutters are at the side, not part of, the lane. Does not include the "approach." Late 10: When the 10 pin hesitates and is the last to go down on a strike. Leadoff man: First man in a team lineup. Left lateral pitch, or left side pitch: Finger or thumb hole angled away from palm of hand. Leave: Those pins not knocked down on the first ball. Leverage: Power generated by the sliding and lifting motion of the legs. Lift: The upward motion of the ball imparted by the fingers at the point of release. Light: Not full on the target pin; too much on the Jersey side. Light seven: A hit too light on either side of the head pin resulting in the 2-4-5 or 3-5-6. Light wood: Bowling pins that weight between three pounds and three pounds-two ounces. Three-pound six-ounce pins are required for ABC competition, but light pins produce higher scores (and, from a proprietor¹s viewpoint, shorter games). Lilly: 1) The path a bowling ball takes; 2) one game of bowling. Line ball: Straight shot at pocket on and over second arrow, breaks at back into pocket. For relatively straight ball players without huge hook. See also "swing shot" and "point shot." Loafing: Not lifting or turning the ball properly, with the result that the ball lags and doesn¹t reach the target, usually rolling off to the right. Loft: Portion of the swing usually associated with how far past the foul line the ball travels before it hits the lane; may be modified to increase or decrease the ball's axis of rotation. Lofting: Throwing the ball well out onto the lane rather than rolling it. Logs: Very heavy pins, up to four pounds in weight, used for practice. Looper: An extra-wide hook ball, usually slow. Loose hit: A light pocket hit, closer to directly in the 3-pin rather than on the headpin, as opposed to a high hit. Lose count: To miss count of pins that could be knocked down. Caused by the way score is kept; a bowler on a strike leaving four on the first ball and two on the second "loses count" of the remaining four pins since the total of the next two balls is added when on a strike. Love tap: A tap from a moving pin, usually off the wall/sideboard, which delicately knocks it down. Low: Light or thin hit on the headpin ("low in the pocket"), as opposed to a high hit. Makeable split: Any split which does not have the two pins closest to the foul line parallel with each other. Maples: Pins. Mark: 1) A strike or spare; 2) the point on the lane where the bowler intends to put the ball down or otherwise use as a target. Match play: Portion of a tournament in which bowlers are pitted individually (one-on-one) against each other (rather than against the field). Medal play: Strictly total pin scores (in other words, series, not per game or with handicap). Messenger: A pin that comes rolling across the lane after most or all of the others have fallen. Miss: A missed spare. (blow, error, open) Mister Average: Name given to an absent bowler (whose average is used). It's Mrs. Average if the bowler is a lady. Mixer: Ball with action causing the pins to bounce around. Moat: National Bowling Council. One­in­the­dark: Rear pin in the 1-5, 2-8 or 3-9 spare. (barmaid, bicycle, double wood, mother­in­law, sleeper, tandem) On the nose: A head-on hit to the headpin; frequently causes a split. Open: A frame that doesn¹t have a strike or spare. (blow, error, miss) Open bowling: Nonleague or nontournament play, for fun or practice. Out and in: A wide hook rolled from the center of the lane toward the gutter; the ball hooks back to the pocket, going out, then in. Out of bounds: Area on the lanes where the ball won't make it back to the pocket. Outside: Corner or near corner position of playing lanes; use is not as extreme as "gutter shot." Over: In professional bowling, 200 per game is considered "par." The number of pins above 200 is the number of pins "over", or in the black. Over-turn: To apply too much spin to the ball and not enough finger lift, preventing the ball from having proper action. When the thumb stays in too long, the ball is said to be overturned. The thumb should come out first, allowing the fingers to lift the ball forward and spin it to the side. Pack: A full count of ten. Par: 200 game; bowling over or under "par", etc. Part of the building: Expression referring to the 7, 8 or 10 pin when it stands after what seems to be a perfect hit (part of the house). Perfect game: Twelve strikes in a row with a count of 30 pins per frame resulting in a score of 300. Pick: To knock down only the front pin from a spare leave. (cherry, chop) Picket fence: The 1-2-4-7 or 1-3-6-10 spares. (rail) Piano keys: See "break of the boards." Pie, Pie alley: A lane that is easy to score on. Pin bowling: Using the entire rack of pins as a target. Before arrows, and before the break of the boards was noticeable, it was difficult to sight far down the lane since all the boards looked very similar. Pinching the ball: Gripping the ball too hard. Pin deck: Area 60' from the foul line where pins stand; usually has dark-colored spots where the pins are aligned. Pindicator: Lighted display board above the pins showing which ones are standing. Pine: Softer wood used beyond division boards; takes over where the maple "heads" end. Pit: Space at end of lane where ball and pins wind up. Pitch: Angle at which holes in bowling ball are drilled. Reverse pitch is a drilling that heads away from the front of the ball; positive pitch is the opposite. Platform: Part of the lane from the very back of the ball return area to the foul line. (approach, runway) Plugged ball: Balls which do not fit a player¹s hand can be re-drilled after being plugged. The PBA does not allow plugged balls. Pocket: The 1-3 for right-handers and 1-2 for lefties. Point the ball: To aim more directly at the pocket, high and tight. Point Shot: Start from first arrow and throw over first arrow; ball goes straight at pocket. See also "swing shot" and "point shot." Poison ivy: To roll a gutter ball. Position rounds: Designated parts of a league or tournament schedule which call for teams or players to meet each other based on their standings. First place meets second, third meets fourth, etc. Pot game: Competition in which two or more bowlers post some sort of stake and high man takes it all. Powder puff, puff ball: Slow ball that fails to carry the pins. Powerhouse: A hard, strong ball which strikes. Preparation: Of your hand, the ball and other equipment; checking the lane for oil, dirt and a full rack of pins, etc. Professional Bowlers Association (PBA): Determines requirements for membership, entry fees for local and national PBA tournaments, and monitors player conduct. Puddle: A gutter ball. Pull the rug: To have the ball just touch the headpin, at which time the pins appear to dance until the last second when they all seem to collapse at once, resulting in a strike. Pumpkin: Ball thrown without spin that hits soft. Punch out: To end a game from any point with all strikes. Pushaway: Movement of the ball and starting foot together which begins the "approach." Quick eight: A good pocket hit which leaves the 4-7 for right-handers, 6-10 for lefties. Rail: 1) The 1-2-4-7 or 1-3-6-10 spare; a "little rail" is the rail minus one of the end pins (1, 7, or 10). (picket fence) 2) The outside board of a lane, usually made of harder wood such as maple, which with wear may stand above the inner playing surface and cause balls to track along it rather than go into the channel. Railroad: A wide open split with both pins on the same line (4-6, 7-9, 8-10, 7-10). (hole) Range finders: Two sets of markers embedded in the surface of the lane. One is a set of ten dots seven feet beyond the foul line. The other is nine feet farther down the lane in a triangular arrangement of seven arrows. Both are used to help establish a target line. Rap: When a single pin remains standing on a good hit. (burner, tap, touch) Rat club: A team shooting horribly low scores for one game. Reading the lanes: Discovering whether a lane hooks or holds, and where the best place is to roll the ball to score high. Release: Hand motion as ball is put onto lane. Reset: Resetting the pins when off spot. Return: The track on which balls roll from pit to ball rack. Reverse: Finger or thumb hole angled away from the center of the ball. Revolutions: The number of turns a ball takes when traveling from the release to the pins. Ringing ten-burner: A shot to the pocket which appears to be fine but leaves the 10-pin. Right lateral pitch, or right side pitch: Finger or thumb hole angled toward palm of hand. Rotation: The spin imparted to the ball at the moment of delivery which results in pin "action"; specifically, motion of the pins which is horizontal, rather than vertical, since a horizontally spinning pin covers more of the lane. Rug jerker: A 5-pin that is swept out to the right on a strike ball as if someone had jerked the rug out from under it. Run, running late: A lane on which the ball hooks easily. Runway: Starting area; ends at foul line, where lane begins. (platform, approach) Sanctioned: Competition in accordance with American Bowling Congress or Women¹s International Bowling Congress rules. Sandbagger: Bowler who keeps his average down purposely in order to receive a higher handicap than he deserves. Sandwich game: A 200 game scored by alternating strikes and spares. (Dutch 200) Scenic route: Path taken by a big curve ball. Schleifer: Thin-hit strike where pins seem to fall one by one. Scratch: Without benefit of handicap; actual score. Semi-fingertip: A ball drilling that allows the ball to rest on the pads between the second and third joints of the third and fourth fingers. More powerful than a conventional grip, less powerful than a full fingertip grip, it is generally not recommended. Semi-roller: A ball that rolls on a track just outside the thumb-hole. Also called a semi-spinner. This type of ball is considered the most powerful and has displaced the full-roller in professional bowling. Separation: The distance you allow between your standing position and where you want the ball placed on the lane to hit the target. Set: Ball holding in the pocket. Shadow ball: A ball rolled in practice without the pins being set, usually for five minutes or just one or two balls before competition play. Short pin: A pin rolling on the alley bed which just fails to reach and hit a standing pin. Shotgun shot: Rolling the ball from the hip. Sidearming; sidewheeling: Allowing the arm to draw away from its proper position during back and forward swing. Sideboards: Vertical division between lanes at the pit end. (kickbacks) Sixpack: Six strikes in a row. Sleeper: A pin directly behind another pin; respectively: 8-4, 5-1, 9-3. (barmaid, bicycle, double wood, mother­in­law, one­in­the­dark, tandem) Slick: Land condition highly polished; tends to hold back hook. Not the same as oily. Slide: The last step of the delivery. Slot, slot alley: Lane on which strikes come easy caused by a track worn into the lane. Slot grip: A grip on the bowling ball where the area between the third and fourth fingers is drilled away, resulting in one large finger hole. Small ball: Type of ball that doesn¹t mix the pins; must hit pocket perfectly for strikes. Snake eyes: The 7-10 split. (bedposts, fence posts, goal posts, mule ears) Snow plow: A ball that clears all the pins for a strike. Soft alley; soft lane: A lane on which strikes come easy. Sour apple: 1) Weak ball which leaves the 5-7, 5-10 or 5-7-10 split; 2) specifically, the 5-7-10 split. Span: Distance between thumb and finger holes. Spare: All pins down with two balls. Spare leave: Refers to pins standing after first ball is rolled. Spiller: A light-hit strike in which the pins seem to melt away, taking a longer time than other strike hits. Splasher: A strike where the pins are downed quickly. Splice: Area of lane where maple and pine boards join. (break of the boards, dovetails, piano keys) Split: A spare leave in which the headpin is down and the remaining combination of pins have an intermediate pin down immediately ahead of or between them. (hole, railroad) Spot bowling: Target on lane at which the bowler aims; could be a dot, a board, or an arrow. Squeeze: The action of the second and third fingers against the thumb, much like snapping the fingers, as they deliver the ball. Steal: To get more pins than you deserve on a strike hit. Stiff, stiff alley: A lane with a tendency to hold a hook ball back. Strap the ball: Get maximum lift. Strike: All ten pins down on the first ball. See also double, turkey, four- and five-bagger, and sixpack. Seven, eight, nine, ten and eleven strikes in a row are called seven-in-a-row, eight-in-a-row, etc. Strike out: To get all three available strike in the tenth frame or, similarly, finish the game from any point with strikes. Strike split: The 8-10 for right-handers and the 7-9 for lefties; ball looks good but splits. String: Three or more consecutive strikes. Also, in some areas, one game of bowling. Stroke: The arm and hand motion during the act of delivery over the foul line. Sweeper: 1) A wide-breaking hook which carries a strike as though the pins were pushed with a broom; 2) a night of league bowling, previously designated, where bowling fees go toward high-scoring individuals or teams for that night. Sweepstakes: Bowling tournament Swing shot: Marshall Holman¹s favorite. Starts at third arrow, goes to second and back to pocket; for bowlers with lots of hook. See "line ball" and "point shot." Swiss cheese ball: A ball used in pro shops to determine a bowler's finger size and span for drilling. Take off a mark: When counting marks (see counting marks), removing or not adding a mark because a bowler scored five or less on a spare or double. Tandem: Two pins, one behind the other. (barmaid, bicycle, double wood, one­in­the­dark, sleeper) Tap: When a pin stands on an apparent perfect strike hit. (burner, rap, touch) Team captain: Team member responsible for all the members being present, arranging for substitutes, and determining the team lineup. Telephone poles: Common expression used when a string of strikes comes to an end. Thin hit: A pocket hit when the ball barely touches the headpin. 300 game: A perfect game consisting of 12 strikes in a row. 300 game jinx: It is customary when someone starts a game with a string of strikes not to mention the possibility of scoring 300, which would "jinx" the player. Three quarter bucket: Three of the four pins of the bucket; three of the 2-4-5-8, 1-2-3-5, or 3-5-6-9. Three quarters: Spot where bowlers place ball upon delivery, midway between right corner and center of lane and three-fourths of the width of the lane from the left corner (vice versa for lefties). A popular starting point. Throwing rocks: Piling up strikes with a speed ball. Tickler: When the 6-pin gently topples the 10-pin from the channel resulting in a strike; the 6-pin is the "tickler." Topping the ball: At ball release, fingers go over top of ball instead of behind or to the side; ball has little power or action at the pins. Caused by keeping the thumb in the ball too long. Touch: Pin standing on a good hit. (burner, rap, tap) Track: 1) Area most used on lane, creating a path to pins; 2) area on a bowling ball where it rolls and picks up minute particles. Triple: Three strikes in a row. (turkey) Tripped 4: When the 2 pin takes out the 4 by bouncing off the kickback. Tumbler: A strike in which the pins appear to fall individually. Tunnel block: Three strikes in a row. (triple) Turn: Motion of the hand and wrist toward pocket area at point of ball release. Umbrella ball: A high hit on the nose resulting in a strike. Under: Professional bowling score below 200. Up the hill: Refers to coaxing a ball over a high board into the pocket. Venting: Drilling a small hole (not a finger hole) to relieve suction on the thumb hole. Washout: The 1-2-10 or 1-2-4-10 for right-handers and the 1-3-7 or 1-3-6-7 for lefties. Water in the ball: A weak ball, one that leaves an 8-10, 5-7 or 5-10. WIBC: Refers to big-hook-ball bowlers who get their hooks around the pocket consistently. Web: Distance between the finger holes, usually one-quarter to three-eights of an inch. (bridge) Weight block: The area of the ball which is drilled. Allowable tolerances are three ounces difference between the top and bottom of the ball and not more than one ounce difference between the sides to the right and left of the finger holes or between the sides in front and back of the finger holes. "Negative weight" means there is less top weight than bottom weight; this will cause the ball¹s hook to be delayed until the very last second. Generally, top weight, finger weight, and right side weight produce more hook; bottom weight, thumb weight and left side weight reduce the hook and/or hold back the action of the ball. Wood: 1) In handicapping, the number of pins given; 2) in scoring, the number of pins knocked down; 3) general reference to a pin or pins. Wooden bottles:
i don't know
What is the name of the dog in the primer books Dick and Jane?
Vintage Children's Books, Flash Cards, and Collectible Pressed Steel Toys - DICK AND JANE VINTAGE ORIGINAL BOOKS & RARE ITEMS Vintage Children's Books, Flash Cards, and Collectible Pressed Steel Toys Dick & Jane, The Boxcar Children, Little Black Sambo, and More!! 1954 DICK AND JANE SERIES TEACHER'S SALESMAN BOOK SOLD! Vintage 1954 Helping Every Child Do His Best In Reading, Dick and Jane Series, (Salesman Sample) Teacher's Resource Booklet. Rare Dick and Jane ephemera. 31 pages, measures approx. 9" x 12". The New Basic Readers Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Grades 1-3. Publisher: Scott Foresman and Company. Jam-packed with resources about the Dick and Jane books, teaching materials, information about the authors, detailed information, pictures, samples, graphs, charts, and more... all about the vintage Dick and Jane series. ~ Item # 000051 1934 MORE DICK AND JANE STORIES PRE-PRIMER READER SOLD! 1934 MORE DICK AND JANE STORIES (Elson-Gray) Pre-Primer! By: William S. Gray and William H. Elson. Illustrated by: Miriam Story Hurford. Soft cover. 48 Pages. First Edition!!! This title is the one and only Second Pre-Primer ever created in the 1930's for the Dick and Jane series! This title, was Never reprinted!!!  Item #000336 1956 DICK AND JANE UK PRE-PRIMERS TEACHER EDITION SOLD! ~ 1956 Dick and Jane Three Pre-Primers Teacher Guidebook, UK - Wheaton of Exeter Edition. "The Teaching of Reading with The Happy Trio Reading Scheme", By: William S. Gray, Marion Monroe, A. Sterl Artley, May Hill Arbuthnot, and Lillian Gray. Published by in Great Britain by Wheaton of Exeter with arrangment from Scott Foresman and Company.  Like the American edition... this UK edition contains ALL three of the 1950's Pre-Primers: We Look and See, We Work and Play, and We come and Go, plus the Teacher's Edition, all in one big book!  There are a total of 405 pages in this book. Blue Hard Cover with Gilt (gold) lettering on the spine. An interesting thing to note is that the text font is different than the American Editions. Also, some of the words are changed to reflect words used in the UK  in place of those used in the USA. For instance, in the American edition the word "cookie" is used; however in the UK edition "cookie" is replaced with the word "bun". Item # 000986 VINTAGE DICK AND JANE "BLACKOUT" GAME Circa 1950 SOLD! ~ 1950's Dick and Jane Pre-Primer "Blackout" Game. This game goes directly to the three 1950's Dick and Jane Pre-Primers: The New We Come and Go, The New We Look and See, and The New We Work and Play. This game is complete with original box, game pieces and instruction booklet! There are eight game cards in four different color coded sets. There are several black square chips (game pieces), a spinner,  the original instructions, and it comes with the original pictorial box! Also, as you can see in the pictures... the names of : Dick, Jane, Sally, Spot, Puff, and Tim, (Sally's teddy bear), are on these cards, as well as words from all three of the 1950's original Dick and Jane Pre-Primer Readers! Please click on the title to view additional pictures!  A must have for the serious Dick and Jane collector! Very few of these games survived over the years... especially in complete and near mint condition!  Item # 000971 1951 WE READ PICTURES DICK AND JANE TEACHER'S ED SOLD! ~ Vintage 1951 WE READ PICTURES Dick and Jane Pre-Reader! RARE Teacher's Edition. Filled with adorable pictures of Sally, Dick and Jane!!! 1st Edition! Large soft cover that measures approx. 9" x 12" and contains BOTH the student book plus the teacher's guide section Item # 000120 1962 DICK & JANE PRE-READER BOOK ~ BEFORE WE READ SOLD ~ vintage 1962 "Before We Read", Dick and Jane, oversized pre-reader, UNUSED student workbook. Beautiful book, ~ NO writing, and NO missing pages! The cover has a touch of light soiling, (mainly along spine) and very light edge wear, otherwise fine! This is a beautiful book that is in Excellent condition! Filled with exercises for the student to complete, of which feature Dick, Jane, Sally, Spot, and Puff. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation Dick and Jane Series, Scott Foresman and Company. Item # 000121 1962 DICK AND JANE PRE-READER WE READ PICTURES SOLD! 1962 "We Read Pictures", Dick and Jane, oversized Pre-Reader, UNUSED student workbook! Excellent to Near Mint condition! Only a touch of light soiling to the cover and very light edge wear. There is a tiny spot of old sticker residue on the inside cover of which, lightly effected the first page, appears to have been from a price sticker. This book is beautiful. NO writing and NO missing pages! The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation Dick and Jane Series, Scott Foresman and Company. Item # 000122 1956 WE READ PICTURES ~ DICK AND JANE PRE-READER SOLD! ~ vintage 1956 WE READ PICTURES Dick and Jane oversized Pre-Reader UNUSED student workbook. No writing and No missing pages! The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation Dick and Jane Series, Scott Foresman and Company. Excellent to near mint condition, with only a little bit of staining on the back cover and last page. Otherwise fine! This book is beautiful. Item # 000123 VINTAGE 1960's DICK AND JANE PICTURE FLASH CARDS SOLD! - 16 Large, Vintage 1960's Original Dick and Jane Picture (Wall) Flash Cards. Rare complete set with several characters from the 1960's Dick and Jane Basic Readers. The characters are: Dick, Jane, Sally, Spot, Puff, Tim, Mother, and Father, ~ Plus... three ethinic groups: the African American (Black) family from this series: Mike, Pam, Penny, Mother, and Father, ~ the Asian children: Tim and Lee Wing, ~ and the Hispanic girl: Rosa Cruz. All of the ethnic characters are found in the 1965 Dick and Jane Basic Reader, entitled: "More Fun With Our Friends". Cards measure approx. 7" x 8". Item # 000155 1962 THE NEW GUESS WHO DICK & JANE TEACHER'S ED SOLD! Vintage 1962 The New Guess Who, Dick and Jane, Junior Primer ~ Teacher's Edition! This book is Gorgeous! It is in Near-Mint, UNUSED Condition!!! Pages are bright, tight, and crisp! Binding is tight and secure! Seriously a stunning copy to add to your collection! This book is also a First Edition and First Printing!!! There are a total of 240 pages. The first 144 pages are the teacher's guide, and the last 96 pages are the student's book. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation Dick and Jane Series, Scott Foresman and Company.  By: Helen M. Robinson, Marion Monroe, and A. Sterl Artley. Item # 000162 1962 FUN WITH OUR FRIENDS DICK & JANE TEACHER'S ED SOLD! ~ Vintage 1962 Fun With Our Friends Dick and Jane Teacher's Edition Primer This book is in excellent to near mint condition! There is a name written on the front free-end page, and a touch of very light wear, nothing major. Over-all, a beautiful and collectible copy! 1st edition / 2nd printing. There are a total of 416 pages. The first 256 pages are the teacher's guide, the last 160 pages are the studen't book. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation Dick and Jane Series, Scott Foresman and Company. By: Helen M. Robinson, Marion Monroe, and A. Sterl Artley. Item # 000163 1962 DICK AND JANE PRE-PRIMERS TEACHER EDITION SOLD! - Vintage 1962 Fun With Our Family and Fun Wherever We Are, Dick and Jane Pre-Primers,  ~ Teacher's Edition. This book is in excellent condition! The pages and binding are extremely tight, secure, bright, crisp, and intact! An exceptionally clean book inside with only the slightest touch of soiling to a couple pages. The outside cover does have some soiling and a touch of light wear to the edges and corners, Otherwise fine! This is a 1st edition / 1st printing! There are a total of 398 pages. The first section, (which is the teacher's guide) has 255 pages. The middle section, (which is the student reader, Fun With Our Family  has 64 pages. The last section, (which is the student reader, Fun Wherever We Are) has 79 pages. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation Dick and Jane Series, Scott Foresman and Company. By: Helen M. Robinson, Marion Monroe, and A. Sterl Artley. Item # 000164 DICK AND JANE 1946 OUR NEW FRIENDS TEXAS EDITION SOLD! ~ Extremely Scarce * TEXAS EDITION * 1946 OUR NEW FRIENDS, ~ Dick and Jane 1st grade Primer, vintage basic reader. Scott Foresman and Company. By: William S. Gray and May Hill Arbuthnot. Gorgeous illustrations by: Keith Ward. Please take note of the ORANGE Pictorial hard cover with blue and yellow illustrations. This Texas edition, (as with other Texas editions in this series) include an "orange color theme" to their covers. As you will notice, this cover has the same illustrations as the regular blue hard cover edition, however the color theme is set to the Texas Edition Standards for this series. Accordingly, the inside front and back cover have the "Texas" stamps on them! There were a lot less Texas editions published than the regular editions. This book is in very good vintage condition! The pages are very nice and mostly clean with only a touch of light and random soiling. I did Not see any writing. There is one tiny sticker on the bottom of the inside front cover. The pages and binding are secure and intact. The cover has some light soiling, as well as some rubbing and bumping to the corners and edges. Otherwise fine. This book has the much-loved stories: "Dark Pony", "Jane's Dear Old Doll", "Bunny Boy", and many others! This is a rare and wonderful collectible book!  Item # 000984 FRENCH DICK AND JANE PRE-PRIMER WE WORK AND PLAY SOLD! ~ Vintage 1940 VIENS TRAVAILLER VIENS JOUER ~ FRENCH EDITION DICK AND JANE Pre-Primer WE WORK AND PLAY. Soft Cover. The pages and binding are tight and intact. The pages actually feel very crisp. This is NOT an ex-library. Some of the letter "A's" have been crossed out. I was told that this was to adhere to the French language. No other writing or marks, and the pages are quite nice overall. The cover has some some wear to the bottom corners and a name written on the top, otherwise it is very nice!!! This is an extremely rare pre-primer of the Dick and Jane series that is very hard to find!  Item # 000195 1942 DICK AND JANE OUR NEW FRIENDS CATHEDRAL ED SOLD! 1942 Our New Friends Cathedral (Catholic) Dick and Jane Basic Reader - 1st Edition / 1st Printing! By: William S. Gray, May Hill Arbuthnot, and Reverend John A. O'Brien. Illustrated by: Eleanor Campbell, Miriam Story Hurford, and Keith Ward. Publisher: Scott Foresman and Company. Pictorial hard cover. Level: second half of first grade. Cathedral Basic Reader, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. This book contains the highly sought-after stories: Dark Pony, Bunny Boy (a story about Dick and Jane's pet rabbit), The Old Horse, and The Merry-Go-Round. Plus it has several stories that feature Dick, Jane, Sally, Spot, and Puff. It also has some wonderful stories that are Catholic-based, such as the one where Dick is saying prayers for his Father, and many others! This book is wonderful, and it contains extra (Catholic) stories, of which, are not found in the regular Dick and Jane, "Our New Friends" reader. It is in very good condition with only minor wear to the cover corners, some light soiling, and a name written on the front fly-page. Otherwise, the pages and binding are tight, intact, and over-all very nice. Item # 000196 1951 SALLY DICK AND JANE PROMOTIONAL BOOKLET Sold! ~ 1951 And Now Presenting For Grade 1... Dick, Jane, Sally, Spot, Puff, and Tim. The New basic Readers - The Basic Language Program - Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Scott Foresman and Company. Oblong, Soft Cover!  This is a promotional salesman sample booklet that was used to advertise, introduce, and order readers from the vintage original Dick and Jane series. Teachers and schools used this to learn more about the books they would select to use in their classrooms during the 1950's. This book measures approximately 9" x 12" and it has 31 pages. It contains information about the authors of the original Dick and Jane series along with their pictures. Plus there are sample pages from the student readers, as well as teacher-related information. It also has information on several other items of the original Dick and Jane series such as: Our Big Book, The Unit (flash) Card Set, and Pocket Chart, The Speech Improvement Cards, Reading test, Filmstripes For Practice in Phonetic Skills, and the record set "Poetry Time" along with the "Time For Poetry" book too!  In the center of the book there is a chart which list (with pictures) some of the books from the original Dick and Jane Series. They include books from the following programs of the Dick and Jane Series: Social Studies, Science, Language Arts (Basic Readers), Health and Personal Development, and Numbers (Math). To view more pictures of this book please click on the title of this listing. Item #001045 1963 DICK & JANE SERIES GUIDE TO PERSONAL READING SOLD! - 1963 A Guide To Personal Reading In The First Grade - (Dick and Jane Series) Prepared Especially for schools using The New Basic Readers, Sixties Edition. Suggestions for encouraging personal reading from the teacher's editions of The New Basic Readers, Sixties Edition. Scott Foresman and Company. Soft cover with 15 pages. measures approximately 6" x  8-1/2". This booklet is in good vintage condition with all pages secure and intact. The only writing is some little stars and marks next to some of the listed reading resources. Otherwise, the book is very nice over-all. To view additional pictures of this booklet, please click on the title of this listing. Item #000226 SOLD! ~ RARE!!! Dick and Jane EXPERIMENTAL EDITION Basic Reader 1965 " Fun With Our Frendz " - i.t.a eksperimental edishon = Fun With Our Friends This is also the ETHNIC version, therefore it has Mike, Penny, and Pam along with Sally, Dick and Jane! This book is extremely rare! Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Several words in the book are spelled by their sound rather than the correct spelling in order to help the children pronounce the words. The font of those experimental words are typed in an entierley different font than the rest of the words. This book is a 1st EDITION / 1st PRINTING. It is in good vintage condition with some minor stray marks and a touch of light random soiling. There are also a couple school stamps and a couple pages with tears, of which I saw two pages with a tiny piece of the corner torn off. The cover has some light soiling and the corners are rubbed and bumped. The cover is rich in color and very vivid. The experimental editions are extremely collectible in any condition. There were far less of them made than the regular Dick and Jane readers. They are very hard to find. Copyright 1965 was the first and last year that this experimental edition, and title, was ever published! - Item # 000253 1965 NOW WE READ DICK AND JANE ETHNIC PRE-PRIMER SOLD! ~ 1965 NOW WE READ Dick and Jane Ethnic Pre-Primer. Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. - Oblong Soft Cover. This book is gorgeous!!! The pages are clean, bright, and tight. The cover has one stamp on it and a touch of light soiling. Otherwise this book is in excellent to near fine condition. It appears as though it was never actually used. Item # 001046 1966 DICK AND JANE PRE-PRIMERS ETHNIC WORKBOOK SOLD! ~ RARE!!! 1966 MY OWN WORKBOOK for use with the Christian Dick and Jane Three Pre-Primers of the 1960's: "Friends We Know", "Families We Know", and "Places We Know" ~ This is the scarce Christian (Seventh Day Adventist) and Ethnic edition!!!  This book is UNUSED and in Near Mint condition! It is absolutely gorgeous! There are only a couple tiny white spots on the cover, otherwise this book is as near perfect as you can possibly find! Item #  000258 1966 FAMILIES WE KNOW DICK AND JANE PRE-PRIMER SOLD! ~ Rare!!! ~ 1966 FAMILIES WE KNOW Christian (Seventh Day Adventist) Dick and Jane Pre-Primer. Soft Cover. This book is in very good condition. The pages are very nice, clean, and bright. There is a name on the front cover and a light touch of wear to the cover corners, otherwise fine! Item # 000259 DICK AND JANE SERIES 78 RPM RECORD SET POETRY TIME SOLD! ~ Vintage 1951 "POETRY TIME", Three-Record set to the original DICK AND JANE SERIES. Narrated in the voice of one of the original Dick and Jane authors: May Hill Arbuthnot. ~ Yes! You can actually hear her voice on these records! She also wrote the book entitled: "Time For Poetry", in which goes to this record set and series as well. Although it is not necessary to have both items in order to use them. This record set comes in a binder cover with three sleeves, in which all three 78 RPM records fit perfectly into. This record set is by: Scott Foresman and Company.  This record set was stated, and featured in several of the Dick and Jane series advertisements, brochures, pamphlets, teacher's editions, and many other resources. I have included one of the pictures from a salesman sample booklet, of which also shows the "Time For Poetry" book that correlates with this record set. To view additional pictures of this record set... simply click on the title of this listing. Item # 000260 1951 DICK AND JANE SOUNDS AROUND US RECORD SET SOLD! ~ 1951 DICK AND JANE Pre-Primer 78 RPM RECORD SET "SOUNDS AROUND US". The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series by: Scott Foresman and Company. The inside front and back covers of the record binder tells you which books and what pages to follow along with using your Dick and Jane lesson plans. You can hear SPOT (the dog) bark and the characters come to life in these records. It is story-telling at its best from the 1950's era. This is a 3 record set in a book-like binder. You can view several more pictures of this set by clicking on the title of this item. This record set is extremely rare!!! It is for use with the Dick and Jane pre-primer readers. The main reader that it correlates with, is: BEFORE WE READ (1951 edition). This record set is a must have for any serious Dick and Jane collector!  Item # 001044 1953 VINTAGE DICK AND JANE PARENT'S GUIDE BOOK SOLD ~ 1953 Dick and Jane Series Parent's Guide Book, entitled: "Your Child Learns To Read".  By: A. Sterl Artley. Publisher: Scott Foresman and Company. This is a Guide for parents whose children use, "The New Basic Readers" of the 1950's, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. This book has a wealth of information about this series and the books used with it, as well the teaching resources. There are examples, lessons, information, and pictures from some of the most popular Dick and Jane readers. Giving parents deep insight as to how the Dick and Jane readers help the children grow academically. It also guides you through various stages and levels of reading that your children will go through, as well as reading skills, development and independence. A "must have" for the serious Dick and Jane collector! If you are seeking to collect books from the vintage original Dick and Jane series... this book can contribute as a resource guide in helping you build that collection as well. You may learn things about this series that you probably did not know before, or about books and manipulatives that go to this series that you were unaware of. It doesn't have everything from this series in it, however there is a wealth of information that will benefit those who love this series! Hard cover, 255 pages. Please click on the title of this book for more information and pictures. item # 000266 1956 VINTAGE DICK AND JANE PRE-PRIMERS TEACHER ED SOLD! - Vintage 1956 The New Pre-Primer's Dick and Jane Teacher's Guidebook to the Three Pre-Primers of the 1950's. By: William S. Gray, Marion Monroe, A. Sterl Artley, May Hill Arbuthnot, and Lillian Gray. Publsihed by: Scott Foresman and Company. Hard cover, 1st edition / 4th printing. This book is like having FOUR BOOKS bound in ONE BIG BOOK! There are all three Dick and Jane student pre-primers, (We Come and Go, We Look and See, and We Work and Play) along with the teacher's guidebook as well. All in this one (thick) book! It is a collectible treasure! This book is in good vintage condition. It has a school stamp on the inside cover, a couple page tears, some tiny check marks next to the word list in the teacher's section, and a couple dog-eared corners. The cover has some light bumping and rubbing to the corners and edges. The cover also has a slight bend to it, probably from the way it was stored. Over-all it is still a nice book and worth adding to your collection! # 000267 1946-47 DICK AND JANE PRE-PRIMER WE LOOK & SEE 306 SOLD! Vintage 1946-47 WE LOOK AND SEE Dick and Jane Pre-Primer. By: William S. Gray, Dorothy Baruch, and Elizabeth Rider Montgomery. Illustrated by: Eleanor Campbell. 1st edition / 1st printing. Publisher: Scott Foresman & Company. Basic Readers: Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Soft cover. This book is in UNUSED & NEAR MINT condition! There is only the slighest touch of light wear to the corners and edges, otherwise this book would be mint. The pages are extremely tight, clean, bright, and completely intact! The binding is tight and secure. This is a gorgeous collectible book! #000306 1946-47 DICK & JANE PRE-PRIMER WE WORK & PLAY 307 SOLD! Vintage 1946-47 WE WORK AND PLAY Dick and Jane Pre-Primer. By: William S. Gray, Dorothy Baruch, and Elizabeth Rider Montgomery. Illustrated by: Eleanor Campbell. Publisher: Scott Foresman & Company. Basic Readers: Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Soft cover. This book is in UNUSED & MINT condition! The pages are extremely tight, clean, bright, and completely intact! The binding is tight and secure. This book is GORGEOUS! It would make a perfect gift for the collector in your life! #000307 1941 DICK AND JANE TEACHER'S ED TO THE PRE-PRIMERS SOLD! ~ 1941 The Basic Readers TEACHER'S EDITION Pre-Primer Program. This book is the teacher's guidebook to the Dick and Jane Series of the 1940's pre-reading and pre-primer books: Before We Read,  We Look and See,  We Work and Play,  and  We Come and Go.  The teacher's section covers the reading steps, stages, and process... the pre-reading book: Before We Read, and All three Pre-Primers. Plus, the other half of the book contains all three pre-primers (in color and in full)! Written by: William S. Gray, Marion Monroe, and Lillian Gray. Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. Hard Cover. This book is in good vintage condition. It shows some reading wear to the cover and pages. There is some underlinging in the teacher's section. This book was used as an educational learning resource at the University Workshop in South Carolina in 1940. One of the main illustrators of the oriignal Dick and Jane series, Eleanor Campbell signed the book on the front fly-page. # 000997 1956 DICK AND JANE MORE FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS TE 309 Sold! ~ Vintage 1956 The New More Friends and Neighbors 2.2 ~ Teacher's Edition. By: William S. Gray, Maroin Monroe, A. Sterl Artley, May Hill Arbuthnot, Lillian Gray. Publsihed by: Scott Foresman and Company. Hard Cover. The New Basic Readers - Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. This book is in amazing NEAR MINT condition! The pages are clean, crisp, bright, and tight. The binding is strong and secure. The cover has the slighest touch of rubbing to the edges and corners. The cover is rich with deep color and vivid illustrations. Item # 000309 1962 DICK JANE THINK & DO BOOK FUN W/ OUR FRIENDS SOLD! - Vintage 1962 FUN WITH OUR FRIENDS THINK-AND-DO BOOK - Dick and Jane First grade Primer level. Scott Foresman and Company. Student activity workbook. This book is in very good condition! There appears to be light erased marks on the first two pages only. All other pages are clean, unmarked, and unused! The front cover has some soiling discoloration, mainly around the edges. Otherwise fine. No missing pages. Pages and binding are tight and intact. Item # 000311 1946-47 FUN WITH DICK AND JANE BASIC READER BOOK SOLD! ~ Vintage 1946-47 FUN WITH DICK AND JANE First grade Basic Reader. By: William S Gray and May Hill Arbuthnot. Illustrated by: Eleanor Campbell and Keith Ward. Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. Basic Readers: Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Pictorial hard cover. Book is in average vintage condition. There was a name written on the front fly-page that has been partially erased. There is a small tear to the paste down page. The pages have some soiling and a few pages have a small edge tear on them. All pages are intact and secure. There is some slight separation just starting between the last two pages, however it is nothing major and the pages are still very much secure. The cover has great color and illustrations. Item # 000313 1956 DICK & JANE OUR NEW FRIENDS TEACHER'S EDITION SOLD! ~ Vintage 1956 OUR NEW FRIENDS TEACHER'S EDITION Dick and Jane First Grade Basic Reader. By: William S. Gray, May Hill Arbuthnot, Marion Monroe, A. Sterl Artley, and Lillian Gray. Publisher: Scott Foresman and Company. Pictorial hard cover. This book has the teacher's guidebook in the front half of the book and the full (in-color) student edition in the last half of the book. Item # 000314 1962 DICK & JANE JUST IMAGINE TRANSITIONAL READER SOLD! ~ Vintage 1962 JUST IMAGINE Dick and Jane Transitional Reader. Helps children make the transition between the primary and intermediate grades. By: William S. Gray, Maroin Monroe and A. Sterl Artley. Publsihed by: Scott Foresman and Company. Hard Cover. The New Basic Readers - Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. This book is in amazing NEAR MINT condition! There are two school stamps in the book, but this book looks as though it was never even used. The pages are clean, crisp, bright, and tight. The binding is strong and secure. The cover has the slighest touch of rubbing to the edges and corners. The cover is rich with deep color and vivid illustrations. Item # 000315 VINTAGE 1951 DICK and JANE PHONETIC FILMSTRIPS SET Vintage 1951 DICK and JANE Series FILMSTRIPS For PRACTICE in PHONETIC SKILLS, to accompany the (1950's) New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series.  - By: Scott Foresman and Company This set comes with ALL four filmstrips and their original containers, plus the original box and instructional phamplet. The four filmstrips are: 1) Rhyme Time. 2) Beginning Sounds. 3) Letters and Sounds. 4) Fun With Words. These filmstrips are used on conjunction with the Dick and Jane New Basic Readers pre-primer through the end of first grade, as well as on of the Reading For Independence Readers. The books that these corrolate with are as follows... PRE-PRIMERS: The New We Come and Go, The New We Look and See, The New We Work and Play, FIRST GRADE PRIMERS: The New Fun With Dick and Jane & The New Our New Friends, READING FOR INDEPENDENCE READER: We Three. These are all part of The New Basic Reading Program of The original Dick and Jane Series of the 1950's. It is hard to find this set, especially complete with the instructional phamplet, all four filmstrips and the box! Please click on the title of this item to view more pictures!!! Item # 000320 1964 DICK & JANE LEARNING TO READ TEACHER BOOKLET SOLD! Vintage 1964 Dick and Jane Teacher's Booklet, "LEARNING TO READ AND LIKING IT". The Story of how reading is taught with, The New Basic readers, Sixties Edition - Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. By: Scott Foresman and Company. Soft cover, measures approximately 8½" x 8¾". 31 pages. This book covers information from the levels of the Pre-Primer up through 3rd grade. There is information about some fo the Dick and Jane authors, as well as many of the teaching materials used in this series along with the readers too. This is a very rare booklet. Perfect for the series collector, or fo those who want to learn more about the series! Excellent condition with only a touch of light wear. Item # 000321 1940 WE COME AND GO DICK AND JANE PRE-PRIMER SOLD! ~ Vintage 1940 WE COME AND GO, Dick and Jane Pre-Primer, by: William S. Gray, Dorothy Baruch, and Elizabeth Rider Mongomery. Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. Illustrated by: Miriam Story Hurford. The Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Soft cover. 70 pages. 1st Edition / 2nd Printing. Near MInt and UNUSED!!! Pages are crisp, clean, bright, and tight! This book has never been used. It is absolutely gorgeous! There is very light soiling  along the cover edge, but nothing that detracts from this stunning book. Item #000322 1956 DICK AND JANE STREETS AND ROADS TEACHER ED SOLD! Vintage 1956 THE NEW STREETS AND ROADS Dick and Jane TEACHER'S EDITION - By: William S. Gray, Marion Monroe, A. Sterl Artley, May Hill Arbuthnot, and Lillian Gray. Published by, Scott Foresman and Company. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Third grade reader. Hard cover - two books in one (teacher's guide in the first half of the book and student edition in the second half of the book). Item # 000329 1962 DICK AND JANE 3 PRE-PRIMERS THINK AND DO BOOK SOLD! Vintage 1962 DICK AND JANE THINK-AND-DO-BOOK for use with the THREE PRE-PRIMERS: Sally Dick and Jane, Fun With Our Family, and Fun With Our Friends.  By: Helen M. Robinson, Marion Monroe and A. Sterl Artley. Linguistic advisor, W. Cabell Greet. Illustrator, George McVicker. Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. The New basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jaen) Series. Soft Cover with 80 pages.  This student work book is UNUSED and in near mint condition!  NO writing! NO missing pages! It is an exceptionally nice collectible book! Item # 000333 1947 PEOPLE AND PROGRESS DICK & JANE BASIC READER SOLD! ~ PEOPLE AND PROGRESS 1947-48 Edition, Dick and Jane 6th grade Basic Reader, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. Pictoral hard cover. By: William S. Gray and May Hill Arbuthnot. 480 pages. Great stories and wonderful illustrations. Book is in good used condition. Shows some reading wear and cover wear. The last blank fly-page page has the top half torn off. There is an incription on the front fly-page. Otherwise, nice pages and a nice book over-all. Item # 000341 1941 GOOD TIMES WITH OUR FRIENDS DICK AND JANE 1st SOLD! Very First Original 1941 GOOD TIMES WITH OUR FRIENDS Dick and Jane Basic health Reader, Primer Level.  This is the RARE first edition of this book title, of which, is the ONLY edition of this title to feature PUFF the cat on the front cover! By: Dorothy Baruch, Elizabeth Montgomery, and William S. Gray. 1st edition / 2nd printing. Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. 128 pages. Filled with the cutest stories featuring your favorite characters:, Sally, Spot, Puff, Dick and Jane, Mother, Father, and their friends. It's also filled with darling illustrations throughout! This book is in very good condition. The pages have and cover have some light soiling, and there is a name written on the front fly-page. Over-all a very nice vintage book. Item # 000343 1956 THE NEW MORE STREETS AND ROADS DICK AND JANE SOLD! - Vintage 1956 THE NEW MORE STREETS AND ROADS Dick and Jane 3.2 (3rd grade) Basic Reader, student edition. By: William S. Gray, Marion Monroe, A. Sterl Artley, and May Hill Arbuthnot. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Pictorial hard cover. 1st edition / 5th printing. Book is in good condition. There is a school stamp on the inside front cover, and some light reading wear. Over-all the pages are quite bright and clean. The cover has some rubbing, bumped corners, soiling, and wear. Item # 000346 1956 THE NEW FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS DICK & JANE TE SOLD! ~ 1956 THE NEW FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS Dick and Jane 2.1 (2nd grade) Basic Reader, TEACHER'S EDITION (guidebook). By: William S. Gray, Marion Monroe, A. Sterl Artley, May Hill Arbuthnot, and Lillian Gray. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. Pictorial hard cover. This book contains BOTH the full student book and stories, as well as the teacher's guidebook. 1st edition / 4th printing. It is in good condition. The pages are very clean. There are a few school stamps. The cover has some fading, soiling, and rubbing and bumping to the corners. Item # 000348 1963 FRIENDS OLD AND NEW DICK AND JANE TEACHER ED SOLD!  1963 FREINDS OLD AND NEW Dick and Jane 2.1 (2nd grade) Basic Readers, TEACHER'S EDITION. By: Helen M. Robinson, Marion Monroe, and A. Sterl Artley. The New Basic Readers, Curriculum Foundation (Dick and Jane) Series. Published by: Scott Foresman and Company. Pictorial hard cover. This book contains BOTH the full student edition with stories, plus the teacher's guidebook. This book is in good vintage condition. There are teacher notations written in pencil and a couple school stamps. Other than the notations, the pages are quite bright and clean. The cover has some soiling, stains, and rubbing wear to the corners. Item # 000350 SOLD! ~ Vintage original 1951 ◄ DICK and JANE ► WORD & PHRASE READING FLASH CARDS. Pre-Primer and Primer Programs. By: Scott Foresman and Company. The cards are in MINT and UNUSED condition!!   ALL 374 word and phrase cards are there!! The word cards measure approx. 10" x 3½". The phrase cards measure approx. 12" x 3½". The punctuation cards measure approx. 5" x 3½".  Item #000434
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What car company, with a 10 year lifespan, was created from the purchase of American Motors by Chrysler in 1988?
A Back To School Primer On Collecting Vintage Dick & Jane Books – Inherited Values Vintage Trends A Back To School Primer On Collecting Vintage Dick & Jane Books Dick and Jane books are among the most popularly collected school books. This is because the series of books was used for over 40 years in American schools. That’s millions of children who were taught by Dick, Jane, Sally, Pam, Penny, Mike, their neighbors, families, and pets! Here’s a bit of history on the vintage Dick and Jane series of books. In the late 1920s, Zerna Addis Sharp sought out William S. Gray, a renowned educational psychologist and reading authority from the University of Chicago, and pitched to him her philosophy that children are more receptive to reading if the books contained illustrations related to them and their lives. Gray was impressed enough to hire Sharp. While illustrations of the family Sharp created were published in earlier versions of primers by Scott, Foresman and Company, it wasn’t until later that Dick and Jane would appear by name. In 1930, Gray and William H. Elson, along with May Hill Arbuthnot, created the Curriculum Foundation Series of books for Scott, Foresman and Company.  Here Dick & Jane and their family appeared in the first edition of the Curriculum Foundation Series pre-primer called Elson Basic Readers. In this edition, the baby sister was not named yet (she was simply called “Baby”), the cat was called “Little Mew”, and Spot, the dog, was a terrier. In 1934, the pre-primer was renamed Dick and Jane and a second book, also a pre-primer, More Dick and Jane Stories, was added. In 1936, the series title changed to Elson-Gray Basic Readers to acknowledge Gray’s role in the series (Sharp was not acknowledged, despite what would be a 30 year career at Scott, Foresman & Company). Eleanor Campbell and Keith Ward did the illustrations, and Marion Monroe also authored some of these early editions of the Dick and Jane books. Scott, Foresman and Co. retired the Elson-Gray series in 1940, but Dick and Jane remained in the Basic Readers and their Think-and-Do workbooks. Now the baby sister is named Sally — and she gets a teddy bear named Tim, the cat becomes Puff, and Spot becomes a Cocker Spaniel. New books in the series were introduced in 1940 and 1946. In Canada, English and French versions of the Dick and Jane books were translated and published by W.J. Gage & Co., Limited; and British English versions were published by Wheaton in Exidir in the UK. Official Catholic editions of the series, the Cathedral Basic Readers, were created to teach religious themes along with reading. For example, Sally, Dick, and Jane was retitled Judy, John, and Jean to reflect Catholic Saints and to include stories on morality. In the 1946 edition, Tim the teddy was removed and a toy duck was added. Also, Texas had its own editions of the the books in 1946. Another author, A. Sterl Artley, began writing Dick and Jane books in 1947. By the end of the 1940s, the Collection Cathedral was published for French-Canadian Catholics. By the 1950’s, over 80% of first-graders in the United States were learning to read with Dick and Jane. New editions whose titles began with “The New” were added, and Robert Childress would become the illustrator. But it was during this decade that Dick and Jane et al. would find themselves under strong attack. Concerned groups criticized everything from misrepresentations of perfection and other cultural issues to matters of literacy itself. In 1955’s Why Johnny Can’t Read, Rudolf Flesch blamed the look-say style of Dick and Jane readers for not properly teaching children how to read or appreciate literature. While phonetics were always a part of the Dick and Jane series, there was not enough for the growing movement of phonics fans. For all of these reasons, most of the major changes to the Dick and Jane series occurred in the 1960s. In 1962, Helen M. Robinson was the new head author, the books had new material (including more phonics), new illustrations by Richard Wiley, and Dick and Jane had matured, in age and sophisticated. The initial printings of the 1962 soft-cover Dick and Jane books increased in page size and did not have the white tape reinforcement on the spine. The covers of these editions fell off rather easily — which is why they are so hard to find with covers intact.  As a result, Scott, Foresman and Company added the reinforced taped spines and advertised the feature heavily. (These books were never issued as hardcovers; any hardcover copies were either library bindings or were rebound later.) But in 1965, both Civil Rights school integration and President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Elementary and Secondary Education Act would continue to challenge the book publisher. Scott, Foresman and Company worked to address the school integration and inclusion issues by once again employing Zerna Sharp’s literacy philosophy. The African-American family, including twins Pam and Penny and their brother Mike, first appeared in the 1964 Catholic School books; public school students were introduced to the African-American family in 1965. (In response to outrage from racist complaints, Scott, Foresman & Company offered alternative covers of the 1965 integrated books; these Child Art editions removed the characters from the covers and replaced them with finger-paint art designs. Later editions of Think and Do books just had solid color blocks.) Also in 1965, the Pacific Press Publishing Association published an integrated version of Fun With Dick and Jane for Seventh-day Adventists. Entitled Friends We Know, Jesus appears on the covers along with Dick, Jane and Mike. In the mid 1960s, Scott, Foresman and Company tried to address the phonics issue by introducing books in an experimental language called Initial Teaching Alphabet or ITA . The Experimental Edition of the Scott-Foresman pre-primer was titled Nou Wee Reed. These ITA Dick and Jane books are rare finds. In the late 1960s, the Dick and Jane books expanded to include three new series based on academic performance. For those performing below grade level, there was Open Highways. (Original printings of these books had “The Open Highways Readers” printed on the spine; later printings just had “Open Highways”.) For strong readers, Scott, Foresman and Company added Wide Horizons, self-directed readers which did not have workbooks, and for even more advanced or gifted readers, there was also Bright Horizons. Reading Inventory tests were added to the Dick and Jane series to use as a placement guide. Despite all Scott, Foresman and Co. tried to do, the book publisher just couldn’t overcome all the objections, especially those regarding the too-perfect Dick and Jane world. The goody-goody kids and their ideal gender stereotyped simplicity was no longer relatable or desirable.  The series was officially ended in the late 1960s, replaced in 1970 with Scott, Foresman Reading Systems. (However, in 1975, the 1962 pre-primer was republished by the American Printing House for the Blind in a large type edition with black and white images for sight-impaired children.) Still, Dick and Jane books continued to be ordered and sold from warehouse stock well into the 1970s. The books Dick and Jane collectors are searching for today are those which managed to be saved — and held onto — by teachers, staff, and students, despite the fact that many schools were even ordered to destroy all remaining copies of works in the series. For these reasons, along with the usual wear and tear of children’s books, finding vintage Dick and Jane books in pristine conditions is very difficult. Collectors learn to live with writings, doodles and marks, missing pages, etc. — or pay steep prices for not having signs of use. Over the decades, many Dick and Jane materials were produced. Along with the readers and primers mentioned, there were other subject books, such as art, health, math, etc. There were teacher editions; books on teaching techniques; large display books placed on easels, called Our Big Book; posters and picture cut-outs for classroom display; picture and word flash cards; LP record albums; games for the classroom; and other teaching aids. On the business end, Scott, Foresman and Co. sent out catalogs, newsletters, and promotional items, such as calendars, greeting cards, and Christmas ornaments. These items were produced in much smaller quantities and, being ephemeral in nature, are rare finds. But Dick and Jane live on. In 1977, George Segal and Jane Fonda would star in Fun with Dick and Jane , a film based on a Gerald Gaiser story about the failed promises of a Dick and Jane perfect world. (The film was remade with Jim Carrey and Tea Leoni in 2005 .) In 2003, Grosset & Dunlap rereleased original Dick and Jane primers, selling over 2.5 million copies in just over a year even with a publisher disclaimer that the books were nostalgic and not to be used to teach children to read. Due to the popularity of the reissue, reproductions and new related merchandise featuring the iconic imagery and catch phrases, like “See Spot run!”, has been produced. Additional Resources: A rather complete list of original Dick and Jane books is here . Carole Kismaric’s Growing Up with Dick and Jane: Learning and Living the American Dream captures the nostalgia while tracing the cultural points of the Dick and Jane series. Image Credits:
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What avian inspired name is given to the act of quitting a habit or addition all at once?
ECig Vape ECig Vape Smoking Kills – Helpful Advice For Kicking This Dangerous Habit Smoking is one of the hardest habits to break. There are so many contraptions, patches, gum and other medications that claim they will help you get rid of the habit, but it is hard to decide on the right one. Hopefully, the advice in this article will help you decide on the right route for you to get tobacco free. If you have decided to stop smoking, mentally prepare yourself for what’s ahead. Try to focus on the fact that you can stop, and that this is not an impossible dream. Set an official “quit date” and even consider adding it to your calendar. By taking such a positive approach, your chances of quitting will increase. In order to quit smoking successfully, ask for help from the people you see most. Having the support of family, friends, and co-workers can mean the difference between success and failure. Quitting any habit is difficult, especially one like smoking that is addictive. Make sure the people around you cheer you on and do not intentionally thwart your success. Acupuncture can help you to quit smoking. Acupuncture involves putting some very tiny needles into specific points on your body. It can remove toxins and help to treat unpleasant mental and physical withdraw symptoms. Be sure to see a reputable and trained professional for this type of treatment, because it can be dangerous if not done correctly. Try to drink a lot of fruit juice as you begin quitting. The fruit juice will help cleanse your body of all the nicotine that is stored in your system. This will help you better resist cravings that you are bound to get if you do not do this sort of cleanse. Don’t do it by yourself. Ask for support and encouragement from your friends and family, letting them know you want to quit and letting them give you help. You may also be interested in joining a support group. Simply talking with people who are going through the same thing will help spur you on to kick the habit. To effectively quit smoking, have a plan mapped out. Take some time to prepare yourself by writing down the steps you will take to quit, who you will call for support, and what you will do if you should slip up. Putting these things in writing makes them concrete, and it is much like making a contract with yourself. This can have a very powerful affect on your mindset, helping you to stay focused on your journey toward quitting. Thinking of all the benefits you will receive when you quit smoking may give you the motivation you need. You will be able to save money, you will feel healthier, you won’t smell like cigarettes, and you will live a longer life. If you have children, think of how much they need you. Find an online forum for quitters. This can provide you with a great amount of support and motivation, while still allowing you to remain anonymous. Online forums can be found everywhere, and you can typically join for free. They will help you to network with individuals all over the world, and you never know what kind of great stop smoking advice you might hear. If smoking is your reaction to stress, replace it with a positive one. Consider getting a massage when you are stressed or participating in an exercise class. Even doing something simple like taking a bath or enjoying a light snack is a better reaction to stress than smoking is. Doing these things will help you to quit, while still keeping your stress level in check. Think of strategies that provide frequent visual reminders to keep your mind motivated constantly. This may mean pinning motivational messages on your office wall, or wearing a bracelet that symbolizes your intentions. Whatever method you choose, this type of visual reminder may help you ward off craving and temptation. Smoking is one of the hardest addictions to break. While there are many options out there, it can be difficult to find the best way for you to quit smoking. Use the helpful tips in this article to help you quit that nasty habit and stay off cigarettes for life. Author Posted on Looking To Quit Smoking? Start Here With These Excellent Suggestions! Tobacco addiction plagues people in all segments of society. You have a choice to kick the habit for good. This article has some great tips to help you make this positive choice in your own life. Start applying these suggestions today and begin living your life without the nicotine habit. If you’re trying to quit smoking, try chewing gum instead. Often times when you try to leave a bad habit behind, you must replace it with a more positive one. Chewing gum allows you to use your mouth and jaw in some of the same ways that smoking does. It is a healthy way to keep yourself busy while you’re working toward quitting. When you decide to quit smoking, make sure to add plenty of fresh fruit to your diet. Your body will likely undergo some chemical changes when you stop smoking, often including a lowered blood glucose level. Healthy fruits can help to raise your blood glucose level to normal levels, keeping you healthy while you’re working toward quitting. Remember that your attitude is everything. When you are beginning to feel down, you need to try to make yourself proud that you are quitting. Smoking is bad for you and each time you conquer the urge to smoke, you should feel proud as you are taking vital steps toward a healthier you. Have a friend or family member quit who smokes quit at the same time as you. Just like other things in life, such as losing weight, quitting is easier when someone else knows where you are coming from. The two of you can share tips or just vent to each other. Join a support group to help you in your quest to quit smoking. A support group can commiserate with you about the difficulties that quitting smoking entails, and share their coping mechanisms. The leader of the group may also be able to teach you behavior modification techniques, or other strategies that can prove helpful. Write down why you’re quitting ahead of time and keep that list handy. When that craving hits you, refer to your list for motivation. Understanding ahead of time why quitting is important to you will help to keep you focused in those moments of weakness, and it might even help to get you back on track if you should slip up. Take the time to really sit down and think about how quitting smoking will improve your life. This is especially effective if you already have serious health conditions that smoking can exacerbate, like asthma or diabetes. If your family has a predisposition for cancer, then it can also be very powerful for you to acknowledge that quitting now could actually save your life. Do not try to set a day to quit. Instead of trying to make a plan, quit today. This sort of planning nearly never works and it will lead to disappointment. Start quitting right away, rather than trying to create an imaginary timeline for yourself. Take action and you will get where you want to be. Try giving yourself rewards when you reach important milestones. Plan out those rewards well in advance. Make a list of important goals and the rewards for reaching them. Keep the list on display so that you have to look at it every day. This could provide you assistance in staying motivated whenever you feel weak. If you have a loved one or friend that is trying to quit smoking and want to help them, then you need to provide them with your patience, love and understanding. This is the best way to help them out. If you try to push them, you may make it harder for them to quit in the long run. Avoid situations where you may be strongly tempted to smoke, especially places where alcohol is served. If you find yourself at a party, or bar, or similar place, it may be very tough to keep your determination not to smoke. If you drink alcohol, which lowers inhibitions, it will be much more difficult as well. Using the ideas you have just read is a wonderful beginning to quitting smoking. Use the ones that seem most fitting for you and start feeling better. Reward yourself by giving up this destructive habit and learning how to be free from your addiction. Believe in yourself, you can do it! Author Posted on Trying To Quit Smoking? These Suggestions Can Help! Just stop, stop smoking because there is no good that can come from it. All that smoking does for you is harm your lungs, harms the lungs of people around you, and make you spend more money that you could be using on other things. So learn how to quit smoking today with this article. It does not matter how long it has been since you gave up smoking, you can never have “just one”. You are a nicotine addict. While just one does not mean you will be smoking a packet a day again by morning, it will mean that you have “just one more” a lot sooner than you would like. To keep yourself motivated to quit smoking, be clear about why you want to quit. While there are many good reasons to quit smoking, you want to focus on your most powerful, personal reasons. Every time you feel tempted, remind yourself how much you want to improve your health, save money or set a good example for your kids. In addition to quitting smoking, you should also cut back on foods and drinks that trigger nicotine cravings. For example, you will be more vulnerable to your nicotine addiction when you drink alcohol. If you regularly drink coffee when you smoke, then you should cut back on that too to reduce craving-inducing associations. If you’re a smoker who lights up more in social situations, plan ways to not join your friends for a cigarette when you’re out. While dining, stay at the table if your friends go outside for to smoke. If you’re at a party, if people are smoking, find a non-smoker to chat with. Finding ways to not be around smokers will make it easier for you to quit. Many people find the electronic cigarettes a great way to quit smoking. They do not have as many of the negative effects of normal cigarettes and can be a good way to taper off your smoking from your normal levels to a lesser point, until you are no longer smoking at all. Write down why you’re quitting ahead of time and keep that list handy. When that craving hits you, refer to your list for motivation. Understanding ahead of time why quitting is important to you will help to keep you focused in those moments of weakness, and it might even help to get you back on track if you should slip up. Have alternate coping mechanisms in place to deal with the stress that you used handle by smoking before you attempt to quit. Avoid as many stressful situations as possible in the early stages of your attempt to quit. Soothing music, yoga and massage can help you deal with any stress you do encounter. Enlist your friends and family to support you with your decision to stop smoking. Those closest to you can be a real help in keeping you on track and smoke-free. Inform everyone of your intentions to quit smoking before your quit date, and let them know specifically how they can be of best help to you. To fully prepare yourself with the struggles of quitting, know exactly what to expect before you start. Know how soon you can expect symptoms of nicotine withdrawal to kick in, and know all of the possible symptoms you could experience. This will also help you to anticipate your strongest cravings and most likely pitfalls. If you are trying to quit smoking, it is important to have plenty of support. Inform family members and friends that this is what you are trying to do and enlist their support when you are having difficulties. Quitting smoking is difficult to do alone and family and friends can provide much needed emotional and social support. To clarify why it is so important for you to quit, ask the people you love to tell you how they think smoking has affected you. Just be prepared to hear unpleasant comments about how your car or clothes smell or more emotional confessions like how your kids worry about your health. Go ahead and kick the habit once and for all with the advice you gained today. You can do it and don’t think otherwise because it takes that kind of mentality to quit. Using what you learned today, quit smoking and help spread the word to other people that you think could benefit from quitting smoking as well. Author Posted on Learn How To Quit Smoking Starting Today! Quitting smoking is very difficult for many people, especially if they lack the information and support that are necessary to be successful. This article has information potential quitters need to know, as well as specific steps they need to take to quit smoking. If they use this advice, it will enhance their chance of success. If you are looking for a chemical aid to quit smoking, then be very careful about this approach. Drugs such as Chantix have a relatively weak success rate and can have the potential to cause severe damage to your body. It works by altering your brain chemistry, and can lead to severe depression and suicidal tendencies. If you’re trying to quit smoking, try quitting cold turkey. This method is the easiest in the long run. While this may seem a lot more difficult when you are starting out, it is much easier than stringing your self along. Be honest with your self and commit to the quit and you will be off cigarettes fairly easily. If you are trying to quit smoking all together then you need to commit and stop carrying your cigarettes around with you. If you do not have cigarettes with you then you make it less convenient to smoke. This will make it easier for you to quit in the long run. When you smoke, you sometimes are just obsessed with the feeling of having something in your mouth. This can be replaced with a less dangerous habit such as chewing gum or eating candy. Anytime you feel like smoking, just have a piece of hard candy or chew a stick of gum. Make sure you treat yourself as if you are a smoking addict. Never let yourself take a single puff. This one puff may seem harmless, but it can actually reignite your inner need for cigarettes. No matter how long you have remained smoke free, you should keep yourself from ever taking “just” a casual puff. To cut back on smoking cravings, change the habits that once surrounded smoking. For example, if you always smoked on your breaks then see if you can get your breaks at a different time to make it harder to succumb to those cravings. Likewise, if you always had a cigarette with coffee then switch to a new caffeine fix like tea. Have a friend or family member quit who smokes quit at the same time as you. Just like other things in life, such as losing weight, quitting is easier when someone else knows where you are coming from. The two of you can share tips or just vent to each other. Help yourself stop smoking by only allowing yourself to smoke a certain amount of cigarettes a day. You can do this by deciding the day before how many you will have the next day. This will keep you from going over that set amount every day and cut back on smoking. It can be easier to quit smoking if you are able to articulate exactly why you want to quit. Try writing down a list of all of the reasons that you should quit smoking. This can include the benefits you will experience, people in your life, or any reasons at all that are important to you. Be open about your intention to quit. Let your friends, family and coworkers know that you are going to do it and when your date is. Current smokers will likely be considerate enough to stop smoking around you at that time. You’ll also find out who is supportive and who is critical of your habit. Finding support and sources of encouragement might make a future quitting attempt successful, if this one is not the one. Don’t give up if you slip up. Anytime someone tries to give something up that they have been doing for years, there will likely be a struggle. When that struggle exists, slip ups often happen. If you do slip up, get right back on track and try again. The worst thing you can do is turn a slip up into an excuse to keep smoking, so don’t do it. As already mentioned, giving up cigarettes is very hard. Learning to stop smoking can be very confusing and daunting for many people. With the right information, the chance of successfully quitting is greatly increased. By following the steps outlined in this article, a person can learn the information they need to quit smoking. Author Posted on Quit Smoking Once And For All With This Helpful Advice Tobacco addiction plagues people in all segments of society. You have a choice to kick the habit for good. This article has some great tips to help you make this positive choice in your own life. Start applying these suggestions today and begin living your life without the nicotine habit. Don’t rush into quitting. Take it day-by-day. Just work on avoiding tobacco today, forever will take care of itself. A short timeline can help you stay on track instead of worrying about what is coming next. After you have adjusted to the idea of not smoking and feel more confident, you can then look at a longer commitment. Take up exercise to help you quit smoking. Exercising is wonderful for both your body and mind. It can help you to focus on the positive things in life, and keep you from thinking about that cigarette that you so dearly want. It is also a wonderful way to meet healthy people. When you’re around healthy people, it might just make you want to stay healthy too. Rest is key if you want to seriously quit smoking. For many, cigarette cravings increase during late nights. The wee hours are also times when you are more likely to be alone and less likely to be observed by others. Sleeping eight hours each night will make it easier to focus and control nicotine cravings. If you cannot quit smoking by yourself, visit your physician. These days there are many medications that can help to ease your efforts to quit smoking. Your doctor can probably also steer you toward other resources, like support groups or hotlines, that can help you quit for good. It is okay to use a nicotine replacement during the beginning stage of your smoking cessation program. Nicotine is highly addictive, and the withdrawal symptoms can be extremely unpleasant. Nicotine gum or lozenges can prevent you from feeling short-tempered, moody and irritable and can be the difference between success and failure. Have a friend or family member quit who smokes quit at the same time as you. Just like other things in life, such as losing weight, quitting is easier when someone else knows where you are coming from. The two of you can share tips or just vent to each other. The decision to quit smoking entails a massive lifestyle change, so be sure you are ready for the commitment before you plunge into it. You should take time to sit down and create a dedicated plan to quitting smoking. This plan should entail account for your unique situation and triggers as well. When you’re ready to quit smoking, don’t be afraid to seek the advice of a physician. A doctor can guide you in many ways on how to quit, whether it’s recommending a nicotine replacement product, or outlining an exercise plan, or even just offering authoritative words of encouragement and support. Don’t assume that a nicotine withdrawal medication has to have nicotine in it. While it is true that you can find an alternate source of nicotine and reduce your levels of it, you could just try a prescription medication that blocks your need for nicotine. Consult your physician about a medicine that might just kill your cravings. You may want to avoid activities associated with smoking once you decide to quit. If you’ve always had cigarettes during your happy hour or with your coffee, try changing this type of routine. You could bring the coffee along for the ride to work and choose a different after-work activity until you get the cravings under control. If you are trying to quit with the use of crutches such as patches and medication, then you need to be careful. When you begin taking in these other substances, you are in turn putting yourself at risk of developing a new dangerous addiction. Be careful when you begin your quitting crutches. Make a vow to never take another puff again. You can convince yourself that one cigarette won’t hurt, but it may undo a lot of dedication and hard work. Remember that if you cave in once, it makes it that much easier to rationalize caving in again. Using the ideas you have just read is a wonderful beginning to quitting smoking. Use the ones that seem most fitting for you and start feeling better. Reward yourself by giving up this destructive habit and learning how to be free from your addiction. Believe in yourself, you can do it! Author Posted on
Cold Turkey
What was the name give to the lunar module piloted by Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong that was the first to land on the moon?
The Rush to Prohibit Kratom - Features - The Stranger Apr 11, 2012 The Rush to Prohibit Kratom A leaf that might be able to wean people off opiates without serious withdrawal symptoms has entered the market. So why are officials who haven’t studied the science yet scrambling to ban it? Tweet Kratom is a leaf from Southeast Asia that produces opiatelike effects, though it is not itself an opiate. It has been chewed or brewed into a tea for generations, and in the past five years, it's broken into the US market. When you find it at head shops in Seattle, it looks like loose-leaf tea or powder (sold either in a plastic bag or packed into capsules). The common wisdom is that snorting it and smoking it don't work as well as oral ingestion, though some people have been known to inject the extract, too. Kratom was first documented as an opiate substitute—a kind of herbal methadone—in Asia in the early 1800s. It's often used by people who want an alternative to opiates, either because they're trying to break an addiction or because they want some way to manage chronic pain without opiate-based drugs. Every few months, a new intoxicant that isn't technically covered by US drug-prohibition laws pops up on the market and policymakers, acting on very little information, freak out over it. Unfortunately for kratom, it has appeared in the immediate wake of the "bath salts" hysteria. (The hysteria was not entirely unjustified, as the active ingredient of "bath salts," a chemical called MDPV, was held responsible for long-term psychiatric damage and several deaths.) Kratom is already in the early stages of the same cycle. That cycle goes like this: Clever entrepreneurs find an intoxicant not covered under current law and begin selling it. People get excited about it and chatter online. Some user winds up in the emergency room—for reasons that may or may not be serious—and says its name to a doctor who's never heard of it. The doctor calls the poison control center, and the public-health bureaucracy scrambles to figure out what this exotic new drug is. Someone talks to a reporter, and soon newspapers and TV stations are all over it, breathlessly warning parents about a "dangerous new high" threatening their children. Lawmakers see a chance to score some points by being tough on drugs and ban it. The drug fades away. A clever new entrepreneur finds a new drug, and the whack-a-mole cycle begins again. Enter kratom, stage right. In the fall of 2006, a 43-year-old computer programmer in Massachusetts (let's call him Jeff) wound up in his local emergency room after having a five-minute seizure. Jeff had been taking kratom on a daily basis for three and a half years. That day, he had also taken a pharmaceutical stimulant called modafinil. Apparently, the combination didn't agree with his neurological system. (Though doctors never figured out what, exactly, caused the seizure.) The hospital staff had no idea what kratom was, but a resident working with the poison control center had heard of a physician named Dr. Edward Boyer who was interested in the plant. Boyer is a medical toxicologist at Children's Hospital Boston, a teaching hospital for Harvard Medical School. He became interested in kratom after reading websites where, he says, some of the 40 million Americans who self-medicate for chronic pain were posting messages. They had been able to buy their pharmaceuticals online for years but, according to Boyer, "around 2006, the government shut down all these internet pharmacies, and all these people who were self-medicating for chronic pain had nothing. They were looking for a way to deal with opioid withdrawal." They stumbled across kratom, and vendors began meeting the demand. Boyer was just beginning to look into kratom when he got the call about Jeff and went to interview him. Jeff is a "high-functioning" man, Boyer says, who'd made a lot of money as a computer programmer and was married to a Pulitzer Prize–winning writer. Jeff used to be addicted to hydromorphone, getting pills and cooking them so he could shoot up. (Jeff had reportedly studied chemistry in college and knew what he was doing.) One day, Jeff dropped his baby on the floor. "When he dropped the baby, his wife said, 'Either the opiates go or I do,'" Boyer says. Jeff had tried to quit several times but couldn't because of the pain of withdrawal. So he turned to kratom. At the time of his seizure, he'd been taking kratom for more than three years, spending more than $15,000 a year on the plant. After the seizure, Jeff quit taking kratom. "He stopped the kratom cold turkey and only had a runny nose," Boyer says—a surprising lack of withdrawal symptoms. "To go from injection drug use to nothing, with only a runny nose, is impressive." Boyer coauthored a paper about Jeff, titled "Self-Treatment of Opioid Withdrawal Using Kratom (Mitragynia speciosa korth)," for the medical journal Addiction. Finding an inexpensive, naturally occurring way to wean people off of heroin and prescription opiates without serious withdrawal symptoms would be a silver bullet for public health—and a gold mine for any entrepreneurs who discovered it. Relative to opiates, kratom seems reasonably safe, at least in the short-term. (There have been a handful of deaths associated with kratom, but they all involved other drugs: one 20-year-old man whose toxicology results also showed he had morphine and "stovetop speed" made from nasal decongestants in his system; nine people in Sweden who died from taking a brand of kratom called Krypton that had been laced with pharmaceuticals.) The anecdotal evidence on message boards from people who have used it to wean themselves off of opiates is encouraging. Still, Dr. Boyer is cautious: "To suggest it's a panacea for all opioid use would be irresponsible." For some people, kratom is addictive and leads to compulsive use. Dr. Howard Kornfeld, a pain and addiction specialist in California, has treated two patients for kratom addiction. One of them, he says, "kicked hard... we have quite a bit of medication to make it easier, but it was a hard withdrawal." And some people, Boyer says, "are injecting kratom extracts—you can get pretty deep into this stuff." Some people have an easy time quitting kratom and some do not. Some use it as a recreational drug, some are addicted to it, and others use it as medicine. But because it's legal, there's no black market, so people aren't murdering each other over it. The bottom line, according to Boyer's paper in Addiction: "The natural history of kratom use, including its clinical pharmacology and toxicology, are poorly understood." Only a handful of scientific papers in English have been written about kratom, its effects, and its centuries-long history. The stack of papers on my desk, everything I could find with the help of a research librarian at the University of Washington, measures barely half an inch. Here's what we do know: The kratom tree was first formally documented by a Dutch botanist named Pieter Korthals, who noticed it while he was recording plant life in Southeast Asia for the Dutch East India Company. He called it "mitragyna speciosa," because—according to Wikipedia—"the stigmas in the first species he examined resembled the shape of a bishop's mitre." A Thai study from 1975, by Dr. Sangun Suwanlert, tells us this: Kratom is indigenous to Thailand. Market gardeners, peasants, and labourers often become addicted to kratom leaf use. In certain respects, kratom addiction resembles addiction to a drug with narcotic properties, except that long-term kratom addicts develop a dark skin, particularly on the cheeks... In Thai folk medicine, the leaf is used for the treatment of diarrhoea and as a substitute in cases of opium addiction. Some villagers use it as an ingredient for cooking. Market gardeners, peasants, and labourers become easily addicted to the use of the leaf; they reason that it helps them to overcome the burden of their hard work and meager existence. None of the contemporary experts I talked to could explain Suwanlert's skin-darkening comment. They weren't aware of anything about kratom's chemical composition that would do that. Some suggested that Suwanlert was seeing dark skin because he was talking about people who worked outdoors—but then again, kratom is "poorly understood." In 1943, the Thai government began enforcing the Kratom Act, prohibiting the planting of new kratom trees and calling for existing ones to be cut down. It didn't work—there are news stories about its continued use, as well as drug busts that turn up packets of kratom leaves—and many brands of kratom available in the United States claim to be from Thailand. One apocryphal story making the rounds among kratom people claims that an American in Thailand has cornered the market for kratom shipped to the United States and Canada. Boyer and his coauthors noticed online mentions of kratom at low levels starting in late 2004 and spiking in April of 2005. A current Google search for kratom will pick up almost three million hits—oxycodone, by contrast, picks up 22.2 million—and pages of online vendors. And, over the past few years, the new-drug cycle has begun to unfold. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began putting out warning bulletins about kratom as early as 2005, saying it's used "by young Thai militants... to make them 'more bold and fearless and easy to control.'" The DEA warning also mentions "several cases of kratom psychosis" where kratom users "exhibited psychotic symptoms of hallucinations, delusions, and confusion." The bulletin doesn't cite its sources, but its key data on addiction rates is identical to Dr. Suwanlert's seven-page gloss from 1975. (Suwanlert's study is also the only mention I have found in the scientific literature of "kratom psychosis." He says he observed psychiatric disturbance in five kratom users who wound up in an outpatient hospital: One was a 55-year-old who'd been using kratom for 30 years and was experiencing "clouding of consciousness," and two of the others were schizophrenics.) Suffice it to say, the DEA's claims aren't based on robust research. Meanwhile, predictably, overhyped news stories about kratom are beginning to appear. One recent headline on KITV.com in Honolulu is typical: "New Herb Adds to Drug Trend Fears: Kraytom Already Illegal in Thailand." The story frets about "this 'Wild West' of drug use that doctors say could be deadly" and relies on quotes from a doctor who gravely warns of the dangers of kratom abuse, though that doctor's hospital "hasn't seen cases of kratom so far." A story last month on MSNBC.com claims "Asian Leaf 'Kratom' Making Presence Felt in U.S. Emergency Rooms" and quotes a medical director in Phoenix who says he saw "six emergencies involving kratom" in 2011. Those "emergencies," it turns out, were people suffering from the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms. "They usually get medication for nausea and Valium to ease the paranoia," the doctor says, and are sent home. The same medical director also claims, "When we see people who take this, they sometimes get respiratory depression," but this is simply false. Dr. Boyer, who has at least studied it, says in our interview: "There have been no human case reports in which respiratory depression has occurred following a large dose—any dose, really—of kratom use. That makes it different from opioids, which makes it a plus." In the wake of these DEA warnings and overheated news stories, US legislators have begun toying with the idea of banning kratom. This year, Louisiana state senator A. G. Crowe is sponsoring a bill that would add kratom to the list of schedule-one drugs, or drugs that are legally classified as having no recognized medical value. That would put kratom in the company of marijuana, LSD, ecstasy, peyote, and heroin. A story last month in the Baton Rouge Advocate reported that "the committee advanced [Crowe's] legislation without objection despite several committee members' unfamiliarity with kratom... Sen. Robert Adley, R-Benton, scanned the committee room for law enforcement officials with knowledge of how much of a problem the substance is becoming. Adley's search came up empty." (Senator Crowe's office did not respond to requests for comment for this story. Incidentally, the Washington Post reported last week that Senator Crowe is also backing a bill to allow discrimination against gays and lesbians in charter schools.) In Iowa, state representative Clel Baudler began moving to ban kratom just two hours after he first heard of it. "We have to get ahead of this thing before it gets out of hand," he was quoted as saying in a story on WOI-TV.com , which reported that kratom is "a hallucinogen, addictive, and can be life-threatening." In a telephone interview with The Stranger, Representative Baudler said he first heard about kratom on a radio show where he'd heard from a medical examiner that "the effects were not good—not good at all." He said his push to ban it, via an amendment to another bill, had passed the state house "unanimously" but was now in the senate, where it was sitting in a committee run by "an ultra-liberal," and that he'd been working hard all week to make sure it passed. When asked why he was describing kratom as "a hallucinogen" and "life-threatening" when researchers and the medical literature directly contradicted these claims, he responded: "I absolutely disagree with you. It is banned in the two countries where it's grown and banned in a whole bunch of European countries, like Australia [sic]. And it has absolutely no medical value." But kratom has been considered of medical value—for treating problems as small as diarrhea and as huge as drug epidemics—since the 19th century. As we were talking, I was sitting inches away from studies contemplating its medical value. (And an atlas.) And once a drug is banished into schedule one—i.e., is legally considered to have no medical value—it's much more difficult to secure grant funding to research it. (According to Sanho Tree, a drug-policy expert at the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington, DC, once a drug becomes schedule one, there are "infinitely more hoops you have to jump through and you're basically at the mercy of the DEA" to do any research.) And research is precisely what kratom needs. Given all that, could Representative Baudler point to any actual scientific studies supporting his charge that kratom is a "life-threatening" "hallucinogen" with "absolutely no medical value"? "No," he said. "They're all at my office in Des Moines, and I'm at home." Could he remember even one study? Or the name of the medical examiner he'd heard on the radio who'd instantaneously inspired his crusade? "No." The campaigns of Representative Baudler and Senator Crowe to shove kratom into the schedule-one category are not based on reason or research. But they are telling. The next time you wonder why drug-prohibition laws in this country are such a destructive mess, just think of all those politicians who hear "drug" on the radio and rush toward prohibition without knowing the basic facts—just to score easy political points. Saying something has "no medical value" before looking into it is not rational. It's knee-jerk prohibitionism. And the facts have proven knee-jerk prohibitionism to be a catastrophe across the western hemisphere.
i don't know
Which cartoon character was introduced on July 27, 1940 in the short "A Wild Hare"?
Bugs Bunny’s 75th Birthday: A Quiet Celebration of His ‘Wild’ Debut | Variety Bugs Bunny’s 75th Birthday: A Quiet Celebration of His ‘Wild’ Debut July 23, 2015 | 02:42PM PT Happy Birthday, Bugs Bunny! The world’s favorite rabbit turns 75 this month: July 27, 1940, saw the debut of the cotton-tailed character’s first cartoon short “Wild Hare,” directed by Tex Avery. There won’t be much hoopla to celebrate, because Warner Bros. doesn’t observe the birthdays of animated characters. And there’s some logic to that, especially in Mr. Bunny’s case. There had been earlier variations: A wisecracking rabbit, voiced by Mel Blanc, debuted in the 1938 “Porky’s Hare Hunt” but the speech patterns and look were very different. In the next few years, WB’s Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies cartoons featured other rabbits. But the 1940 “Wild Hare” was the first one where Bugs looked like himself, sounded like himself and, significantly, it was the first time he uttered the immortal words “What’s up, Doc?” Don’t be misled by those earlier rabbits. On Sept. 10, 1940, Variety ran a brief item about the “new character Bugs Bunny” that WB was booking into Fox West Coast theaters. Bugs’ name appeared onscreen for the first time the following year, in “Elmer’s Pet Rabbit,” directed by Chuck Jones. By 1946, WB took out an ad in Variety proclaiming that moviegoers named him their favorite cartoon character in a poll by Showmen’s Trade Review.  Photo Credit: Variety Like all great stars, his popularity had creative peaks and valleys. Highlights include the 1949 “Long-Haired Hare,” directed by Jones, in which Bugs battles with a self-important singer who’s performing an aria from “The Barber of Seville” at the Hollywood Bowl; and Jones’ 1957 “What’s Opera, Doc?” with Bugs and Elmer Fudd in a Wagner spoof that was selected for National Film Registry in 1992. Only Bugs could bring opera to the masses. And then there is the 1955 “Rabbit Rampage,” a meta toon in which he feuds with an unseen animator. A few years later, “Knighty Knight Bugs,” co-starring Yosemite Sam, won the Oscar for best cartoon short. In 1987, many decades after his debut, another Variety ad touted that “The Bugs Bunny & Tweety Show” was ABC’s No. 1 kids show, under the headline “Wabbit Wins Watings Wace.” Over the years, Bugs survived the bluster of Yosemite Sam, the gun of Fudd, the Tasmanian Devil, Marvin the Martian, Daffy Duck’s competitive streak and dozens of other challenges. If you were in a scrape, Bugs is the cartoon character you’d want by your side — a combo of MacGyver and Groucho Marx, able to build any contraption in a moment’s notice, and throw off wisecracks to boot. And, as a bonus, he might get into drag and sing to you. Many senior citizens decline a big birthday party, because they don’t want to acknowledge they’re getting older. But Bugs looks as good as ever. In his long career, he was never involved in a scandal, was a good role model because he eats all his vegetables and provided endless laughs for many generations. No celebration party? It’s hare-raising. But maybe his millions of fans can have a slice of carrot cake on July 27, and raise a glass in honor of one of Hollywood’s greatest stars.
Bugs Bunny
What unit of measurement is equal to 3.26 light years?
Facts About Bugs Bunny | The Fact Site Facts About Bugs Bunny Home » Film & TV »Facts About Bugs Bunny Facts About Bugs Bunny Bugs Bunny is an American cartoon character who first appeared in A Wild Hare (the first official Bugs Bunny short) on July 27, 1940, which makes Bugs Bunny over 70 years old! He was created by Tex Avery who was the director of A Wild Hare and Robert McKimson who created the Bugs Bunny character design. Q: A Rabbit or a Hare? A: Rabbit, hares don’t live in burrows, rabbits do. Bugs Bunny does. Bugs Bunny is considered to be the main character of the Looney Tunes series. The Looney Tunes series and sometimes of Warner Brothers use Bugs Bunny as their mascot because of how famous he is. Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny were the first cartoon characters to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! Bugs Bunny often gets into wars with other characters and nearly always wins. The creators were getting concerned that viewers would lose sympathy for an aggressive rabbit who always won wars, so to solve this problem, Jones arranged for Bugs Bunny to be bullied, threatened, or cheated while minding his own business. There’s only been one cartoon where Bugsy has ever been seen as an actual villain, this was Buckaroo Bugs. In all the other cartoons, he is not seen as a villain as he uses self-defense against people who try to cause him harm. In 1997, Bugs Bunny appeared on an American postage stamp, the first cartoon ever to be put on a stamp. That stamp is number seven on the list of the ten most popular U.S. collectable stamps. The scenes where Bugs Bunny is chewing a carrot are generally followed by Bugs Bunny’s most well-known catchphrase, “Eh, What’s up, Doc?”, this was in the first ever cartoon and that catchphrase has stuck with him ever since. It is now in the top 10 most recognised cartoon TV character catchphrases. Over the years, Bugs Bunny has had seven different voice actors, this includes his voice for Baby Looney Toons. The Bugs Bunny cartoons air worldwide, however his name is often changed to suit the language of the country. In 2002, he was named by TV Guide as the number one greatest cartoon character of all time. “Eh… What’s up, doc?” – Bugs Bunny Luke Ward is the founder of The Fact Site. He's a professional blogger & researcher with over 6 years experience in fact finding, SEO, web design & other internet wizardry. He loves to write about celebs, gaming, film & TV. Stacey Bugs bunny is the best cartoon character! 20 years after I started watching the Looney Tunes, I’m still entertained! It never gets old. Glad my kids like him too 🙂 Stacey Bugs bunny is the best cartoon character! 20 years after I started watching the Looney Tunes, I’m still entertained! It never gets old. Glad my kids like him too 🙂 Ania Warren I absolutely adore Bugs bunny! He’s just the cutest thing ever. Thanks for the information, i find that it has helped a lot for a project i’m currently working on. I had to choose my favorite cartoon character and of course i chose this clever little rabbit! He is most deffinetly my all time FAVORITE cartoon character! Sandeep Tripathy Its lovely knowing about this rabbit and he is one of my favourites all the time. ColdRicePudding Yeah I know about that issue, don’t worry, I’m working on a new layout, should be sorted after christmas. Thanks 🙂 Facts @ Bugs Bunnyyyyyy……….. Hello ColdRicePudding, Your blog is very good but the blue color -pain in the neck to read the entire blog. Buckaroo bugs was my favorite cartoon when I was little in whichhe was villain. that’s the only oneee. Anonymous
i don't know
Which Lewis Carroll character was known for its enormous grin?
The Cheshire Cat in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass Character Analysis Character in: Wonderland The Cheshire Cat is famous for its ability to appear and disappear at will and for its enormous grin. In fact, sometimes the entire Cat disappears, leaving only the grin behind. The most important thing the Cat does is tell Alice that everyone in Wonderland is crazy – even her. Alice has trouble accepting this at first, but the reader has been expecting it for some time. Alice is impressed by the cat's shoot-from-the-hip (or in this case, from the grin!) honesty. Throughout the rest of her adventure in Wonderland, Alice will look anxiously around her for the Cheshire Cat, hoping for more advice or at least intelligent conversation. And, of course, we already know that Alice is partial to cats, since she's always talking about her favorite pet, Dinah. The name "Cheshire Cat" is a contemporary Victorian joke that most modern readers miss. "Grin like a Cheshire Cat" was a saying at the time, although nobody really knows where it came from. One theory is about the famous cheeses in the town of Cheshire, which, the story goes, were made in the shape of cat faces to amuse buyers. The Cheshire Cat is like one of these come to life. This also explains why the Cat's body will disappear, leaving only its head behind – the cheeses were shaped like the face, not the entire cat. Perhaps the appearance of the grin without the rest of the cat is a joke about eating part of the "face" of cheese and leaving the rest.
Cheshire Cat
Sounding more like an FAA employee, what did Jason Lee and Beth Reifsgraf name their son?
Lewis Carroll, "Alice in Wonderland" as a Work of Nonsense Fiction | Self-Publishing at GRIN Lewis Carroll, "Alice in Wonderland" as a Work of Nonsense Fiction Bachelor Thesis, 2010, 59 Pages eBook  for only  US$ 18.99 Download immediately. Price incl. VAT Format: PDF  – for PC, Kindle, tablet, mobile Book for only  US$ 32.50 Shipping worldwide 2. The Victorian Author — Lewis Carroll vs. Charles L. Dodgson 3. The Genesis ofAlicein Wonderland 4. The Construction of the Plot 5. The Heroine Alice and her Imagination 6. Nonsense inAlicein Wonderland 6.1 Definition of Literary Nonsense 6.2 Varieties of Nonsense inAlice’s Adventures in Wonderland 6.3 Varieties of Nonsense inThrough the Looking-Glass 6.3.1 “Jabberwocky” 6.3.2 Humpty Dumpty's Concept of Language 7. Allusions to Philosophy 8. A Children’s Book or More? 9. Conclusion Bibliography 1. Introduction The following thesis is about “Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland as a Work of Nonsense Fiction”. Carroll’s masterpiece Alice in Wonderland, which includes both books, namely Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and its sequel Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There, does not only belong to the most popular English children’s books, but it is also regarded as a classic around the world. Especially in English-speaking countries, lines from the Alice books have been as often cited as lines from Shakespeare or the bible. Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, who used the pseudonym “Lewis Carroll” for his writings, made up the tale Alice in Wonderland for his most-loved child-friend and muse Alice Liddell and her sisters during a boat trip on the River Thames. Lewis Carroll is known, next to Edward Lear, as one of the most famous Nonsense poets and writers. Moreover, it is claimed that he was the first author to introduce Nonsense into children’s literature, and as result, had a huge impact with his Alice books on English children’s literature. The split between the two personalities, namely the Victorian author Carroll and the Reverend and mathematician Dodgson, who taught at Christ Church, Oxford, has to be considered in order to get a better understanding of the Alice books as a Nonsense Work. This is exactly what will be done in this thesis. Firstly, there will be given a general overview on the author’s life. Secondly, the boat trip itself and with it the genesis of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There will be discussed. After that, a closer examination of the plot and its construction in both books will be given. In addition, similarities and differences will be shown between the construction of the plot of the first and the second Alice book. Furthermore, the characterization of the eponymous heroine “Alice” will be analyzed and will be regarded under Alice’s ability of imagination. A special focus will be on the Nonsense fiction as such. A definition of Literary Nonsense will be given and varieties of Literary Nonsense will be examined on the basis of the two Alice books. Additionally, Lewis Carroll’s well-known poem “Jabberwocky” in Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There will be analyzed as an example of Nonsense Fiction. In the context of the poem “Jabberwocky”, there has also to be looked on the still ubiquitous Humpty Dumpty, who is next to the Duchess, March Hare and Mad Hatter, the Red Queen and Tweedledum and Tweedledee one of the queerest characters in the story. Due to the fact that Humpty Dumpty tries to explain the words used in “Jabberwocky” to Alice, his interpretation is of enormous significance for the analysis in the context of the poem. And finally, philosophical implications will be worked out and the question whether the Alice books are only meant as children’s books or can even regarded as something more, will be discussed. To facilitate the writing and reading of this thesis, the titles Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There will mostly be used with the abbreviations Wonderland and Looking-Glass. 2. The Victorian Author — Lewis Carroll vs. Charles L. Dodgson Lewis Carroll was born as Charles Lutwidge Dodgson on January 27, 1832 in the little parsonage of Daresbury, Cheshire and died at the age of 66 years on January 14, 1898 in Guildford, Surrey. He was the third child and first son of the Anglican clergyman Charles Dodgson and his wife Frances Jane Lutwidge. Altogether, Charles Lutwidge Dodgson had ten siblings and received primary education from his parents. Due to the fact that his father was a clergyman, Dodgson himself grew up with a strict religious education. Very early he showed great interest in mathematics, logic, puzzles and games, like card games, chess and croquet, which “as we all know, provided the background for his two immortal Alice books” (Gardner, Universe 1). However, he was also fascinated by poems and literature. Furthermore, the young Dodgson wrote poems for homemade magazines to entertain and amuse his family. For example, he called one of his magazines “Mischmasch”, which was like three other homemade magazines preserved and published after his death. At the age twelve, Dodgson attended Grammar school in Richmond, and later on, the private Rugby School. He was a very good and diligent pupil and followed his father’s footsteps, later studying at the Christ Church College in Oxford and at Oxford University, where he excelled in mathematics but still kept his interest for classics and literature. After his graduation from university, he became a lecturer at Christ Church for mathematics in 1856, and additionally, preached at the church of the college from time to time. In various sources, it is claimed that he used to be a rather dry and boring don during his lectures and did not show great personal effort.[1] Nevertheless, he published around thirty essays in the field of mathematics. As a private man Dodgson seemed to have rather preferred the company of young children to that of women, and as a result, he never married and stayed a bachelor for the rest of his life. In his free time, one of his favorite hobbies, next to drawing, was photography. Since Dodgson could afford the necessary equipment for photography, he could be regarded as a pioneer in this new art. He took thousands of photographs, mostly portraits. Moreover, he preferred to take pictures of famous people and little nude girl models. It is said that Dodgson, in general, enjoyed the company of pretty little girls before puberty rather than the company of little boys. That he took pictures of unclad girls sounds disconcerting and rather perverted from the modern point of view. However, it is proven that taking those pictures corresponds with the prevailing taste of the Victorian Era, since the body of small girls was compared to the one of elves. At least Dodgson asked the girls’ parents for permission, and what is more, cancelled a photo shooting when the girl herself felt uncomfortable.[2] Alice Liddell, who will be discussed later in the second chapter of this thesis, was one of his models for photography. It is also interesting to know that “[i]n 1880, however, some ill-natured gossip must have got up, and Dodgson may suddenly have felt that his interest in nude photography contained the hidden seeds of sin. With his scrupulous honesty and devout sense of duty, he at once gave up photography altogether” (Green 36). For this reason, Dodgson destroyed most of his nude negatives. Next to Dodgson’s special passion for photography, his character shows some other strange habits. Donald Rackin poses in one of his essays the following three rhetorical questions which certainly give a small impression of Dodgson’s peculiar personality: What should we make of a man who for fifty years kept a meticulous register of the contents of every letter he wrote or received — summaries of well over 100,000 letters? Of a man who maintained a record of the many luncheons and dinners he gave throughout a sociable lifetime, with diagrams showing where each guest sat and lists of just what dishes were served? Of a man who threatened to break off relations with his publisher of thirty years’ standing because he found slight imperfections in the eighty-four thousandth copy of one of his popular children’s books, then in print for twenty years? (398). To get a better understanding of additional bizarre characteristics and facts of the lifelong bachelor Dodgson and author Carroll, one must consider the age in which he lived, namely the Victorian Age, which is in general dated from 1830 to 1901. Dodgson can be regarded as a contemporary witness of a period which was marked by the legendary reign of Queen Victoria. Through imperialism the influence of her kingdom increased. Queen Victoria led England to world power and for the first time in history, the whole society was captured by capitalism. The Victorian Age was also a very turbulent period of drastic change. Especially the Industrial Revolution had an immense impact on life in Victorian England. Through technological, medical and scientific knowledge, England changed from an agricultural to an industrial country. Moreover, the population almost doubled during this time. New inventions like the further development of James Watt’s steam engine made an economic boom possible. Nevertheless, secondary virtues like decorousness, discipline, utility and enthusiasm for one’s work as well as morality and prudishness played a major role in the Victorian society.[3] Additionally, the gap between the working class and the middle and upper class increased. A high crime rate, prostitution, women and child labor controlled every day life. On the one hand, there was the very productive period of glory, and on the other hand, a lot of social problems arose in the Victorian society. The discrepancy of the Victorian Era could also be summarized like this: Die elegante und luxuriöse Lebensweise der gehobenen bürgerlichen Gesellschaftskreise und die bittere Armut breiter Bevölkerungsschichten können gar nicht kontraststark genug einander gegenübergestellt werden. Der dunkelste Punkt dieser äußerlich so glanzvollen und produktiven Zeit aber ist wohl, daß dieselbe Gesellschaft, die von sich behauptete, das Kind entdeckt und das Zeitalter des Kindes eingeleitet zu haben, ungerührt mit ansah, „wie zahllose Kinder im eigenen Lande Sklavenarbeit leisteten und kümmerlich dahinvegetierten” (Sahr 105). All in all, it can be said that Dodgson grew up in a time of prosperity which had also its drawbacks. Next to the different influences of the Victorian Era, there are at least two aspects which determined Dodgson’s life and also the development of his personality.[4] On the one hand, there is the religious educated mathematician Dodgson who taught in a usual black vestment for 47 years at Christ Church. This man is often described as reclusive or even neurotic bachelor who was obsessed by order. This man accepted the strict repression and morality of the Victorian society and followed or rather adjusted to its structure. The same man, on the other hand, developed a second or Janus-headed personality as writer Lewis Carroll. Dodgson started to use his pseudonym “Lewis Carroll” for private and non-scientific publications in 1856. He created his pen name by translating “Charles Lutwidge” into Latin, namely “Carolus Ludovicus”, and after that he anglicized it into “Lewis Carroll”.[5] Carroll’s devotion to poems and literature show the other half of the same man who never became a professional writer since he wrote for private purpose only. Furthermore, Carroll is often regarded as imaginative Nonsense writer, creative photographer, artist and true friend of children, who loved to tell children stories. That he devoted himself to writing nonsense literature could be seen as a refuge in order to endure everyday life: [F]ür Carroll [wurde] das Reich des Nonsense ein Refugium, in das er flüchtete, ein „ivory tower“, eine Zufluchtsstätte des Geistes, [um] einer allzu nüchternen rationalen Welt zu entfliehen […] (Schöne, Englische Nonsense-Balladen 73). Moreover, it is claimed that he stammered lightly in the presence of adults, whereas he never did this when he was surrounded by children. Carroll also wore white flannel clothes in his free time, the complete opposite to the black vestment which was expected at work. These are various reasons why it is often suggested that Dodgson developed an alter ego in order to escape the social constraints and pressure of the Victorian society. Where many authors talk about Carroll’s two faces, Elizabeth Sewell suggests that “he had a triple identity, as the Reverend Charles Dodgson, as a professional mathematician and symbolic logician, and as a Nonsense writer” (Lewis Carroll, 122). In conclusion, it is clear that we cannot properly consider the Alice books without considering the unique personality of the author. No matter how many egos can be found in one and the same person, it can be said that Charles L. Dodgson alias Lewis Carroll was and still is a very ambivalent and often discussed man. Whether it is because of his personality differences or in spite of them, his complicated character is clearly reflected in the Alice books. 3. The Genesis of“Alice in Wonderland” Lewis Carroll met the four-year old Alice Pleasance Liddell and two of her sisters in 1865 for the first time at the Deanery of Christ Church, when he wanted to take a picture of the Cathedral. Carroll often spent time with the Liddell children. The father of the Liddell children was Carroll’s superior Dean Henry George Liddell, who is also known as the famous co-author of the Greek-English Lexicon Liddell-Scott. Carroll also was the tutor of Alice’s older brother Harry. His friendship with the children “grew and continued for almost ten years, though Dodgson never got well with either the Dean or Mrs. Liddell” (Green 13). From Carroll’s diaries we know today that he mostly visited the Liddells to see the girls when Mrs. Liddell was absent. However, together with their governess Miss Prickett, who had the nickname “Pricks”, the girls came over from time to time to Carroll’s rooms to listen to his made-up stories. In one of Alice’s diary entries she remembers such a day with Carroll: We used to sit on the big sofa on each side of him [...] while he told us stories, illustrating them by pencil or ink drawings as he went along. [...] He seemed to have an endless store of these fantastical tales, which he made up as he told them, drawing busily on a large sheet of paper all the time. They were not entirely new. Sometimes they were new versions of old stories; sometimes they started on the old basis, but grew into new tales owing to the frequent interruptions which opened up fresh and undreamed-of possibilities (Green 14). Before the famous boat trip, during which it is said that Carroll laid the foundations for Alice in Wonderland, there had been several boat trips and picnics with the Liddell girls on the Thames, which was then often called Isis in Oxford. Moreover, Alice recalls in her diary that the “party usually consisted of five — one of Mr. Dodgson’s men friends as well as himself and us three. His brother [Wilfred] occasionally took an oar on the merry party, but our most usual fifth was Mr. Duckworth, who sang well” (Green 15). Reverend Robinson Duckworth was Carroll’s friend and colleague from Trinity College. Finally, on Friday July 4, 1862, the legendary boat trip took place. The date itself is “as memorable a day in the history of literature, [...] as it is in American history” (Gardner, The Annotated Alice 7). The same party as usual participated, as it is recorded in Alice’s diary, namely Carroll, Duckworth, Alice and her sisters Lorina Charlotte (called Ina) and Edith Mary (called Matilda or in short: Tillie). The group went together on the boat to go upstream to Godstow to have a picnic there. To entertain the girls and in order to meet Alice’s demand to tell a nonsensical story, Carroll made up Alice in Wonderland. In his diary Carroll took note of that special day as follows: Duckworth and I made an expedition up the river to Godstow with the three Liddells; we had tea on the bank there, and did not reach Christ Church again till quarter past eight. [...] On which occasion, [...] I told them the fairy-tale of Alice’s Adventures under Ground, which I undertook to write out for Alice (Green 16). In this diary entry it becomes clear that Carroll wrote the story down especially for the by that time ten-year old Alice Liddell, whom he certainly loved most of the three girls. In Alice’s diary she describes why she begged Carroll to write down Wonderland: “I think the stories he told us that afternoon must have been better than usual, because I have such a distinct recollection of the expedition, and also, on the next day I started to pester him to write down the story for me” (Green 16). And indeed, Carroll had started to collect ideas for writing down the story after this remarkable boat expedition. Not only the boat trip of July 4 is several times reflected in the Alice books, but also a boat trip that had taken place two weeks before. On this boat trip, dated on June 17, 1862, it happened to rain heavily, and as a result, the young Alice felt very displeased and started to cry. Furthermore, she had “been accused of causing the flood by her crying [...]” (Green 17) by other members of the party. Due to this incident, Carroll developed The Pool of Tears and A Caucus-Race and a Long Tale as second and third chapters of Wonderland. Martin Gardner explains the characters appearing in the pool of tears in the following way: Carroll’s Dodo was intended as a caricature of himself — his stammer is said to have made him pronounce his name “Dodo-Dodgson.” The Duck is Reverend Robinson Duckworth, who often accompanied Carroll on boating expeditions with the Liddell sisters. The Lory, an Australian parrot, is Lorina, who is the eldest of the sisters (this explains why, in the second paragraph of the next chapter, she says to Alice “I’m older than you, and must know better”). Edith Liddell is the Eaglet (27). This passage shows that there are various hidden allusions to the author’s private life as will be seen later in this thesis. Carroll began to write down Wonderland on November 13, 1862 and intended to be finished by Christmas in order to give the first book to Alice as a Christmas present. Nevertheless, it took him until February 1863 to give the finished book to Alice, even though his illustrations were still missing in this edition. At that point of time, the book was to be seen at the Deanery. The novelist Henry Kingsley, who was a guest of the Liddells, was so impressed by the book, that he “urged Mrs. Liddell to persuade the author to publish it; but Dodgson was doubtful, and did not want to risk losing money over it” (Green 19). As a consequence, he asked his friend Duckworth for advice. Duckworth was also fascinated by the story and suggested Carroll to employ the professional and experienced Punch illustrator and artist John Tenniel to draw pictures for it. In general, it is useful to know that during the Victorian Era, “illustrated books were in vogue” (Kelly, 1990: 114). Although Carroll got good appraisal for his work, he was still indecisive “whether a story composed extempore for three particular children, and based on their own experiences, from picnics on the Thames to unusual games of croquet and cards at the Deanery [...], could appeal to other children” (Green 19). Finally, Carroll gave his manuscript to the writer George Macdonald, who read it out loud to his family. Macdonald’s six year old son exclaimed that he wished “there were 60,000 volumes of it” (Green 20). Now, Carroll felt confident in his plan to publish Wonderland, and immediately, undertook some changes and additions, so that all readers, and not only his closest friends, could follow the plot. Additionally, he changed the original title Alice’s Adventures under Ground into Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Carroll finally decided to employ Tenniel as the illustrator for Wonderland. “In working out his drawings for the book, Tenniel had three immediate influences to accommodate: the thirty-eight drawings that Carroll had already created for Alice’s Adventures under Ground, Carroll’s personal supervision of the new drawings, and, of course, the text of the revised and enlarged Alice story itself” (Kelly, 1990: 114). Due to these facts, it is not possible to imagine the Alice books without Tenniel's illustrations, even if many artists tried to illustrate and interpret newer editions, but no one surpassed Tenniel. On December 16, 1864 Macmillan’s started to publish two thousand and forty-eight copies of the book, but Tenniel was very displeased with the quality of his illustrations, and as a result, Carroll took the books off the market, and donated some of the imperfect copies to a children’s hospital. After the misprint, a new first edition was printed one year later in 1865. Alice Liddell also received one of the first copies on July 4, 1865 — exactly three years after the original boat trip. It is also interesting to know that by that time Carroll had had hardly any contact with Alice and her sisters. By June, 1863 Mrs. Liddell decided she did not want her daughters to meet Carroll anymore and she burnt all his letters addressed to her daughters. Various rumors indicated that Carroll only wanted to see the Liddell sisters in order to get closer to their governess Miss Prickett.[6] Mrs. Liddell certainly suspected that this was an excuse and feared that Carroll wanted to propose to one of her daughters. It is often speculated that he wanted to marry Alice. The genesis of Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There is not as spectacularly recorded as Wonderland. Since Carroll had told many little stories to the Liddell children, by 1866 he was already planning a sequel to Wonderland. Various stories he told the Liddell sisters were based on the theme of chess, a game the girls were about to learn at that time. Carroll wanted to write down his recollection of these stories in a second book because he could not mention them all in Wonderland. For the sequel he once again had problems finding the right illustrator, since Tenniel thought that he could not illustrate one more book for the meticulous Carroll. Nonetheless, Tenniel finally agreed to illustrate it. Again a special event is connected to the genesis of Looking-Glass: While Carroll visited his uncle Skeffington Lutwidge in London, he met another Alice, his distant cousin Alice Theodora Raikes. This Alice was playing in the garden, when Carroll called her and asked her whether she wanted to see something rather puzzling in the mirror of the room. Many years later after this incident, the already seventy year old Alice Raikes recalls this day in a London Time interview: “Now,” he said, giving me an orange, “first tell me which hand you have got that in.” “The right,” I said. “Now,” he said, “go and stand before that glass, and tell me which hand the little girl you see there has got it in.” After some perplexed contemplation, I said, “The left hand.” “Exactly,” he said “and how do you explain that?” I couldn’t explain it, but seeing that some solution was expected, I ventured, “If I was on the other side of the glass, wouldn’t the orange still be in my right hand?” I can remember his laugh. “Well done, little Alice,” he said. “The best answer I’ve had yet.” I heard no more then, but in after years was told that he said that had given him his first idea for Through the Looking-Glass...(Green 24). Many other women claimed after Carroll’s death that as children they were his inspiration for Looking-Glass but left out of their consideration that Carroll might have just told them one chapter out of the novel in order to test how appealing the book would be for children. Finally, the first edition of Looking-Glass was printed in 1871 in time for sale at Christmas, even if the book itself was dated with 1872 inside. That Carroll intended to give Alice Liddell a special edition with an integrated mirror in the book cover, which was simply not possible, still showed his devotion to her. All in all, by the time of Carroll’s death around 180,000 copies had been sold and since then Alice in Wonderland has never gone out of print until today. 4. The Construction of the Plot This chapter is about the plot in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There and how they are both constructed. At first, the plot of Wonderland, and after that, the one of Looking-Glass will be examined. At the same time, both plot constructions will be compared and similarities and differences will be shown. The first Alice book does not begin with the actual plot itself since a poem is put in front. These prefatory verses could also be regarded as a dedication poem, in which “Carroll recalls that “golden afternoon” in 1862 when he and his friend Reverend Robinson Duckworth [...] took the three charming Liddell sisters on a rowing expedition up the Thames” (Gardner, AA 7). To get a better understanding of the poem, there has to be looked on the verses themselves: All in the golden afternoon, Full leisurely we glide; For both oars, with little skill, By little arms are plied, While little hands make vain pretence Our wanderings to guide. Ah, cruel Three! In such an hour, Beneath such dreamy weather; To beg a tale of breath too weak To stir the tiniest feather! Yet what can one poor voice avail Against three tongues together? Her edict “to begin it”: In gentler ones Secunda hopes “There will be nonsense in it!” While Tertia interrupts the tale Not more than once a minute. Anon, to sudden silence won, In fancy they pursue The dream-child moving through a land Of wonders wild and new, In friendly chat with bird or beast— And half believe it true. And ever, as the story drained The wells of fancy dry, And faintly strove that weary one To put the subject by, “The rest next time—” “It is next time!” The happy voices cry. Thus grew the tale of Wonderland: Thus slowly, one by one, It is quaint events were hammered out— And now the tale is done, And home we steer, a merry crew, Beneath the setting sun. Alice! A childish story take, And, with a gentle hand, Lay it where Childhood’s dreams are twined In Memory’s mystic band, Like pilgrim’s wither'd wreath of flowers. Pluck'd in a far-off land (Gardner, AA 7). Even if this poem will not be regarded in detail, it is interesting to see how far it describes the genesis of Wonderland. From Alice Liddell’s memories we know today that Carroll intended to call Alice’s oldest sister Lorina “Prima”, Alice herself “Secunda” and the youngest Edith “Tertia” in the third stanza of the poem. Martin Gardner remarks that the word “little”, which appears three times in the second stanza, is a pun and is pronounced like the sisters’ last name “Liddell”.[7] Right at the beginning of Wonderland the personal reference to the author’s life becomes clear. Undoubtedly, this boat trip with the Liddell sisters played a major role for Wonderland and the prefatory verses are related to the formal construction and structure of both Alice books. The first chapter of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland starts in medias res with the heroine and fictional Alice sitting with her sister on a bank, the latter reading a book which does not appeal to Alice since it is “without pictures or conversations” (Gardner, AA 11), when Alice suddenly spies the White Rabbit. The curious Alice follows the White Rabbit with its pocket watch down a rabbit-hole and she falls a long way down in a well. After her fall she finds herself in a hall with a lot of closed doors. With a golden key Alice manages to open the tiniest door and sights a beautiful garden but is too big to enter it. Soon after, Alice finds a little bottle which says “Drink me” (Gardner, AA 16) and later a cake with the note “Eat me” (Gardner, AA 18). By drinking the liquid content of the bottle and eating a piece of the small cake, Alice becomes either too small to reach the key or too tall to fit through the door. Frustrated by not being able to adjust the right size, Alice starts crying, and soon notices that she is swimming in a pool of her own tears which she cried when she was nine feet tall. The pool gets crowded with other animals and birds like the Mouse, the Duck, the Dodo, the Lory and the Eaglet. As a consequence, they all swim to the shore, where the Mouse is drying the animals with her “dry” tale. After all animals and birds have left the gathering, Alice sees the White Rabbit again, which mistakes her for his maid “Mary Ann” and wants her to fetch his pair of gloves and a fan from his home. At the White Rabbit’s house, Alice again changes size and is so large that her body fills out the whole house. Together with his friends, under them Bill the Lizard, the White Rabbit tries to manage the situation. Nevertheless, through eating some cake, Alice changes size again and becomes very small, so that she can run out of the White Rabbit’s house into the woods, where she encounters an enormous puppy.[8] When Alice continues her way through the woods, she comes to a Caterpillar who is sitting on a mushroom and gives her some good advice, namely to eat from either the right or the left side of the mushroom in order to shrink or grow. Alice grows immensely from one piece of the mushroom, and as a result, a Pigeon thinks that she is a serpent and wants to eat her eggs even though Alice assures her that she is a little girl. Alice leaves the Pigeon and gets to the Duchess’ house where she first watches a Frog- and a Fish-Footman and then enters the house and meets the Duchess herself, who is nursing a child, her cook and the Cheshire-Cat. Alice gets the chance to hold the Duchess’ baby, which turns into a pig. In the woods again, Alice finds the Cheshire-Cat sitting on a tree with a grin and Alice asks him which way to go. The Cheshire-Cat tells her that a Hatter lives in one direction and in the other direction a March Hare, who are “both mad” (Gardner, AA 65). Finally, Alice decides to visit the March Hare, where she joins the Mad Tea-Party consisting of the March Hare, Mad Hatter and the Dormouse. In general, the members of the Mad Tea-Party debate the most with Alice in comparison to the other Wonderland creatures. After leaving the party, Alice finds a door in a tree, which leads her directly to the hall from the beginning of her adventures. There, she manages to get into the beautiful garden.[9] Soon, Alice notices that this garden belongs to the Queen of Hearts. She also watches three gardeners in form of playing cards painting white roses red because of the fact that they have planted white roses, which have the wrong color, instead of red ones. Shortly afterwards, the Queen of Hearts appears with her entourage. The Queen wants the gardeners beheaded, as almost everybody in her realm, but Alice can hide the playing cards just in the right moment. Alice is invited to play croquet with the Queen, which is pretty tough since the croquet balls are live hedgehogs and the mallets live flamingoes.[10] Through the appearance of the Cheshire-Cat, whom the King of Hearts absolutely dislikes, the croquet game is interrupted. The Queen of Hearts suggests Alice be taken by the Gryphon to the Mock Turtle to listen to his history. At the Mock Turtle, Alice listens to his story about underwater school and to his melancholic songs and she is taught in the Lobster-Quadrille. Thereafter, the Gryphon takes her to trial of the Knave of Hearts who is accused of stealing Queen of Hearts’ tarts. Almost all Wonderland creatures are present. Alice follows the absurd process, and has to give evidence herself in the trial. While growing to her full size again, Alice is more and more offended by the utterances of the King and Queen of Hearts, so that she shouts at them “You’re nothing but a pack of cards!” (Gardner, AA 124), and finally, wakes up from her curious dream in the lap of her sister, who is still sitting outside on the bank. Alice tells her all about her dream and when finished she runs away, whereas Alice’s sister stays on the bank and starts dreaming of Alice’s dream and her sister’s future. Wonderland is divided formally into twelve chapters. The reader gets to know the heroine Alice right from the beginning of the novel and can follow her adventures through a heterodiegetic third-person narrative, a typical feature of traditional children’s literature. Due to this fact, the reader is very close to the character Alice and can see “things through Alice’s eyes” (Kelly, 1977: 81). Nevertheless, the narrator also shows some omniscient comments, especially at the beginning of Wonderland.[11] It can be said that the plot of Wonderland consists of two plot-lines. On the one hand, there is the first scene of action, where Alice sits with her sister on a bank and feels already sleepy.[12] Here, Alice is still awake. This plot-line could be regarded as reality in the text-immanent world, which also comes close to the readers’ perception of the empirical reality since time and space follow their usual order. Furthermore, this first scene indicates the frame of the plot as a whole. On the other hand, when Alice starts to see the White Rabbit and follows it down the rabbit-hole, the second plot-line or the plot within a plot is introduced. This second plot could also be seen as a dream structure, where anything is possible in Wonderland: [...]
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July 30, 1956 saw the adoption of what phrase as the official motto of the United States?
History of 'In God We Trust' History of 'In God We Trust'   Page Content The motto IN GOD WE TRUST was placed on United States coins largely because of the increased religious sentiment existing during the Civil War. Secretary of the Treasury Salmon P. Chase received many appeals from devout persons throughout the country, urging that the United States recognize the Deity on United States coins. From Treasury Department records, it appears that the first such appeal came in a letter dated November 13, 1861. It was written to Secretary Chase by Rev. M. R. Watkinson, Minister of the Gospel from Ridleyville, Pennsylvania, and read: Dear Sir: You are about to submit your annual report to the Congress respecting the affairs of the national finances. One fact touching our currency has hitherto been seriously overlooked. I mean the recognition of the Almighty God in some form on our coins. You are probably a Christian. What if our Republic were not shattered beyond reconstruction? Would not the antiquaries of succeeding centuries rightly reason from our past that we were a heathen nation? What I propose is that instead of the goddess of liberty we shall have next inside the 13 stars a ring inscribed with the words PERPETUAL UNION; within the ring the allseeing eye, crowned with a halo; beneath this eye the American flag, bearing in its field stars equal to the number of the States united; in the folds of the bars the words GOD, LIBERTY, LAW. This would make a beautiful coin, to which no possible citizen could object. This would relieve us from the ignominy of heathenism. This would place us openly under the Divine protection we have personally claimed. From my hearth I have felt our national shame in disowning God as not the least of our present national disasters. To you first I address a subject that must be agitated. As a result, Secretary Chase instructed James Pollock, Director of the Mint at Philadelphia, to prepare a motto, in a letter dated November 20, 1861: Dear Sir: No nation can be strong except in the strength of God, or safe except in His defense. The trust of our people in God should be declared on our national coins. You will cause a device to be prepared without unnecessary delay with a motto expressing in the fewest and tersest words possible this national recognition. It was found that the Act of Congress dated January 18, 1837, prescribed the mottoes and devices that should be placed upon the coins of the United States. This meant that the mint could make no changes without the enactment of additional legislation by the Congress. In December 1863, the Director of the Mint submitted designs for new one-cent coin, two-cent coin, and three-cent coin to Secretary Chase for approval. He proposed that upon the designs either OUR COUNTRY; OUR GOD or GOD, OUR TRUST should appear as a motto on the coins. In a letter to the Mint Director on December 9, 1863, Secretary Chase stated: I approve your mottoes, only suggesting that on that with the Washington obverse the motto should begin with the word OUR, so as to read OUR GOD AND OUR COUNTRY. And on that with the shield, it should be changed so as to read: IN GOD WE TRUST. The Congress passed the Act of April 22, 1864. This legislation changed the composition of the one-cent coin and authorized the minting of the two-cent coin. The Mint Director was directed to develop the designs for these coins for final approval of the Secretary. IN GOD WE TRUST first appeared on the 1864 two-cent coin. Another Act of Congress passed on March 3, 1865. It allowed the Mint Director, with the Secretary's approval, to place the motto on all gold and silver coins that "shall admit the inscription thereon." Under the Act, the motto was placed on the gold double-eagle coin, the gold eagle coin, and the gold half-eagle coin. It was also placed on the silver dollar coin, the half-dollar coin and the quarter-dollar coin, and on the nickel three-cent coin beginning in 1866. Later, Congress passed the Coinage Act of February 12, 1873. It also said that the Secretary "may cause the motto IN GOD WE TRUST to be inscribed on such coins as shall admit of such motto." The use of IN GOD WE TRUST has not been uninterrupted. The motto disappeared from the five-cent coin in 1883, and did not reappear until production of the Jefferson nickel began in 1938. Since 1938, all United States coins bear the inscription. Later, the motto was found missing from the new design of the double-eagle gold coin and the eagle gold coin shortly after they appeared in 1907. In response to a general demand, Congress ordered it restored, and the Act of May 18, 1908, made it mandatory on all coins upon which it had previously appeared. IN GOD WE TRUST was not mandatory on the one-cent coin and five-cent coin. It could be placed on them by the Secretary or the Mint Director with the Secretary's approval. The motto has been in continuous use on the one-cent coin since 1909, and on the ten-cent coin since 1916. It also has appeared on all gold coins and silver dollar coins, half-dollar coins, and quarter-dollar coins struck since July 1, 1908. A law passed by the 84th Congress (P.L. 84-140) and approved by the President on July 30, 1956, the President approved a Joint Resolution of the 84th Congress, declaring IN GOD WE TRUST the national motto of the United States. IN GOD WE TRUST was first used on paper money in 1957, when it appeared on the one-dollar silver certificate. The first paper currency bearing the motto entered circulation on October 1, 1957. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) was converting to the dry intaglio printing process. During this conversion, it gradually included IN GOD WE TRUST in the back design of all classes and denominations of currency. As a part of a comprehensive modernization program the BEP successfully developed and installed new high-speed rotary intaglio printing presses in 1957. These allowed BEP to print currency by the dry intaglio process, 32 notes to the sheet. One-dollar silver certificates were the first denomination printed on the new high-speed presses. They included IN GOD WE TRUST as part of the reverse design as BEP adopted new dies according to the law. The motto also appeared on one-dollar silver certificates of the 1957-A and 1957-B series. BEP prints United States paper currency by an intaglio process from engraved plates. It was necessary, therefore, to engrave the motto into the printing plates as a part of the basic engraved design to give it the prominence it deserved. One-dollar silver certificates series 1935, 1935-A, 1935-B, 1935-C, 1935-D, 1935-E, 1935-F, 1935-G, and 1935-H were all printed on the older flat-bed presses by the wet intaglio process. P.L. 84-140 recognized that an enormous expense would be associated with immediately replacing the costly printing plates. The law allowed BEP to gradually convert to the inclusion of IN GOD WE TRUST on the currency. Accordingly, the motto is not found on series 1935-E and 1935-F one-dollar notes. By September 1961, IN GOD WE TRUST had been added to the back design of the Series 1935-G notes. Some early printings of this series do not bear the motto. IN GOD WE TRUST appears on all series 1935-H one-dollar silver certificates. Below is a listing by denomination of the first production and delivery dates for currency bearing IN GOD WE TRUST: DENOMINATION
In God we trust
Complete the film title of the 1959 Disney movie “Darby O’Gill and” who?
· October 25, 2016 · We are doing a thing!! Join us and help protest In God We Trust! If you want to participate in the Great Stamp Out, send a picture or short video (25mb or less is preferred) to us via Facebook messenger or email it to [email protected]. You do not need our stamp to participate. You can stamp out/erase/cover up “In God We Trust” however you see fit: an actual stamp, marker, crayon, etc. Feel free to be creative. The point is to erase “In God We Trust” in some way. We... will not use your name unless you want us to! Deadline for submissions will be November 18th.
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When it absolutely, positively has to be there overnight?
Adslogans - A fast, efficient bespoke search service for advertisers on slogans, endlines, straplines, taglines etc. - HALL OF FAME Current Wise Words Advertising Slogan Hall of Fame The Advertising Slogan Hall Of Fame recognises excellence and best practice in advertising, benchmarking creativity - identifying the best in branding.  The Advertising Slogan Hall of Fame now recognizes 125 lines as members, ranging from ‘Let your fingers do the walking’ to ‘Heineken refreshes the parts other beers cannot reach,’ to ‘We try harder,’ to ‘If you’ve got it, flaunt it.’ When it absolutely, positively has to be there overnight. When it absolutely, positively has to be there overnight. Advertiser: Federal Express Ad agency: Ally & Gargano Year: 1982 The information presented on this page is offered in good faith and is correct to the best of our knowledge. If any factual errors have appeared here inadvertently, then we would be pleased to hear from anyone wishing to offer corrections. Basic Talk Ltd trading as AdSlogans ©
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Serial killer David Berkowitz, who terrorized New York City from 1975 to 1976, was known in the press by what name?
FEDEX COMMERCIAL - YouTube FEDEX COMMERCIAL Want to watch this again later? Sign in to add this video to a playlist. Need to report the video? Sign in to report inappropriate content. The interactive transcript could not be loaded. Loading... Rating is available when the video has been rented. This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. Uploaded on Aug 5, 2006 When time and money is very important, this is what happens to humans. Category
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Founded 1250 years ago yesterday, the Iraqi city of Baghdad lies along which river?
World History Timeline History of Ancient Iraq or Mesopotamia in 1500 BC Iraq - 3500BC One of the most important developments in world history is taking place in Mesopotamia . Here, on the flood plains of the rivers Tigris and Euphrates, the fertile soil brought down from the mountains by the great rivers has given rise to much denser populations than anywhere else in the world. The arid climate, plus dangerous spring floods, has called for the creation of large-scale irrigation systems, to channel and store water for crops, and to protect communities from the raging waters.  Over the centuries, large communities with densely concentrated populations of many thousands of people have grown up. These are the first true cities in human history. To help them manage the economic life of these cities effectively, the priests who control them are gradually perfecting the first known writing script and numeric system - key developments in human progress. Iraq 3500BC - 2500BC The past millennia has seen the Sumerians bring Mesopotamian civilization to a high level. It has now expanded to the north, to what would later be the land of Assyria. The Sumerians have now entered the Bronze Age. Bronze is used in the weapons and decorations of the ruling classes; it is far too expensive to be used by farmers, and agriculture basically remains at a stone-age level of technology. However, the demand for copper and tin, the ingredients of bronze, means that the Mesopotamian city-states now lie at the centre of an expanding network of long-distance trade routes. Writing has reached a level of sophistication that makes it a vehicle, not only for administration, but also for the hymns, prayers and myths of the world’s most ancient literature. The small Sumerian states are constantly at war with one another, and have developed the first organised armies in history, together with the systematic taxation and bureaucracies to support them. The economic life of these city-states is highly centralized on the temples. These own much of the land (or rather, their gods do), provide work for the craftsmen and labourers, administer the cities' markets and organize long-distance trade. Iraq 2500BC - 1500BC Over the past thousand years , kingdoms and empires have come and gone in Mesopotamia. The first recorded empire in world history appeared briefly under the fierce Sargon and his descendants (c. 2334 to 2218 BC), and the powerful states of Ur (2112 to 2004 BC) and Babylon (1792 to 1712 BC) followed. Hammurabi , king of Babylon (1792-49) is famous as history's first great law-giver. These high points of Mesopotamian civilization have been separated by periods of outside invasion and internal fragmentation, yet despite these upheavals, styles of art, architecture and literature derived from the old Sumerian cities have retain a powerful grip on the region's culture. By 1500 BC new invaders divide the ancient lands of Mesopotamia between them. The Kassites rule Babylonia in the south, while Assyria is now part of the extensive (but short-lived) kingdom of the Mitanni. The powerful and warlike kingdom of Elam lies to the east. Despite the recent origins of these powerful states, this period represents the high point of Bronze Age civilization in Mesopotamia. The next few centuries will see great upheavals hit this brilliant world. Iraq 1500BC - 1000BC The past couple of hundred years have been very troubled for Iraq. The powerful Bronze Age kingdoms of Babylonia, Assyria and Elam have been overthrown or greatly weakened by the incursion of Aramean and other nomadic peoples into Mesopotamia. Amongst these, a semi-nomadic people called the Chaldeans have settled southern Mesopotamia, the ancient heartland of the Sumerians, and have formed a strong kingdom in Babylonia. Elam has been destroyed by incoming Iranian peoples such as the Medes and the Persians. Assyria has been hard pressed, at times almost overrun; it has only managed to survive by organizing itself along more militaristic lines. Go to more maps and information on Ancient Mesopotamia   Iraq 1000BC - 500BC The past few centuries have seen the rise and fall of great Mesopotamian empires, first Assyria, and then Babylon. With the recent conquest of the Babylonian empire by Persians , however, the people of Mesopotamia now find themselves ruled from outside the region for the first time in their long history. The Assyrian and Babylonian policy of uprooting conquered peoples from their homelands and moving them to other areas has caused massive population upheaval. This has led to the decline of local languages and the rise of Aramaic as the lingua franca of Mesopotamia. This in turn has led to the spread of the Aramaic alphabet. These developments make international trade easier, as do the generally high level of Persian rule and the great Persian-built roads which now span the region. Whereas the Assyrian and Babylonian periods were times of economic depression for most areas outside the imperial cores (at least, the archeaological record suggests so), the Persian period is one of prosperity for Mesopotamia. Iraq 500BC - 200BC Like the rest of the Persian Empire, Mesopotamia was conquered by the armies of Alexander the Great in the 330s and 320s BC. After Alexander’s death in 323 BC the region fell to Seleucus, one of his generals. Mesopotamia has since been ruled by kings of Seleucus’ line, under whom a Greek-speaking ruling class has come to monopolise power. Greek-style cities – the largest of which is Seleucia-on-the-Tigris - have sprung up, settled by colonists from the Greek and Macedonian homelands . The cultural inter-mixing of Greek and native elements has led to the spread of a hybrid culture throughout the Middle East , which modern scholars label “Hellenistic”. In recent years, however, Mesopotamia has become the scene of a struggle between the Seleucid kings and an invading Iranian people from central Asia, the Parthians . These steppe nomads are gaining the upper hand. Iraq 200BC - 30BC Mesopotamia has, since the second century BC, been a part of the Parthian empire . Chronic political instability, together with the continuous wars with external foes (Seleucids, Steppe Nomads and, latterly, Romans ) have prevented the Parthian kings from properly consolidating their control over Mesopotamia. As a result, several semi-independent kingdoms, only loosely subordinate to the Parthian monarchs, now cover large parts of the region, for example Characene, Adiabene and Gordyene. Most of the Parthian kings have been anxious to present themselves as pro-Greek in their sympathies. They have followed a policy of promoting “Hellenistic” civilization within the cities, and Greek continues as the international language of trade and urban culture within the empire. Aramaic is spoken by most of the rural population. The pro-Greek policies, however, are far from being universally popular amongst the Parthian ruling class. They are therefore vulnerable to changes in political fortunes, and the anti-Greek sentiments of the traditional Parthian nobility are gaining in strength. Iraq 30BC - 200AD The "Hellenistic" civilization of the Mesopotamian cities has come under increasing pressure over the past two centuries. Two destructive invasions by the Romans have irreparably weakened many of the centres of Hellenistic culture, including the largest city in the region, Ctesiphon (the old Seleucia-on-Tigris). Also, a revival of Iranian culture, fostered by the Parthian empire 's rulers, has led to the cities of the empire increasingly becoming home to a hybrid culture, which draws on both Greek and Iranian elements to create its own distinctive style of art and architecture. Politically, Mesopotamia has experienced increasing fragmentation, with the small kingdoms asserting more and more independence from the Parthian government. Even that part of Mesopotamia which had been directly controlled by the Parthian king, the old province of Babylonia, has now passed into the hands of local rulers. Iraq 200AD - 500AD Along with other regions in the Middle East , Mesopotamia passed from the Parthian empire to the Sassanid empire in AD 222. This Persian dynasty has created a centralized empire, and the small kingdoms which the Parthians tolerated have now come firmly under Sassanid control. As in the Roman empire to its west, new religions have spread in the region. Whilst the Persian ruling class is loyal to Zoroastrianism, Christianity is widespread amongst the population at large, and many of the cities house flourishing Jewish colonies. A new religion also makes its appearance in Sassanid Mesopotamia, that of Manichaeism. Under the Sasanian dynasty of Persia, Iraq has experienced one of its golden ages. The ancient irrigation system has been brought up to a pitch never before seen; new land has been brought under cultivation; cities have flourished, and the population has expanded. Iraq is the bread-basket of the Persian empire. Economically, the region probably attains its highest levels prior to the twentieth century. Iraq 500AD - 750AD For Iraq, the last years of the Sasanian empire were marked by civil war and a dramatic deterioration in the irrigation system. A vast area of southern Iraq revert to swampland (which it remained until the 20th century). It was into this situation that Arab armies swept in and swiftly conquered the country from the Sasanians (634-8). As in other parts of the huge Islamic Caliphate, the conquered were allowed to remain Christians and keep their laws and customs. Huge numbers of Arabs did come into the country, but were settled in large garrison cities, at Al-Kufah and Al-Basra. After the 660s, Iraq became a centre of opposition to the rule of the Umayyad caliphs, based in Syria. The corruption of Umayyad officials, and the neglect of the irrigation systems on which much of Iraq's agriculture depended, led to economic depression, rising poverty and brigandage. Large numbers of Iraqi Muslims joined the Shi-ite sect, and these factors come together to give popular support in Iraq to a rebel army from Iran. In this year (750), the rebels defeat the Umayyad forces install a new caliph. He founds the ’Abbasid dynasty and chooses Iraq as his base. Iraq 750AD - 979AD In 762, the new 'Abbasid caliph founded a new capital, Baghdad, which soon became one of the largest cities in the world. Iraq experienced a period of peace and prosperity. From the early 9th century, however, destructive civil wars caused a great deal of damage, to both the city of Baghdad and the surrounding countryside. The complex irrigation systems were again neglected, and large areas of land were lost to cultivation. A ferocious revolt by black slaves in southern Iraq (869-883) made matters worse, with Basra experiencing a terrible sack. Despite all these troubles, Baghdad has remained a brilliant centre of scholarship, science and culture. The fertile region of northern Iraq freed itself from Baghdad's control in 905, under a Bedouin tribe, the Hamdanids. They are based in the city of Mosul. After 945 a group from northern Iran, the Buyids, marched on Baghdad and seized power for themselves. The Buyids have since built an empire that includes most of Iran and all of Iraq, whilst at the same time remaining theoretically subordinate to the caliphs. Iraq 979AD - 1215AD The Buyid dynasty went into rapid decline in the last years of the 10th century, losing control of all Iraq except Baghdad and its neighbourhood. Baghdad sunk into a degraded state, law and order declined to a low ebb and, in the surrounding countryside, brigandage became endemic. Yet despite all this – perhaps even because of it – Baghdad remained a vibrant cultural centre, with a free-thinking environment that firmer government control might have stamped on. After 1055, things improved greatly, as the Seljuq Turks came in and imposed order over nearly all of Iraq. Baghdad remained the city of the caliph, although real power now resided with the Seljuq sultan at Isfahan, in Iran. From the mid-12th century, Seljuq power began to decline. Into this vacuum, the power of the caliphs has revived somewhat: since 1160 they have gained direct control of much of southern Iraq. Northern Iraq is now part of a large sultanate spanning Syria and Egypt. By now, most Iraqis are Muslims, though significant Christian and Jewish communities remain; and most speak Arabic. It is now no longer the wealthiest region in the Middle East, and its population has declined considerably over the past few centuries. Iraq 1215AD - 1453AD The Mongols invaded Iraq in the 1250's, and in 1258 they finally entered Baghdad itself. They killed the last of the caliphs and sacked the city. Thousands of Baghdad inhabitants were massacred. Iraq, once again, became a subordinate province of a larger empire, whose capital was far away. Under the Mongol Il-khan rulers, Iraq experienced further economic decline, with tax revenues apparently sinking to a mere one-tenth of their pre-Mongol levels. Matters got even worse when civil wars broke out between rival Il-khanid chieftains. In the chaos under the later Il-khans the Mongol Jalayrid tribe seized control of Iraq (1356). Then another conqueror from central Asia, Timur, besieged and sacked Baghdad (1401). Timur and his successors controlled Iraq for only a few years before it again passed into the hands of another group originally from central Asia, the White Sheep Turks. These are now pushing into western Iran. Iraq 1453AD - 1648AD The White Sheep Turks were defeated by the Black Sheep Turks in 1467, and the latter became, briefly, the rulers of Iraq. In 1508, Iraq was conquered by the Safavids, a Shi-ite religious movement that had seized control of Iran.  Then, in 1534, Iraq came under the rule of the Ottoman empire. Iraq has thus become again a subordinate province within a large empire, distant from the political hub. However, the country now knows a measure of peace and stability after centuries of political turmoil, military insecurity and economic neglect. This long period of impoverishment means that what was once the bread-basket of the Middle East now has its agriculture restricted to only a few areas, around Baghdad and Basra, with most of the country given over to a nomadic pastoral economy. Iraq 1648AD - 1789AD In the late 17th and 18th centuries, Iraq was the scene of mounting conflict amongst the Arab tribes of the desert. To deal with this, as well as to defend the eastern frontier against Persian aggression, the Ottomans have allowed the Pashas (governors) of Baghdad to impose order on the province using Mamluq forces, recruited in Georgia. These pashas succeeded in imposing a measure of order on the desert tribes, and in extending their power throughout most of Iraq. They paid tribute to Constantinople, but otherwise governed as independent hereditary rulers within Iraq. In 1747 the Mamluqs seized power from the pashas of Iraq. They have owed only nominal obedience to sultan. The Ottoman's attempts to reassert effective control have been unsuccesful, and the Mamluqs behave as the rulers of an independent state. This is particularly so in their dealings with Europeans. They sign treaties with them and allow the British East India Company to establish trading relations with them. Iraq 1789AD - 1837AD Factional strife within the local Mamluq ruling group weakened their power, and led to a progressive loss of control over the Arab tribes in Iraq. In 1801 their weakness was revealed by their inability to defend the great Shi'ite shrine of Karbala from a sack by Sunni tribesmen. Successive attempts by the Ottoman government in Constantinople to re-assert control over the country continued to fail, until 1831. In that year, however, the integrity of the empire was threatened by Mohammed Ali of Egypt, who occupied Syria. The Ottoman government in Constantinople then made a determined effort to reimpose control over Iraq by sending in a powerful army. In the following years they have been able to extend their rule throughout the entire country. Iraq 1837AD - 1871AD With direct Ottoman rule now imposed over Iraq, the local Mamluq garrisons and locally-raised troops, hitherto at the beck and call of semi-independent governors, were now integrated into the Ottoman army. Military schools were established to train members of the local Iraqi elite for careers in the modernized armed forces. Some primary and secondary schools were also opened, and foreign (both Christian and Jewish) missionaries also opened schools. A small elite educated along western lines has thus began to appear in the country, from which the ranks of local provincial officials are recruited, along with the Ottoman officer corps (Iraqi officers in fact have come to form a large element within the Ottoman military leadership.) Over the past decade or two, new roads have been built, a telegraphy system set up, and trade has expanded. Steamships now ply the ancient waterways of the Tigris and Euphrates. Iraq 1871AD - 1914AD A new, more efficient provincial system has been introduced into Iraq by the Ottomans from the early 1870's, manned by well-educated officials. As a result, the country is tied more closely to Constantinople. Local government is now in the hands of municipal and district councils. A major land reform programme has been carried through which, although of limited impact, has led to the decline of nomadism and the extension of productive farmland.  This has extended government authority to areas hitherto beyond the reach of effective central government. Military conscription is now being enforced on the population. The historic city of Baghdad has received such modern amenities as a water supply system, hospitals, modern schools, paved and lighted streets, a public park, and its first bridge across the Euphrates. Textile mills, newspapers and banks have been established. A railroad network has been started. Due to its geographical distance from Europe, Iraqi society remains less affected by such European ideas as nationalism, and the country has experienced no nationalist movement against the Ottomans of the kind that has appeared in Syria. Iraq 1914AD - 1960AD With the Ottoman empire joining the central powers in World War 1, Iraq was occupied by British forces. After the war, the country became a British Mandate territory on behalf of the League of Nations. The British set up a constitutional monarchy, under king Faisal I (reigned 1921-33), with an elected parliament. Iraq became independent in 1932. Sadly, politics became increasingly faction-ridden, which led to an army coup in 1936. From then on the army dominated politics until World War 2. The economy continued to expand; irrigated farmland was extended, oil revenues became an important source of revenue, and the railway network was completed. In World War 2, the country was again occupied by the British after a pro-Nazi coup threatened British positions in the Middle East. A series of weak, short-lived civilian governments held power, but still managed to preside over much economic progress. This was largely thanks to a non-political but powerful agency known as the Development Board, which oversaw economic development.   In 1958, the king, Faisal II, was assassinated in a coup led by al-Karim Qasim, and a republic was declared.
Tigris
What tough band of dense, white, fibrous tissues connects a muscle with another body part?
The Fight for Mosul - The New Yorker territory, Iraqi civilians fight for their survival. By Luke Mogelson “I can’t take it anymore!” a young Sunni fighter near Mosul said, tears streaking his face. “They’re killing our families fifteen minutes away from here! We sit here and stare at the other side and hear the news, and there’s nothing we can do.”CreditPhotograph by Moises Saman / Magnum for The New Yorker Two months ago, Masoud Barzani, the President of the Kurdish regional government, held a press conference on a hill overlooking Sinjar, a town in the northwestern corner of Iraq. The day before, following an intense bombardment by American warplanes, Kurdish forces had taken control of Sinjar for the first time since they were routed from it by the Islamic State, or ISIS , in August of 2014. As smoke plumes and helicopters ascended behind him, Barzani, standing at a podium of sandbags, declared the town “liberated.” After a retinue of bodyguards spirited the President away in a sport-utility vehicle, the foreign correspondents and local journalists headed down the hill to view the damage. On the outskirts of Sinjar the road became impassable: damaged, clogged with military trucks, and littered with debris. My interpreter and I parked and continued on foot. The town, once home to a hundred thousand people, was devastated. ISIS had killed or displaced nearly all the inhabitants, most of whom belonged to Iraq’s Yazidi religious minority. It had burned down their houses, looted their shops, and blown up their shrines. Whatever remained the American air strikes had destroyed. A lone man with a rifle seemed to know where he was going. We hurried to catch up with him. “I’m checking on my uncle’s house,” he said. His name was Azad—he wouldn’t give his family name—and he told us he grew up in Sinjar. When ISIS began seizing territory in eastern Syria and then across northern Iraq, two summers ago, troops with the Iraqi Kurdish armed forces, or peshmerga, were deployed in the town. That June, ISIS captured Mosul—the second-largest city in the country, eighty miles to the east—yet most residents still felt safe. But when ISIS moved into Sinjar the peshmerga withdrew. Hundreds of civilians were killed. Azad and his family were among some fifty thousand Yazidis who escaped into the Sinjar Mountains, a thirty-mile-long range that looms above the town. Most of the refugees were evacuated by helicopter or relocated to camps farther north, but many of them, including Azad’s family, chose to remain amid the frigid peaks, living in tents with little food or water, waiting for the day when they could return to their homes. “That’s it,” Azad said. He nodded toward a narrow building with blown-out windows, a sagging roof, and caved-in walls. The ground floor had been a shop. Its metal shutter lay on the sidewalk in a heap, like unfurled cloth. “What will you do now?” I asked. Azad looked around. It was getting dark. “Go back up the mountain,” he said. He turned and walked away. Nearby, on the roadside, a paunchy, important-looking man was addressing a group of thin, less important men. When we approached, he introduced himself as the mayor of Sinjar. As he elaborated on his credentials—he was also a parliamentarian, an engineer, and a military commander—a group of Iraqi police officers appeared. The mayor hailed them. “Be careful,” he told the officers. “A lot of these buildings have not been cleared. We have information that there are still some ISIS fighters hiding in them.” That night, we camped in the mountains. Early the next morning, as we navigated the ninety-three hairpin turns that led down to the town, it was easy to appreciate Sinjar’s strategic importance: Highway 47, a two-lane asphalt road, passes straight through the town’s center. Thirty miles to the east is Tal Afar, an ISIS stronghold where camps are believed to hold hundreds of captives; fifty miles past Tal Afar is Mosul. To the west, the highway leads to Syria. Before the peshmerga operation, Highway 47 had linked Raqqa, the largest city in Syria held by ISIS, to Mosul. Now ISIS would have to rely on an onerous network of secondary routes through the deserts to the south. In town, the main roads had been cleaned up, and we were able to drive several miles past the southern outskirts, to a village called Domiz, where bulldozers and backhoes were digging new trenches, heaping the red soil into high berms. An expanse of untended fields stretched beyond them. There were villages out there, too: vague compounds, water tanks, radio towers. “All of that belongs to ISIS ,” a peshmerga general said. “Last night, we found three of them. We shot at them, but they got away.” An explosion erupted nearby, and then gunfire. Soldiers grabbed weapons and ran into a dense collection of buildings behind us. We followed to a large house surrounded by dozens of peshmerga troops. Everyone was shouting. Shots burst inside the house. “He still has a gun!” someone yelled. “He’s still alive!” “Get out of there! He might blow himself up!” A man on the second-floor balcony of a building across the street hoisted a grenade-launcher onto his shoulder. “I can kill him with this,” he said. “No! No! No! We have men in there!” The man set down the launcher, shrugged. “I appreciate the supply, but there just isn’t a demand.” Buy a cartoon A crowd had assembled around the entrance to the house. An older officer wearing sunglasses emerged. “Make way, make way,” he said. Eventually, two soldiers in desert fatigues hauled out a battered man by his ankles. A gray tunic was bunched around his neck, and he was covered with blood. On his leg was an improvised bandage. He had black shoulder-length hair and a long beard. His eyes, wide open, were blue; his arms splayed behind him as he was dragged on his back into the street. “Fuck his sister!” “Long live the peshmerga! Long live Barzani!” A soldier in a patrol cap bent down and touched the man with the backs of his fingers, as if checking him for fever. He gave a thumbs-up. “Still alive.” Everyone had his phone out and was taking pictures. “Get one of me,” one soldier said. He handed off his phone, squatted beside the dying man, and spat in his face. “Did you get it?” “Call an ambulance,” someone said. “We want him alive.” “Let’s fuck him up,” another suggested. “No, we don’t do that. That’s not our way.” After several minutes, a backhoe arrived, and the man was loaded into its bucket. We all followed the machine to the trench, where it dumped him on the grass. More pictures were taken. It seemed likely now that the man was dead, although at some point someone asked, “Where’s the doctor? Isn’t he coming?” No one seemed to hear. Such intimate encounters with the enemy are rare in northern Iraq. In December, three hundred miles to the south of Sinjar, a coalition of Iraqi forces and tribal fighters recaptured Ramadi, the capital of Anbar, a notoriously violent province west of Baghdad. It was the largest city anywhere to be taken back from ISIS. But Iraq’s northern front has remained relatively static. Tens of thousands of Kurdish troops man fixed positions along six hundred miles of trenches connecting Syria to Iran. In some spots, the gap between ISIS and the Kurdish regional government is measured in kilometres; in others, metres. One peshmerga unit near Erbil, the Kurdish capital, occupies a high ridge that overlooks an ISIS -held town. There are many reasons for the stalemate—some tactical, some political. A major obstacle is Mosul. When I visited the peshmerga unit on the ridge, its operations officer told me that they could easily take the town below, Bashiqa. But Mosul lies only ten miles farther, and there are numerous villages in between. “There’s no buffer, which means you can’t make a defensive line,” the officer said. “We can’t take Bashiqa until we’re ready to take Mosul. It all has to be one operation.” Mosul is a historically diverse city; its one and a half million residents formerly included Kurds, Yazidis, Turkmen, and Assyrians, but its majority had been Sunni. During Saddam Hussein’s regime, the city was famous for producing skilled Baathist military officers; after the U.S. disbanded the Iraqi Army and eradicated the Baath Party, it became famous for producing skilled insurgents. Iraq’s Prime Minister at the time of the American withdrawal, in 2011, was Nuri al-Maliki, a Shiite Muslim with deep ties to Iran, who purged Iraq’s security forces of Sunni leadership and instituted a Shiite hegemony in the government. To Mosul, Maliki dispatched Shiite soldiers and police whom many former residents have described as tyrannically sectarian. “People were upset with the Shiite security forces,” Atheel al-Nujaifi, a former governor of Nineveh Province, which includes Mosul and Sinjar, told me last spring. “They mistreated people. There was a lot of corruption. Many Sunni residents of Mosul who had lived under Maliki’s Army welcomed ISIS , at least in the first days.” That might help explain why, on June 10, 2014, around thirty thousand soldiers in Mosul capitulated to a group of ISIS fighters estimated to number in the hundreds—leaving behind a largely American-bought arsenal of small arms, heavy artillery, tanks, ordnance, and armored vehicles. A few weeks later, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of ISIS , emerged for the first time in years and delivered a speech—videotaped and published online—from the Great Mosque of al-Nuri. ISIS had proclaimed the establishment of a caliphate, and Baghdadi now called on Muslims everywhere to support it. Since then, thousands of would-be jihadists from around the world have travelled to Iraq and Syria to offer their allegiance. In Mosul, ISIS fighters have firmly embedded themselves among hundreds of thousands of civilians, and recapturing the city will require a force, or an alliance of forces, that the civilians can accept. Last April, in Erbil, I met with Fuad Hussein, Barzani’s chief of staff. “There is one thing that everybody knows,” he told me. “Liberating Mosul without the peshmerga is impossible. But to enter Mosul we need a partner.” He added, “Sometimes, when you want to marry, it is an arranged marriage. We still don’t know who our partners will be. We are still searching for them.” The Kurds have little incentive to push much closer to Mosul. Barzani’s ultimate ambition is an independent Kurdistan in northern Iraq. Most of the territory immediately south of the front is predominantly Sunni and would not be part of that envisaged state. All the same, the Kurds can’t tolerate the status quo indefinitely. “Suppose ISIS is allowed to remain in Mosul,” Hussein said. “That would mean that our peshmerga must always be alert and that we will always be at war. How can you live with ISIS as your neighbor? How can you sleep at night?” The peshmerga are not the only Kurdish force fighting ISIS in Iraq. For nearly a year before the peshmerga operation in Sinjar, a rival faction had been battling ISIS largely independently in the town. The fighters belonged to the Kurdistan Workers Party, or P.K.K., which Barzani refuses to recognize. Founded as a Marxist-Leninist independence movement in the late nineteen-seventies, the P.K.K., based in Turkey, has waged a decades-long insurgency against the Turkish government; the U.S. considers it a terrorist organization. In recent years, though, a P.K.K. affiliate in Syria has emerged as one of ISIS ’s boldest adversaries there, earning it support from American bombers and special-operations forces. After the peshmerga abandoned Sinjar, in 2014, the P.K.K. opened a corridor from the mountains into Kurdish-controlled Syria, enabling thousands of Yazidis to escape. Many of these refugees were subsequently armed and organized into militias, which returned to Sinjar, under the supervision of P.K.K. guerrillas, to confront ISIS in their home town. Around then, the U.S. set up a new operations center near Erbil to orchestrate the war in northern Iraq in concert with the peshmerga and other coalition partners. Whenever the move on Mosul occurs, American and Iraqi planners anticipate a prolonged campaign of fierce urban combat. In Sinjar, the P.K.K. fighters hadn’t penetrated much past the outlying neighborhoods near the base of the mountains. To reach their headquarters, we had to cross their former front line: a tall blockade of sandbags, sofas, shopping carts, and sinks and freezers packed with concrete. Small holes sized precisely for rifle muzzles had been made in the patchwork rampart. A narrow causeway of broken cinder block, mud, and twisted metal extended from the barrier. Stepping in fresh boot prints, we passed a mess of uniform and bone: a desiccated head with hair; a tibia and femur, bent at the knee, the foot still socked and shod. Dog remains lay beside the human ones. Thick slabs of asphalt tilted into a crater as big as a swimming pool, and on the far rim sat the frame of an exploded truck. Despite steel plating on the wheels and doors, the cab was obliterated. A rank corpse sat behind the melted wheel. Outside a small bank, two teen-agers with acne were sweeping up. Their commander was a twenty-four-year-old chain-smoker who used the nom de guerre Sarkhaboon Gauda. When I told him that I was a reporter, Gauda gestured at the dead man in the truck, the crater, the dogs and bones. “We’ve been here eleven months,” he said. Gauda wanted to show me how the ISIS fighters in Sinjar had defended the town for so long. He led me down a ratline that they had built by knocking holes in walls. Curtains had been strung across the streets to screen their movements. In the hallway of one house, Gauda ushered me into a hole in the floor. After an abrupt drop, the ground levelled off into a tunnel—too low to stand up in, but not so low that we had to crawl. Sandbags lined the walls; electrical cords ran along the floor and ceiling. At twenty feet or so beyond the mouth, it became too dark to see; the air was hot and muggy. I turned on my cell-phone flashlight. Smaller tunnels branched off the main one. Shop lamps and an industrial-sized air-conditioner were plugged into the cords. Around the air-conditioner lay bulky plastic sacks holding water bottles filled with urine. “All of their positions were linked underground,” Gauda said when we were outside again. “They were also digging a tunnel up the hill, toward our position. Luckily, they didn’t finish in time.” He said that many of the buildings were rigged with explosives, and at one point he showed me a bomb lying amid the rubble on the street: a metal cylinder connected by blue wire to four plastic jugs. I asked Gauda what he planned to do now. Turkey had recently stepped up its bombing campaign against the P.K.K. redoubts in the eastern part of the country, where Gauda was from; unless the two sides reached a truce, he might never be able to go home. Did he have a wife and kids? Were they in Turkey? Syria? Iraq? Gauda deflected my questions. “We’ll go where we’re needed,” he said. “Wherever our leaders decide to send us.” In empowering the Yazidi refugees, the P.K.K. had created a new base of sympathy for its revolutionary cause; they seemed unlikely to simply give that up. I spoke with many P.K.K. fighters from Turkey and Syria who said they had no intention of leaving Sinjar. Their presence in the town raised the question: With so many rival factions and competing interests—and in the absence of a unifying national government or army (or identity)—what happens the day after a city in Iraq or Syria is liberated from ISIS ? What happens a week after? A year? Sinjar, a town in northwestern Iraq, was devastated by air strikes. Above, a man carries a Teddy bear from the wreckage of a house. Photograph by Moises Saman / Magnum for The New Yorker This is an especially pressing concern with Mosul, where regional powers, in addition to local ones, are sure to meddle. In the early nineteen-twenties, with the partitioning of the Ottoman Empire, Turkey claimed possession of the city, which the League of Nations later gave to Iraq. Although Turkey ultimately accepted the existing border, it has a history of interfering in Mosul’s affairs. Turkish soldiers, defying protests from Baghdad, are currently training a group of displaced Mosul residents who aspire to serve as a permanent security force in the city once ISIS has been dislodged. The group is led by Atheel al-Nujaifi, the former governor of Nineveh Province and a longtime ally of Turkey. “The day after the liberation of Mosul, the citizens need to see their own people patrolling the streets,” Nujaifi told me when I visited his training camp last spring. Rows of green tents were pitched in an open field; half a dozen Turks supervised recruits performing drills. At the time, it all seemed harmless—lacking weapons, the out-of-shape volunteers ran around cradling imaginary ones—but last month Turkey sent a hundred and fifty troops and twenty-five tanks to the camp. Haider al-Abadi, Iraq’s current Prime Minister, condemned the move as “a serious breach of Iraqi sovereignty,” and President Obama personally called Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the President of Turkey, and urged him to withdraw the forces. Erdoğan is a conservative Sunni, and much of his Middle East policy has been geared toward opposing Shiite Iran. Perhaps the only people whom Erdoğan would less prefer to see gaining clout in Iraq and Syria than the Shiites are the P.K.K. He shares this view with Barzani. At the press conference on the hill, Barzani announced, “The peshmerga alone liberated Sinjar, and the only flag you will see raised in Sinjar will be the flag of Kurdistan.” When I visited the main junction in the center of town, however, three P.K.K. flags were mounted atop an empty billboard frame in the middle of a traffic circle. The highest one bore a portrait of Abdullah Öcalan, the leader and founder of the P.K.K., who is serving a life sentence in a Turkish prison. A pillar of Öcalan’s ideology is strict gender equality, both in society and on the battlefield, and about half of the P.K.K. fighters posted around the junction were women. Many of them—cigarettes in their mouths, Kalashnikovs on their backs, and grenades fastened to the sashes around their waists—looked no older than sixteen or seventeen. Shortly after we arrived, I heard one young woman yelling furiously. She was standing in the rotary, beneath the flag of Öcalan, facing several peshmerga soldiers. “You don’t talk to me!” she told them. A moment later, a swarm of P.K.K. fighters, Yazidi militiamen, and peshmerga troops were shouting at and jostling one another. It seemed to be about the flags. The peshmerga troops appeared to want to raise theirs. “Stop! Stop! Stop!” someone yelled. Many of the P.K.K. fighters had unslung their rifles and were holding them at the low ready. Others were propping machine guns on bipods behind vehicles and rubble piles. A man I had just been interviewing was stretched out on his stomach, aiming into the crowd. “Hold on!” a peshmerga soldier shouted. “Don’t do this!” “I’m going to raise our flag!” another said. “I want to raise our flag!” “No, no, come back. Don’t do it.” “Our home is destroyed, and now we’re going to destroy it again?” one of the Yazidi militiamen asked. “We should be fighting ISIS , not each other!” That night, in the mountains above Sinjar, I visited a first-aid station staffed by Kurdish doctors and paramedics as well as American and European special-operations forces. They were attending a man with a bullet wound to the head. I stood in the waiting area as the man’s wife tearfully explained to one of the Americans what had happened. The man was a Sunni mukhtar, the leader of a small village outside Sinjar. Shortly after ISIS fled the area, a man—perhaps Yazidi, perhaps Kurdish—knocked at the door of the mukhtar’s home and asked for him by name. When the mukhtar stepped outside, the man shot him. Sinjar, like Mosul, was once a multi-ethnic enclave, but the spectre of reprisals will likely prevent most Sunnis from returning. One morning, as we descended the mountainside, black smoke rose below. When we reached the town, we found that most of the fires were concentrated in a residential neighborhood of well-appointed houses set back from the street behind metal gates and cinder-block walls. Everywhere, civilian men wearing traditional Yazidi headgear were loading trucks and cars with appliances, furniture, cabinetry, rolled-up carpets, kitchenware, flat-screen TVs, space heaters, air-conditioners, lamps, toys, clothes, shoes, tools, and bedding. I asked one of them who the owners of the houses were, and he answered angrily, “We’re taking our revenge on the Sunni families who helped ISIS when they came here. They killed our children. They took our women. They took infants from their mothers’ breasts and murdered them. They showed us no mercy.” The man slammed shut the tailgate of his truck and got behind the wheel. “Now,” he said, through the rolled-down window, “I’m going somewhere else to take more stuff.” Someone emerged from a house across the street with a can of spray paint. He gave the can a shake and scrawled something on the wall. “What does it say?” I asked my interpreter. “Bomb,” he said. “Don’t go in there,” the man told us. A resident of Sinjar inspects what’s left of his house. ISIS burned several buildings in the town and blew up three churches. Photograph by Moises Saman / Magnum for The New Yorker “Bomb” was also spray-painted on another house nearby; through the open door, we could see an explosive device on the couch. While I was looking at the device—a rectangular package wrapped in tape, wires dangling—a sedan pulled up behind us, and two men stepped out. One of them, wearing a fake-leather jacket and missing some teeth, made for the house. “Not this one,” his friend said. “It’s fine.” “Fine? There’s a bomb right there.” “Don’t worry, nothing will happen.” “You’re going in?” “I’m going in.” The man in the jacket entered. His friend muttered a curse, shook his head, and followed. A few minutes later, they returned to the street, lugging a refrigerator plastered with magnets—oranges, bananas, bunches of purple grapes—and lifted it onto the roof of the sedan. Meanwhile, I noticed, at the top of the road, a teen-age boy sitting in a plastic chair with a Kalashnikov across his lap. The boy was yelling at a man testing the door of a home: “Hey, don’t go in there! That’s my house!” “How was I supposed to know?” the man asked. “It’s written on the door.” The man shrugged. “I can’t read.” He turned down a block hemmed in on both sides by banks of old tires. Many of them had been burned; ISIS fighters throughout the city had used the smoke from tire fires to obscure their retreat. The rubber had melted away, and the steel belts lay in tangled heaps, like giant Slinkys. “Careful!” the boy yelled. “There’s an unexploded rocket down there!” When I reached the boy, he told me that he had been in the chair for two days, guarding nine houses that belonged to his relatives. On the street were many Yazidi homes, he said. You could recognize them by the spray paint on their walls: the Arabic equivalent of “Y” for Yazidi, “S” for Sunni. I asked how the Yazidi and Sunni families had got along before Sinjar fell to ISIS . The boy pressed his two index fingers together. “We were one family,” he said. He added that Sunnis in Sinjar used to bring their sons to Yazidi doctors to be circumcised, and vice-versa. “They betrayed us,” he said. “When we ran away, all of our Sunni friends stayed. They were welcomed. It wasn’t just ISIS —our own neighbors marked our houses ‘Y’ and their houses ‘S.’ ” I returned to the neighborhood with the Sunni houses repeatedly through the week—sometimes to find people emptying the homes of their furnishings, sometimes to find smoke and flames pouring from the windows. One day, I met a father and son sifting through the charred shell of what appeared to have been an expansive multistory home outfitted with columns and verandas. Rather than an “S” or a “Y,” the front gate had been marked with a cross. The father, Issa Lahdo, a retired police officer, told me that they were one of about forty Christian families from Sinjar. Lahdo had lived in the house with his wife, his nine daughters, and the families of his two married sons. The walls were scorched; whatever hadn’t been looted lay in ash. “I’m actually happy to see it like this,” Lahdo told me, although his eyes were wet with tears. “I thank God that it was only burned.” According to Lahdo, there had been three churches in Sinjar: one Syrian Orthodox, one Catholic, and one Armenian. ISIS had blown up all of them. Lahdo’s children had been baptized at the Syrian Orthodox church, which Lahdo estimated to be two hundred years old. So had Lahdo, his parents, and his grandparents. Lahdo’s son Raid agreed to take me to the church. We climbed a hill past blasted vender stalls. Armed men guarded stores; armed men plundered them. Shop after shop disgorged ruined goods: clothes, groceries, cookware, automotive parts, shoes. Carloads of refugees, returning from the mountains, navigated the detritus. Raid approached a vehicle with a cross painted on its hood. “Are you Christians?” he asked the driver. “Yes, we’re Christians.” “Where are you from?” “We’re from here.” “I’m from here—and I know all the Christians. Why do you have a cross on your car?” The driver laughed. “O.K., we’re Yazidis. We just put the cross on because we like it.” He asked Raid whether he was with Asayish, a Kurdish intelligence and security service. When Raid told him no, the driver made an impatient noise and drove on. Raid stared after them. “Maybe they stole that car.” At the top of the hill, we reached a gaping cavity that sloped into a patch of mud. “This was our church,” Raid said. An armored bulldozer was parked on the far side of the cavity. A body lay beside it. It was so badly burned that it was impossible to judge whether it was a man or a woman. It lay rigid, like a toppled sculpture. A small olive tree stood amid the rubble. “That’s where the garden used to be,” Raid said. “It keeps track of how long you’ve been wearing workout clothes without actually working out.” No one I spoke with in Sinjar believed that Sunni civilians could have lived among the ISIS occupiers without collaborating in their crimes; nor could anyone imagine a future in which Yazidis and Christians would once again live in harmony with Sunnis. In Sinjar, it seemed that ISIS and Sunnism would forever be conflated. But elsewhere in Iraq and Syria many Sunnis bitterly oppose ISIS . Identifying and supporting those Sunnis has become a central component of the American intervention and will be critical to retaking Mosul. The strategy is not new. In 2007, during the height of the Iraqi insurgency, the American military began enlisting Sunni tribes to combat Al Qaeda. The Awakening movement, as it was called, eventually paid and armed around a hundred thousand men; two years later, it was widely credited with reversing the momentum of the war. Although the program focussed on Anbar Province, some Sunni sheikhs from the outskirts of Mosul also participated. Last April, I spoke with Nazhan Sakhar Salman, a leader of a prominent Sunni tribe from an area just south of Mosul, who had commanded more than three hundred Awakening fighters. We met in the lobby of a hotel in Erbil, fifty miles east of Mosul. Regal in comportment and meticulous in dress, he wore a slightly reflective suit and highly reflective shoes. Sitting erect, with both hands draped from the armrests, he turned a plastic chair into a throne. Nazhan told me that his fortunes, along with those of many other Sunni sheikhs and their tribes, had soured after the Americans’ withdrawal. “As soon as they were gone, Maliki and his government wanted to disband us,” he said. “They stopped paying us. They started harassing us.” The morning after Mosul fell to ISIS , a convoy of fighters arrived in Nazhan’s area, a swath of small villages called Qayyarah. Many of them were locals who had belonged to Al Qaeda when Nazhan was an Awakening commander. Nonetheless, a message was conveyed to Nazhan that same day assuring him that ISIS had no quarrel with his tribe; its enemies were the Shiites. “They waited a few weeks, and then they started arresting people,” Nazhan said. “Three, four at a time. Some they executed. Others we never saw again.” Nazhan and his deputies went into hiding. For several months after ISIS captured the city, the border between Mosul and Erbil remained porous; despite checkpoints on both sides, civilians came and went. In Qayyarah, former Awakening members smuggled themselves out using false papers or by disguising themselves as women in niqabs. Most left their families behind, intending to reunite with them later. At the time, few people imagined that ISIS would open up a front against the Kurds. ISIS did so last March, advancing nearly to within mortar range of Erbil before the peshmerga regrouped and counterattacked, establishing a front line. Travel between the regions ceased. Nazhan and two other Sunni sheikhs from south of Mosul told the peshmerga that they wanted to rescue their stranded families; the peshmerga assigned them a stretch of trench within sight of their villages. Together, the sheikhs had more than a thousand men, and in April Nazhan seemed confident that an effort to liberate Qayyarah was imminent. An official from Central Command, which oversees American military actions in the Middle East, had recently told reporters that a Mosul offensive would likely take place before the summer. “All the tribes in the area will join us when we attack,” Nazhan said. “I’m certain that if I make it to Qayyarah I will have three thousand fighters by my side.” A few days later, I visited Nazhan’s section of the front. Following a dirt road through meadowland and abandoned wheat farms on the east side of the Tigris River, we arrived at a ten-foot berm behind a trench that was at least as deep. Beyond the trench were brown fields dotted with yellow flowers—and, beyond the fields, Qayyarah. We stopped at a post overseen by Nazhan’s older brother Isded. The day before, Isded told me, he had received word that three hundred people in his village, Haj Ali, had been executed. He took out his phone, pulled up a text message, and showed me a list of names. “This one was an Awakening member,” he said. “This one was police. This one was a soldier. This one was a civilian.” When I asked how far away Haj Ali was, Isded pointed at a cluster of silhouetted buildings several miles to the east. On clear mornings, he said, they could hear the muezzin from their mosque calling their relatives to prayer. Farther up the line, another commander, who went by the nom de guerre Abu Malik, told me that nineteen of his cousins had been killed by ISIS in Haj Ali. Abu Malik said that in the past decade thousands of men from Qayyarah had worked with the U.S. or national-security forces; when ISIS came, “they had a database,” Abu Malik said. “They knew who everybody was.” Still, most of the Sunni villagers allowed themselves to believe that they were not in danger. Nazhan Sakhar Salman, a leader of a prominent Sunni tribe, is fighting on the front line south of Mosul. “The men are not happy,” he said. “We don’t understand why we’re still here.” PHOTOGRAPH BY MOISES SAMAN / MAGNUM FOR THE NEW YORKER “ ISIS was telling everyone, ‘We’re all brothers,’ ” Abu Malik said. “They let people smoke and drink. At the checkpoints, they distributed presents to the kids. They ate with people, drank tea with people. They were very nice—they didn’t bother anyone. Then, a week or so after they arrived, they started confiscating weapons. They told us it didn’t matter if we’d been with the Awakening or the Army or the police—if we gave up our weapons, we’d be forgiven. Ten days later, they started taking people. Everything changed. They took my cousin. My brothers dug holes in the fields and hid. I was at my house when they came for me. It was afternoon. I saw two Hyundai Santa Fes pull up outside, and I ran out the back and jumped over the wall. That was the last time I saw my family.” Abu Malik had three wives and eight children in Qayyarah. A Sharia judge, declaring him an infidel, had recently annulled his marriages to two younger wives and married off one of them, against her will, to an ISIS fighter. When I asked how he knew this, he said that the fighters in Qayyarah had his phone number and often sent him taunting text messages. Abu Malik’s remaining wife sometimes snuck onto the roof at night and called. “I talked to her yesterday,” Abu Malik said. “She and the children have nothing to eat. She told me she can’t take it anymore. She wants to kill herself.” Suddenly, a young fighter who’d been listening to us burst out: “I can’t take it anymore! I’m ready to put on a suicide vest and blow myself up! They’re killing our families fifteen minutes away from here!” Tears streaked his face. “We’re helpless,” he said. “We sit here and stare at the other side and hear the news, and there’s nothing we can do.” Abu Malik nodded. “The bottom line is, if we wait much longer, all of our families will be wiped out.” When I returned to Nazhan’s outpost this November, nothing had changed: the front line south of Mosul, and the Sunnis deployed there, had not moved. Nazhan brought me to the trench in a luxury Land Cruiser accessorized with shaggy seat covers. He had replaced his expensive suit and shoes with jungle fatigues and combat boots. “The men are not happy,” he said as we plowed through the muddy fields. It was already the season of cold rains. “We don’t understand why we’re still here.” Peshmerga troops deployed to the front regularly rotate home, seldom staying for more than a few consecutive weeks. But most of Nazhan’s men had nowhere else to go. They were exhausted and dirty, lacked showers and toilets, and slept in flimsy tents meant for a refugee camp. My visit coincided with that of a government representative from Baghdad who had come to dispense salaries. Nazhan called his fighters into formation, and the representative, clipboard in hand, took attendance. Outside of Kurdistan, much of the fighting against ISIS in Iraq has been done by the Popular Mobilization Forces, a federation of militias that initially rallied to defend the country’s cities after the collapse of the Army and police in Mosul. The militias are overwhelmingly Shiite and, most analysts agree, beholden to Iran. While they have made some gains on the battlefield—they helped capture the city of Tikrit last spring—they have also been accused of committing war crimes against Sunni civilians and inflaming the sectarian animosities that contributed to the rise of ISIS . Recognizing that any sustained victory over ISIS , in Mosul and beyond, will depend on Sunni participation, the U.S. has pushed the Iraqi government to create a Sunni national guard that would finance and formalize the status of tribal fighters across the country. Shiite lawmakers have blocked the necessary legislation for the national guard, but Prime Minister Abadi has begun incorporating some former Awakening fighters into the Popular Mobilization Forces—among them Nazhan and his fellow-sheikhs on the Kurdish front south of Mosul. As soon as the official from Baghdad confirmed that the names on the payroll corresponded to real people, one of the fighters addressed him. “We can’t sit here and watch them slaughter our families any longer,” he said. The fighter was nineteen and the son of a former senior intelligence officer. Earlier, he’d told me that, two weeks after ISIS reached Qayyarah, several gunmen had shown up at his house. They had handcuffed him, his mother, and his three younger brothers, made them kneel, and beheaded his father in front of them. Warning: This slide show includes graphic content. Makhmour, Iraq. November 19, 2015. Sunni fighters who oppose the Islamic State take up formation along the front line near the ISIS-controlled village of Haj Ali, south of Mosul. Credit Photograph by Moises Saman / Magnum for The New Yorker
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In what Hasbro game do teams of players try and guess specific words from one of 5 categories, based upon their partners drawing ability?
team building activities, ideas, games, business games and exercises for team building, learning organisations development,training, management, motivation, kids activities and childrens party games. games and exercises for groups and team building free team building activities ( 3 ) (2) ( 1 ) page 2 of free ideas for team exercises and activities - for team-building, training, employee motivation, learning and development, recruitment, and other group activities If you don't need the introduction - go straight to the games and activities . Here are lots of free and team building games, activities and exercises ideas for team development, employee motivation, personal devepment, ice-breakers, energisers, learning and fun. These activities extend the first section of team building games and activities on this website, which also offers a quick summary listing of exercises. The way you run group activities is crucial for their effectiveness. So please read the tips for planning and running team building activities . Also helpful are the tips on planning and running workshops . Use and adapt these group games and exercises ideas to suit your situation. These free team building activities, games and exercises are great ice breakers for training sessions, recruitment group selections , meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences, organisational development, teaching and lecturing for young people and students. Team building games and activities are useful also in serious business project meetings, where games and activities help delegates to see things differently and use different thinking styles. Games and exercises help with stimulating the brain, improving retention of ideas, and increasing fun and enjoyment. Many activities and games can be used or adapted for children's development and education, or even for kids party games. We cannot accept responsibility for any liability which arises from the use of any of these free team building exercises ideas or games - please see the disclaimer notice below. Always ensure that you have proper insurance in place for all team building games activities, and take extra care when working with younger people, children and if organising children's party games. See the teambuilding games and activities page 1 (which includes a listing of all activities) and teambuilding activities page 3 .   team building games - are the exercises or games appropriate? Before you decide to use any team building games with a group of people, think about whether the activities are appropriate for the team members and the situation. See the notes on checking that games or team activities are appropriate for your situation . The subjects on this website increasingly feature ideas for developing the whole person. Think beyond providing traditional work skills development. Explore everything, and show your people that you have a broader view about development - they'll have lots of ideas of their own if you let them see it's okay to think that way. Team building games are just a part of a very wide mix of learning and and development experiences that you can explore and facilitate for your people - try anything. If it helps your people to feel good and be good, then it will help your organisation be good too. See the guidelines and tips for planning and running team building activities and the free tips on running team building workshops . Ensure that team-building activities comply with equality policy and law in respect of gender, race, disability, age, etc. Notably, team-building facilitators should be familiar with the Employment Equality and Age Regulations , (UK and Europe, and increasingly elsewhere too). For example, a demanding physical activity might be great fun for fit young people, but if any of the team members are old or in any way disabled, then think again, because it wouldn't be fair, and it might even be unlawful. The same applies to any activities that discriminate against people on grounds of gender, race, etc. Team-building games and activities have to agreeable and acceptable to team members, and the exercises have to be fair.   free team building games ( 3 ) (2) ( 1 ) free team building games - warm-ups, quick games and exercises, ice-breakers, exercises and activities These free team building games and exercises generally last less than one hour, and can be adjusted to create longer team building activities, depending on the sort of team building, ice-breakers, training development activities required. Review and discussion are often useful and helpful after exercises which have raised relationship issues, or changed people's perceptions. Plan and practise all unknown aspects of the activities before using them. Logistics, facilitation and especially how you split the group into the numbers of team members per team are factors which have a big effect on how the exercises work and the experience for all. See the team building activities guidelines for tips and techniques. See also the activities and exercises on the team building ideas page 1 on this website, and the quizballs quizzes , especially the management and business quiz for aspiring managers and trainers, and anyone interested in managing people and organizations.   free games, exercises and activities ( 3 ) (2) ( 1 ) company quiz game (icebreaker, discussion-starter, inter-departmental relations, company/product-knowledge, induction training, policy review, staff awareness, etc) This simple exercise format is adaptable for a wide variety of training and development situations. Cut the questions from the grid below, or create your own. Fold each question and put them into a box, or the middle of a table. Members of the group must then in turn take a question, read it aloud, and offer an answer. Before moving to the next question, the group should discuss, refine and agree the correct answer. You can expand the exercise by splitting the group into teams and giving points and offering incorrect answers as bonus questions. Tips and variations: Keep the exercise flowing - don't become stalled for a long time on discussion or disagreement which cannot be resolved correctly and quickly. Make notes of issues which cannot be agreed correctly/satisfactorily, especially those with potentially serious implications, or which highlight a serious development/awareness need. Optionally allocate responsibility for delegates to check and report back to the group later in the day/course about unresolved questions. Ideally the facilitator should know/research the answers to all questions before running the exercise. Optionally ask the group to create the questions - for example, one question to be contributed per delegate, which works well where inter-departmental awareness is a development need. (If anyone draws out their own question they should pick another.) Question grid (devise your own as appropriate): Our top-selling product by value? Our top-selling product by profitability? Our biggest customer by value? Our biggest supplier by value? Our staff grievance procedure first point of contact? Our receptionist name(s)? Our company head of legal department is? Our customer services telephone number is? Our health and safety information is held where exactly? Our COSHH (or equivalent) information is held where exactly? Where can customers / staff park bicycles? How many days holiday are new starters entitled to in the first year? What is our policy on trade union membership? What is our policy on the minimum / living wage? What are our opening hours? Where is the outside rallying point for fire evacuation? Who is our PR agency? What is our main industry trade association? Who is responsible for on-site first aid? Where is our corporate governance policy? When was our company founded? Who founded our company? These questions are just examples. Create your own, and ensure you clarify questions where ambiguity could exist. one small change, one big effect (time management change, commitment, productivity improvement, self-development, personal empowerment) Here's a really simple easy quick activity to use with any group. The exercise is especially relevant for a group after a break, for example after holidays, or when a boost or intervention is required to help people shift habits or assumptions. Our personal time management is usually greatly influenced by: routines habits and assumptions Time management is largely within our personal control, although our routines, habits and assumptions can make us feel/believe/behave otherwise. This activity has two parts: Explore (perhaps discuss, given activity duration) preferably 'high yield' possibilities for changing individually how we manage our time. (As the group leader, see the time management tips and time management tools for ideas and theory - 'high yield' means a big result from a relatively small change.) Then each person should commit (optionally, publicly - to the group) to changing just one aspect of our time management. Tips: Focus on 'high yield' changes: i.e., the small changes that will produce the biggest results. This will help avoid the discussion becoming distracted by the inevitable obstacles which make big changes difficult. Get people thinking about little things that are easy to change (like when to check emails, and understanding the difference between urgent and important). Ask people to state some sort of measure and timescale by which they can check that their individual change has been implemented. Ask people to check with each other that the change has been made. Emphasize that this is about commitment, as much as it is about the change itself. Commitment is the key to overcoming obstacles. Emphasize the need to communicate and explain the change to people affected by it. Look at 'Nudge Theory' for additional ideas to make change easier. 'how to tie a shoelace' instructions exercise (warm-up, clear instructions, process design, effective writing, how to write training notes and user instructions, etc) This is a very simple exercise for any group of people, any age and ability. The task suggested is 'how to tie a shoelace', but you can substitute any other easy instinctive skill (e.g., 'make a paper aeroplane' or 'play a game of noughts and crosses') if you prefer. Ideally something that people can actually do for real in the review. The purpose of the activity is to start people thinking and working, and particularly to assist thinking and learning about: what we know unconsciously ourselves is not always simple to explain to others conscious competence in a skill can produce complacency when teaching/managing/coaching others in that skill (just because it's easy for us does not mean it's easy and second nature to someone else) how to write clearly - instructions, manuals, teaching notes, public information, advertising, etc process design and generally: effective communications/instruction/direction The task for the group - individually, or in pairs or teams or as a whole (depending on your situation and aims) - is to write some instructions as to how to tie a shoelace. Of course nearly everyone aged 4+ probably knows how to tie a shoelace, but that's not the point - the point is how to write a simple process and an instructional guide. You may add extra dimensions to the exercise by suggesting/agreeing: a type of audience/footwear for the instructions (for example, people for whom English is not their native language, young people, people with learning difficulties, people with disabilities, etc) a specification for a correctly tied shoelace (or leave this flexible - up to you, depending on the emphasis you want to apply in the task) scenario(s) - (e.g., sports shoe, fell-walker's boot, workman's heavy boot, etc) The time allowed for the task and review is flexible according to your situation. Obviously avoid arrangements that will be unnecessarily time-consuming and tedious, for example do not ask a group of twenty people to do the task individually and to present their results individually, or the exercise will take til lunchtime.. Ideally review the group's work so that at least some of the resulting instructions can be viewed by the whole group. You should also encourage people to try to follow - in practice - at least some of the resulting instructions (which is often overlooked by writers of manuals and instructions). Review: process - is there one? - numbered steps are usually best clarity of writing/words/language - is it clear and unambiguous? did anyone think to add some diagrams? - a picture tells a thousand words.. did anyone think to be even more creative and make a video?... (as facilitator you can decide if this negates the need for written instructions.. what if the audience can't access the video?..) are elements defined helpfully - did anyone use the word 'aglet'?..(it's the thin tube at the lace ends - it's not a necessary part of the exercise but is a point of trivial interest) ease of reading relevance for given scenario(s)/learner audience The activity offers a very neat association with the concept and principles of empathy, and the metaphor of 'putting yourself in the other person's shoes' when communicating to others. toilet paper icebreaker/introductions exercise This is a very simple and amusing introductions activity, and a super icebreaker and energizer, for groups of 5-12 people, any age and level, or bigger groups subject to splitting people into smaller sub-groups and giving guidance to self-facilitate as required. Equipment: just a roll of toilet paper per group. Give a toilet roll to a group member and instruct the group to: Stand up and form a circle (standing is far more energizing than sitting around a table, although sitting around a table is okay if space is limited). Chant a repeating: "One, two, three - One, two, three.." timed at about two seconds for each repetition. Hand-clapping in rhythm is optional depending on how energizing you require the activity to be. When the chanting is established and consistent, each group member must take as many sheets as they wish from the roll, and then pass the roll to the next person, within the time of a single 'one, two, three' chant. Then, after everyone has taken their sheets (do not issue these instructions until everyone has taken their sheets): Stop chanting (and clapping), thank you. Each person must now take it in turn to tell the group a number of facts about themselves: and the number of facts must equal the number of sheets of paper that the person holds. Facts must be new information to the group (easier for groups meeting for the first time - not so easy in groups who already know each other). Facts must be one very short sentence each (so that the most competitive paper-grabbers, who might now be regretting holding 15 or 20 sheets, do not have to talk for too long..) Aside from the obvious values of the activity (energizing, ice-breaking, quickly introducing people to each other in an interesting way), the exercise cleverly makes the points that: competitiveness can backfire, unless you know what you are competing for, and making assumptions carries risks There are also many ways to vary the exercise and to focus it towards a particular learning subject or workshop purpose, for example (and you will think of better orientations given your own situations/groups): Facts given must be related to (for example) past career, work ambitions, strengths, weaknesses, dreans, passions, hobbies, under-utilized capabilities and interests, things I want to to do before I die/next year/next tuesday/whenever, etc. Facts must not include.. (puppies, kittens, children, motorbikes, fishing, whatever) Facts must include.. (each group member can name a category, and only facts related to these subjects can be given). Facts must be the sort of information, and conveyed in a way, that would hugely impress a job interviewer/potential customer/date. Group members will vote at the end of the session for the most amazing/surprising/inspirational/whatever fact or fact-giving presentation. Facts must be conveyed enthusiastically and inspirationally, etc, etc. Facts can only be mimed, played out like 'charades' - optional points awarded for correct guesses. seasonal bundle of ideas - various ideas, quizzes, Xmas curiosities, etc seasonal team games - activities for groups for xmas and new year personality [self-image] exercise (self-awareness, personality, interviewing and selection) For groups of any size and virtually any ability/age/discipline, subject to organizing the group numbers, facilitation and review, etc. The basic activity is: Instruct delegates to (individually) consider and describe the personality of a well known admired person (which you can suggest, or assist the group in deciding who to describe). The descriptions must be very concise and ideally according to a personality theory that the delegates all know (or which can be explained to the group quickly and easily). Ask delegates to reveal their descriptions, record/share them visibly, and then discuss/review the differences between the delegates' views. A common cause of differences between delegates' views - and a fascinating aspect of the exercise - is that delegates' descriptions of a greatly admired person commonly match their own self-image. This is obviously a useful realization for anyone whose work entails assessing/evaluating other people, for example in management, interviewing and selection, etc. (N.B. For obvious reasons it can be preferable to omit 'self-image' from the name of the activity before you run it with a group.) In more detail.. First review the personality theories section. Select a personality theory which suits the group's needs/interests. Select a well known admired person. Involve the group in this if you wish (but avoid being distracted by other discussions about the selection, unless you welcome such discussion). You may select more than one well known person to repeat the exercise, but of course the point of the exercise is for the group to describe the same person at one time. If the group has expertise in personality theories and psychometric systems, then for extra focus on the technical aspects of personality theories you may select more than one theory for delegates to work with (which means delegates give more than one view - i.e., a view for each theory). Importantly you must be able to explain the basic workings of the chosen personality theory to the group, or the group must already understand the chosen theory to a very basic level. If working with young people or others who have no appreciation of personality theory then begin the activity by helping the group to establish and agree 10-15 key describing words of personality, which can then be used for the exercise. If using this method do not disclose/agree the famous person before establishing the 10-15 key describing words of personality, or the choice of person will influence the choice of words. Encourage delegates to use only 2-4 words to describe the dominant features of the personality. (Ideally for delegates who understand a psychometric system they can use the personality code/terminology of the system concerned.) Some suggestions of well known generally admired famous people: Jesus Christ, Mother Teresa, Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela.. (You and the group will perhaps think of more appropriate examples for your local situation and the group's interests.) Points for review: Why do we see the same people in different ways? To what extent does our view of ourselves influence our views of others? If to some extent, then why? What do we dislike about others, which might be an unreasonably harsh reaction? What do we tolerate in others, which might be an unreasonably generous reaction? Where do these biases come from? What is subjectivity/objectivity? What is discrimination? Is discrimination always against the law? If not is it always okay?.. What problems can result from judging people subjectively rather than objectively? How can we develop more objectivity in judging others? In organizations what safeguards can be introduced to reduce risks of unfair assessment/treatment of others? You will think of other review points, and others will arise anyway. Some useful reference materials: alternative christmas party/office party/staff social event ideas These ideas are for an alternative Christmas office party, or other workplace social event. Commonly staff social events, especially at Christmas time, involve eating and drinking in a pub or restaurant somewhere. The format tends to be: drink, eat, more drink, maybe dance a bit, maybe fall over in the car-park, and for many, have a hangover the next day. The organization, and more likely these days the staff too, spend a lot of money and have little to show for it, let alone a sense of fulfilment or spiritual uplift. Many organizations now seek more wholesome and responsible ways for team members to socialize, celebrate and bond at Christmas parties and other social events. Here are some ideas for alternative workplace social events which can be very enjoyable, very uplifting, very good for teambuilding, and very cost-effective too. 1. self-catering - DIY food and drink Instead of spending (or asking people to spend) a big amount per head on a meal out - instead do it yourselves 'in-house'. Organize your own buffet, or another type of catering. Perhaps ask every staff member of staff to bring in some interesting food. This can be especially rewarding for groups of varying ethnicity. Food reflects culture, and so offers a helpful basis for improving mutual awareness. And/or - you can keep things very simple if you give the event a theme, and make the food fit the theme. If you have a kitchen (most workplaces do), then you can handle a certain amount of hot food. If you don't have a kitchen, then be creative with some camping stoves or an outside barbecue. That's assuming you want to serve hot food. Otherwise keep it to a cold buffet, which depending on the weather and time of year, can be perfectly acceptable. Here's a quick organizer's checklist: Room/venue Jugs (for water and juices, etc) Bowls (for salads, punch, etc) Condiments (salt, pepper, etc) Rubbish bags, wipes, cloths - cleaning-up materials as required Some sort of food list/guidelines so people know what to make/bring - quantities and varieties - savoury, sweet, and vegetarian, or starters, main and puddings. Is there a staff-member with very good catering experience/skills who can help you plan and manage the event? Enlist his or her help. and/or Appoint a team (seek volunteers) to cook a couple of massive pots of something (inc. vegetarian option). and/or If you really don't want to do it yourselves, then bring in some outside caterers - something interesting like a hog-roast, or Indian or Chinese, whatever - be imaginative and talk to local restaurants/providers - they will want your business and will usually be very helpful. N.B. When you feed people in-house, on a biggish scale, it is very cost-effective and can produce excellent quality and quantities of food, for a fraction of eating-out costs. drinks Many groups will expect an alcoholic drink of some sort. Often alcohol is appropriate. Again be creative and imaginative. It is very cost-effective to provide drinks of all sorts in-house - alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Again seek help and involvement from staff members with experience and skills in making and providing drinks for large groups. Punch, sangria and Pimms are easy and inexpensive to make in large quantities - especially when compared to bar/restaurant prices. Recipes are available on the web. Consider the strength of drinks that you provide and consider implications of people's health, proper behaviour, transport, driving, etc. Ensure there are adequate soft drinks for staff members who do not want to drink alcohol. It's always good to provide jugs of water anyway. As with the food, you can keep things very simple if you give the event a theme, and make the drinks fit the theme. Perhaps delegate the bar/drinks responsibility to a department. 2. venue - find a room Most offices have a big space somewhere which can be quickly reorganized to produce a good-sized area for setting up a buffet and eating. Maybe offer starters, mains, and deserts in different departmental rooms, so people circulate and get to know each other better. Maybe ask each department to create its own 'restaurant' or buffet theme. Maybe organize it so the executives/bosses serve the staff, and wait on their every need.. If you don't have a room or rooms then go out and find the space you need. Again be imaginative and creative. There are interesting spaces everywhere. Find some space and make it work. Ideas for venue hire: Schools, colleges, universities Customers' and suppliers' premises Decorate the venue. Appoint a team to do this - and to dismantle and tidy up too. The executives/bosses can perhaps be nominated for these duties.. 3. entertainment A consistent problem affecting traditional workplace parties and social events is that people tend to drink a lot when nothing else entertains them. People engage relatively little, with the event, and with each other. Organized activities instead get people involved and mixing and having fun together, which develops mutual understanding, builds relationships and teams, and diffuses tensions. So think of some activities on which to build your event - to give people some entertainment apart from eating and drinking. Here are some ideas: Organize and 'X-Factor-type Talent Show' or a 'Your Company's Got Talent' show - and/or an 'Open Mic' session - you will be surprised how many instrumentalists and singers you have among your staff members Karaoke Active computer team games on a big screen Bring in some participative musical entertainment - there are perhaps some entertainers among your staff, or certainly your staff will know entertainers Quizzes - there are lots of quizzes in this website , and also on the new Quizballs.com website (Externally provided) Casino or horse-racing activities (not real money, and just for fun, although prizes are usually offered) And think of your own ideas - invite suggestions from your staff - be imaginative and creative in involving and engaging people. Think about activities which will be different and participative, so that people will be active and entertained, rather than sat down drinking and chatting about work and office politics, etc. As already suggested, a really useful tone-setting idea is to have the bosses and executives take a leading role in serving and waiting on the staff. The tone of the event is important. Staff will be positive if the tone is right. If the bosses stand aloof and refuse to help and get involved, then the tone will be unfair and wrong, and staff will not put effort and commitment into the event. If the tone is right and good and fair, then staff will respond positively. Consider that in very many organizations throughout the year, staff see senior managers and bosses enjoy longer lunch-breaks, expenses-paid-for trips and meals, big company cars, reserved car-park spaces, better salaries, bonuses and perks, and all sorts of other privileges. So wouldn't it make a refreshing change for once if the bosses served the staff? You bet it would. A workplace social event is an opportunity for the organization to say thank you to its people. A sit down meal with drinks in a restaurant will achieve this to a degree, and of course in many cases is entirely appropriate, but for many other situations, a social event can achieve a lot more. day colours/colors exercise (individual perspectives, emotional triggers, empathy, johari window, respecting personal differences) This is a very simple quick and fascinating exercise to illustrate how people often have different views of the same thing, which is central to understanding empathy and many related concepts. The activity may be used as an icebreaker or larger discussion exercise, for groups of any size and age/seniority, subject to appropriate facilitation for your situation. Example explanation and instruction to a group: Emotions and feelings within each of us are 'triggered' in different ways. We think differently and therefore see things differently. We often do not imagine that other people may see something quite differently to how we see the 'same' thing. Management and relationships, in work and outside of work too, depend heavily on our being able to understand the other person's view, and what causes it to be different to our own. To illustrate this, and to explore how mental associations can 'colour' (US-English 'color') our worlds differently: Close your eyes and imagine the days of the week What colour is each day? Write down the colour of each day Review and compare people's different colour associations, and - where people consciously know and are willing to share their reasons/associations - review these differences too. Note: If anyone sees all the days as the same color, or sees no colour association at all, or perhaps sees or senses a more powerful alternative association, then this is another equally worthy personal viewpoint and difference. The days of the week are a simple fixed pattern. Yet we see them in different ways. It is easy to imagine the potential for far greater differences in the way we see more complex situations - like our work, our responsibilities and our relationships, etc. Human beings will never see things in exactly the same way - this is not the aim or work or life - instead the aim should be to understand each other's views far better, so that we can minimise conflict and maximise cooperation. Useful reference materials: psychological contract 'iceberg' exercises (the psychological contract, work/life alignment, organizational development, motivational understanding, employer/employee relationships, leadership) The Psychological Contract is increasingly significant in organizational management and development. The Psychological Contract 'Iceberg' model diagram assists explanation and exploration of the subject. Ask group members to create their own version of the Psychological Contract 'Iceberg' diagram - individually, in pairs or teams, and review/discuss as appropriate for your situation. Versions of the 'Iceberg' may be mapped according to different perspectives, for example - how people see it currently; how they'd prefer it to be; from a personal, departmental or workforce standpoints. The exercise can be used as a basis for all sorts of learning and development activities, for example relating to: motivation and attitude alignment of people with organizational aims work/management/leadership relationships with employees mutual awareness (employee/employer) and organizational transparency - and especially in identifying hidden or confused perceptions which may be obstacles to improving employee/employer relationships Refer to the Psychological Contract theory and within it whatever related learning concepts might be helpful to your situation. Johari Window is particularly relevant. lifestyle acronyms game (social demographics, creativity and invention, lifestyle types and choices, compact communications, generational theory) A simple exercise to encourage thinking about demographics , generational ideas, language, and communications. For groups of any size. Split into pairs, threes, or work teams and review as appropriate, or run the activity as a quick ice-breaker. Instruction to the group: Acronyms are powerful in communicating a lot of information very succinctly, and also in illustrating this principle, which relates to generational issues in management and life. We have probably all heard of amusing lifestyle aconyms such as DINKY (Double Income, No Kids Yet); GOFER (Genial Old Farts Enjoying Retirement); ORCHID (One Recent Child, Heavily In Debt); and the more formal term NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training). What acronym can you devise (or suggest one you know already) that is particularly appropriate for modern times? Where groups devise their own acronyms you may optionally award a point for each letter in the acronym and bonus points for: true acronyms (which either seem like a word or make a real word, using the first letter from each word in the full expression) a meaningful 'bacronym' (in which the word spelled by the acronym relates cleverly to the expression) You can alternatively/additionally ask the group to devise new portmanteau words , which by itself would enable a quicker activity. Review/discuss results as appropriate for your situation. Optional equipment - dictionary and thesaurus. guessing game (ice-breaker, assumptions, multiple intelligences, hidden abilities, risks in judgment ) This is a simple and adaptable exercise which can be used to explore various themes. You could run a version on a table-top, or use it to get people moving around quite a lot. As facilitator you need just a tape measure and a pad of small sticky notes. You can change the scale targets (in scale or metric/imperial) according to your situation. You can treat the activities as a competition by awarding scores, and/or run the activity for teams, which adds an interesting extra perspective. Here is the basis of the exercise. Adapt it and use different exercises to suit your own situations. Instruction to group: This is an experiment to explore the brain's capability to estimate scale. Your guesses will be measured and results given. The exercises involve simple guessing, but provide a basis for understanding more about how reliably (or unreliably) our brains can estimate scale, etc., without measuring tools or precise references. This relates to risks of making assumptions, and the merits/risks/surprises associated with guessing, short-cuts, working from habit/instinct, etc. Sometimes guessing and instinctive assumptions are effective; often they are not. (Additionally/separately the activity prompts appreciation and exploration of multiple intelligences theory - specifically how some people are naturally better at some of these tasks than others.) Using sticky notes (to be personalised for identification) mark the following: a distance of ten feet on the floor a height of three feet on a wall a distance of one metre on a table Note: As facilitator it will take you a while to measure and note scores for lots of guesses, so think how best to do this. If using the exercise as a quick icebreaker, or if time is tight, especially if group is large, think carefully about how many measuring exercises to include. Just one is fine for an icebreaker. With big groups and treams issue people with tape measures and have them score each other. Or see the examples for simplifying the activities below. Review the activities as appropriate for your purposes, points for example: What surprises did we find? What clues are there to people's different abilities? What differences are there in guessing different types of scale? What creative methods were used in 'measuring'. How does the brain guess something? In work/life how do we decide when to guess and when to measure, and are these the best criteria? How can we make our guessing more reliable? (If exercises are performed in teams) are team guesses more reliable than individual guesses? What merit is there in the 'Wisdom of Crowds' in guessing and making intuitive judgments? Depending on time and how you want to use the activities, other materials and measuring devices can be used for different exercises, for example: an angle of 30 degrees (ask people to draw two straight lines on a sheet of paper, like two sides of a triangle - facilitator needs a protractor for measuring) a square sheet of paper equal to one square metre (newspaper and sticky tape - a square metre is for some people a surprisingly large area - each side must measure one metre) or, for more adventure, which might appeal to children, explore volume and weight with water and sand, etc, for which basically you only need the water, sand, some plastic foodbags or balloons, and a measuring jug (and some cleaning-up cloths...) For a smaller table-top activity you can give target distances in centimetres and/or inches rather than feet and metres, and use a ruler of greater precision, (and be prepared for some innuendo among certain groups). To simplify and speed up the activities, and to reduce preparations and measuring, have people guess weight/volume/height/distance/etc of a pre-prepared example (for each exercise), rather than have each person produce their own, for example: Show the group a loosely coiled length of string, on a table or the floor, and invite estimates as to the length of the string. For an exercise requiring people to guess a large quantity of units, you can show a bucket of marbles, or simply cut or tear a sheet of paper into lots of pieces (unseen to the group members, too many to count at a glance) and scatter them on a table. Show the group a page of printed words and invite guesses as to how many words. Show the group a pile of coins and ask them to estimate the total value. Team guessing enables additional exploration, for example linkage to ideas about the 'Wisdom of Crowds', and also benefits/disadvantages of working in isolation versus working in cooperation, especially where intuitive or subjective judgment is required. Adapt the exercises depending on how active and logistically involved you wish the activities to be. Reference materials, for example: Kolb learning styles theory - different thinking styles suit different tasks Conscious Competence learning model - how well do we know and trust our own judgment Johari Window - specifically knowing our own and others strengths/weaknesses early bird/second mouse exercise (ice-breaker, creative thinking, presentation skills, debating, analysis, teamworking, group decision dynamics) This is a simple exercise for groups between 8 and 30 people, and involves many different learning elements: understanding strategies, teamwork, presentations, argument, debate, analysis and group decision-making. The activity is based on the funny one-liner (often attributed to comedian Stephen Wright), which is deeper than first seems: "The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese." Split the group into two teams. Nominate one team to be 'early bird' and the other team to be 'second mouse' (or allow the group to decide this themselves, which can be an interesting mini-exercise in its own right). Give the teams 5-10 minutes, each to develop a 60-second presentation (or longer for bigger groups and more learning depth) as to why their strategy ('early bird' or 'second mouse') is best for business (or work or life, depending on your situation). Encourage the teams to make use of the knowledge and abilities and views of all team members in creating their presentations. After the two presentations chair a 5-10 minute debate between the teams of the question: "Early bird or second mouse: Which is the most effective strategy for business (or work or life)?" (Optionally, ask the teams if in light of the presentations they would prefer to frame the question in a different way. People might now see a more constructive approach to the question. Again this can be a useful mini-exercise in its own right.) After the debate hold a 'free' vote to see what the combined group now believes about the question. Allow but do not encourage abstentions ('don't knows'). Encourage group members to vote as individuals, putting their team loyalty to one side. There are many possible learning areas to review after this exercise, depending on your situation and development purposes, for example: different strategies for different situations - adaptability versus consistency different strategies for different types of people and personalities or organizational cultures assembling an argument/case/presentation in a team against a tight deadline presenting a concise and convincing argument/presentation constructive debate and discussion - using evidence, examples, structure, passion, etc (with regard to the optional re-framing of the debate question) the significance of question wording when a group is asked a question, and the potential to distort unhelpfully or focus helpfully on the main issue how groups consider and decide responsibility of those in authority to assist and enable clear understanding, debate and decision-making dilemma of personal views versus 'team' views ('real life' examples: parliamentary voting - keeping to the party-line, or personal convictions/local constituency; also management dilemma in implementing corporate policy with which a manager may personally disagree - what are the important reference points in making these judgements? and other aspects applicable or arising. Some reference materials: Clean Language - an interesting type of neutral enabling questioning, used in therapy touchy feely exercises (sensory perception, self-awareness, non-verbal communications, body language, relationships in teamwork and personal support) Here are some ideas and exercises to explore human physical contact and touching; the types, benefits, risks, associated feelings and reactions, in relation to self others. Touching people is understandably a neglected aspect of relationships and communications, especially in management and education relating to sexual harassment and child protection. Nevertheless touch is a highly significant part of body language, and crucial to human interaction. We therefore benefit by improving our understanding of touch and using it appropriately, rather than avoiding it altogether. A 2010 New York Times article by Benedict Carey reported some interesting findings on human touching: Research suggests that we may be able to detect at least eight different emotions using only a simple touching contact from person to person (M Hertenstein, DePauw University, Indiana US). Separate studies found touch and physical contact among teams to be linked to success in sport (Kraus, Huang and Keltner, Berkeley US). And the amount of physical contact between romantic or married couples when simply sitting side by side has found to correlate with relationship satisfaction (C Oveis, Harvard US), which while not hugely surprising, is perhaps often overlooked or forgotten with the passing of years. Many and various other studies have reported the positive powers of human touch. For example see Leo Buscaglia on hugging and love . As with physical exercise, human touch triggers the release of chemicals in the brain. These are basic primitive human responses, not easily understood, and even now only beginning to be researched and analysed in reliable scientific terms. In time we will know what it all means and how it all works. Meanwhile a little practical experimentation can be helpful and enlightening. Here are some ideas: Based on the Hertenstien research referenced above, ask people to work in pairs or threes and with eyes closed, to experiment in giving their reactions to different types of touches - to the hand, by another person's hand or fingers. Be careful and seek the entire group's agreement before encouraging/allowing any more adventurous touching than this. Hand touching (including handshakes) alone should be ample to demonstrate emotions such as confidence, aggression, timidity, reassurance, curiosity, etc., and any other reactions generated. A third person can act as a toucher and also to observe facial expressions and give external reaction. Hugging: Subject to the group's agreement, get people hugging each other and noting their reactions and feelings. As Buscaglia discovered, and many since then, hugging is potentially powerful medicine. Explore implications and issues. Group-hug: Try it and see how it makes people feel. As a variation split the group into two teams. Ask one team to group-hug. Then give both teams an identical task, competing against each other (for example sorting a pack of cards, or making ten big newspaper balls and throwing them into a bin at the other end of the room). Ask the second team if they want a group-hug before starting. Maybe ask the first team if they want another group-hug. Maybe allow group-hugging at will (if the group likes it go with it..) After the task, discuss relevance of hugging and physical contact to teamworking and bonding, enthusiasm, etc. Were the biggest huggers the most motivated? Is a hugging team generally a winning team? Discuss with the group: what are people's own views and feelings about what sorts of touching are acceptable, unacceptable, positive, reassuring, supportive, etc., according to different situations. Is a gentle pat on the back always okay? What cultural differences exist? What are the real practical no-go areas? Shoulders? Arms? Hands? What's the difference between a light touch and a caress? Different rules for different genders? How do observers (other team members, customers, etc) view touching when they see it? How do we improve our use of this sort of body-language at work, mindful of the risks? Etc., etc. See also the Silent Touch exercise on Teambuilding Games page 1. Reference materials, for example: Tuckman's theory - (from a team-bonding view) And your own policy material on harassment and child protection as appropriate. the outdoors tea-break exercise (different perspectives, context, relativity, perception vs 'reality', and how most things change according to situation) The nature of anything - especially feelings, relationships and communications - changes according to situation and context. This is vitally important in understanding ourselves, others, and the way that human systems operate, in which subjective views are commonly more dominant than objective facts, figures and evidence. Perceptions among people, especially given group effects, has a huge effect on systemic and organizational behaviour. Here is a simple and pleasing demonstration of how something can change when experienced in a new context, particularly when the warmer spring season approaches (in the northern hemisphere): When next facilitating or teaching a group, take your tea/coffee break outside, and ask people if their tea/coffee tastes different, compared to how it normally tastes indoors. The demonstration is clearest if first people pour the drink and take a few sips indoors, and then walk outside, so as to compare the indoor and outdoor taste. Strangely the taste is quite different, sometimes remarkably different. This is probably due to the fresh air being smelled and tasted along with the drink. I am open to better explanations. The effect also works with cold drinks. And picnic lunches, if you've time. In some situations the exercise will work better by not warning people of the reason for going outside, other than to get some fresh air and a leg-stretch, both of which are good for groups anyway. Taste is not the only characteristic altered, for example, in cold weather the drink cools far quicker. Small and insignificant though it is, the drink experience and memory is altered by the different outside environment. The indoor cup of tea or coffee is perceived to be different because of the outdoor context and situation. Everything in life - especially concerning human attitude - alters according to context. The analogy can be used in many subjects which benefit from interpreting differences and implications within relative positions, for example: Self-awareness and mutual awareness - see Johari Window Management and motivation - see Maslow and Adams Equity Theory and Action Centred Leadership Very many theories and models for learning, management, development, etc., contain some sort of relative framework. Understanding relativity is not merely for theoretical explanation - it's a real practical tool for interpreting and acting with more appropriate meaning - rather than a 'one size fits all' mentality - especially concerning the widely different perceptions among people in different situations. newspaper story interpretation exercise (understanding and applying motivational theories, or other principles and models of management) For groups of any size, subject to splitting into working teams and managing the review of the team work. The exercise will take 5-10 minutes plus whatever review your think is appropriate for your situation. Equipment: Some daily national or local newspapers. Enough for every person to have at least 2-3 sheets. Issue the newspapers to the group or team(s). Instruction to team(s): Each person must find a news story in the newspaper to which he/she can apply a motivational theory, by way of interpreting the story and being able to explain the story in terms of the chosen theory. Example theories, which can be illustrated in news stories: Cybernetics You may of course direct group members to any management/motivational theories or models that fit your purposes. You may nominate specific models, or seek examples of models from the group, then write these on pieces of paper, fold, and have people pick them 'blind'. To focus people's attention on key points in their analysis, and to ensure that reviews are kept compact and fast-moving, you can instruct people to present their interpretations in a very concise verbal summary, optionally using a flip chart or white-board, of no more than 30 seconds. Allow discussion and debate of matters arising as appropriate, according to the needs and timings of your session. To save review time - ask people to work in pairs, or in teams - requiring each pair or team to present an interpretation of only one story, being the most powerful example that the pair or team can find in the time allowed. If the group has access to computers, internet and group display this enables the use of online news websites rather than newspapers. the three describers exercise (introductions, icebreaker, johari mutual awareness, team dynamics, team development) This is a long explanation for actually a very simple activity. The game is for groups of up to twenty people, or more provided they know each other. Equipment and set up: Split the group into equal teams of three or four people. Teams of five or six are okay although will require firm time control. Teams of seven or more are not recommended. Issue each person a pen/pencil and four note-sized pieces of paper, or four sticky-notes - 3-5 inches wide. Each team should be sat around their own table, or around ends/corners of a big table, or alternatively on the floor, or around a wall-space if using sticky notes. Instruction to both teams (to each person): Write your own name on one of the notes (in plain handwriting which cannot be identified to you - or ask someone else to do this if you have a distinctive writing style). Write clearly three positive words - one on each note - which strongly describe or represent you. Do this hidden from others, and again in a plain style of handwriting which will not identify you as the writer. (N.B. For the purposes of this exercise only positive describing words are permitted. This activity is not suitable for exposing and discussing individual weaknesses, and negative describing words can be unhelpful given the nature of this exercise. This is important to clarify at the outset, because there's no easy way to remove or substitute unhelpful words once they've been exposed.) Move all describer notes and name notes to the centre of your team's table (or wall-space) and mix them up. (Optionally before this, turn/fold the notes face down. There is benefit where people do not reveal their descriptions to their own team, so that discovery and surprise as to who 'owns' the describers is experienced by everyone and not just the guessing team.) Ask the teams to move to the/an other team's table/wall-space so that they are working with another team's describers. The task for each team is to re-arrange the describers in sets of three beneath the appropriate name note, correctly allocating the describers to the 'owners'. (Obviously negative or controversial words would at this stage become potentially upsetting and problematical.) The winning team is the one which achieves the most correctly allocated describers. N.B. Where more than two teams play the game, the initial review stage (when correct answers are given) becomes complex logistically and so teams should be instructed to show the correct answers on a separate sheet of paper when returning to their tables/walls, rather than disturbing the original suggested answers. This enables everyone in the group, (if warranted - notably for groups which work together), to review all the guesses and the correct answers - which works best using sticky notes and wall-space. Additional guidance notes: Where groups do not already know each other ask them to make brief personal introductions to the group before the exercise. Do not give warning of the exercise to come - but do ask for people to introduce themselves with a little more information than merely name and job. When explaining the exercise - describing words ('describers') can be personality characteristics, such as determined, diplomatic, reserved, confident, friendly, etc., and/or more symbolic words such as music, football, mountain, adventure, family, etc., which represent a very significant personal characteristic. Some people will relate readily to the idea of using symbolic words; others will prefer to use only words which conventionally describe a personality. Emphasise that people should try to use words which genuinely and honestly represent themselves in a positive way. The facilitator reserves the right to withdraw any negative or controversial describing words, and to deduct penalty points from the offending team. The facilitator can explain that exposing personal weaknesses is important, but not in this exercise (so this is not a matter of denial or rose-tinted spectacles - it's a matter of what's appropriate for the exercise, given how it works). The facilitator reserves the right to deduct points from any team where a word is considered to be too obscure and not strongly representative of the person, and to award bonus points where a particularly difficult describing word is correctly allocated. Where several teams play the game, the initial review of correct/incorrect answers - as teams move from one table to another - needs to be planned and controlled appropriately. Ensure teams are instructed not to move the describers arranged by the guessing team, instead to show the correct answers on a separate sheet of paper, which can be used to manage the awarding of points. Where it is not possible to form equal team sizes (for example with groups of 7, 11, 13, 17, etc) the facilitator is advised to to rule beforehand (that either): team totals will be adjusted pro-rate to take account of the imbalance; or that since there is both advantage and disadvantage in having a larger/smaller team, no points adjustment is warranted. The important thing is to decide beforehand rather than be caught out mid-exercise without a firm rule. It is perfectly possible to play this game using ordinary pens/pencils and paper (rather than thicker marker pens), although visibility is reduced and so is less effective, especially for larger groups. Review and reference materials: Relate these issues to team development models, such as Tannenbaum and Schmidt and Tuckman's Forming Storming model . Consider awareness of team strengths in the context of models such as VAK and Multiple Intelligence . Discuss mutual awareness from a team leadership view, for example Adair's Action-Centred Leadership model . Many other views of personality and differences in people can be explored via Personality Models and Theory . N. B. Where the exercise is used as more of an ice-breaker for a group which has only recently been introduced to each other, a separate learning illustration is how much (or little) we seek, observe and absorb about new people we meet, and whether we can be more attentive at such times, since this reflects on perceived levels of empathy, and can influence people's self-esteem and confidence, and readiness to cooperate, etc. quick plan exercise (new year planning, aims, planning, change) A quick icebreaker and kick-start activity with a helpful underlying purpose. For groups of any size. Introduction/scene-setting: The beginning of a new year prompts many of us to consider new aims and plans, or to renew a commitment towards a change or improvement of some sort. Commitments tend to succeed where there is a plan, especially for aims which contain steps leading towards the final result. Without a plan, little can change. This process can help: 1. Think of a commitment or change you want to make. 2. (Write it down) - describe it as a clear, realistic and measurable outcome. 3. Work backwards, identifying the steps necessary for achieving it, back to the starting point: i.e., now. 4. Attach timescales and resources as necessary. You now have a simple plan. Take it away and refine it as necessary. Useful reference materials: multiple intelligences theory and learning/thinking styles - including free self-assessment tests SMART principles within task delegation - the rules apply to 'delegating' a task to yourself just as to delegating to another person. Agree review/feedback expectations with the group before the activity, as appropriate for your situation. Note that review/feedback are not always necessary, especially if the activity seeks to help people to think about personal priorities and plans which they may prefer to keep private. In this situation it is particularly helpful to clarify that people do not need to reveal or discuss their aims with the group unless they want to, since for some people this enables more relaxed and creative thinking. party games bundle (party games for grown-ups and kids) Here is a selection of quick easy fun party games, including some already on these team games webpages. The Map Game - simple fun game for pairs or teams of threes to draw a map of the world from memory. Very funny. Who Am I? Game - simple and easy to make party game. The Smartie Hunt Game - teams make animal noises to direct their leader to collect hidden sweets. PIT - it's easy to make your own cards for this noisy trading game. Helium Stick Game - very strange effect game - play it in teams for parties. Charades - easy, amusing, popular party game. Baking Foil Animals - quick, funny, easy - all you need is a roll of baking foil. You will find other ideas on these pages which can be adapted for party games. Other quick party game ideas (for parties, not for work situations): The After Eight Game - (as featured on a TV advert) the winner is the first person who can move an After Eight mint chocolate from forehead into mouth using only head/face movements. Key-String Game - split the group into teams of at least five people in each and arrange boy-girl-boy-girl-etc. Issue each with a heavy key or spanner similar cold metal tool, tied to about fifty feet of string. The winning team is the first to thread the string through the whole team, passing underneath each team-member's clothing from top to bottom. Orange Game - split the team into teams of at least five people in each and arrange boy-girl-boy-girl-etc. Issue each with an orange (or potato or other similar sized fruit or vegetable). The winning team is the first to pass the orange from person to person and back to the beginning by holding the orange between chin and chest (no hands). Dropping the orange incurs a two-person-stage penalty (move it back two people in the chain). Egg Game - for outside (or indoors if you live in a mansion with a banqueting hall at least fifty feet long). Play in pairs. Give each pair a raw egg (still unbroken in its shell). Pairs face each other in two lines, five paces apart. The egg must be thrown and caught twice between each pair. Move the lines three paces further apart. Again, throw and catch twice. Etc, etc. The winners are the last with their egg intact. (If you are disturbed by the wastefulness of this game don't play it.) Upside-down Drinking Game - not recommended after a heavy meal or drinking session. Can be played in teams of three - one upside-down (standing on head) being supported by a team-mate, being fed a half-pint of a suitable drink from a suitable receptacle. Drinking straws are optional at the discretion of the party games organiser. The winning team is the first to consume the drink. For additional challenge make the drink a pint and require each team member to take a turn in each of the three positions - holding, feeding and drinking. Be careful when planning games to ensure that they are appropriate for your situation. I accept no liability for any untoward issues arising. breakfast project planning exercise (project planning, task planning, preparation, structure and organisation, scheduling, budgeting) The activity is a simple introduction to project planning, and helps develop awareness of structure, scheduling, etc., and the basic process of organising and coordinating time, activities and resources, and optionally finances. For groups of any size and any age. Split the group into pairs or teams appropriate for your situation. The task is to produce a simple project plan for making a cooked breakfast. Issue pens, rulers and paper, or arrange other presentation media as you wish. As the facilitator you may substitute or offer alternative tasks. Cooking a breakfast is merely an example; see other examples below. Specify a task/tasks which the group will find interesting, amusing, enjoyable, etc. For variation you can issue each pair/team with a different task. You can optionally allow pairs/teams to choose a different task of their own liking, provided it is workable for the activity (i.e., it's reasonably simple, requires a schedule, and contains various inter-dependent activities and resources). Using simple non-work-related tasks such as cooking a breakfast enables good focus on the project management method, and an enjoyable quick activity, rather than using real work issues, which can become overly detailed, distracting and/or tedious. Introduce the group to a project management tool(s) as appropriate, for example a Gantt chart, critical path analysis flow chart, or a 'fishbone' diagram. Examples are on the project management page. To extend the activity you can add the requirement that teams must indicate where training or preparation needs are most likely required for any of the process elements. Similar instruction can be given to indicate or comment on obvious needs for knowledge, experience, skills, which can be related to VAK learning styles and/or Bloom's Taxonomy perspectives. Additionally you can introduce a financial element, so that plans must show a breakdown of costs, and a structure to monitor the budget for the project by each separate item. Note that this financial aspect can be a big extra challenge for some learners and is best excluded if the main development need is to learn the basic structure and process of building a project plan. Examples of other tasks you can use for this activity: Cook a roast dinner. Set up a fish aquarium. Create a personal page on a social networking website. You can use any task that group members basically understand and relate to, and importantly which breaks down into a sequence of inter-dependent activities and/or parts whose timing and coordination are necessary to produce a successful result. Project plans can be presented, discussed and reviewed according to your own situation and timings. See project management for lots of supporting materials. Brainstorming is a useful way to begin any planning task. Delegation is a useful reference area because in many real work-based projects involve delegating responsibilities to others, for which clarity and effectiveness of plans are vital. Other potentially useful reference materials, depending on the expertise and interests of the group are: Balanced Scorecard sheet of paper step-through game (icebreaker, teambuilding, problem-solving, togetherness, kids' scissor-skills) A novel paper-cutting icebreaker exercise, played in pairs, or threes, or as a group. The activity can be used as a bigger group problem-solving and team-working task. Equipment: Scissors and sheets of paper, A4 size or similar. Instruction to group: You have five minutes to devise a way of cutting the sheet of paper so that it creates a ring - without any breaks or joins - large enough to fit over both people, and then to step through the ring (in your pair/three/as a group). A cutting solution and diagram are below, and also explained in smaller scale in the business card trick . Depending on your purposes, situation and group, you can change this exercise in various ways, for example: Issue the cutting diagram to all participants. This should ensure that the activity produces at least one successful demonstration of the task. Do not issue the cutting diagram, but instead demonstrate the solution, and instruct the participants to remember it. This tests people's concentration and retention. Issue the cutting diagram half-way through the exercise when (as is likely) participants fail to discover a cutting solution - which highlights the importance of having instructions and knowledge for challenging tasks which might initially seem quite easy. Ask people to do the exercise in teams of three rather than pairs, which increases the brain-power available, but also the potential for confusion, and also the size of the paper ring necessary to fit over three people rather than two. Issue sticky tape, allow joins to be made, and add a two-minute time penalty for each join in the ring. Change the task so that the group creates a paper ring large enough to fit over the entire group - allowing for only one sticky-tape join per pair of delegates. This opens the possibility for many different cutting solutions, because each pair is effectively then required merely to convert their sheet into a long length of paper rather than an unbroken ring. Activity notes: As facilitator it is recommended you practice the suggested cutting solution so that if necessary you can demonstrate it (before or afterwards, depending on your adaptation) to the group. Beware of using this activity in any situation that could cause embarrassment to overweight people or where delegates would be uncomfortable with the inter-personal proximity required. The qualification of putting the ring of paper over a given number of people is that while standing (necessarily very close) together they are able to pass the paper ring over their heads and down to the floor, enabling them to step over and thereby through the ring without breaking it. Here is the cutting diagram, assuming that the sheet of paper is first folded. This is one solution to the exercise. If you know another please send it . Here are examples of alternative solutions . Fold the sheet of paper in half, and cut it through both sides of the paper, as shown in the diagram, in the following sequence: Cut 8-12 slits (8 are adequate - the diagram shows 12), from the folded edge up to about 1-2cm of the open edge, each slit being about 1.5-2cm apart. Cut a slit between each of the above slits, from the open edge to about 1-2cm of the folded edge. Cut along the folded edge, but not the ends marked with blue circles. You should then be able to open the paper into a ring which comfortably fits over two people. Cutting more slits increases the size of the ring, as would using a larger sheet of paper. Slit dimensions can be increased for larger sheets. A further adaptation of the exercise is to issue one large sheet of paper (for example from a broadsheet newspaper) to a group of people (up to ten or even twenty people) and task them to work out how to cut (or tear, for added difficulty) the paper into a seamless ring which will fit over the entire group. This creates lots of problem-solving activity in the planning stage, and much physicality and togetherness when the ring is being passed over the group. You can avoid inactivity for group members during the cutting/tearing by instructing that all group members must take a turn at cutting/tearing. Team members can also plan the step-through strategy and other logistical aspects of the exercise. You will be surprised how large a ring can be created. An A4 sheet easily makes a ring circumference of 3m. A big newspaper sheet easily produces a ring circumference of 7m. alternative solutions Here is an alternative solution (thanks E Roddick and one of his workgroups in San Gabriel Valley, US). Cutting lines are shown in red and blue. The diameter of the ring produced would increase by lengthening the parallel spiral pattern, requiring cuts closer together. I understand from another contributor (thanks Brian) that in 1970s London this method was used by young lads with bus tickets, to ease the boredom of the daily school commute.. The technique entails cutting or tearing the red line first, and then the blue. Here is another alternative solution (thanks A How). The cutting lines are shown in red. The solution is similar to the first folded solution, but without the fold. The blue line is the outside edge of the paper or card. If you have another solution please send it . truth and lies introductions game (ice-breaker, johari mutual awareness, interaction, amusement and fun) Inspired by a sketch on Armstrong and Miller's TV comedy show in October 2009, this is an amusing variation of the usual around-the-table introductions at the start of courses and other gatherings. Instruction to group: Introduce yourself in turn by stating your name (and role if relevant) plus: one true statement about yourself, and one false statement about yourself so as to make it difficult for the group to determine which is the true fact and which is the lie. You have 30 seconds to think of your statements, after which (according to the order decided by the facilitator) each person makes their statements, pausing after each truth and lie for the group to decide which is which. While producing some amusement, the exercise can reveal surprising and impressive information about people (hidden talents and claims to fame, etc). The activity can therefore be useful for team-building from a Johari awareness viewpoint, and it also stimulates creative thinking and group interaction. The exercise also requires group analysis and decision-making in deciding which are the true statements and which are the lies. Gardner's Multiple Intelligences model is a useful reference if using the exercise to illustrate the nature of individual natural or hidden capabilities. (This exercise is adapted from the Armstrong and Miller comedy sketch. Adapt it further to suit your own purposes.) egg balance game (concentration, positive thinking, discovery, breaking down barriers, wonderment and fascination) For groups of any size. Each person must have an egg and a table-top surface. According to myth, due to planetary gravitational effects or similar nonsense, it is possible to stand an egg on its end during the vernal (Spring) equinox, which is on or close to 21 March, when night and day are equal. In fact it is possible with a little patience and a steady hand to balance an egg on its end on a flat level surface, any time. The big end is much easier. Here's one on my kitchen table. This interesting feat of manual dexterity and myth-busting provides the basis for an enjoyable and fascinating group exercise. The temptation to pun is almost irresistible. A raw egg is perhaps easier to balance than a hard-boiled egg because the weight sinks to the bottom and creates a sort of 'googly-man' effect. The science is not especially clear about this and if there are any professors of egg balancing out there I'd welcome your input. You can use this activity in various ways, to demonstrate or emphasise patience, discovery, positive thinking, questioning assumptions, breaking barriers, stress avoidance; and for team contests. Incidentally you can tell the difference between a hard-boiled egg and a raw egg by spinning the egg. A raw egg spins slowly and speeds up, and continues spinning after you stop it; a hard egg spins faster and stays stopped. These differences are due to the independent motion of the liquid in the raw egg, whereas a hard egg behaves as a single mass. An additional point of interest is that a few grains of salt enables a very quick balancing 'trick', which is of course cheating. Facilitators are recommended to practice the task before asking others to try it. The balancing is easier on slightly textured surfaces and a lot more difficult on very smooth surfaces. Eggs with slightly pimply shells are much easier to balance than eggs with very smooth shells. Some eggs are easier to balance than others so have a few spare for any that simply will not balance. A mop and bucket is recommended if using this exercise with children. (Thanks to N Mehdi for the suggestion.) fancy dress exercise (ice-breaker, self-expression, mutual awareness) A very quick and easy ice-breaker, requiring no equipment or preparation. The game can be used to make introductions a little more interesting than usual, or as a separate ice-breaker activity. For groups of any size. Split large groups into teams small enough to review answers among themselves. Instruction to group: You are invited to a fancy dress party which requires that your costume says something about you. What costume would you wear and why? Take two minutes to think of your answer. Review: Simply by asking people to explain their answers briefly to the group/team. The exercise can be varied and expanded for groups in which people know each other: Ask people to write their answers on a slip of paper (in handwriting that cannot easily be identified), and to fold the slips and put them in the middle of the table. In turn group members must each pick a slip of paper from the pile and read the answer aloud. On hearing all the answers, group members must then try to match the answers to the people present. drawing game (teamworking, change, communications, creativity, ice-breakers) A quick flexible exercise for groups of all sizes and ages. It's based on a simple drawing game we have all played as children. Equipment required: Pens/pencils and paper. Split the group into teams of three. Instruction to group: One person in each team starts by drawing a shape or outline. The drawing is then passed to the next team member who must add to the drawing. And so on. Time spent by each person in turn on the drawing is limited to 5 seconds. (The facilitator can shout 'change' when appropriate.) No discussion is permitted during the drawing, nor any agreement before the drawing of what the team will draw. The drawing must be completed in one minute. Optional review (short version of exercise), for example: Did the team draw anything recognizable? How easy was the understanding between team members? How did team members work differently on this task? What was the effect of time pressure? Was there a natural tendency to draw supportively and harmoniously, or were there more conflicting ideas? Continue without the above review for a longer activity, involving scoring and a winning team: After one minute of drawing each team must agree privately a description (maximum three words) of what they have drawn, and pass this to the facilitator, to be referred to later. Teams must identify their drawing with a team name. The drawings are then passed around the group for each team to guess and write on the reverse of other team's drawings what they believe the drawing is or represents. Teams are not permitted to look at the reverse of the drawings (at other descriptions guessed) until they have decided on a description. Drawings are awarded two points for each exact correct description achieved, or a point for a partly correct description. Teams are awarded two points for each correct description guessed, or a point for a partly correct description guessed. (Drawings/teams can be scored by the teams themselves, which is much quicker than the facilitator doing the scoring.) If you score the exercise, ensure teams are instructed to put their team name on their drawing, and alongside their guessed descriptions on the reverse of all other drawings. Final review, examples: What factors enabled teams to produce recognizable drawings? What factors led to drawings being unrecognizable? Are 'drawing' skills especially helpful in this exercise, or are other capabilities more significant? What does this exercise demonstrate about mutual understanding and how to achieve it? What obstacles to understanding and teamwork does this activity illustrate? Variations: Teams can be told to agree what they are to draw at the beginning of the exercise. Deduct ten points for teams drawing any of the following 'obvious' subjects: cat, house, car, man, woman, spacecraft, etc. Award bonus points for teams drawing anything highly obscure and yet recognizable, especially if resulting from no prior discussion. When the facilitator calls out 'team change', one person and the drawing must move to a different team, (which can be likened to certain changes that happen in real organizational work teams). It produces complete chaos of course. group connections activity (icebreaker, mutual awareness, introductions, networking, team-building) Split groups into teams of between three and six people. No equipment or preparation is required. Instruction to group/teams: You have five minutes to discover an interesting, surprising and separate connection you share with each person in your team. (A different connection with each person, not a single connection that every team member shares.) 'Interesting and surprising' does not include working for the same company, living in the same town or country or having the same colour hair. Try to find a connection or something in common that surprises both of you. The purpose of the exercise is to ensure that each person of the team ask some questions and gives some answers about themselves and all other team members, and so gets to know each other better. Discussions can be in pairs or threes. The team can decide how best to enable each person to speak to every other team member in the time allowed. This requires more care in larger teams. Review: No review is necessary if the purpose is merely to enable quick introductions. Group review of individual connections is unnecessary although particularly interesting connections can be volunteered and highlighted as examples if people are keen to do so. More general review aspects include for example, (optional depending on your own situation and wider aims for the group): What sort of questions helped discover most information? How does mutual awareness (knowing each other better) help team-work, cooperation, communications, etc? What normally prevents people from getting to know each other better? You will think of many other review points depending on the situation. Larger teams need more time to ensure everyone learns something new and ideally establishes an interesting connection with each other team member. Examples of questions people can ask each other, if they need prompting: What is your passion in life? Where would you most like to visit/travel? What would you change if you could? What music/food/weather do you most enjoy? What do you like best: words, numbers, pictures or sounds? What is your most under-used strength? Younger people might be happier with questions about less deep subjects, which is fine. Guide the group as you consider appropriate. Some related reference materials: paper bowls game (icebreaker, competition, energizer, teamwork, tactics) For groups of six to thirty people. Play as a team game in pairs, threes, fours or fives, which keeps everyone involved all the time, and introduces teamwork and tactics. The game is essentially team bowls (played like beach bowls or green bowls) using balls of newspaper. Scoring is one point for each ball closest to the 'jack' ball. If a team gets say three or four of its balls closer than the balls of any other team then three or four points would be scored accordingly. The potential to score high - notably for big groups split into big teams - means a winning team can emerge surprisingly late, which sustains full involvement of all players. Equipment: A floor or corridor giving at least 5'x15' playing area. A sheet of newspaper for each player. A different coloured roll of electricians insulating tape for each team (to differentiate their balls from other teams). Tape measure for the facilitator. The larger the floor area then the more energetic the game will tend to be. The game can also be played outside provided there is no strong wind. (For a more messy game outside for kids, supply a bucket of water and instruct that the balls should be wet..) Instruction: The winner is the player/team who rolls or throws their ball(s) to stop nearest the 'jack' (a smaller ball, suitably different, rolled by the facilitator or a contestant to the far end of the playing area). Decide order of play, which should be a player from each team in turn. Variations/rules: Play a specified number of 'ends' (rounds), totalling the points to produce the eventual overall winning team. Or play 'ends' until a team reaches say five points. Or more points for a longer game. (Decide a points target mindful of total maximum score per round per team - for example teams of five can potentially score five points in one round.) A player may roll or throw his/her ball at another player's/team's ball to dislodge it or achieve a position nearer the jack. You'll need a clearly understood rule in the event of the jack being hit out of the playing area, if this can happen. (For example replace the jack to its starting position, which should therefore be marked by the facilitator; or mark the position at which the jack left the playing area as the target.) If you are running this as a reasonably big activity, offer a trial game first for players to practise, develop tactics, and to clarify rules. In any event, you can offer players the chance to practise rolling their balls a few times before the start of the game (they'll probably do this anyway..). The game is very adaptable. Consider and decide your own rules and scoring for your own situation. If playing the game with individuals (for example in a small group of five), allow players two balls each. This makes the game more interesting for individuals, in which the order of throwing can be reversed for the second ball, making it fairer for all, assuming playing only one 'end'. Or play big 'marbles' instead - best on a square playing area - in which players eliminate other players by rolling their ball to hit another player's balls. Players take turns to roll their balls. The winner is the last player remaining whose ball has not been hit by another ball. Players have to decide how close to risk leaving their balls to other balls, so it becomes quite a tactical exercise. Simplest rule here is to eliminate only the first ball hit with each roll, not rebounds. See also the bin toss game , and newspaper towers , for other newspaper games ideas. Review points, optional, chiefly for team play, for example: Would you use different tactics, knowing now how the game is played? Was the teamwork good or could it have been better, if so how? Did the construction (of the balls) affect the quality of play/performance? How competitive did the exercise feel? Why? What advantages arise from playing in a team? How would you change/develop the game to improve it? life highlights game (ice-breaker, introductions, life priorities, self-awareness, johari awareness, motivation and personality) This is a quick adaptable exercise for small groups, or for large groups if split into self-facilitating teams, or alternatively pairs. It's also a longer discussion game for pubs, dinner-parties, etc., especially in couples.. No equipment is required. Instruction to group: Take a minute to consider - What thirty seconds of your life would you most want to re-live, if you only had thirty seconds left? For the purposes of the exercise participants can choose several different life experiences, provided the total time is no more than thirty seconds. Review (various options depending on your situation): Ask people to keep their thoughts private - and then consider the review points below. Or ask people to explain to the group briefly their chosen thirty seconds and why. Or - if review time is limited or if it suits your purposes better - ask people to review/discuss in pairs Or if working with a large group arrange the group into small self-leading/facilitating teams. Review points (examples): What do our chosen highlights tell us about the type of person we are - what we love most in life, and what sort of things we should pursue to be happy and fulfilled? How does your current life and likely outcomes compare with your chosen past life highlights? Are you working towards or away from what really makes you happy and fulfilled? If away from, how might you regain and redirect your focus? Do your chosen highlights provide clues for passions and talents which you are currently under-utilizing or neglecting? Did your highlights come by planning or accident? How significant is money in enabling life's best times? What do our best moments tell us about making the most of what time we have? Variations: Exclude sex from highlights if there is a risk that it will unhelpfully distract, embarrass or be too dominant. Shorten and concentrate the exercise by reducing the highlights time period from thirty to ten seconds, or lengthen and deepen the exercise by increasing the time period to ten minutes or an hour. Note: To make the exercise more dynamic and forward-looking you can encourage people to consider especially life highlights which can be repeated or extended in some way. (Childbirth is for many people a highlight which is not likely to be repeatable, although this can of course prompt thoughts and discussions about the importance of family compared to other life issues.) Useful reference models: Passion to Profit (career/new business start-up process/template) This website accepts no liability for any marital or romantic strife arising if you play this game socially in couples, especially under the influence of drink or other inhibition-reducing substance. (Thanks H) coin logo ice-breaker (ice-breaker, creativity, self-expression, johari awareness) Here's a really quick exercise, ideal for ice-breakers - 5-10 minutes - for groups any age or size. Equipment: Lots of coins, in case participants need extra. (At last a use for all the shrapnel in your piggy bank..) Instruction to group: Take all the coins out of your pockets/purses and put them on the table in front of you. (Lend coins to participants who have none or very few.) You have one minute to make a personal logo - representing yourself - from the coins. Variations: Large groups can be spilt into teams (of 3-6 people). Combine team coins. Produce a single team logo, themed according to the situation. Optionally ask teams to guess the meaning of other teams logos, before the explanations. Allow other pocket/purse/handbag items to be included in the logos, for example pens, phones, diaries, etc. Ask the whole group to combine all coins and produce a logo for the organization/group/department, etc. Split the group into two. Half leave the room while remaining half make their personal coin logos. Half return to room and try to match logos to people. Repeat the process enabling the guessers to make, and the makers to guess. Review: Ask participants to explain their logos to the group, or if pressed for time and for large groups - split the group and have the logos explained among teams of threes. If running the exercise in teams - review the discussions and feelings leading to the design of the logo, and the team theme if appropriate. To enlarge the exercise and offer material about self-and mutual awareness see the Johari Window model . See the other coin exercises on this page, for example: See the money slang and history page for lots of interesting facts about coins and money.  coded team communications game (non-verbal communications, communications systems, body language, team understanding, creativity) This game can be played by one group, or between two or more teams competitively. The activity is more dynamic if played in competitive teams, minimum three players per team, ideally 5-10 per team. This game can be played by very large groups, in teams, for example at conferences. The exercise involves devising and using a simple coded non-verbal (unspoken) communications system. The game may be played just once as a quick activity or ice-breaker, or in several rounds, optionally enabling the group/teams to review and refine their coding systems, at the discretion of the facilitator. This is a very flexible game concept, and can be adapted in many ways to suit your situation and purposes. These instructions are for competitive teams playing the game. Adapt it accordingly for a single group. Equipment: A pen/pencil and paper for each team member. Instruction to teams: Devise a secret coded (non-spoken, non-written) communication system for your team which enables a very simple piece of information - a single digit number between 0-9 - to be passed throughout the whole group/team - person to person ideally - so that everyone knows the number. The winning team is the first to successfully convey the number to all team members. (If playing as a single group then the task is simply to successfully communicate the number throughout the group.) The number must be conveyed using non-verbal and secret signals - it cannot be spoken, mouthed, written, signalled by holding up a number of fingers, or 'tapped' using fingers or feet, etc. Facial expressions and eye contact are likely to be significant in non-verbal code systems developed, although teams will devise other methods, which is part of the fun. Whether to allow or mention touching - for example secret hand-squeezing, which teams might think to try - is at the discretion of the facilitator. The secret code aspect is important if the game is played competitively and teams are given the same number to convey, or awarded bonus points for identifying an opposing an team's number. When receiving the number each player must privately record the number on a piece of paper, as proof of successful communication. Alternatively to avoid risk of cheating or accidentally revealing numbers, instruct people to write down the number after all teams have completed the round. The team leader must raise his/her hand to signal to the facilitator when group/team members have received the number correctly. This potentially requires another team coded signal - to confirm successful understanding - which is a matter for the teams to decide. No speaking is allowed while the game is in progress. Teams can be given between 5-10 minutes to devise and test their codes. Large teams may require longer. The facilitator begins each round of the game by showing the number (a single digit between 0-9) to the team leaders. The team leaders then take their seats or starting positions and await the facilitator's signal to start the game, at which the number must be communicated to all team members - using the non-verbal secret code - and ideally person to person (which introduces greater risk of errors and is a sterner test of the code system devised, and also of teamworking). (At facilitator's discretion) teams may stand, sit around the same table, or on separate tables, although separate tables makes cheating less easy to detect. Standing and mingling makes the activity more dynamic and energising, and increases the need for competing teams to devise a clever code to avoid it being 'cracked' or interpreted by members of competing teams. Variations to the game: A way to enforce the conveying of the instruction person-to-person is to have the teams stand in a line, so that each person sees the conveyed signal individually, then turns about-face to convey it down the line to the next person. Such an arrangement increases the need for teams to consider having a signal for confirming to the leader that all members have correctly received the number. (At facilitator's discretion) teams may or may not make written notes of their coding system (so that each person has a code key). The facilitator can decide whether using a code key, or working purely from memory, will be most enjoyable/beneficial. Allowing written code keys enables more complex codes to be developed, which is appropriate for bigger exercises, whereas not allowing written code keys encourages quicker simpler codes and is more appropriate for a quick game or ice-breaker. Alternatively the facilitator may choose not to mention the possibility of teams making written code keys, and leave it open for teams to use the option or not. Where the game is played between competing teams, the facilitator can choose to give a different number to each team (rather than require teams to communicate the same number). This offers the option to award bonus points for a team which manages to identify the number of an opposing team. Review points: Isn't it amazing how many signals can be conveyed without spoken or written words?.. The section on body language provides useful background theory about non-verbal communications. It's one thing to devise a communications system or set of communications rules - it's quite another challenge to ensure everyone understands it and uses it properly. Vital parts of communications systems/rules work best when people can remember them, without having to refer to complicated instructions. Complex communications systems/rules are often very good in theory, but difficult to apply in practice because they entail an additional dimension - represented in this game by the code key - equating to a reference or instruction manual, which in real work situations people often fail to use, understand, keep updated, etc. Written instructions and reference guides are obviously important for quality management and training, etc., and for the operation of all complex/vital functions, but the fundamental rules of communications (and other critical organisational activities) are best kept as simple, intuitive and memorable as possible, so that core performance is not hindered or made unnecessarily complicated. In terms of this exercise, conveying the communication is only half the communications process - the other half is checking the communication has been received and correctly understood. In terms of wider organisational communications other subsequent steps are required, notably ensuring that the communication is agreed and acted upon, which involves management areas such as: motivation (within which models such as Adams' Equity Theory , and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs are helpful); delegation , especially follow up; and project management , within which reporting and monitoring are vital. tubes strings balls game (teamwork, planning, creativity, icebreaker) For groups of four people or more, best with six people or more. Teams of more than ten become chaotic (which is okay if that's what you are seeking to demonstrate). Equipment: A ball of string or very thin rope. Scissors. Two empty cardboard tubes of Pringles, or similar cardboard tubes (for example postal tubes for rolled papers). Some marbles or golf-balls or other small balls which fit into the tubes. (The exercise works fine with one ball; more and different balls increase the interest.) The group must work together to achieve the task: Place one tube in the centre of the room or table, open-end upwards. This is the 'receptor' tube. Optionally (facilitator decision) secure the receptor tube to the table or floor using sticky putty (e.g., Blu-Tack) - don't put sticky putty on carpet.. Using the string and the other cardboard tube (one end open, other end closed - called the 'transporter' tube), transport a specified number of balls - one at a time - into the receptor tube standing at the centre of room/table. Each group member must hold at least one length of string connected to the transporter tube. No group member may handle a ball within six feet (two metres) of the receptor tube. No group member may move from their position once a ball has been placed into the transporter tube and the transporting commenced. (Strings need to be tied to the transporter tube not only to move the tube, but also to tip it, in order to deposit the ball into the receptor. The facilitator does not need to tell the team(s) this unless failing to realise this becomes counter-productive.) Variations and preparation ideas: Large groups can be split into competing teams - each with their own equipment and floor-space/table. Optionally give groups planning/preparation time. Introduce penalties for dropped balls, dislodging/upsetting the receptor tube, team members moving illegally, etc. Introduce more awkward items for transporting, e.g., coins, pens, chocolate snack bars, etc. At its simplest the game is to transport just one ball. Increase balls and complexity as you wish. Given the variation and interesting dynamics within this exercise you are especially recommended to test it first with a group so you can understand how it works and the sort of controls and guidance or freedoms that you would like to apply for your own situation. It's a very flexible concept; adapt it to suit your needs. Solution example: This exercise is subject to a lot of variation, including the solutions that people devise. If you are a facilitator trying to imagine how it works, this might help.. At least three strings need to be connected to the top (open end) or near the top of the transporter tube, which keeps the tube upright and hanging from the connected strings being pulled tight by team members, and enables the tube potentially to be suspended and moved anywhere by and between the stringholders. Given that people cannot move their positions once the ball is loaded into the transporter tube, the method of 'playing out' string, as well as pulling it, is crucial. Strings that are too short become a problem. At least one team member needs a string connected to the bottom of the tube to enable the tipping. If just one string is connected to the bottom of the tube then the tube can be tipped from just one direction, which means the team needs to have good control over the positioning of the tube. Having more than one string connected to the bottom of the tube (from more than one position) increases the options for the direction of the tipping, but the downside is that (beyond a certain point, depending on the coordination capability of the team) the difficulty tends to increase with more people having more strings connected. Any bottom-connected string that crosses with a top-connected string will encounter a problem when it comes to tipping, because logically the bottom-connected string must get higher than the top-connected strings, hence the example solution which follows. At its simplest, imagine the receptor tube (the target into which the ball must be tipped) being in the centre of a clock face. Three team members are positioned at, say, 12, 4 and 8 o'clock, each of whom has a string connected to the top of the transporter tube, and a fourth team member, say, at 6 o'clock, has a string connected to the bottom of the transporter tube to enable the tipping. The ball is placed in the transporter tube, say by the team member at 12 o'clock. At this time no one can move from their position. The people at 4 and 8 take up the slack while 12 string is kept tight enabling the tube to be lifted. While 4 and 8 pull the tube towards the clockface centre, 12 plays out, keeping a tight string. When the tube is in the correct position for tipping, 6 can pull, while the other three strings stay tight to keep the tube's position, or adjust as necessary. As you can perhaps now imagine, putting six people into a team, compared to four, tends to increase the difficulty because of the risks of top/bottom strings crossing, the complexity of gauging who needs to pull and who needs to play out or slacken off, and the general confusion resulting from a bigger team making more inputs. You will see various creative solutions, often by bigger teams, involving for example: the construction of a sort of cable-car solution, in which the tube can be pulled, suspended from strings acting as 'cables' threaded through the top of the tube teams which discover that they can pass strings/control from one team member to another (which you may choose to allow or disallow - disallowing makes the task more difficult) paper and straws game variation A quicker simpler version of this game can be played using drinking straws, a ball of rolled-up paper and a (very thin) dinner-table place mat: Team members sit around the table. Put the place-mat in the centre of the table. Alternatively stick a suitably sized/shaped piece of paper flat to the table to act as the target area. Alternatively mark a circular target on the table surface - optionally with concentric scoring rings - using chalk or coloured sticky tape (e.g., electrician's insulating tape). The task is for team members to use the drinking straws (one each) to blow the ball of paper onto the place-mat, and optionally (facilitator decision) additional paper balls afterwards (very difficult without dislodging any balls already in place). Facilitator decides how many paper balls are involved in the game, and where the balls are placed to begin (not crucial, provided some way from target). More balls = more complexity/difficulty/time. No team member may be within one yard (one metre) of the paper ball. (You might need to reduce this distance for weak blowers and big balls..) Split large groups into competing teams with their own equipment and table. Optionally require all team members to remain in their seated positions once the blowing commences (this makes the task more difficult than enabling team members to move around the table). A very flat target is required so that 'overblow' happens, which tends then to involve all team members in the blowing, especially if static around the table. (If the target mat is too thick it will stop the ball rolling over it). Warning: Blowing can cause dizziness. Ensure all players are advised not to blow to the point of hyper-ventilation and collapse; it's just a game. Review points (especially for string/tubes game version): Did we work as a team? Leadership - did it happen, what was the style and the reactions? Planning - did it happen? Was it required? Did the activity energise us? How and why? (If competing teams were involved) What were the competitive effects? Lots more review points will arise, and you will think of your own depending on your own situation and purposes. the one question ice-breaker exercise (questioning skills, empathy, self-awareness, needs analysis, cooperation and partnerships) A quick simple ice-breaker or bigger exercise related to questioning, and working together, here is the instruction, for groups of any size and any ages: If you could ask just one question to discover a person's/provider's suitability for .......X....... (insert situation, see examples below), what would your question be? Examples of situations to use for the activity and insert in the instruction: supplying you a vital component/service baby-sitting or child-minding being your boss/employer/leader being the leader of your country/company You can devise your own situations besides these to suit your purposes. There are countless other possible situations. Issue one situation for the whole group, or allocate a different situation to each team member or pair/team to work on. (Increasing the variety of situations allocated will tend to increase the time of the activity and especially its review). Ask people to work individually or in small teams to devise their questions. Ask people to work in pairs or threes to test and reflect and refine (and maybe role-play ) the questions. Give a time limit for questions preparation, and a separate time limit for testing/role-playing. There are no absolute 'right' or best questions - there are many effective questions, depending on the situation and people's needs, but there are certainly questions which do not work well and which should be avoided. Review informally via discussion: Are there advantages in preparing important questions, rather than relying on instinct or invention at the time? What else happens while we ask questions, aside from the words between us? (Explore body language and non-verbal communications.) What sort of questions are least effective and should be avoided? (Try to identify characteristics of ineffective questions.) What sort of questions are most effective? (Try to identify characteristics of effective questions.) How do we feel when being asked effective/ineffective questions? To what extent and how should questions be tailored for the particular listener, and for the questioner's needs? What crucial questions do we ask (at work/in life) which we could prepare more carefully? Refer to relevant topics, for example: Clean Language Buying Facilitation - (widely relevant aside from obvious selling application) N.B. This exercise does not suggest that we can or should use merely one question to identify solutions for anything, especially crucial partnerships. The purpose of the exercise is to focus attention on quality, relevance, style and preparation of questioning, according to the situation and people involved. Questioning is powerful and helpful when prepared well, but wastes everyone's time and creates problems when it is not. The activity can of course be expanded by allowing/instructing people to devise more than one question, or potentially to devise an entire questioning strategy for a given situation. Whatever you do in the review, ensure people understand the nature and purposes of open and closed questions, which is explained in the Questioning section of the sales training page.   classification game - (ice-breaker, introductions, discrimination, mutual perspectives) This is a simple exercise requiring no equipment or materials preparation, for groups of any size and age. Split large groups into teams of six to ten people. The activity is quickest when teams are smallest. Minimum team size is four. Instruction to group/teams: We all tend to classify and stereotype each other - 'pigeon-holing' is a common expression for this. Usually this sort of classification is subjective, unhelpfully judgemental, and sometimes of course it's unfair to the point of being illegal discrimination. Discuss/introduce yourselves in your team(s). Discover a way to divide or classify yourselves evenly into two/three/four subgroups within your team(s) by using criteria (ways of classifiying/describing people) which contain no negative or prejudicial or good/bad discriminatory judgements. Optional briefing: Examples of criteria to evenly divide/classify the team according to - late-night people and early-morning people, or what sort of weather we like, or what sort of food we like, or what we like to do for fun, or our fears, or what we would change in the world.. If as a facilitator you use these examples feel free to instruct the group to think of their own ideas, and not merely to use one of the examples. More complexity and/or specific focus on a subject can be suggested, for example: what we know/imagine our personality profiles to be, or our strongest capability or learning style The purpose of the exercise is to encourage people to get to know each other better, to collectively consider the nature of all individuals within the team, and to think of each other in ways that are quite different to how people tend usually to classify others. Review: Share and discuss the team'(s') decisions, making notes where helpful on a flipchart (or equivalent hi-tech system). How easy was it to find out and think about each other in different ways? How does this thinking differ from potentially negative or subjective judgements? What sort of classifications can be negative? What makes a classification positive/helpful rather than negative/prejudicial? As a facilitator/teacher, you can approach the exercise as a quick ice-breaker, or a more complex longer-lasting learning activity. You can stipulate how many subgroups should be classified within the team(s), and how many different classifications are required (one 50:50 split using a single classification is simplest and quickest), or you can offer wider more open flexibility, and see what the teams develop for themselves. The Johari Window is a useful reference model, as is (up to a point) employment background on discrimination, minorities, bullying, etc. Approach the activity with a broader view than reminding people about employment law and discrimination: The way we understand and regard each other is a big subject, offering far more helpful outcomes than merely applying a legal code. face game (body language, non-verbal communications, ice-breakers) For groups of four to ten people. Split larger groups into teams with leaders who can facilitate the exercise. Equipment required: paper and pens/pencils. Time: 5-20 minutes depending on group size and review discussion. Introduction: Facial expressions are an important part of communications. There are many different emotions and corresponding facial expressions. Some are easier to interpret than others. This exercise helps illustrate different expressions and how some are more obvious and easy to 'read' than others. Task: Each team member must think of one emotion (or two or three emotions, for a longer exercise), which they should then write separately on a slip of paper. Fold the slips of paper and put it into a cup or glass in the centre of the table, to enable 'blind' selection. Each person must then in turn take one of the folded slips and show the emotion on their face to the team, who must guess the emotion. Review points, for example: See Body Language and Mehrabian's communications theory for background. picture pieces game (teamwork, departmental/individual inputs towards a common goal) This exercise is a simple team-working idea, adaptable for any group size, and any ages. Duration is half an hour, or longer if you increase the complexity for big groups, and/or increase the size of the work. Choose a well known picture (or diagram or cartoon) - ideally one well-known and full of detail. Cut the picture (retaining a copy) into as many pieces - ideally equal squares or oblongs - as as there are participants for the exercise. Issue each person a piece of the picture. (The exercise is more challenging and fascinating if the group does not see the whole original picture until the end of the activity, although this question is entirely a matter for local judgement.) Instruct people to create a copy of their piece of the picture exactly (for example) ten times bigger, according to length and width dimension. Size increase (ten-times, five-times, twenty-times, etc) is up to you - the more then the longer the activity takes, and the bigger the final result. You should clarify what 'ten-times bigger, according to length and width dimension' actually means, or different interpretations of this could spoil the result (which is a lesson in itself about consistency of planning and communications, etc). (Multiplying width and length dimensions by ten produces an area which is actually a hundred-times bigger in area. This seems a lot, but it's very reasonable if seeking to produce a good sized result to stick onto a wall. For example, if individual pieces are say 2 inches square, i.e., 2 x 2 = 4 square inches, the instruction of ten-times width and length would produce individual pieces of 20 x 20 = 400 square inches, which when all assembled can produce quite a big wall-display. Technically 'ten times bigger' refers to area, but this isn't very easy to imagine - it's easier to plan and explain the exercise in terms of width and length dimensions.) Issue pencils/drawing/colouring equipment and paper (big enough sheets) and make rulers available for measuring. Give a time limit (5-20 minutes depending on complexity of the work and the magnification level you specify). When all the enlargements are completed ask people to assemble them into a giant copy of the original picture - on the table, or onto a wall using sticky putty, (be careful not to use a wall whose surface could be damaged when removing the sticky putty..). Review points: How would the group have responded to and met the task if the task leader simply asked the whole group to 'Create a copy of the picture ten-times original size'? If the assembled big version is not right in any area, where did the task fail and for what reasons? If anyone has embellished their particular piece (which almost certainly will happen) how does this augment or threaten the final result, and what does this teach us about local interpretation and freedom? Does it depend on the task and the aims (and customer needs) as to whether the result is improved or weakened? (Probably) The activity demonstrates divisionalized 'departmental' working - each person (represents a team or department) working on their own part (representing specialisms), all of which contribute to an overall group aim and result. What are the main factors determining success for working like this? Does each individual person (which represents a team or department) necessarily need to know what other people are doing, in order for the overall task to be achieved? (Probably not in detail.) Does each individual person (which represents a team or department) necessarily need to know what the end aim is in order to achieve the overall task? (Not necessarily, but arguably it's helpful if they do - it depends very much on how well the individual activities are managed and how accurately they represent the part of the whole.) The review of this point can reflect on whether the original whole picture was shown at the start of the activity or not. (Often in work situations communicating the overall aim or vision is difficult or not viable, especially in large complex projects - so how should we approach this challenge and what are its implications, especially if a vision or aim changes half-way through a project?) What level of mutual understanding and checking (while the task is in progress) is useful for this sort of 'departmental' or divisionalized working? Is there a fixed rule for checking in progress, or more likely, does it depend on the task and the performance of it? Here are some suggestions of well-known pictures to use for this exercise: The Bayeux Tapestry (lots of work there..) These are just examples - choose a picture (or diagram or map, etc) that appeals to your group, and which when cut into pieces gives sufficient detail to work on. Other ideas for pictures: geographical maps and weather maps, biological diagrams, well-known posters and cartoons. You can adapt the exercise by altering the 'ten-times widthand length dimensions' enlargement factor, for instance five-times would make the task easier and quicker; twenty or a hundred-times would make it more difficult and longer, (and also more impactful, if you have time and space, and enough paper drawing materials...) The task can be made more complex for large groups by: splitting the group into teams, so that teams work on individual pieces (of suitably large size), either clearly instructing, or enabling the opportunity for, each team to cut its piece of the picture into smaller pieces, giving one smaller piece to each team member The resulting assembled whole picture will indicate how well each team communicated and managed its own divisionalization of the task. the takeaway game (planning, analysis, number skills, ice-breaker, energiser for the brain) Based on an old numbers game this activity can be adapted in many different ways for groups and teams of all sizes. It takes a minute to explain and set up, and as little as a minute to play. You can easily expand the game, add complexity, and turn it into a much longer planning and tactics exercise. The basic game (for two teams, or people in pairs, playing each other): Put fifteen coins (or cards, or keys, or anything) between the contestants. Explain the rules: development of business and commercial management skills identifying and developing new business initiatives Activities and exercises for group selection days and assessment centres can be designed to stretch the participants more if the task is issued several days before the day of the assessment. This allows more preparation and team-working among the candidates, which in turn enables a fuller deeper test and demonstration of people's capabilities. The exercise can be used if issued on the day of the assessment, but obviously due allowance must be made for the resulting time pressure in meeting such a big challenge. Accordingly the exercise is suited to training courses lasting two days or more when delegates can work evenings in their team on the activities. Here broadly is the exercise, adapt it to suit your situation: Teamwork Project The project team must research, identify, develop and present a proposition for a new product/service/business to fit into the employer's organisation. To include: 1. Research the market, brainstorm options, and decide on a new product/service/business. 2. Conceptualise new product/service/business. 3. Design and specify key attributes of new business: description and executive summary SWOT and/or PEST analysis, or similar 4. Create presentation (to sell proposition to the 'board of directors' or an investor - a part which can be played by the recruitment team). 5. Deliver presentation (to include activities and experiences of the project group). 6. An additional angle would be to enable/encourage teamworking on the project between team members prior to the assessment day, via a facebook group (or suitable VLE - virtual learning environment - or employer intranet forum). N.B. If using the exercise for external recruitment and teamworking among candidates prior to the assessment day you would need to ensure data-protection/permission is satisfied regarding the releasing of candidates' names and contact details to each other. stress exercise (stress demonstration, ice-breaker, teambuilding) This is a helpful and non-threatening way to show the effects of stress and confusion, especially in teams, and by implication the effects of stress on productivity, organisational performance and healthy working. Ideally for teams of eight to ten people. Split larger groups into teams of 8-10 and establish facilitation and review as appropriate, appointing and briefing facilitators since each team requires facilitation. You will need for each team about five balls of various sizes, compositions, weights, shapes, etc., depending on team size and the team's ball-handling skills. Five balls is probably adequate for most teams of eight people. Using very different balls makes the exercise work better (for example a tennis ball, a beach ball, a rugby ball, a ping-pong ball, etc - use your imagination). Form each team into a circle. The aim is to throw and catch the ball (each ball represents a work task/objective) between team members - any order or direction. The ball must be kept moving (the facilitator can equate this to the processing of a task within the work situation). Allow the team to develop their own methods/pattern for throwing the ball between members if they find this helpful. A dropped ball equates to a failed task (which the facilitator can equate to a specific relevant objective). A held ball equates to a delayed task. When the team can satisfactorily manage the first ball, the facilitator should then introduce a second ball to be thrown and caught while the first ball remains in circulation. Equate the second ball to an additional task, or a typical work complication, like a holiday, or an extra customer requirement. Continue to introduce more balls one by one - not too fast - each time equating them to work situations and complications. Obviously before not too long the team is unable to manage all the balls, and chaos ensues. Avoid creating chaos too early by introducing too many balls too soon. Allow the sense of increasing stress and confusion to build, according to the ball-handling capability of the team. Introducing balls too quickly will not allow the stress to build. Points for review: Relate the experiences of the game to the work situation, especially effective team working and communications. What does too much pressure and failure feel like? Are these feelings the same for everyone? Do we know how others are feeling and can best deal with stress and confusion, unless we ask? How can we anticipate, manage and avoid these effects at work? (Not easy, especially if the pressure is from above, which often it will be - nevertheless understanding the causes and effects of stressful confusion is the first step to resolving them). What helps us handle these pressures and what makes things worse? Relate this learning to work situations, and then to possible improvements and changes. Use relevant reference materials if helpful, for example: Johari Window model (mutual and self-awareness) Assertiveness (especially for junior people managing stress caused from above) (Thanks to Karen Wright of wrightminded.com for the contribution of this excellent exercise.) learning and thinking styles exercise (learning styles, brain type preferences, self-awareness, johari awareness) This is a quick simple activity for groups of any size. For large groups spilt into teams of about six people and organise the appointment of team leaders for self-facilitation and review. Questions form the basis of this exercise: If you could have only one sense (sight, touch, hearing, taste, etc), what would you want it to be? If you had to lose one sense, what would it be? Rank your senses, in order of importance to you. You will perhaps think of other questions on similar lines. Use one or a number of questions to prompt discussion and thereafter a review of the issues. The purpose of the game is to encourage people to think about how they use their brains and their thinking/working/learning style preferences and strengths. Most people (unsurprisingly) tend to favour their sense of sight. You will find plenty of variation aside from this however, and generally the activity and discussion provides a quick and interesting way to explore personal strengths and preferences without the aid of a testing instrument. The 'five senses' are typically regarded as: sight smell Intuition is a way of explaining the 'sixth sense'. Touch, smell and taste are all closely connected with the 'touchy-feely' (Kinesthetic in VAK) aspect within the VAK model, the other two aspects being sight (Visual in VAK) and hearing (Audio in VAK). Your group might have additional ideas about other 'senses' which you can include in the considerations, for example speech, movement, etc. If so then the exercise relates more strongly to Multiple Intelligences theory. Review angles: What does this teach us about the different ways we prefer to work/learn/communicate/think/solve problems/conduct relationships/etc? What surprises you about other people's preferences? What surprises you about your own preferences? If you augment the exercise with the VAK test and/or MI test (see VAK and Multiple Intelligence below) do the test results confirm or conflict with your sense preferences? Reference models and information: alternative christmas and new year exercise (new year ice-breaker, creative thinking, social values and true life priorities) An exercise for any group size. Arrange appropriate timings and presentation or discussion of the ideas arising. Here's the question. You can adapt various exercises from it to suit your situation and aims: "Imagine you are leader of the western world. Everyone would prefer Christmas and New Year celebrations to more suitably address the needs and issues of the modern age. What changes would you make?" You can add a context if you wish, for example, changes for business, changes for society, changes for kids, changes for the planet, changes for global cooperation, etc. Email me suggestions and I'll publish the best ones on this page. mobile phone/cellphone game (time management, use tools rather than allow tools to use you, manage your environment, communications, addictions to technology and gadgets) This is a simple and funny activity/warm-up/icebreaker for large groups. The exercise especially demonstrates the influencial power of mobile phones (and by inference other communications methods such as emails) to disrupt effective working, time management and organisational efficiency. Normally groups at conferences and training sessions are asked to switch off their mobile phones/cellphones. Try a different twist: Ask all delegates to switch on their phones (or blackberries - or is it blackberrys?..) Say that this is a demonstration of the disruptive and negative effects of technology controlling people rather than vice-versa. You can of course introduce and position the activity to suit other purposes which fit. Ask delegates to select the loudest most annoying message alert tone. Ask everyone to text a friend (or two or several friends each) whom they know to be keen in responding to text messages. Then continue with the training or conference session, and wait for the chaotic interruptions to begin. The chaos is a very audible demonstration of what typically happens in organisations where people are not managing their incoming communications (which according to most research is the vast majority of folk). When your point is made you can (you'll need to) ask everyone to switch off their phones again. Other points of interest: Compulsive checking of emails and being continuously available to incoming text messages, etc., is considered by some experts to be driven by the same impulses that are experienced by gamblers, i.e., following the principle of unpredictable occasional reward, and similar descriptions of such behaviour. Surveys regularly find vast amounts of wasted time spent by workers dealing with emails and email interruptions. A 2008 report in the Guardian newspaper staggeringly calculated that a worker who checks/responds to email interruptions every five minutes wastes 8.5 hours a week, given the recovery time required after each interruption. Inappropriate use of emails prevents people communicating and resolving issues by phone. Inappropriate use of phones/texting prevents people communicating and resolving issues face to face. You'll think of many more points arising from this subject. The Mehrabian research is a useful reference area. seasonal suggestions bundle (christmas activities and ideas for teams and office year-end fun and learning) Some seasonal ideas from this website: See the 'Smile' words and Chaplin story for inspiring positive outlook and triumph through adversity. Charlie Chaplin died on Christmas Day 1977. Seasonal acronyms: BLACPU - Back Later After Christmas P***-up. Seasonal acronym for when work and customers must necessarily fit in around the festivities and holidays. DUTCHIE - Defer Until The Christmas Holiday Is Ended. Seasonal acronym explaining why most business comes to a grinding stop for two whole weeks at the end of the year. LUCID - Leave Until Christmas Is Done. Yuletide acronym, when procrastinators everywhere are joined by most of the western world in deferring anything other than a life-threatening emergency until the Christmas blow-out is properly organized and maximum enjoyment extracted. SHOT IT - Should Have Ordered This In Time. Customer services and despatch expression, especially appropriate approaching department close-down for weekends, holidays, Christmas, etc., and a personal reminder not to leave things until the last moment. NACTAC - Not A Chance Til After Christmas. Understandable response from overworked despatch departments and customer services staff when attempting to explain quite reasonably that it's not possible to process urgent last-minute orders received at lunchtime on the day before holiday shut-down. Variations include NACTAE (Easter), NACTAT (Thanksgiving), etc. Expression origin - "Boxing day" - the day after Christmas - from the custom in seventeenth and eighteenth centuries of servants receiving gratuities from their masters, collected in boxes in Christmas day, sometimes in churches, and distributed the day after. Real Family Fortunes answer: Something that Father Christmas does when he comes to your house: "Feeds your pets.." ( More funnies ) Team games ideal for year-end fun: Businessballs Quickies Many more activities on this page below can be used or adapted to give a seasonal twist. For pure laughs try the funny Weakest Link answers and Letters to the Council (which serve as illustrations of communications breakdowns, if you need a context or excuse for sharing them..) Fantisticat is an interesting way to look at fresh starts and the New Year, especially for young people or those facing or desiring change. Lots of quizzes - see the Quizballs index page . Have fun. the CRITWATNF game (warm-ups, icebreakers, and for demonstrating that things are rarely as crucial as they seem) See the acronym CRITWATNF (Currently Residing In The Where Are They Now File). Explain it to the group. Ask the group to think of an example - any example, from their own personal life (not too personal) or from work or the world of media, politics, economy, anything. Discuss the examples. Discuss how and why things can seem crucial one day, yet often can soon become completely insignificant, given a little time. Discuss the influences of emotions, peer pressure, zietgeist, the media, daft unquestioning management, personal mood, etc., on relationships, strategy, decisions, work, life, etc. Would life/work/society be better if we could all be more objective and critical, and less led by our emotions and by others? passion to profit exercise (life change, self-employment, business start-up and development, outplacement and redundancy support, career change, self-determination and independence) See the Career/New Business Planner page for the full process and detailed template. This is a creative planning process and template for individuals and for groups facing or desiring career change, especially a move into self-employment or starting up their own new business. It can be helpful for people facing decisions about new work or business direction, especially to encourage thinking outside of habits and conditioning, at any stage of a person's working life. This process/template - and the exercises and discussion and thinking enabled by them - seek to: Suggest a more satisfying idea of what work is and can be - for employment, self-employment, business start-up, career change, part-time work - any sort of work. Reduce or eliminate dependence upon an employer for work and financial security. Offer a path - in achievable stages - away from unsatisfying employment, especially if required due to redundancy or an unacceptable work situation (stress, travel, life-balance, or the simple need to be happier, etc). Encourage and enable self-determination, self-reliance, and independence. It's a simple formula. The numbers are linked to the full template sections on the Career/New Business Planner page . The Career/New Business Planner page contains guidance notes within a template tool. quick paper tower icebreaker (warm-up, creative thinking, and/or teamwork, skills and process analysis) A quick table-top exercise for individuals or teams, and a quick version of the bigger newspaper tower activity . Issue a single sheet of paper (A4 or international equivalent) to each group member (or one sheet per team if the exercise is to be played as a team game). Instruction: Using the sheet of paper only - no other materials - construct the tallest free-standing structure - in 5 minutes. Points to review: Planning and timing - who planned and who ran out of time? Pressure - what were the effects on people and performance from the pressure of time? Innovation - what innovative ideas were devised? Risk - what observations could be made about high-risk and low-risk methods/approaches? Learning - would each team/individual be able to improve their result at a second attempt? (Almost certainly.) Discuss how and why, and the value of experience. Best practice - if the whole group were to be given the task to build a single tower what ideas would be combined, and what does this tell us about the power of collective ideas? Skills - what skills were found to be crucial for best performance of the task, and could you have guessed what these vital skills would be before the exercise, or did they only become apparent after actually attempting the task? And what does this tell us about the identification of skills (to be developed/taught) for a given task? (If played as a team game) what were the opportunities and challenges in enabling the team to perform the task effectively? Consider and suggest a process which would enable an effective team approach to the task: What elements and principles from this are transferable to normal operations and team-working? Process improvement - what single tool or additional material (no larger than the width of the paper sheet) would achieve the greatest improvement to the result? Incidentally the best technical approach to this task almost certainly requires the construction and use of connectable tubular rolled or triangular telescopic sections, made from lengthways strips of the sheet. Using this technique it is possible to make a tower at least three times higher than the length of the sheet. If you know better and/or have pictorial evidence of a better solution please send it to share with others on this webpage. The exercise can be adapted to suit your situation, for example giving group members 15 minutes for the task and issuing an extra practice sheet of paper will increase the depth and complexity of the task and the review. tree swing games (awareness and cooperation between teams, departments, divisions, corporations, nations, planets, etc) In conjunction with the new collection of Businessballs tree swing cartoons , ask your people to draw tree swings to illustrate their own particular departmental culture/issues/challenges/priorities/relationships. Or focus the exercise on illustrating the culture/style of competitors, suppliers, and any other significant internal or external group. Focus especially on the differences in expectations between mutually depending groups. Ask people - what does each tree swing look like? What does their own tree swing look like, and what tree swing do they expect of others? What sort of tree swing is expected of your team/department? And what can you best provide? When you understand the differences it's easier to work on bridging them, so the differences have to be considered and shared first, or the gaps persist indefinitely. Drawing - especially given an unusual perspective like the tree swing - is good for creativity and for exploring and sharing feelings and opinions - especially about gaps and matching expectations - which otherwise might not surface in normal discussions. Rather like the poetry activities below, artistic tasks get people thinking in new ways. Split the group into relevant teams - threes usually work well, although the exercise is adaptable for any numbers provided the team split reflects the development aims, and the exercises are facilitated to keep everyone involved. Prompt ideas by showing the treeswing pictures , and then asking questions like: What would your department's tree swing look like? What would the (xyz) department's tree swing look like? What do our own customers want their tree swings to look like? What does head office expect your tree swing to look like? What would your own personal tree swing look like if you could make it any way you want (for the market, or for any other perspective that's relevant to the group - subject to guidance from the facilitator)? What does the boss's/teacher's tree swing look like? And what does your own tree swing look like? The exercise does not aim to produce brilliant artwork - instead it aims to produce fresh thinking and simple visual ideas about the issues which cause outcomes to differ from expectations. Successful work, business and organizations largely depend on matching needs and delivery in one way or another. The tree swing provides a simple way to consider the differences between what's asked for, and what's provided, and then to explore which qualities in each are actually fair and valid, with a view to bridging the understanding and expectations gaps. The activity is adaptable for young people in schools, as well as for grown-ups in any sort of work situation. For everyone of course, there is also the opportunity to work with different media - even if it's just a few boxes of cheap coloured pencils from the pound shop. As with so many of these self/mutual awareness activities, Johari Window is an excellent reference model. poetry activities (poems exercises, creativity, icebreakers, johari awareness, thinking outside of the box, fresh perspectives) Thursday 9 October is National Poetry Day in the UK, although you can be anywhere in the world to enjoy poetry. Helpfully in 2008 the theme of National Poetry Day is WORK. Poetry is great for creativity, fresh perspectives, and improving self/mutual awareness - (refer to Johari model ). Here are some ideas for bringing poetry into your workplace or school, whether for development activities or for the pure fun of it: Icebreaker ideas/group discussion questions - Define the word 'poem'. Why is poetry appealing to us? It's just words, isn't it?... What is your favourite poem/extract/line and why? (Everybody can think of at least a line from a song..) Are all song lyrics poetry? Is rapping poetry? Could Desiderata be adapted to be a corporate/societal values statement? If so, how? Does Rudyard Kipling's poem If serve as a modern set of personal values? If not how would you change it? Can you suggest how the bereavement poem Do not Stand at My Grave and Weep has become so hugely popular around the world, and relate this popularity to the way society behaves? Is Philip Larkin's poem 'This Be The Verse' a valid perspective on society? And how do these notions relate to the responsibilities of developing others, to parenting, teaching, especially of young people? (Warning - the poem contains language that could offend - which gives rise to another discussion question about how the context of words and language determine the actual meaning and sense, far beyond the words themselves). Other group ideas - Create a short poem for the purpose of promoting a product / service / department / initiative / educating / informing / memorising something / your team. Write a limerick about yourself/the organisation (agree the structure/rules of a limerick first). Write a haiku verse for a lesson/value/significant point in life or work (agree structure/rules of a haiku verse first). Issue a page of a newspaper to people working in pairs - ask them to re-structure any chosen paragraph of news into poetry, with or without changing the words. Same as above - changing the words into the style of Shakespeare/Chaucer/Byron, etc. Individual ideas - Put a poem on your notice board or intranet, and see what happens. Send me a poem you've written about any aspect of work or personal development, etc., and I'll publish it on this website. Send me a poem about charisma - and enter the charisma definition competition . Next time you meet someone for the first time, ask them what they think about poetry, and see where the discussion takes you. You will think of many more ideas for using poetry to add fresh perspective to work and play. Send your own ideas , and I'll add them here. Incidentally the word poem is derived ultimately from the Greek word 'poema' (precisely 'póēma'), meaning 'thing made or created'. The word poet comes from Greek - poētēs - meaning 'maker'. the 'what did you learn yesterday' exercise (icebreaker, self-development, life attitude, self-awareness, discussions about what learning and development means) This is a powerful activity. Simple idea, and so potent. Ask any group (to consider individually): What did you learn yesterday? Review answers through discussion, brief statements, or presentations. Optionally you can first establish what sort of learning qualifies to be mentioned, or leave that aspect open because it's obviously an interesting debate in itself which tends naturally to arise from the discussions prompted by the question. Review angles: If you can't think of anything you learned yesterday, how far back do you need to go to find something? Was it learning for work, or life, or both - and what's the difference anyway? How did you learn it? How could you measure/quantify/apply it? How might you transfer it/teach it to someone else? What will change now you've learned it? What further learning does it prompt or enable? Can you analyse the learning in terms of the Kirkpatrick model ? Can you analyse the learning in terms of Johari Window model ? Can you analyse the learning in terms of Multiple Intelligences and/or VAK learning/thinking styles ? What level of Maslow's theory does it impact? What aspect of Erikson's theory does it impact? What value would you put on it? What would you have paid to have learned it some while ago? What could you do to maximise the learning that naturally comes to you every day, for free? You will think of lots more angles, and plenty more suggestions will arise in discussions. Variations: What is the most useful thing you learned in the last week/month/year/previous life? What did you learn at the watercooler/pub after work/party at the weekend/on holiday? What did you learn on your social networking website when you should have been 'working'? What's the most valuable learning you've obtained in the past month/year and how did you get it? What's the most you've learned for the least cost/effort and the least you've learned from the most cost/effort? List an example of your own recent learning for each of the categories: skill, attitude, knowledge, experience. (See Bloom's Taxonomy of Learning Domains for useful reference relating to this aspect, and the exercise as a whole.) Larger groups can be split into smaller work teams to explore what teams have learned and the extent to which learning is shared and assimilated and applied. (This exercise was inspired by a brief story in Leo Buscaglia's wonderful 1972 book 'Love', in which Buscaglia recalls his father asking his children at the end of each day, "What did you learn today?". This expectation encouraged them to seek facts and knowledge - about anything - and the habit was very significant in forming Buscaglia's positive approach to life and lifelong learning. See more about Leo Buscaglia's ideas . I'm grateful to Kiran for reminding me of the source of this, and that Buscaglia's book 'Living, Loving and Learning' contains the same story.) tactical team shove ha'penny (icebreakers, teamworking, tactics, strategy, problem-solving, assessing and countering competitor threats) Equipment: a table (at least four feet diameter) with a smooth surface, some coins, and (optionally) blu-tack, paper, colouring pens and scissors. The activity also adapts as a larger-scale ball game on ground-level, explained at the end of this item. Split the group to make at least two teams - maximum three people per team. Five teams of three per team is fine, so is four pairs or other similar splits. Size of teams, number of teams, and number of coins can all be adjusted to suit the situation. Increase the number of coins to increase the complexity and duration of the game, and to enable more players per team. Issue each team at least six coins - ideally different sorts of coins, and ensure each team has the same number of similar coins. Different size coins create more tactical options. Then, (optionally) instruct the team to create a team logo or emblem and to cut out and colour the shape and fix to their coins using the blu-tack, like a little sail. This is to make it easy to tell the difference between the teams when the coins are in play. Otherwise, ensure that (when the coins are placed flat on the table) each team somehow differentiates their coins from the other teams. (For example if two teams are playing, one team can be heads and the other tails. Or you can issue coloured sticky spots or stars, etc.) The object of the game is to shove the coins, one coin at a time, from the table edge, to create the closest grouping of coins on the table compared to the efforts of the other team(s). Each coin should be moved once only by pushing it 'shove ha'penny'-style, using the pad of the hand at the base of the thumb: Place the coin (about a third of it) off the table edge, and strike it from the side against the edge of the table, using the pad of the hand. The facilitator must be able to demonstrate this, and allow some practice for the teams to get used to the method and speed of the table, and for the teams to decide who in the team will do the shoving. Rules: The winning team is the team to achieve the most (of their own) coins grouped into a specified area, which can be designated and measured by the facilitator before play commences by cutting or tearing a hole in the middle of a sheet of paper, to use as a template. The smaller the area, the more difficult the game is made. Around 12 inches diameter is a reasonable target area. (Do not put the paper on the table; use the paper to measure how many coins are in the groupings at the end of the game. Groupings can be anywhere on the table provided no coin is closer than 12 inches from the table edge.) Coin groupings must be at least 12 inches (30 cms) from the edge of the table (i.e., any coin closer to the edge of the table than 12 inches does not count towards the grouping). Each coin can be shoved once only. Coins may be shoved so as to move coins of own team, or teams may shove their coins to disrupt the groupings of other teams (which makes the game very tactical, and is reason for each team having similar coins since big heavy coins are generally advantageous and easier to use than small coins). Teams take turns to shove and only one team may shove a coin at a time (although for icebreakers and big quick games a time limit can be given instead within which teams can shove their coins freely, which creates different tactical implications). Toss a coin or draw lots to decide the order of play (which can be offered as a tactical option in its own right). State a time limit for tactical discussions between shoves. Review points: Choice between disrupting competitor and building own position. Strategy at beginning, and how it changed during the game. Different approach next time in light of experience? Strategic advantage in order of play? Were the types of coins used at the best times? (Larger coins can be more disruptive, which is useful at the end of the game, but they also help in the early stages to crate stopping points and positions of strength at the early parts of the game.) Effectiveness of team in considering strategic options and making decisions. Extent to which other teams' strategy was observed or anticipated. Fairness of result - element of luck versus skill. Name the 3-5 key capabilities that a winning team would need to perform consistently well at this game. Relative importance of strategy, tactical adjustment, decision-making, and skill - any other major factors? If you were the national coach for this game how would you coach a winning team? N.B. Before the game the facilitator should consider especially the timing of this game. It can take a long time if you have lots of teams and lots of coins. To speed up the game and/or create a quick icebreaker exercise, split the group into pairs, issue three coins per person, and change the rules so that all coins must be shoved in no order (a free-for-all basically) and the game completed within 30 seconds. This format has different tactical implications. Bigger groups, more teams, and more coins, all require a bigger table. Bigger scale indoor or outdoor versions of this game are possible using coloured tennis balls on a playground or a suitably marked floor or grass area, in which case a hula-hoop serves as an ideal measuring template. ageing society exercise (icebreaker, creative analytical thinking, trends, forecasting, ageism, demographics) The aim of the exercise is to get people thinking creatively and analytically. The subject is how the increasing proportion of older people in society will change the world, but actually the subject can be about any large-scale trend. The activity will prompt the use of visioning and imagination, and the consideration of big system changes, consequences, causes and effects. In the case of an ageing society these changes are already upon us, so it's not a hypothetical exercise. The activity obviously also encourages people to think about ageism and age equality issues. Specifically ask group members to consider and decide what they believe will be the single greatest effect in the next 1/2/3/5 years of the ageing population on their area of activity/responsibility/market-place - or on society generally - (years and area of impact decided by the facilitator, depending on the interests/responsibilities of the group). The views of the group members can be discussed or presented or debated depending on the facilitator's aims and constraints of the session. Review points can include: collective group decision as to the most perceptive suggestion what suggestions are the most visionary and forward-seeing how different suggestions might impact on each other the extent to which group members suggestions and views differ according to age of the group members early evidence or indicators of the reliability of each/any of the predictions what information is lacking for more reliable predictions where information might be found if required what differs about this type of thinking compared to day-to-day decisions (proactive deeper thinking compared to reactive shallow) whether drawing diagrams and/or discussing and/or any other methods assist this sort of thinking (for example, is this sort of deeper complex proactive thinking easier when more senses are stimulated, or when more people consider and share ideas?) does this exercise teach us anything about the power of thought as a way to anticipate and develop solutions/responses to situations rather than simply waiting for things to happen? do the collective views of the group seem to support (or not) the notion of 'the wisdom of crowds'. is effective forecasting and predicting of far-reaching effects chiefly based on creative imagination or analytical logic, or equally both? to what or particularly relevant or local trends could we usefully apply the same thinking? Exercise variables at the discretion of the facilitator: thinking/preparation time (icebreaker requires 2-3 mins - bigger exercises could extent to 30 mins or more preparation time) group members to work individually, in pairs or threes, or as two debating teams people could be asked to suggest two or three effects, not just a single effect method of presenting suggestions - discussion, presentation, debate, diagrams, role-play?... anything else? use your imagination the main subject can be varied to focus on any other significant trend - for example: increasing world population, increasing power of new economies (China, India, Brazil, etc), advancing technology (in any market), energy costs and demand, gender or ethnic trends, etc. political qualification game (job skills, training, competence - and many other issues relating to competence and suitability) Appreciating fundamental issues of competence and job profiling necessary for determining suitability, training and qualifications is quite a dry subject. It can be brought to life by applying the thinking to a different situation - different from normal work. Here's the exercise (in pairs or threes, or a discussion group): Imagine you are responsible establishing a professional qualification or NVQ for a politician. A parliamentary MP, or a government minister, or perhaps the prime minister. Agree/nominate parliamentary role(s) as appropriate for the exercise. What competencies would the job require? If helpful structure your answer in terms of skills, knowledge, attitude/behaviour/personality style, experience. How might these be defined, measured and tested? How might a professional qualification be structured and accredited? And a couple of bigger questions of a more philosophical nature if you have time for them: Why in actual fact does the job of a politician escape all normal requirements of professional accreditation? And might this explain why politicians are arguably so incompetent compared to their counterparts in industry? The facilitator can adapt this basic idea for group size, timings, and the precise training aspects of job profiling and candidate selection, development, qualification, etc., as will fit the group's needs and interests. (Incidentally if anyone comes up with constructive and enlightened answers to the last two questions I'd love to see them..) positive behaviour exercise (understanding positive behaviour/behavior concepts, karma, law of attraction, etc) This exercise seeks to enable clearer understanding of positive behaviour and positive thinking, extending to the notion that positive behaviour produces positive effect or reward for the person (or group) acting positively. Instead of trying to unravel the secrets of the karmic universe or the meaning of religious and spiritual life, we can perhaps understand better the effects of our own positive behaviour (or that of a group or entire corporation) by considering how we personally respond to the positive behaviour of others. Ask group members to consider how they personally feel and respond towards someone who behaves in the following ways: 1. smiles a lot and is generally happy   8. absorbs negative behaviour from others with tolerance and understanding   Points to review: Extend some of the examples above to imagine long-term relationships and issues of trust, reputation, recommendation, willingness to do business with such a person, etc. Extend the examples to the responses of many thousands of customers, to many positive behaviours of a corporation, (and then consider the opposite effects: i.e., responses of thousands of customers, and the knock-on consequences, arising from many negative behaviours of a corporation). Positive behaviour of one person is sometimes immediately rewarded or acknowledged by others, but often the effects are not immediate. Cause and effect can be separated by many years, and can be connected by many links in different chains of events. However, positive behaviour in an organisation of many employees and actions inevitably multiplies and accelerates all these effects. The cause and effect cycle - good or bad - is dramatically shortened because there are so many interactions. Positive behaviour is sometimes described using the analogy of ripples from a pebble thrown into a pond - the effects radiate far and wide, and one day reflect back helpfully in ways that are difficult to predict beforehand, or to measure afterwards. Positive behaviour in an organisation could be compared to hundreds of pebbles in a pond every day. Consider your own organisation - are they good ripples or bad ripples? The term 'pseudo-scientific' rightly applies to most concepts linked with positive behaviour, because they cannot be measured and substantiated in conventional scientific ways. Yet millions of people believe strongly that goodness and positivity are more likely to be rewarded in life than selfishness and negativity. And almost without exception successful happy people seem to exhibit and aspire to positive behaviours. The exercise should confirm how positively we each respond to positive behaviour (and negatively to negative behaviour). It's far simpler than karma. Rather than try to find vast universal explanations for the way positive behaviour works, the cause/effect of positive behaviour is perhaps more easily explained by the general tendency for positive/giving behaviour simply and inevitably to attract and to generate positive responses, somehow, somewhere, sometime. Concepts of positive behaviour are difficult to define and explain. Vague terminology such as karma and religious or spiritual associations create further obstacles to exploring the subject. Positive behaviour concepts are confused by lots of vague and emotive terminology and theories, e.g: karma 'positician' (one who acts positively, apparently..) other mumbo-jumbo This exercise offers a way to explore the essential meaning and benefits of positive behaviour, without reference or need to buy in to any of the above. Intangible concepts like positive behaviour can often be better explored from a personal viewpoint, instead of using fixed definitions or rules. Deep complex concepts like positive behaviour are a matter of personal interpretation. N.B. In US-English the word is 'behavior'. In UK-English it is 'behaviour'. 'moneygram' activity/icebreaker (expressing and sharing perceptions about organizations, structures, systems, etc - and creativity sessions and teamworking) This flexible activity is based on using coins to create a 'picture' or diagram of an organizational system or structure which is relevant to the group's work or learning. The subject(s) chosen for the 'moneygrams' (coin pictures) are at the facilitator's discretion, and/or can be suggested by groups, depending on the situation. For example, a subject could be a team, department, division, or an entire corporation, or a market including suppliers, customers, competitors, etc. Or a school, college, a community or an industry sector, or even a region or country, or view of the world. If the main aim is to express/share perceptions of a work or business structure, then the choice of structure is obviously is significant, and the facilitator should ensure a suitable choice. If the main aim is instead to get people working creatively together (for instance young people in school, or a creative workshop session) then the choice of structure is not significant, aside from something that the group will find interesting, and the facilitator can allow the group to choose a structure for their 'moneygram'. The room layout must enable people to make a display on a table or floor and for others to see the display clearly, or for the whole group to work around on a single large display on a table. Coins are of course various values, sizes, colours, years and designs - both sides - and can be stacked, and some stood on their edges. As such coins are potentially a really interesting medium for creating pictures/patterns/diagrams which express ideas and themes of all sorts. The exercise provides a completely different way (unlike normal words, discussion, diagrams, etc) for people to interpret and present their own view of a particular situation. This enables a tactile, fresh, liberating and more objective way for people to express and share their perceptions. The facilitator obviously needs to consider and decide the best way to equip the group with sufficient 'materials' (coins) for the activities. For example a mature adult group could be asked to use the coins from their own pockets and purses. A less mature group should ideally have the coins provided by the facilitator. Complex themes and big require lots of coins. Happily 1p and 2p copper coins very inexpensive materials - in fact probably cheaper than plastic counters and play-money nowadays - and it's useful to have a plentiful supply of coppers, or whatever is your currency equivalent. Foreign coins add international interest and diversity if you have some. If the situation allows, you can ask group members to bring in their piggy banks. The creative use of banknotes, cheques and credit cards is not recommended for obvious reasons. Messing around with loose change carries few risks; bigger values are not appropriate for play materials. If you have any doubts about using real money in the exercise then playing cards can be used instead, which offers another perspective and different interpretations. Be mindful of the time available for the activity and limit the complexity of the subjects accordingly. You cannot expect anyone to map out the global commodities market or the future of the world wide web in a five minute icebreaker with a pocketful of change. See also the organizational modelling activity (teambuilding games page 1), and the baking foil modelling games (this page below) which take slightly different approaches to the same idea. The Johari Window is a useful reference model by which to explain and review the benefits and issues surrounding mutual awareness and perceptions. The money slang and history page offers some entertaining facts and trivia on the subject. As with any exercise much of the value comes from reviewing and discussing the issues arising from the learning experience, and where relevant encouraging people to determine their own preferred reactions. See the notes on experiential learning for additional guidance in this regard. An activity of this nature will tend to highlight various opportunities for future clarification and follow-up actions, especially for work-team leaders. new world exercise (ice-breaker, or bigger exercise for leadership/team roles, multiple intelligences, life skills, analysis and reaction) This is a flexible and fascinating scenario-based activity for groups up to 12 people and all ages. Split larger groups into teams and adapt presentations and reviews accordingly. Schools could potentially develop various extensions to this activity. Ask the delegates to discuss in a group and answer the following question: Scenario: Imagine the world suffered a catastrophic event like a meteor strike, plague or nuclear war, which destroyed most human life and all of the developments of the past century. A mixed group (age, gender, ethnicity, religion) of a few hundred lucky people has survived (it's helpful to agree where - anywhere - because location will influence some aspects of the approach to the question). Question: If this group is to thrive and develop, what initial leadership structure would you suggest, stating 6-12 key roles? (Optionally and ideally ask delegates to justify their suggestions.) Agree timings and presentation/review in whatever ways are useful to the delegates. The number of roles can be the same as the number of delegates, especially if you choose to extend the activity. The exercise can be extended by adding any of the following supplementary questions, which can (optionally) be approached as if the delegates are the survivors leadership team, allocated the key roles identified. Roles can be allocated via volunteering or some other group process, at the facilitator's discretion. Optional supplementary questions: What basic laws would you introduce for the group of survivors? As the leadership team, what would be your ten immediate main aims? What 3-5 main difficulties would you expect in leading the group and how would you try to handle these challenges? What lessons from the modern world would you find most valuable in rebuilding the new world? What would be your five main medium-long term aims? You - and/or the delegates - will be able to devise further questions relevant to your own training/learning situation. There are potentially thousands of useful reference sources which can be incorporated within an exercise like this, really anything you are currently seeking to bring to life and provide context for application. Here are a few examples: SWOT analysis The activity is very flexible. It can be shortened to a two-minute icebreaker, simply to agree the 6-10 roles, or expanded to incorporate all sorts of issues and reference models and tools, depending on the development aims and needs of the delegates. To shorten the exercise into a quick icebreaker simply state the scenario and ask delegates to take 1-2 minutes to think of 3-6 leadership roles. Then quickly gather and count the suggestions on a flip chart or wipeboard, and close with a quick review of the most popularly suggested team roles. Relate to Multiple Intelligence theory or Belbin's team roles theory or another suitably relevant team roles/skills reference model. helium stick games (team building, assumptions, organising tasks, problem-solving) This is a classic teambuilding game, and an amusing exercise around which to design icebreakers. For teams of three upwards, subject to the type and length of 'stick' used in the activity. This explanation includes games variations, and very easily improvised ideas for the stick equipment - as the facilitator you do not need to buy anything. The basic exercise requires all team members to: support a long stick or tube - each person using one finger lower the stick to the ground with no fingers losing contact with the tube. The tendency is for the stick to rise, hence the name of the exercise, because the collective force used to keep fingers in contact with the stick is greater than the gravitational force (weight) of the stick. For this reason use a stick for the exercise that is light enough for this effect to occur, given the number of people in the team. For example a broomstick is too heavy for a team of three people, but would be fine for a team of ten. See the suggestions for stick types per team size below. Other rules and guidelines: The stick (or any alternative item being lifted) must be rigid and not too heavy to outweigh the initial 'lift' tendency of the team size. If it's not rigid it makes it easy for team members to maintain finger-contact. Start with the stick at about chest height. Team members can be positioned either on one or both sides of the stick - depending on stick length and team numbers. The team must return the stick to the starting position if any finger loses contact with the stick. The stick must rest on fingers - the stick cannot be grasped or pinched or held in any way. Typically teams are instructed to rest the stick on the outside (nail-side or 'backs') of fingers, however specifying a side of the finger is not critical to the activity. Optionally you can instruct that a finger from each hand is used, which increases the lifting effect and the difficulty of the task. The length of the stick and the number of team members are also factors in this, i.e., two fingers per person requires a longer stick. Clarify the point at which the stick is considered 'lowered to the ground' - underside of fingers or hands touching the ground is easier to monitor than actually depositing the stick onto the ground, which depending on the ground surface can be very tricky. There are many ways of improvising sticks. Some people use inter-connecting tent-poles, but these are too heavy for very small teams (the gravitational force is greater than the collective lift, which makes the task too easy). Use your imagination - any rigid lightweight stick or tube will do, and if you can't improvise a stick then other materials and shapes can be used instead, as described below. Team size of just three people is not ideal - the activity works best with six to a dozen per team, or even more subject to having a stick long enough. Teams of three would be used mainly for splitting a group of six or nine when a competitive element is required. The bigger the team, the longer the activity will take to complete successfully. This is an important point - for example given a limited time you'd be better splitting a group of twenty into two or three teams rather than run the risk of failing to complete the task, which is not great for teambuilding or for creating a successful mood. Two fingers per person (one finger each hand) creates more lifting effect and challenge but requires a longer stick than one finger per team member. Positioning team members on both sides of the stick enables bigger teams, but can make it more difficult for the facilitator to monitor finger-contact. Games variations: Split large groups into teams, each team with their own stick, and have a race between the teams for the first to lower the stick to the ground. Watch for cheating. If appropriate appoint and rotate observers for say three rounds or a knockout contest. Use a suitably sized square or other shape of cardboard instead of a stick. This achieves a closer team grouping for large teams and adds a different element to the activity if team members already know the stick activity. Cut a big hole in the shape ideally so you can monitor finger-contact. Use a hoopla hoop instead of a stick - a hoop also offers better visibility than a sheet of cardboard. Start with the stick (or whatever else is used) at ground height, raise it to shoulder height and lower it back to the ground. The challenge is stopping it rising beyond shoulder height when it gets there. Issue two sticks per team - one finger for each stick - very challenging. Mix up the teams for different rounds to explore the dynamics of working in a new team even after all members understand the challenge and the solution. Just before starting the exercise ask team members to press down hard with their outstretched fingers onto the edge of a table for 30 or 60 seconds. This confuses the brain still further and increases the tendency for the stick to rise. Ideas for sticks and team sizes (rough guides): joined-together drinking straws (3-6 people) houseplant sticks (3-6) telescopic or interconnecting fishing rods (6-20 people or more) inter-connecting tent poles or gazebo poles (6-20 people or more) drain clearer/chimney-sweeping rods (10-30 people) Review points examples: Why did the stick rise when we wanted it to go down? Did we anticipate the problem? How did we fix the problem? Having achieved the task with this team was it/would it be easier/as difficult with a different team? How did we feel when fingers lost contact? What are the effects of time pressures and competition? How might we coach or prepare others to do this task? And countless other possibilities, many of which you'll see while running the exercises. As a facilitator use your imagination. The 'helium stick' exercise is amusing and effective its basic format, and can be adapted in many ways to support many different themes related to team-working and problem-solving. david davis resignation speech The remarkable 12 June 2008 David Davis resignation speech provides a wonderful unfolding case study for all sorts of teaching and training areas. See the discussion examples, tips and clip on the training clips page . secrets of success exercises (ice-breakers, demonstration and discussion of what enables business success) This activity takes about three minutes in its basic form and requires just a flip chart or equivalent. Ask the group to take a few seconds to think (silently and individually) of someone they know who is successful in business. Tell the group that they do not need to name the person they are thinking of. Then ask the group to think (again silently and individually) : "What is it about that person that enables them to be successful?" After ten or twenty seconds, ask the group to call out the words they are thinking of. Write the words on the flip chart. When you have about eight or more words on the flip chart, ask the group for their comments and observations about the words. Specifically: "What type of characteristics are (most of) these words?" The answer every time is that the words will mostly or entirely describe attitudinal characteristics. Not skills, not knowledge, and not experience. The words will always largely represent attitudinal factors. Develop the discussion in whatever way suits your purposes and session. With positive attitude we can do anything. Attitude also governs how we develop skills, knowledge and experience. Attitude - in whatever way works best for each of us, because we are all different - is the singlemost important factor for success in anything. The exercise most obviously relates to demonstrating the enabling factors for business success, but the factors and exercise can be applied to any other success in life too. This basic activity is a simple quick controlled exercise led by a facilitator using a flip chart, but the idea can be developed in many ways to add extra interest, group interaction, and depth, for example: For large groups split into teams of three. Ask each person to identify three success factors. Ask each team of three to produce a list of the top three factors identified within their team. Display and compare the top three results across all teams. Ask half of the group to think of a successful man, and the other half to think of a successful woman. Compare the identified characteristics for men and women. Link the findings to style and personal strengths and effectiveness, and potentially to discussion about gender and equality. Take similar approach to illustrate and compare characteristics of successful people in different age brackets. This can be linked to discussions and issues concerning ageism and age discrimination. Take a similar approach for illustrating characteristics of successful people according to any other relevant way of categorising people (to your situation or session aims). Apply the exercise to identify success characteristics of teams or companies. Useful reference models and materials are Blooms Taxonomy (to appreciate the difference between different types of personal development), Erikson's Life Stages Theory and Personality Models (to help understand what influences our attitudes). Also NLP and Transactional Analysis are useful models to help understand how it is possible to change our attitudes. change exercises (illustrating and experiencing dealing with change) Here are some simple quick ideas to help demonstrate the brain's reaction to change. They are based on having to accomplish a simple everyday task in a different way: do left-handed a simple task normally done right-handed (or vice-versa) blindfolded or with eyes shut (be mindful of safety issues) outside (instead of indoors - maybe even in the rain/wind - which tends to create radically different circumstances) in pairs (when normally the task is one person's - like using a pair of scissors - which highlights pressures resulting from team changes) by someone other than oneself, to oneself (which highlights fears around personal control and trust) upside-down against a wall being supported by a colleague (task and trust pressures) turn the task upside-down (for example a keyboard - strangeness, unfamiliarity and re-learning pressures) Examples of simple tasks to which the above alternative methods might be applied (where safety and practicability allows): cutting paper shapes with scissors tossing a ball of paper into a bin typing on a keyboard putting a wristwatch onto the opposite arm applying make-up or tying a neck-tie tasks involving counting, sorting or building things (playing cards are ideal for all of these) Not all tasks can be matched with all methods, for example making a cup of tea blindfolded is not very safe. Using a keyboard outside in the rain is neither safe nor practicable. Use your imagination and common sense to devise interesting and memorable combinations. Different methods (types of change) create different pressures - on different parts of the brain - and these effects vary according to the individual. It does not matter that the methods are mostly ridiculous - the point is to demonstrate and experience the different pressures of different types of change. Observe and review how different people react in different ways to different methods. We do not react to change in the same ways. Empathy for other people's feelings is therefore crucial in managing change affecting other people. Motivational and attitudinal models such as those developed by Maslow and Erikson help explain why people react differently to change. One person might feel terribly threatened by a certain change which another person can take in their stride. Personality has a big affect too, for example, steady dependable people can find change more challenging than spontaneous intuitive people. Change of any sort is difficult ultimately when: change requires the brain to overcome fear (of failure and self-doubt, etc) and uncertainty of the change itself (which can be extreme for certain people/personalities), and change requires the brain (and often the body too) to learn something new, or to re-learn or accept something in a different way. Change can be especially frustrating if it involves re-learning something which under a previous method or system was achievable competently (see conscious competence model) - because the brain can imagine and remember being competent, which can cause a sense of loss or failure relative to past experience. The tasks and different methods above a just a few examples. You will think of many others more suitable to your own situation. There are many more activities on this website which address change from more of a mental perspective instead of the physical examples above. Johari Window activities address a particularly useful aspect of change, i.e., self-awareness and exposure to other people's impressions of self. charades icebreaker (session warm-ups, icebreakers, creativity, alternative sources of ideas and inspiration) This icebreaker or exercise combines the traditional charades party game with thinking about work/management (or any other) principles, the central themes and meanings within them, and the value of using non-verbal themes ('vehicles') in conveying an idea, concept, etc. The activity is relevant for any group with roles or interests in training, teaching, team-leading, coaching, presenting, advertising, marketing, design, and communications generally. Basically the exercise is for group members individually to think of and then silently 'act out' a song, a film, a book or a play, etc., which illustrates a particular aspect of work, business or management, or any other key message relevant to the group. The exercise teaches and practises the method of using a vehicle (in this case a book/play/song/film - or other categories if you wish) to convey (and illustrate and emphasize) a message (or a concept or any other important communication). It's for young people as well as grown-ups, and encompasses many of the ' multiple intelligences ' - potentially connecting bodily/artistic/musical with logical/language/interpersonal capabilities. The task concentrates people's minds on the central message and meaning within their chosen principle, and also prompts thought and discussion about using themes and different media and senses to reinforce or deliver an important message, as distinct from using words alone, which are often not the most powerful or memorable way to convey an important point. The sequence of the activity is: Think of a simple message or rule or principle of management/business/or other relevant function. Now think of a book or a play or a film or a song which represents this principle - the 'vehicle' which carries the message. Next think how you can act this book/play/song/film silently to the group, using only gestures (as in the party game charades). Finally each member is given a minute to perform their charade to the group in turn, while the group has to guess the book/play/song/film, and (not so easy) the principle that the 'vehicle' represents. The task also demonstrates the value of using simple clear themes and communications - especially non-verbal signals - that an audience (staff, customers, or any other target audience) can readily relate to and recognize, without the need for lots of explanation and description. If necessary brainstorm and agree the rules for charades, or prepare a rules sheet and issue it, so that everyone has an equal chance for the charades stage of the activity. Here is wikipedia's charades rules . You can use a much shorter set of rules to speed up the exercise, since the point of the activity is to think about themes and messages rather than become experts at charades. You can also award points to group members and to performers for correct guesses of book/play/song/film, and for close and correct guesses of the principles represented. The activity can be run as a much quicker icebreaker by removing the charades element, and simply asking group members for their suggested themes and vehicles rather than acting them out. seasonal icebreaker (session warm-up, icebreaker, discussion-starter for virtually any work-related subject) For groups of between four and twenty people - minimum eight ideally. Duration of activity is between five and fifteen minutes, although the exercise can be extended if further discussion is warranted, for example if exploring implications of issues arising. Split the group into four teams. Draw lots to allocate a season to each team: Spring, Summer, Autumn (Fall), Winter. The task for each team to identify as many seasonal factors related to and influential upon work/business/sales/customer-service/HR/recruitment/training (or any other function relevant to the group, at the discretion of the facilitator) for their allocated season. Give a time limit for the task - anything between a minute and five minutes will be okay. Of course you can give longer if you want to make the exercise more challenging and strategic, rather than seeking quick headline points as would apply for a speedy icebreaker. Organise/facilitate presentations and discussion accordingly. This extremely flexible exercise encourages and enables thinking and subsequent discussion about how situations, demands, needs, priorities, etc., change according to circumstances (predictable events, trends, etc). Discussion can be extended to the implications of the identified effects and how to deal with them. The principle - using seasonal perspectives - obviously focuses on seasonal factors, but can be used to emphasise the need for awareness and adaptability in management, planning, self-motivation and awareness, etc., in relation to all types of changes in causal and influential factors. The more we think about what is likely to happen, then the easier we can plan, and the fewer surprises we have. dice exercise (sales planning, marketing, sales strategy, selling effectiveness, time management, maximising your productivity) This is a quick simple activity for a meeting or training session. The activity illustrates some important lessons. Approach a salesperson (or person with similar responsibilities) with a handful of dice. Hold out the dice, handing just one to the person. Avoid encouraging them to take the other dice. Then ask them to throw six 'sixes' in thirty seconds to achieve success or win a small prize, while you (as the facilitator) continue holding the remaining dice in your open hand. Expect the thrower to build up to frenzied activity as you count down the seconds aloud. Some succeed, some don't. The lessons of the exercise are in the review. The learning points are: The chances of hitting sixes increase with the number of throws - a big part of selling is a numbers game, in which percentages and ratios are significant. So why not throw quickly from the start to increase your chances? Why wait for the deadline to increase energy levels? The thrower could have asked for more dice. (As the facilitator explain in the review that you would have given them more if asked.) Obviously the more dice being thrown, the more sixes are likely to appear. We can expand our range or opportunities by simply thinking how to maximise our effectiveness at the outset of a task. We can ask ourselves (and others) when we approach a new project - What other ways and potential exist? For example, working together in a business to look for cross sales for other departments. And looking for additional distribution methods and market sectors, which can also dramatically increase potential. Also, (prior to the exercise) the facilitator can doctor some of the dice to have an extra six. The facilitator keeps the doctored dice among those retained in the hand. Use correction fluid to make extra dots - fours and twos easily convert to sixes. These doctored dice represent the availability and neglect of methods which offer better returns than the initial assumption, or 'received wisdom'. This demonstrates the value of research, and perhaps testing, of methods and targets which produce a better rate of success. You will uncover more examples related to your own situation which will arise from this powerful yet simple little exercise. Chiefly the exercise is for sales people, but can be used for anyone with responsibility to plan how to use their time, and especially how best to direct their efforts in order to maximise results and rewards. Anyone with average skills can easily out-perform the most skilful operator if they target their effort more strongly and effectively. Success does not only depend on what you do. Success depends mostly on where and how determinedly you do it. Note: Technically 'die' is the singular for dice, and dice is the plural, as in the famous expression 'The die is cast' , which is an interesting item of trivia, not least because it is also connected to the expression ' crossing the Rubicon ', if people are likely to be interested. Thanks to R Chapman (no relation), for the contribution of this excellent exercise. Incidentally die is singular for dice not plural, as I ridiculously stated when I first posted this item, (thanks M Burgess). shoe-wear and foot wear (icebreaker exercise, discussion about self-awareness, different people-types, johari-type development) Mind and body are connected. Here are some simple quick questions to prompt thought and discussion about that notion. The activity is useful as an icebreaker especially because it is active and usually humorous. Look at the backs of the heels of your shoes. Do you wear your heels down on the inside or the outside, or in the middle? Is the wear the same for each foot? To what extent is there a relationship between our personality and the way we walk? And additionally (or alternatively), how does our footwear reflect us as individuals? Discuss with other people your and their reactions to these questions. The facilitator can organize the groups, feedback, discussion, etc., to suit the situation. The Johari Window model is helpful in explaining the value of self- and mutual-awareness. Discussion can be developed in various ways. 'Nature versus Nurture' (genes v upbringing) is often an interesting perspective when considering what makes us the way that we are. Also, the subject of our feet has several strong emotional and cultural connections, which can raise interesting questions about human behaviour and feelings from various angles. Other ways to develop ideas about mind-body connections, for self-awareness and awareness of other people; types, personalities, styles, attitudes, needs, etc: graphology (handwriting analysis) - including self-assessment instrument stress management - many mind-body aspects and for young people especially - fantasticat N.B. Given the nature of this subject, the facilitator should consider any potential discrimination implications. how many 'f's?... (icebreakers, assumptions, checking details, the mind plays tricks, seeing is not always a basis for believing) A quick puzzle with various uses. See "How Many Fs?" on the puzzles page. 'a senseable friend' cards activities (icebreakers, problem-solving, creative thinking, hidden issues, johari, etc) I rarely pick out a product on these pages but this one warrants inclusion because it's so different and appealing. Developed by Peter Middleton, 'A SenseAble Friend' is a pack of 81 triangular cards, each carrying words or phrases designed to provoke and enable reactions, thoughts or discussion. The cards can be used alone, or by a facilitator with a group, and as with other activities teams of three work well. The cards can be used in a quick free-flowing and spontaneous way for activities such as: icebreakers johari window -type development, e.g., developing mutual awareness among teams exploring needs and priorities not revealed in normal discussion a basis for observation of people - for facilitator, team-leader, or among team-members exploring and developing relationships personal reflection, thinking outside of the box, breaking free, etc. The approach, explained via simple and flexible instructions, is highly intuitive, and yet is effective with process-oriented folk as well as with intuitive types. From personal experience I can vouch for the strange power of the cards, which definitely seem to tap into the unconscious in ways that conventional development systems and methods do not. The product would be an excellent addition to a facilitator's toolkit, or simply keep a set on your desk. Trust your unconscious - ideas will echo and return in ways you might not expect. See Peter Middleton's A SenseAble Friend . (My thanks to Soleira Green for drawing my attention to Peter and his concept.) Why 81 cards?... The design evolved from study of scientific, psychological, theosophical and spiritual teachings. In our lives, contrast, or 'natural paradox' is always present. The opposites in us exist comfortably at the same time. They do not need 'fixing'; they exist to provide clarity. Some relate this to 'duality'. Jung's theory , for example, offers some explanation, among other ideas like yin and yang. To give meaning to these opposites and decide who we, we need a third element: consciousness. Aside from this three sided model, our lives can also be represented in terms of four perspectives: physical, psychological, spiritual and divine. The 81 cards evolved to reflect this structure of three to the power of four (3 x 3 x 3 x 3 = 81). There is more to the design, but this essentially explains why there are 81 cards. 'sell a region' diversity game (diversity awareness, teambuilding, presentations, research, understanding other cultures) For group sizes of nine and upwards ideally. A group of eight split into four pairs is probably the minimum. Whatever, split the group into the teams you'd like to work together. Team sizes can be between two and five people. Teams of three generally work well. For larger events bigger teams will work well, subject to finding roles for everyone. Consider the total presentation time available and the total group size to arrive at optimum size of teams. For example - three teams of three would be fine for a small group event, or ten groups of five would be okay for a conference. For groups of more than 50 you can devise supporting roles (coordinator, props, equipment, MC, scheduler, creative, etc) within teams to enable bigger team sizes. This activity requires that people are given time before the event to research and prepare. It is possible to run the exercise in a 'lite' version by offering research facilities at the event, but the benefits of the activity are much increased if people and teams have the opportunity to discover information. The exercise can also be adapted for individuals to work alone, and could potentially be used in a group selection recruitment event, in which case group members people should be given time for research and preparation before the presentation day. A smaller group size, say four or five people, is viable for the exercise if based on individual presentations. Having determined the teams, allocate a part of the world to each team (logically relating to the regions/countries that chiefly feature in your diversity issues) - or invite the the teams to choose their own countries/regions, subject to your guidelines and situation. Each team's task is to prepare and then deliver a team presentation 'selling' their region to the group or conference, imagining the audience to be seeking a holiday home or the holiday of a lifetime. Team members are responsible for researching and preparing the following aspects for their presentation. The number of aspects is variable and at the facilitator's discretion, and should ensure there is sufficient for each team member to be involved: leisure and sport connections with other parts of the world amazing facts you never knew about (the region/country) During the presentations, for which you should issue appropriate timescales, the members of the conference or group vote on the best presentations according to pre-announced criteria (examples below), and as an additional incentive you can ask each team to buy a prize (representing their region up to a stipulated value, depending on your budget. The winners of each category can choose their prize from the pool. Awards categories examples: presentation style and quality star presenter specialist categories according to above presentation criteria, e.g., best historical item, best entertainment item, best amazing fact, etc. The activity offers lots of flexibility for adaptation to suit your particular circumstances and development aims. It challenges people to discover new positive things about other parts of the world, to work in teams, and then to share their discoveries with the group. A neat addition to the exercise, if the situation allows, is to appoint some team members as roving 'cultural advisors' to other teams if among the group you have people with background or knowledge in the allocated regions, and if you are very clever you could actually select and allocate the regions with this in mind. To achieve a competitive balance each team should be able both to offer an adviser and to benefit from the help of an advisor from another team. This exercise can also be adapted to provide a more modern and meaningful interpretation of the desert island or plane crash stranded survival exercise , which essentially encourages group members to identify resources and to formulate a plan of action. To do this, adapt the presentation instructions thus: Purpose of the presentation: to identify a plan for surviving and thriving on a personal or business level (in your allocated region/country). This obviously does not carry the aspect of desperation present in the traditional 'stranded' exercise - instead it gets people focusing on real issues of diversity and personal challenge in a more useful sense. animal perceptions exercise (self-awareness, team discussions and mutual awareness, johari-type development) This is a simple, enjoyable and thought-provoking activity for workshops and team-building. This exercise should be positioned as mostly fun and to prompt reflection, discussion, etc. It is not to be presented or used as a scientific assessment of personality or attitude, and certainly not as an assessment of good or poor skills or temperament. I am grateful for its contribution by Shwetha Singh, a post-graduate in psychology, Punjab University, India. Ideally start the activity with some discussion about how other people affect one's own self-perceptions - for example: "How do significant people in our lives affect the way we perceive ourselves?" This discussion should prompt people to think about their own self-perceptions. Next, ask group members individually to rank the animals below in order of their personal preference.  Lion Dog Parrot Elephant How you'd like to be perceived by others in the future. 4 How you actually truly want to be - without influence of what other significant people in your life feel and think about you.   Some discussion points: To what extent do we shape our self-image and aims according to the influence and opinions of other people? To what extent do we understand how we are actually regarded by others? To what extent does what other people think of us matter? Should the influence of other people today affect what we seek to be in the future? If you could list different animals - or substitute people/role-models instead - what would the list be and what might it tell you about yourself? Whether the exercise produces accurate results is not the point - the point is to encourage thinking about who we are and who we want to be, in more depth than we normally consider these things. The Johari Window model is a useful reference for this exercise and surrounding discussions. Underpinning theory and further reading if desired: Carl Rogers' ideas about Ideal Self and Real Self, and Sigmund Freud's theories, notably relating to animal personalization and influences of significant others (people in our lives). I am grateful to Shwetha Singh for the contribution of this exercise and assistance with its adaptation. This exercise is not presented as a validated or scientific instrument. Please use it carefully. christmas quizzes Free Christmas quizzes - Quizballs 48 (30 questions and answers) - and last year's Quizballs 29 (20 questions and answers) listening games (listening, interpretation, understanding, speaking, creativity) Exercise 1. First here is a quick self-contained ready-made listening exercise (ack Claire Leach) which focuses on listening only. Exercise 2. The activity which follows is different to the ready-made game above - it enables a group to devise their own exercises and therefore includes aspects of creativity and team working in addition to listening. This second exercise is an activity idea chiefly for demonstrating and developing listening, understanding and interpretation abilities, but also for general communications and creative and competitive team working. Split the group into two or more teams of up to five people per team. Split larger groups into more teams and adapt the exercise accordingly - it's very flexible. Each team member (or a given number of people per team) must read out a passage from a newspaper or other suitably detailed text to the opposing team or teams. Rotate the reading around the teams in turn rather than have each team perform all its readings one after the other. Teams must listen to the readings so as to answer questions later, posed by the team asking the questions. Taking written notes while listening is optional at the discretion of the facilitator. If useful and relevant to the skills required then include this aspect. When all the passages have been read, each team must then devise and ask the other team 5/10/20 questions in turn about the passages they've read. Optionally the questions can be devised before the readings, which makes the listening challenge easier since there is no interruption or distraction between the readings and the questions. The winning team is the one to answer most answers correctly. The facilitator can award bonus points for answers which demonstrate particularly good interpretation of the subject matter included in the readings. Adjust the many variables of this activity to suit your situation, notably: structure teams number and size, number of readers, length of passages, number of questions, etc., according to time and group size, and level of difficulty required. Here's an example: two teams of 5 people 3 readers per team (self-appointed by teams) passages to be max 100 words or 30 seconds 5 mins allowed for teams to decide passages (newspapers contain ideal content) 3 mins total time for reading the six passages 5 mins for teams to construct 5 questions based on their passages 5 mins to ask and answer 10 questions, 5 questions each team, asked/answered alternately one from each team winning team is team with most correct answers/points including bonuses total time including set up, excluding review and discussion, about 30 mins The activity format can be varied too, for example breaking the questioning and answering into two different sections, so that teams have a chance to work on their answers, which adds the extra difficulty of noting or remembering the questions properly too. Introduce more fun or additional technical aspects by issuing amusing or obscure or very specific reading material.   money exercise (ice-breaker, talking point, focus on observation, taking things for granted, noticing things right in front of us) This is a quick and very easy ice-breaker or scene-setter. Everyone uses money - notes and coins - most days of their lives. Coins and banknotes are a part of our lives, and yet like other vital and ever-present aspects of our lives, their familiarity and constant presence cause us to ignore their details. The same can be said of our friends, our families, colleagues, our own bodies, the world around us. We go through life taking it all for granted, and only miss something when it is gone. To illustrate the point ask people (individually to write down) how many designs they are aware of on a pound coin. In countries other than the UK choose a suitable equivalent coin or banknote which has many variations. Then ask people to look in their pockets and purses (manbags?... the world is changing, another story..), and show and tell as a group how many actual different pound coin designs exist. You will be surprised. Arguably no harm comes from failing to appreciate the detail, variety and subtlety and purpose of all the designs of our coins or banknotes, but could we pay (pun intended) more attention to the detail, variety and subtlety that exists in other aspects of our world - people especially? The world opens to us when we become more open ourselves to what and who are in it - then we see more clearly the opportunities and bigger priorities we might have been ignoring. Ask the person next to you: "Tell me something important about you that I don't know." Again you will be surprised. With a little effort we can see and enable more to happen, or we merely continue (quite understandably) to focus on our own very narrow priorities and view of the world, which when we take a wider view often don't seem to be so important after all. The picture shows nine of the pound coin designs. How many others can you find? What do they denote? There are fourteen in circulation (as at 2007). See the Royal Mint pound coin page for full details . For more supporting trivia and information about (mainly British) money see the money history and slang page . conkers and acorns activities (various themes for discussions and exploration) A seasonal activity if ever there was one. These ideas are more for young people than for grown-up work environments, although for some there will be connections with work issues. Usefulness and effectiveness will partly depend on openness to intuitive learning and exploration. Various exercises and opportunities arise from these fascinating fruits, for example: Take the group outside to the local park and have them collect conkers and/or acorns. Fresh air and a nostalgic revisiting of simple childhood fun is good for the soul. Be careful if the (big) boys want to throw big sticks up into the trees. Trees are very spiritual and symbolic of many modern issues and challenges, and can be used to prompt all sorts of discussions and ideas. Time, maturity, age, seasons, growth and rest, converting energy and fuel (sun, rain, soil minerals) into life and beauty, design, balance, quality, etc. Ask people to close their eyes, think and then explain their associations and feelings triggered by (physically holding, handling) conkers or acorns. The real thing is far more sensory and emotive than a picture. This illustrates the power of the subconcious and unconcious mind, which is very relevant to our behaviour, as featured in personality , NLP , and Transactional Analysis , for example. For many grown-ups it demonstrates the deep-rooted feelings anchored in our childhood. A good old-fashioned conkers competition. You need a drill and string. Goggles and health & safety disclaimer as appropriate. Have the group design the structure of the competition so that all stay involved from start to end. Explore/develop the selection and preparation of the most competitive conkers. Old conkers are the best. Drilling produces a stronger hole than forcing through a nail or an awl, which creates weaknesses liable to split. Does vinegar really work? Apparently softening with moisturiser works better.. Write the rules of playing conkers so that an eight-year-old would understand them. The pros and cons of regulations in proper competitions which forbid the use of personal conkers. How do rules affect the nature of the competition and the appeal to potential contestants and audiences, in turn affecting the 'market' development? Cultural/diversity discussion - Conkers and acorns have strong British associations. What are the equivalents in other regions/cultures? Acorns symbolise growth and potential: "Parvis e glandibus quercus" - Tall oaks from little acorns grow, is the old anonymous Latin saying. What other imagery and analogies are associated with trees? What are the origins of the words? - chestnut (from Greek 'kastanon' - not the modern English words chest or nut), conker (probably from conch, meaning shell, because apparently early versions of the game were played using snail shells, and/or associated with the word conquer) and acorn (Old English different spelling 'aecern' evolving into modern form by combination of 'ac' meaning oak and 'corn' meaning kernel as in nut - sources Chambers and Cassells). The design of the conker and its prickly casing are a marvel of evolution. Why is it like it is? Why is the acorn like it is? How did that funny little cup arrangement evolve? When we think about the function of fruits we can imagine how they evolved their amazing designs. What can we learn from nature's evolution and design that might be transferable to organizations and society? To what extent should we encourage and enable design and evolution of organizations and policies and systems via external influences (customers especially) rather than internal arrogance and guesswork? Conkers (horse chestnuts) are not to be eaten by people, yet they are safe for certain animals, including horses. The North American Indians used a lot of acorns in their diet, yet acorns are poisonous to horses. How did that happen? Extend the exploration to sweet chestnuts, which of course are very tasty roasted or toasted under a grill and rather easier to prepare than acorns. Or find the best propellors from the sycamore/maple trees. You'll discover a lot more in the park. Maybe combine with a visit to the swings. (See the quickies below). Or just go feed the ducks and the squirrels. Beats spending your lunch-break at your desk any day. how to whistle an acorn competitor-partner exercise (competitor intelligence, competitor research, different perspectives, seeking and finding positives and opportunities instead of difficulties and threats - choice over instinct - collaboration rather than conflict) The assumption is normally that a 'competing' organization or person can only ever be a competitor and a threat, to be attacked, defended, undercut, or beaten or fended off in some way. Such tendencies commonly stem from instincts which give rise to basic human survival behaviours like: tit-for-tat, retaliate before being attacked, to see threats rather than opportunities, and to defend rather than expose our own vulnerabilities, etc. There are good reasons however for taking a more modern rounded collaborative view of people and organizations that operate in our personal or business space or field or market. The first law of cybernetics explains a crucial benefit resulting from considering and choosing our responses rather than defaulting to instinct (or worse still defaulting to the assumed or inherited instinct of others, or convention, tradition, status quo, expectation, etc). Much energy is wasted developing and implementing competitive strategies, which often can either be avoided altogether (because the threat is vastly lower than believed) and/or which can better be channelled into collaborative partnership strategies (which can produce far better outcomes for all concerned). This exercise (which can be simplified or extended) encourages a more sophisticated approach when responding to organizations in markets (or people within work teams) normally viewed as competitors or threats. Split the group into teams or pairs or individuals as appropriate for your situation. Allocate or ask the participants to identify an organization (or group, but can be a trend or a development) that they consider to be a competitor or threat. In certain situations choices can be kept private, for example where the exercise deals with people and relationships. Validate the selections (in light of the remainder of this exercise, so that the subjects are relevant and helpful). Obviously this is more appropriate for commercial competitor situations. Where the exercise is used for private personal relationships just ask people to double-check themselves that they have chosen a suitable subject. Ask people to think carefully about their chosen person/organization, according to the factors in the appropriate grid below (the grids are different for organizations and people), and particularly to cast aside all assumptions and historical beliefs and practices. The factors can be adapted according to the circumstances, and for more complex situations (notably commercial competitor and market analysis) can entail quite detailed research (separate from the session, or part of the session, depending on the time available and local situation). Essentially the exercise weighs the pros and cons of each factor from the perspective of competitor and partner. Emphasise to participants when making the assessment to look continually for a fit between the other organization and their own situation and capabilities and needs. You will often be surprised that there are far more reasons to collaborate than to persist with habitual aggressive or defensive competition strategies and responses. This is the age of collaboration. We can all benefit by checking old assumptions. market competitor/partner grid   Tips: Using colour can make the exercise more intuitive and the results easier to see, for example use green for pros and red for cons. If developing strategy in relation to a single major 'competitor' you can have the whole group work on one big grid, using post-it notes or similarly ingenious display method - in which case allocate parts of the grid to teams or pairs to work on. Or have two teams - one work on the pros and the other the cons; or four teams or pairs, each working on one of the four factors.   people and team relationships grid The competitor-partner grid can also be adapted to help people or a group explore team and group relationships and ways to work together rather than to compete and conflict. Again the emphasis should be on finding a fit between oneself and the other person - in terms of strengths and weaknesses, personality and styles, mutually supporting aims, experience and aspiration, etc. If running an open shared exercise ensure anyone subject to the analysis is present and agreeable, and ideally participating constructing their own grid featuring another member of the team. The tool can of course also be used as a private personal reflective instrument, in which case the findings are to be kept private and personal. It is not appropriate for a group to discuss and analyse a person who is not present and agreeable to the exercise.   © competitor-partner grid concept alan chapman 2007 questioning games (to demonstrate, teach and practise the difference between open and closed questions) Many people habitually ask closed questions when they want to gather information and encourage the other person to talk, instead of using open questions. Here are some scenarios to use with groups in demonstrating the effectiveness of open questions, and the ineffectiveness of closed questions, for gathering information efficiently. Use your own alternative scenarios if more appropriate to your situation. In each case state the scenario to the group, and then role-play or ask for closed questions by which the group must gather all the facts or solve the puzzle. This is neither easy nor efficient of course. Then ask for suggestions of open questions which will reveal the information or answer most efficiently. Scenarios (numbers 2 and 3 are lateral thinking puzzles suitable for questioning exercises): 1. You are seeking to rent a holiday cottage in a particular area (say Cornwall, or whatever). The newspaper has one advert in the Cornwall section, stating merely: 'Holiday Cottage For Rent' and a phone number. Role-play your phone call to discover if the cottage is what you want, using closed questions only. (If helpful, brainstorm a long list of typical requirements beforehand.) Similar exercises are possible using other sale/hire/services scenarios, e.g., cars, houses, party/wedding venues, coaching, clubs, etc. 2. A class of twenty-five children is invited by their teacher to share a bag of exactly twenty-five sweets. After the share-out all the children have a sweet but one sweet remains in the bag. How is this? Instruct the group to ask closed questions to solve the puzzle. (The answer is that last sweet was taken away in the bag.) 3. Two electric trains were mistakenly routed onto the same track in opposite directions into a tunnel. One travelling at 200 mph, the other at 220 mph. Each train passed successfully through the tunnel and was able to continue its journey without stopping or colliding. How so? Instruct the group to ask closed questions to solve the puzzle. (The answer is that the second train entered the tunnel several minutes after the first one had left it.) Use or adapt your own puzzles and scenarios as appropriate for the audience. You can also vary the way that the group asks questions - in turn, one-to-one with observers, in pairs, etc. Here is some explanation of the use of questioning in a sales training context, as typically found in a traditional selling process. Questioning of course features importantly within coaching, counselling, interviewing, investigating, and many other disciplines, so adapt the explanation to suit your needs. Use the poster of Rudyard Kipling's 'six serving men' verse to help explain and reinforce the best way to ask open questions. You can also extend this activity to develop the way that questions are structured and asked (style, emotion, tone, body language , use of words, etc), in which the Mehrabian theory is a helpful reference. For help with enabling powerful facilitative questioning see Sharon Drew Morgen's Facilitative Methodology . (My thanks to Sarah Phillips for this activity idea.) diversity quiz game (for diverse groups, mutual understanding, empathy, diversity training) Here is an easy exercise which makes use of the quiz format to teach and improve people's response to diversity issues. The activity is for diverse groups (mixed age, race, gender, religion, and/or other types of people), but the exercise will be useful for groups of apparently less diverse nature too. Diversity is not just about race and religion - diversity entails all aspects of what makes people different, which can be found in any group of people, even if initially the group seems not very diverse at all. The exercise is basically for the group members to create a diversity quiz by contributing questions individually (or working in pairs or threes depending on overall group size), and then for the group as a whole to take the quiz (or in the same teams). This process enables discovery of real practical local diversity issues, instead of assuming and announcing what they might be. If appropriate first brainstorm and/or discuss and agree/explain what diversity means. Here is a suggested description. Adapt it or use your own explanation to suit the situation. "In a social or work context diversity means difference and variation among people. This difference and variation can be characterised by race, gender, age, religion, physical shape and ability, social class and background, personality and ability: any, some, or all of these. Organizations which make the most of the natural diversity in their staff, customers, suppliers and other partners, have a huge advantage over organizations which fail to do so. Making the most of diversity in staff and other people - often called inclusiveness - increases the depth and range of behaviours and capabilities (also skills, knowledge and styles) that the organization can call upon in meeting the needs of the increasingly diverse market place. Recognising diversity in the market place effectively increases the size of the market. Failing to acknowledge diversity within and outside the organization reduces capabilities, causing the organization to be less appealing, and to fewer people, and in some cases creates organizational liabilities for litigation under discrimination laws. Failure to recognise and respond to diversity often equates to discrimination and is regarded by fair-minded people as unethical." Here is the instruction to group members to create the quiz: 1. You have five (or 10 or 15) minutes to formulate one (or two or three) quiz question(s) and answer(s) for a diversity quiz. You must do this individually/in pairs/in threes. N.B. Timings, numbers of questions and team size depends on the size of the group, for example: work as individuals for group sizes up to 9 people; in pairs for groups of 8-24 people; or in threes for groups of 15 and above. Very large groups should be spilt into sub-groups with appointed facilitators. Consider time available and number of questions needed when deciding your parameters for the activity. 2. Tell the group: when formulating your questions and answers think about subjects that are significant in reflecting or influencing how you, and people like you act, think, behave, decide, etc. Questions can be about anything - history, lifestyle, culture, media, travel, geography, finance, food and drink, language, politics, leisure and entertainment. 3. For the effective running of the quiz, questions must be clear and easy to understand, and have clear short answers - facts, figures, etc., not subjective personal opinions that might be subject to wide interpretation. 4. One of the ironies of diversity is that we all tend to assume that people who are different to us understand how and why we think and behave the way we do. We take for granted the way we are, and expect others to sympathise with us, and to see things from our viewpoint. This starts with the simplest aspects of our lives. Therefore in formulating helpful diversity quiz questions and answers, do not strive for complex concepts. Keep it simple, and you will be surprised how revealing and helpful this can be. 5. Hand the formulated questions and answers to the facilitator, who can then run the quiz for the whole group using all questions. The quiz can be run for people competing as individuals or in the same pairs or threes which formulated the questions. A useful reference model for this activity is the Johari Window . The diversity quiz exercise seeks to enable people to increase what others know about each other, which is at the root of inclusiveness and making the most of diversity. The Multiple Intelligence model is also a useful reference model for considering people's different strengths (to avoid assuming that there is only one type of intellectual capability), and the Erikson life stages model is also helpful in considering age and upbringing issues. questions examples, and adapting exercise into survey The questions and answers should be simple - everyday things that we all take for granted, except when it comes to other people, which is the point. Most obvious examples relate to geographical/cultural facts relevant to people's own native/place of birth/parents' country. For example: national flag design/national anthem/national history/independence. Other diversity issues questions/areas to explore: disabilities and personal physical/mental differences age/generational factors and lifestyle/behaviours/preferences gender/sexuality differences multiple intelligence issues (see Gardner model and test for useful context) - respecting each other's strengths and weaknesses, preferences and aversions, fears, etc home life attitudes and received/conditioned/inherited views/attitudes - exploring cultural aspects of parental influences. Developing quiz questions need not be the most important aspect - it's the discussion and exploration on the way that also holds great potential for mutual understanding, especially in a diverse group. The outcome or ostensible 'aim' of the activity can therefore be altered accordingly - maybe not a quiz - maybe 'ten amazing things I never knew about my group', or 'ten amazing things my team partner(s) and I never knew about each other'.. The concept can also be adapted into/started with a survey - when the group goes out into a busy public area to ask people: "Could you tell me a simple fact about your culture/country that could make a good question and answer for a diversity quiz? (Explain if required: Diversity is understanding and appreciating the differences between people)..." If you run the exercise and produce some questions do let me have them to share on the website.   Please send me quizzes created using the above exercise to share with others , or post them onto the Businessballs free publishing Space . causes and solutions exercises (discussion or illustration of problem-solving, dispute resolution, crisis management and avoidance, solutions-focused thinking) Quick and easy to set up, and very adaptable for all sorts of training and development purposes, this exercise is based on the following simple principle: Ask individuals or pairs or threes (or a larger team with guidance as to team for leadership) to identify an example in a newspaper of some sort of dispute or conflict, and then to analyse the causes and solutions. Ask people to adopt the view of a mediator. Suggest or brainstorm some pointers to help people approach the task, for example: What helpful facilitative questions could be asked of the parties involved to work towards a solution? What might be changed in the methods or attitudes or structures of the situations in order to prevent a recurrence of the problems? How does each side feel and what are their main complaints, feelings, needs and motivators? To what extent could the problem have been averted or predicted, and if so how? How can others learn from the situation? Discussion and presentation format and timings are flexible and at the discretion of the facilitator. Save time if needs be by highlighting suggested articles in the newspapers. Refer delegates to relevant management or behavioural theories and models, and/or ask that delegates do this when they present/discuss their views/analysis. quiz public survey game (research, communications skills, appreciating the knowledge other people possess, human engagement, fun) This is a simple twist to bring any quiz or question to life, and add a wonderful dimension for developing and demonstrating the power of successfully communicating and engaging with other people. Split the group to suit you (teams, pairs, or threes probably best). Decide rules, timing, presentation, discussion, review, etc., to fit your situation. All this is flexible. Take any quiz or series of questions, or one big difficult question. Issue it to the teams (or pairs, or individuals, etc). The task is to go out and engage with the general public to find the answers. Introduce variations to suit your situation. For example if working with competing teams you can arrange that each team has a 'shadow' or observer from another team to ensure no cheating, and also to give observer feedback in any reviews that happen afterwards. (If appropriate brainstorm the review points prior to the exercise with the group - it's easier and better than you doing this by yourself.) You can also define certain areas or places for the teams to go (shopping centre, pubs, library, old folks home for example), although take care to ensure no nuisance is caused. State clear rules for the use of phones. Purists might argue that they are not allowed at all, which is fine, but there is no problem allowing an element of phone research if it fits the group roles/preferences and development situation. There are lots of quizzes in the quizballs section, including many with interesting varied content that would suit this exercise. Or make up your own questions or subjects for the teams to research among the general public, for example: List the last 20 prime ministers/presidents in correct order. List all the county towns/state capitals. Name all the Big Brother winners in order. What's the history of the local town? Who are the most famous people born locally? What are the five most liked corporations, and what are the five least liked corporations? Who would win an election if one were called now? You'll think of lots more ideas. bin toss game (warm-up, tea-break activity, competitive exercise, exploring competitiveness and motivation) Adapt this simple idea any way you want. There are lots of potential variations. A horse-shoe table layout (U-shape) or a ring of tables or a square with a gap in the centre are well-suited to this idea. 'Cabaret'-style layout will also work provided the position of the waste bin target(s) is arranged fairly. You can probably guess already... Position a waste bin or basket on the floor or on a table centrally between the delegates. The winner or winning team is the one to throw the most balls of paper (or any other suitable objects that the facilitator decides) into the bin. Obviously specify a method of identifying who threw what. Variations on the theme are for example: Design a personalised or team brand or logo for each sheet rolled and tossed. Different coloured paper. One bin per team with point deductions for opposing team missiles successfully deposited. Write a letter on each sheet before tossing - words must be spelled from bin contents. Pairs, or threes or teams to devise a party game based around the bin toss idea - then demonstrate and sell it to the group. You'll think of lots more.. When you have why not publish them on the new Businessballs Space ?... bricks in the wall exercise (aims, goals, objectives, steps - for new years, new beginnings, changes and planning, making dreams into reality) This is a simple exercise for goal-setting and making changes. The ideas are relevant for calendar new years, new trading years, new roles, teams and projects, and for personal development. The activity is based on the simple concept that even small aims actually comprise a series of elements which need to be identified, planned, and implemented in correct order. Achieving aims, goals and changes is like building houses - they need to be understood and assembled bit by bit - like bricks in a wall. You might start with a vision or dream or objective, but this cannot be achieved in one single move. A house is not built from the top down or all at once. It starts with a plan - or maybe a vision if the type of house has never been built before - and is then constructed from the foundations upwards, section by section, brick by brick. Like building a house, any aim or change or objective must be analysed and planned, and then built in a sensible order: what will it look like? - describe the vision or end-aim so we will recognise it and be sure it has been achieved correctly what are the components? - the causal factors and circumstances? - what needs to be put in place? - physical resources and materials, maybe people too, and intangibles like agreements, permissions, understanding, etc. and what is the process for assembling it all? - the steps, sequence, timings, etc. Using this concept, ask the group, split into whatever teams or individuals that makes sense for your situation, to visualise and then map out - in very simple terms - one of their own main aims for the coming year/period, quarter/lifetime, whatever. Keep it simple. Resist getting into a lot of detail. Merely seek to explain/reinforce the need for basic structure and sequence and the relationship between cause and effect. This is the extent of the exercise. The framework is: Describe the end-aim - what does the completed change/objective/aim/dream look like? What will it/you be like, feel like, behave like, and what difference will the change make? Is the end aim worth the investment? Is the end aim actually a good and right one? How will you know when it's been achieved, and everyone else too? What are the components of this change? The physical things you can see and touch and put a cost to, and the other factors that are less easy to see and to measure? What are the cause-and-effect relationships - start at the end and work backwards - what needs to happen before this, and this, and this, etc. What is the sequence and timings of assembling the components, and for more complex changes, what is the inter-relatedness (and inter-dependence) of the components? Certain elements are part of sub-sets or sub-structures that need to be built at the same time alongside eachother, converging at a suitable point. Understanding these connections is very important where a project comprises a number of separate inter-dependent structures. (Imagine how long it would take to build a house if only one trade or activity could be on site at any one time, and imagine how chaotic things would be if these different activities were not planned and joined together at the right time.) Finally, having identified the above - in outline terms only - ask people to bring them together as a rough plan for their own particular aim/objective/change, in whatever format people find easiest. (Some people prefer to map out a flow diagram, others prefer a pictorial representation like a house; other people prefer a list; any format is fine as long as it's clear and structured.) The purpose of this exercise is not to produce a heavily detailed project management plan - that can happen afterwards if required (see the notes on project management for examples of traditional planning formats) - the aim of this activity is to explain the importance of cause and effect, and compenents and process, in achieving aims. the ampersand game (ice-breakers, warm-ups, demonstrations of learning, thinking, and brain-types, knowledge versus skill) This simple exercise is a quick icebreaker, or can be extended into something more meaningful. Fundamentally the activity demonstrates that knowing something is very different to doing something. Knowledge is different to skill. The exercise also illustrates certain learning and brain processes, notably relating to retention, practise and repetition, as steps to perfection. Useful reference models would include Bloom's Taxonomy and the Conscious Competence model . The basic activity idea is very simple: It's basically to draw the ampersand symbol (the 'and sign'). The exercise however can be adapted and developed significantly. Everyone has seen the ampersand symbol. Most people call it the 'and sign'. It looks like this, in two common fonts, (Tahoma and Times New Roman): & & In fact the ampersand appears in a wide variety of wonderful designs; it has provided designers through the centuries with more scope for artistic interpretation than any other character. The activity is simply to ask people to draw the ampersand symbol - serif or sans serif - or a more stylised version - at the discretion of the facilitator. (Interesting background about sans serif and serif fonts is on the presentations page.) It's actually not at all easy to draw a good-looking ampersand, especially if team members are not able to see the symbol to copy it. Knowing and recognising the ampersand equates to 'knowledge'. Being able to draw it - to reliably produce one - equates to 'skill'. Different things. Knowledge we can learn by observation and other sensory input. Skill is generally only acquired from experience, practice, trial and error. This is the heart of the activity. Where people should draw and present their artwork attempts - and how large and how long is permitted for the effort - is all flexible and at the discretion of the facilitator. People can use a blank sheet of paper where they sit, or alternatively can practise (or not), and then take turns to draw the symbol on a flip chart. Or ask people to work in pairs or threes or even teams, to design their definitive ampersand. Or encourage branding and styling of people's artwork according to a particular theme, which extends the activity beyond the basic purpose described here. At its simplest the exercise is a two-minute icebreaker. With a bit of imagination it can be adapted into a much bigger activity, if the idea appeals and fits the situation. The exercise emphasises that we can know something very simply intimately but be incapable of reproducing it properly and expertly - whether a printed symbol, or something more significant. The principle extends to behaviour, style, techniques, etc. The activity also demonstrates the significance of practice in becoming good at something. The brain must learn how to do it, which is very different from the brain simply recognising and being able to describe it. Incidentally while the symbol is about 2,000 years old, the word ampersand first appeared in the English language in around 1835. It is a corrupted (confused) derivation of the term 'And per se', which was the original formal name of the & symbol in glossaries and official reference works. More about the origins of the ampersand . Explaining the history can help position the exercise - it took 2,000 years to arrive at today's ampersand designs - hence why it takes a bit of practice to reproduce a good one by hand. seasonal team games (exercises and activities linked to christmas and other celebrations) These activities ideas are not only for Christmas. They'll adapt for other seasons and celebrations. Use these activities sensitively. If there's a risk of causing offence then adapt them or avoid them. The ideas are meant to be fun, underpinned by some useful questions and learning. Split the group however suits you (teams, pairs, or threes probably best). Arrange presentation, discussion, review, etc., to fit your situation. The Roman/Greek god theme below has absolutely nothing to do with the activities, but if it helps add an additional creative perspective by all means go with it. 1. Christmas Community Party - You are a think-tank appointed by Bacchus, god of wine, merriment and debauchery. Bacchus has tasked you to devise a plan for staging a free local community Christmas party or event, to include ideas for the type of event, target audience and guests, funding, staffing, venue, marketing, publicity and ideally on-going benefit for the community, and reasons for the funders and event managers to stay involved and supportive. (Specify a community as appropriate, or leave the teams to decide this themselves.) 2. Brussel Sprout Relaunch - You are marketing advisor to Saturn, not only Roman god of the sky, but also with a secondary portfolio responsibility for agriculture (never knew that did you..) Anyway Saturn is very concerned that one of the greatest vegetables ever - the brussel sprout - has struggled to achieve the popularity it deserves, especially among children, most of whom would apparently prefer to eat a bogie or a big mac instead of a good helping of brussels. Your task, should you decide to accept it, is to devise a product relaunch plan for the brussel sprout, including whatever you think would elevate the vegetable to its rightful place as king/queen of all vegetables. Consider the marketing staples: Product, Price, Promotion, Place, and anything else you can bring into play, e.g., endorsement by Ramsos and Olivos, the two-headed god of culinary evangualisation. The world is no longer your oyster, it's your sprout. (Incidentally sprouts smell bad when they are cooked for too long, so education is worth including in your ideas.) 3. 2020 Retail Visioning - You sit on the advisory panel in the service of Argos, Asdos, Morros, Sainsbos, Tescos, and Waitros, the six musketeer gods of retailing, who have been assembled by Zeus and tasked to redefine the developed world's retail distribution model for the year 2020. Consider how, where, what, when and why consumers will be buying, and from whom. Your 2020 vision for retailing does not necessarily have to include the six musketeers, and in some ways it might be more fun if it does not. For instance, Co-opos, god of mutuality has some interesting ideas, as do Amazos, Ebos and Googlos, the gods of change and basically ripping up the rule book. 4. Seasonal Rebrands - You are marketing assistant to Richus Bransos, the emperor of branding, and he's hungry for a sleeping giant of a product to rebrand and relaunch. Your task is to identify a product or service or a proposition of some sort - anything from a chocolate bar to a whole country - which can be rebranded and relaunched for the Christmas season (or any other season as appropriate) to generate bucketloads of wonga for the Bransos Empire and its shareholders. Consider product/service, price, promotion, place, uniqueness and differentiation, distribution, plenty of photo-opportunities for Richus Bransos to dress up as a banana or a silly girl. (Forget brussel sprouts because Saturn is already working on it, and forget ITV because that other lesser god of the sky Rupertos Murderos has already bollocksed that one up right good and proper). 5. Christmas Diversity Project - You are doing a spot of work-experience for Gallupos, god of questioning. Zeus has raised the matter of the Christmas tree in the foyer and the 'Secret Santa' planned for next Friday lunchtime. Gallupos wants you to go forth into the local high street and canvass the populace (or look on the internet) to discover all the different ways that people celebrate Christmas around the world, and for those who don't celebrate Christmas find out what they do instead and when and how and why. Then (optionally) if you've time, try to roll them all together to conceptualise some sort of celebratory extravaganza for all of humanity that will please everyone, and that we might be able to fit into the foyer. 6. Monetary Exchange project - You are special advisor to Soros, god of money, who has been tasked to devise an improved design of coinage and banknotes, which better reflects people's preferences and practical needs. Your responsibility is to suggest design, size, shape, material, monetary values, and any other innovative ideas for a new system of coins and banknotes. christmas quiz See Quizballs 29 - twenty questions and answers for parties and team games. cartoon and celebrity role-plays (case-studies, character profiles and scenarios for role-playing appraisals, interviews, counselling, disciplinary meetings, and coaching reviews, etc) Creating or compiling case-studies, character profiles, and scenarios for role-play training exercises can be time-consuming and difficult for trainers. This is especially applicable when planning role-plays in training for appraisals, job interviewing, counselling, disciplinary meetings, coaching, etc., when it's important to get people practising and observing techniques and learned skills. Role-plays produce significant benefits for the participants and observers - and provide evidence of learning retention and comprehension - but giving people suitably interesting parts to play usually requires a lot of preparation. Even given good preparation, case-studies which are too mundane or too close to real work situations can hinder enjoyment and the necessary detachment and focus on techniques. Here's a way to generate easily and quickly lots of interesting case-study character profiles and scenarios for role-play exercises, which will also be great fun and very enjoyable to use. Instead of spending ages searching for and developing work-based case-studies, consider using well known characters and situations from the world of news, entertainment and celebrity. You can also get the group involved in thinking of suitable characters or situations they'd like to incorporate into their role-plays, for whatever work skills you are teaching or seeking to demonstrate. Certain characters are useful for different sorts of skills development role-plays. Where helpful or necessary also stipulate a situation that relates to the character. Situations related to characters are especially useful in roles-plays for disciplinary or counselling meetings, and for performance reviews, etc. Here are some character examples. You'll be able to think of many more: Superman, Lex Luthor, Batman, Catwoman, other comic book heroes and anti-heroes (for mediation roles-plays too..) George Bush, Tony Blair, Nelson Mandela, Hillary and Bill Clinton, other politicians Characters from Thunderbirds, Wacky Races , X-Men, Star Trek, etc Characters from TV Soaps; Eastenders, Coronation Street, Friends, Sex in the City, etc Characters from Sci-Fi and fantasy adventure: Dr Who, James Bond, Harry Potter, Bilbo Baggins, etc Rupert Murdoch, Clive Thompson, Richard Branson, and other notable corporate leaders in the news Cruella Deville, Snow White, Homer Simpson, other cartoon characters Tom and Jerry, Roadrunner and Wile E Coyote, (for arbitration role-plays..) Madonna, Naomi Campbell, Paul Gascoigne, OJ Simpson, and other controversial celebrity figures The world of news and entertainment is full of well-known characters and interesting situations that provide unlimited fascinating raw material for role-plays. Using iconic and famous characters enables participants to relate quickly to the personalities and broad issues. Characters and situations are instantly recognisable and instantly available for all sorts of role-play situations. Importantly, not having extensive case-study details encourages people to focus on helpful facilitative questioning and listening, and on clear expression and presentation, all of which is central to successful one-to-one communications. Using very broad and powerful characters and situations enables a strong focus on the development of communications style and techniques for both/all participants, rather than getting bogged down in technical work-based content. (If you want to work with bit more detail you can always use biographies or obituaries of famous people, which are readily available on the web.) It's also a lot more fun role-playing larger-than-life iconic characters than using detailed (and for many, boring) management case-studies. Fully detailed work-based role-plays of course have a place in the learning and development spectrum, but there are times when something quicker and more stimulating will work better. Not forgetting also the benefit for the facilitator, for whom these ideas enable role-playing activities to be organised without having to spend ages compiling and writing case-study profiles. obituaries (personal goals, visualising personal aims and potential, identifying personal potential, life values, purpose and meaning) A simple exercise to lift people out of habitual thought patterns, and to encourage deep evaluation of personal aims, values, purpose and meaning. For groups of any size. Encourage post-activity feedback, review, sharing and discussion (or not), as appropriate, depending group/teams size, facilitators and time available. Encourage and enable follow-up actions as appropriate, dependent also on the situation and people's needs. The activity is based simply on posing the question(s) to team members: "Imagine you are dead - you've lived a long and happy life - what would your obituary say?" Alternatively/additionally ask the question: "How will you want people - your family and other good folk particularly - to remember you when you've gone?" Modern day-to-day life and work for many people becomes a chaotic fog, in which personal destiny is commonly left in the hands of employers and other external factors. It is all too easy to forget that we are only on this earth once. We do not have our time again. So it is worth thinking about making the most of ourselves and what we can do, while we have the chance. Focusing on how we would want to be remembered (who and what we want to be, and what difference we have made) helps develop a fundamental aim or idea from which people can then 'work back' and begin to think about how they will get there and what needs to change in order for them to do so. Follow-up exercises can therefore focus on 'in-filling' the changes and decisions steps necessary to achieve one's ultimate personal aims. Most things are possible if we know where we want to be and then plan and do the things necessary to get there. See the various quotes posters related to life purpose and values, which can be used in support of this activity, for example: telephone chatting activities (team-building for home-based staff, telephone skills exercises, remote teams relationships) Home-based staff and remote teams miss out on the valuable social contact normally available to office-based teams. Personal interaction between staff (typically chatting and engaging in the canteen, elevator, lounge areas, etc) is crucial for developing relationships and mutual awareness among teams, so if teams do not meet frequently then the leader must devise ways to enable this personal interaction to happen. Traditional autocratic management discourages chatting between workers because it considers chatting to be a waste of time, but this misses the point. "You are paid to work not to chat or socialise in the corridor - get back to work.." is actually a very unhelpful management tactic. The truth is the better team members know each other the better the team performs. See the Johari Window model - it is a powerful explanation of the value of increasing mutual awareness, and why mutual awareness is central to effective teams and team building. Within reason, people need to be given every opportunity to get to know each other, and chatting achieves this very well. Chatting develops mutual awareness, and it also helps people feel included and valued. Conversely, if you deny people the chance to engage personally with their colleagues you starve them of interaction that is essential for well-being and life balance. The internet increasingly enables people to connect through 'groups' and 'social networking' websites, but for many remote or home-based work teams a simple telephone-based alternative can provide an easier more natural process, moreover using the telephone - even for chatting - helps improve telephone skills, especially listening. A simple way to achieve this double benefit of team development and skills improvement among remote teams is to encourage telephone chatting (within reason of course) between team members. Here are some ideas for doing this: Introduce a compulsory 15 minutes telephone chat-time which each team member must have with every other team member every week. Give no subject or aim other than having a good chat and getting to know the other person. Introduce a rota or matrix for inter-team chat telephone appointments - timings to suit workloads - again with no aims other than to have a chat and learn something about each other. Introduce a virtual team tea-break or virtual visit to the pub - everyone is in fact by their phone in their own homes or offices (with a cup of tea or a tumbler of what does you good) connected a suitable via telephone conference call - and the tone and spirit of the discussion must be as if the team were gathered around a table in the canteen or at the local pub. There are no aims or intended outcomes aside from having a good chat and getting to know each other better. When people are connecting more regularly and the telephone chats are up and running, maybe try introducing a few discussion subjects - not necessarily about work - anything to get people talking and understanding each other better. Maybe ask the team to suggest topics too, and then see where the team wants to take things. Encouraging and enabling chatting between team members improves telephone communications skills since it involves using the telephone to develop understanding, mutual awareness, empathy and relationships between people. Skills development becomes sharper still if activities are adapted for 'conference' calls connecting several people. Communications skills are placed under greater pressure when the voice is the only medium, which obviously tends to develop people's listening abilities. businessballs quickies (ice-breakers, thought-provokers, ideas you can develop into all sorts of activities) These are quickies in the sense that they are quick for me to explain and for you to understand the basic ideas. What you do with them is up to you. Of course the development of these ideas could also be team exercises in their own right. Have fun. quickie 1 - marbles Take a few bags of marbles into the session. They are inexpensive, extremely evocative and nostalgic, beautiful and can be used for all sorts of exercises, aside from simply organising a quick knock-out competition (in which case be sure to brainstorm and agree the rules first with everyone..) quickie 2 - ultimate sandwiches Provide various loaves of bread, butter, margarine, and various (adventurous) fillings, plus bread-knives and wipes. Competition to make the ultimate sandwich. Variations extend to sending delegates out at lunchtime to buy their own ingredients for the ultimate sandwich challenge. Group tasting and voting as appropriate. Be adventurous with fillings and if appropriate enforce penalties and forfeits for anything you could buy in a sandwich bar. Bonus points for anything including anchovies, capers, etc. Could you patent a sandwich? What sandwich would be most or least profitable? Consider production, packaging and distribution too. Correlations between sandwiches and types of people (makers and eaters)? Brand your ultimate sandwich. How would you market and promote your sandwich? How would you extend your successful sandwich business?.. Fancy rolls/cobs/batches/baps? (any other names incidentally for a bread roll?), pot noodles? restaurants, delivery? Market sectors? Range diversification? Pies, pasties, soup in the basket?.. quickie 3 - papier mache Papier mache, for those who never paid attention at infant school, is newspaper strips and flour paste glue, which is a wonderful modelling material, for small and large constructions, especially with a few tubs of Vaseline (petroleum jelly) as a release agent (if using moulds) and maybe some chicken wire from the local DIY store for making base structures. Painting is optional if you have time for constructions to dry and work on another day. For ideas see papiermache.co.uk . Revisit all the construction exercises you know and consider how they might work with papier mache. Aprons are advisable. quickie 4 - conkers Beyond September/October you might have some left over in drawers that the kids aren't interested in any more. A knock-out championship is the obvious activity, but like marbles they are beautiful and will prompt lots of thoughts, memories, feelings etc., which can be used to address all sorts of issues - environment, cultural diversity, technique, quality, ageism, etc. (Conkers of course get better with age, not vinegar, which just makes them smelly and soggy..) quickie 5 - sweeties Buy a few chocolate bars and tubes of sweets - one or two of the main varieties - and see how the groups responds to them. Why do we each have our favourites? What correlation is there between favourite chocolate bar and personality? Is there a class thing going on? Is there a gender thing? Cultural diversity and team correlations or analogies? What are the brilliant marketing and packaging successes and abject failures? Does anyone in the world like the new Smarties packaging? Bring back the tube I say. The possibilities are endless. quickie 6 - breakfast cereals Another visit to the supermarket, or task the delegates to go shopping at lunch-time for the cereals (according to whatever rules you state) and report back on their service and marketing experiences and observations. Same sort of activities and discussions as above basically. Milk, sugar, spoons and bowls are optional. Who prefers it straight out of the box dry? Anyone prefer water on their cornflakes? Salt and sugar debate, linked to marketing and social responsibility issues? How old is Tony the Tiger? What's the best thing you ever had free from a cereal box? What's the greatest example of added value? Which actually tastes the best and can we predict what your team members will like and dislike? Are the adverts grreeeeaaat or are they a load of rubbish? Can we see similarities in the style and feel of products from the same organisation? Which brands are more likely to succeed globally and which will need re-branding? quickie 7 - groups Essentially this is an activity for the group to organise itself into sub-groups according to the categories you state. People should have space to move around, and materials to create simple signs (for sub-group names). It's up to the group to establish the sub-group sections, which many people will find very challenging - they have to create the structure from nothing and then fit themselves into it. The facilitator can stipulate minimum and maximum sub-group sizes, which obviously increases or reduces challenge of deciding the sub-group structures. Here are some examples of subject categories. These are daft, but daft is thought-provoking, fun, and a great leveller, which makes the topics helpful for relating to each other in ways that are completely removed from usual work or social groupings: preferred washing-up or vacuuming or decorating or gardening methods favourite type of TV or show or entertainment leader role model dream car preferred retirement age Points to review after several group organisation phases would be for example: what did you think when you saw different people in different sub-groups? Who surprised you in their choices? Who was predictable and unpredictable? How did people's behaviour change in according to the different group categories? Who has knowledge or expertise or passion about something that we didn't realise before? quickie 8 - playground visit Take people to a local kids playground and mess around on the swings and roundabouts, etc. Try not to get into trouble with the local authority. Find a location without an upper age limit ideally. Preferable go when the kids are at school. Playgrounds help people get in touch with feelings and imagination that gets buried and hidden at work. And it's fun. visualisation exercises (identifying unique personal potential, careers and direction, lifting limits) A simple exercise with deep meaning, for any group size subject to appointing discussion leaders if appropriate. Review is optional. Thoughts can be shared and discussed or kept private; the type of review and follow-up depends on the situation. The purpose of the exercise is to encourage and enable people to think creatively and imaginatively about their direction and potential. As such it is particularly appropriate for people who are in a routine that is not of their choosing, or who lack confidence, or who need help visualising who they can be and what they can do. Ask people to imagine they are 18 years old and have just received a great set of exam results that gives them a free choice to study for a degree or qualification at any university or college, anywhere in the world. They also have a grant which will pay for all their fees. No loans, no debts, no pre-conditions. So the question is, given such a free choice, what would you study? Put another way, what would you love to spend a year or two or three years becoming brilliant at? For older people emphasise that they can keep all the benefit of all their accumulated knowledge and experience. They can even create their own degree course to fit exactly what they want to do. The important thing is for people to visualise and consider what they would do if they have a free choice. And then either during the review discussion and sharing of ideas, or in closing the exercise, make the following point: You have just visualised something that is hugely important to you. You are (depending on your religious standpoint) only here on this earth once. You will not come back again and have another go. So what's actually stopping you from pursuing your dreams? In almost all cases the obstacles will be self-imposed. Of course it's not always easy to do the things we want to do. But most things are possible - and you don't need to go to university for three years to start to become who you want to be and to follow a new direction. It starts with a realisation that our future is in our own hands. We ourselves - not anyone or anything else - determine whether we follow and achieve our passions and potential, or instead regret never trying. (Additional stimulus and ideas can be provided for the group in the form of university and college course listings or examples, although people should be encouraged to imagine their own subjects. Anything is possible. See also the Fantasticat concept.) team skipping (teamwork, team-building, warm-ups, outdoor activities) These team skipping activities are for groups of ten people or more, ideally twenty or larger, up to very large groups of a hundred or two hundred people. Split the group into teams of five to ten team members - 8-10 is ideal - or bigger teams if you fancy being more adventurous. Issue each team with a length of rope six metres long, or longer if you want to work with larger teams. The rope should be suitable for skipping, about 1cm wide, typically available from DIY and hardware stores. As ever practise and test any untried elements before selecting activities and materials for the actual event or session. The task for the teams is to perform a routine or series of skipping exercises in teams (like children's playground games, with two team members holding the rope, one at each end obviously). Instruct and demonstrate the rope twirling correctly, so that the skipping rope just touches the floor on each downward part of the twirl. Twirling too fast or too high can be dangerous and is punishable by detention or a visit to the head-teacher's office.. The rope holders will create a safer wider higher area of clearance for their team's jumpers by using their arms, not just wrists, to create big circles when twirling the rope. Ensure everyone in the teams has a chance to practise the rope twirling if the intention is to rotate this responsibility during the routines, which will add useful variety and change. Teams can perform simultaneously or one after the other depending on the situation, as planned by the session facilitator, although activities like this are far more dynamic and exciting if everyone is involved at the same time. If you wish you can arrange individual team displays or 'jump-offs' at the end of the activity, which will enable voting and judging by all participants. As implied, voting or judging the best teams and team members can be included in the activity depending on the situation. You can create different prize categories to ensure there are a number of different opportunities for teams and participants to excel in their own way (style, technique, duration, most spectacular rope tangle, most awkward director, overall best skipper, most reliable steady twirlers, best team rhythm, etc, etc.) Music can also be used to add to the atmosphere, in which case be aware of the effect of the music beat on the skipping speed. Encourage team members when not skipping themselves to coach and support those skipping at the time. It is the responsibility of the facilitator(s) to oversee the skipping speeds to ensure teams keep to sensible and safe rhythms. Be mindful of age and health issues, and structure the activities accordingly, for example allowing those who prefer not to skip to be twirlers or coaches or judges. Be mindful also of general health and safety and insurance issues, and where appropriate (especially if you are external provider) ask participants to sign a disclaimer. If using the activities indoors ensure the floor is carpeted or that sponge gym mats are used to cover the skipping areas. If using the exercise outside use a grassed area rather than a car-park. Under no circumstances force anyone to take part. This sort of physical activity must always be voluntary, and also must be appropriate for the group. Warn participants not to jump in high heels (not just the men, the ladies too..) If you really want to use this exercise but are unable or unwilling to risk the rope then consider running the exercise without the rope. Instruct the teams to use an imaginary rope. It might sound a daft idea, but it will get people thinking, moving and jumping about, and working in teams. And it's completely safe. Here are some examples of skipping instructions, which can be issued in advance, or called out during the activity by the facilitator. Plan instructions that are appropriate for the type of group. Variation to instructions can be increased by asking the teams to give a number to each team member. You should clarify the instruction terminology before the exercise begins. Terminology suggestions (adapt according to preferences): skipping zone = the floor area above which the rope is twirling, between the two rope holders step in = enter the skipping zone and start jumping, preferably over the rope at each revolution step out = exit the skipping zone, preferably without getting caught by the rope twirler = a rope-holding team member responsible for twirling the skipping rope These skipping instructions examples are based on a team size of 8-10 people but in principle they'll work with larger or smaller teams. Be creative and imaginative. There are no bounds to the silliness, subject to safety and the group's sense of humour and fun: step in/out boys/girls/all/bosses/directors/team-member1/2/3/whatever change one/both twirlers (while skipping continues) clap/chant/count/sing along to the music/whatever in time with skipping rhythm boys remove ties while skipping girls put make-up on the boys while all skipping make a mobile phone call to a loved one/colleague while skipping you get the idea.. More chaotically challenging variation and team inter-action can be introduced by instructing team members to join or swap team members with other teams. This obviously changes the competitive team dynamic into one of whole group interaction and cooperation. To do this you will need to clearly identify each team. Again, using humour and imagination makes more fun. Examples of a 'whole group' instructions: All teams to synchronise their skipping rhythm so the whole group is skipping 'as one'. All teams maintain at least one/two/three jumpers, while the whole group re-organises into (balanced) teams according to categories specified by the facilitator, for example: boys/girls; job type; length of service; personality type; favourite food; etc, etc. (The facilitator must prepare and list the categories within these broad category headings, for example personality type could offer the categories of reliable-dependable, intuitive-creative, critical-thinking, warm-friendly.) Each team develop into their own actual or virtual team by swapping team members with other teams and then develop their own distinct skipping pattern/sequence/style/performance which reflects their actual or virtual team role in the whole group/organisation (which can be performed and judged at the end of the activity). isolation and intuition team exercises (relationships, bullying and harassment, diversity, intuitive demonstrations) Here are two simple ideas for groups which can each be developed and adapted to suit local situations. Split very large groups into teams of ten to twenty people. exercise 1 - isolation The task demonstrates the feelings that a person experiences when isolated or subject to victimisation, group rejection, etc. As such it supports the teaching of positive human interaction principles, and laws relating to equality, diversity and harassment. Ask the team(s) to nominate a person among each team to be the 'victim', who must then stand away from the rest of the team, while the team members stare and sneer at the unfortunate isolated 'victim'. For very grown-up people you can allow mild criticism directed at the 'victim' (nothing too upsetting or personal please). In any event be careful, and do you best to ensure that the first 'victim' is not the most vulnerable member of the team. Preferably it should be the most confident or senior member, and better still the team's boss. Ensure every team member that wishes to is able to experience being the victim. The review should focus on how 'victims' felt while isolated and being subjected to the staring or worse by the rest of the team. The exercise demonstrates the power of group animosity towards isolated individuals. If appropriate and helpful you can of course end the activity with a big group hug to show that everyone is actually still friends. (Hugging incidentally demonstrates well the power of relationships at the positive end of the scale of human interaction and behaviour. See the Love and Spirituality at Work section for more supporting background to this subject.) exercise 2 - intuition Aside from the lessons from exercise 1 relating to victimisation, the above activity also highlights the significance of intuitive feelings, which although difficult to measure and articulate, are extremely significant in relationships, teams and organisations. This next exercise augments the first one to further illustrate the power of intuition and feelings that resides in each of us. Using the same or similar team(s) in terms of size, then split the team(s) into two halves. One half of the team (called 'the watched') should stand facing a wall unable to see the other half of the team (called 'the watchers') which should stand together, several or many yards away from 'the watched'. The watchers then decide among themselves which person to stare at in 'the watched' half of the team (for say 30 seconds per 'target' person). The watchers can change whom they stare at and if so should make rough notes about timings for the review. After an initial review you can change the sides to ensure everyone experiences watching and being watched. Of course 'the watched' half of the team won't know which one is being stared at... or will they? In the reviews you will find out if any of 'the watched' people were able to tell intuitively who was being stared at, even though 'the watchers' were out of sight. Also discuss generally how 'the watched' and 'the watchers' felt, such as sensations of discomfort or disadvantage among 'the watched', and perhaps opposite feelings among the watchers, all of which can support learning about relationships and human interaction. For review also is the possibility that some people in the teams are more receptive and interested in the activity than others, which invites debate about whether some people are more naturally intuitive than others, which is generally believed to be so, and the implications of preferences either way. Experiments (and many people's own experience) indicate that many people have an instinctive or intuitive sense of being watched, and although there is no guarantee that your own activities will produce clear and remarkable scientific results, the exercise will prompt interesting feelings, discussion and an unusual diversion into the subject of intuitive powers. age diversity exercises for teams (age discrimination training, ageism awareness, diversity development) With the introduction of Age Discrimination legislation (UK 2006, superceded 2010, and consistent with European law), there is an increased need to raise awareness and to train people about ageism and age discrimination. Here are some ideas for activities and exercises which will highlight the issues. See the related notes about Age Discrimination and Equality including rules explaining certain allowable discrimination subject to robust evidence that it is proportionate, reasonable and legitimate. Organise teams and discussions according to your situation. Here are four separate ideas which can be used for exercises and team games. 1. Under age discrimination legislation many customary expressions in written and spoken communications are potentially unlawful if they refer to a person's age (any age - not only older people) in a negative way, and/or which could cause a person to feel they are being harassed or discriminated against. Under the law, individuals are liable (for harassment claims) as well as employers' wider responsibilities regarding discrimination, harassment and retirement. Some very common expressions are potentially discriminatory or harassing if directed at someone at work. Ask people to think of examples - there are lots of them, such as: Teach an old dog new tricks An old head on young shoulders Mature beyond his/her years Put out to grass or pasture Dead man's shoes Too young/Not old enough/Not mature enough 2. Direct age discrimination means treating a person at work less favourably because of their age. Indirect discrimination is more difficult to identify and guard against than direct discrimination, and it is equally unlawful. Indirect discrimination is where policies, criteria, processes, activities, practices, rules or systems create a disadvantage for someone because of their age. These pitfalls can be less easy to identify and eliminate than directly discriminatory behaviour. Ask delegates to think of examples of potential indirect discrimination with your own organisation or within other (real or hypothetical) organisations, and/or based on past experience. Here are some examples - there are lots more: job or person profiles or adverts (and advertising media) which stipulate or imply an age requirement application or assessment documentation which includes reference to age or date of birth training or job selection criteria, attitudes, expectations which differentiate according to age job promotion decisions and attitudes pay and grades and benefits policies holiday entitlement and freedoms social activities and clubs which have or imply age restrictions office and work-place traditions of who should do the tea-making, errands and menial tasks organisational and departmental culture, extending to jokes and banter 3. Age diversity (as other sorts of diversity) offers advantages and benefits to all organisations and employers, especially where a diverse range of people-related capabilities is a clear organisational and/or competitive strength. This is particularly so in all service businesses. In all organisations, age diversity (as other sorts of diversity) is very helpful for management teams, which benefit from having a range and depth of skills, and a broad mix of experience, maturity, and different perspectives, from youngest to oldest. Diversity in organisations relates strongly to the immensely powerful 1st Law of Cybernetics . Ask people to suggest specific benefits which age (or any other) diversity brings to organisations. This helps focus on the advantages of encouraging diversity, aside from simply complying with the legislation. Here are some examples - there are lots more: Diverse organisations can engage well with diverse customer groups, markets, suppliers, etc Diversity in management teams can more easily engage with a diverse workforce A diverse workforce has a fuller appreciation of market needs and trends Diverse organisations have more answers to more questions than those which lack diversity Diversity enables flexibility and adaptability - diversity has more responses available to it than narrowly defined systems (Cybernetics again..) Age Diversity in an organisation collectively understands the past, the present and the future Age diversity naturally enables succession and mentoring Age diversity in management helps executives stay in touch with the whole organisation; helps keep feet on the ground (as opposed to heads in the clouds or up somewhere unmentionable) Full diversity in an organisation collectively understands the world, whereas a non-diverse system by its own nature only has a limited view. N.B. Beware of promoting age diversity by suggesting particular correlations between age and capability, which can in itself be discriminatory. For example it is not right to say that only older people have maturity and wisdom, nor that only younger people have energy and vitality. Instead make the point that by having a mixture of people and ages, an organisation is far more likely to be able to meet the diverse demands of managing itself, and engaging successfully with the outside world, compared to an organisation which lacks diversity. 4. If you do not already have an equality policy (stating the organisation's position relating to all aspects of equality and discrimination) why not start the creative process with a brainstorm session about what it should contain. Incidentally the term 'brainstorming' is not normally considered to be a discriminatory or disrespectful term, just in case anyone asks... Ask the team(s) or group to list your own or other typical major organisational processes (inwardly and outwardly directed, for instance recruitment, training and development, customer and supplier relationships, etc) and how each might be described so as to ensure equality and to avoid wrongful discrimination. Alternatively ask people individually or the team(s) to prepare or research (in advance of the session, or during it if you have sufficient internet connections) examples of other organisations' equality policies, with a view then to suggesting and discussing as a group all of the relevant aspects which could for used for your own situation.   We all, irrespective of age, race, religion, gender, disability, etc., have our own special capabilities and strengths, and it is these capabilities and strengths that good organisations must seek to identify, assess, encourage and utilise, regardless of age or other potentially discriminatory factors. See Equality . shot at dawn discussion (organisational morality, leadership styles and integrity, decision-making, humanity versus efficiency) This is a big emotional subject which enables a variety of discussions about morality, ethics, integrity, leadership styles, policies and decision-making in institutions and organisations, and the wider world. It also provides a stimulating basis for exploring ethics versus autocracy, and for examining the balance in organisations and cultures between humanity and efficiency. Organise the team(s) and debating activities to suit the audience and context. This can include debating, presenting, role-playing, brainstorming, listing and mapping key factors - anything that fits your aims and will be of interest and value to people. The subject also provides a thought-provoking warm-up discussion for any session dealing with ethics, morality, compassion, leadership, decision-making, and organisational culture, etc. Read and/or issue the notes about the Shot At Dawn pardons , which were announced by the British government on 16 August 2006, relating to British soldiers shot by firing squad for 'cowardice' and 'desertion' in the 1st World War. The 'Shot At Dawn' story represents a 90 year campaign to secure posthumous pardons for over 300 soldiers shot by firing squad in 1914-18 when it was known then, and certainly in recent decades, that most of these men were suffering from shell-shock and mental illness. The human perspective is obviously considerable, including the institutional position up to the August 2006 announcement. The story of the Shot At Dawn campaign and its historical background prompts discussion about some fundamental modern issues relating to organisational management, ethical leadership, and wider issues of cultural behaviour, for example (see the organisational perspectives below too): leadership styles - morality-centred versus results-centred (and any other leadership styles models people care to explore) leadership integrity and ethics policy-making methods, purposes and reviews decision-making influences and reference points decision-making pressures which cloud judgement morality and compassion in institutions and organisations - versus the need to maintain controls and systems the growing responsibility and opportunity for ordinary people to hold leaders to account for humanitarian and ethical conduct why did it take successive UK governments much longer than any other nation to begin to reconcile this issue? why is this issue being resolved now and not twenty or fifty years ago? The different organisational perspectives together provide a stimulating way to look at organisational dynamics, systems, and relationships, etc: the army and leaders of the time who saw the need to implement the policy to execute soldiers the politicians and institutional system which until recently refused to acknowledge the injustice of the executions and the avoidance of the truth the campaign dimensions, and how the modern world enables increasing transparency of ethical issues When looking at the issues people will also see meanings and relevance in their own terms, and as such discussion can help personal and mutual discovery and awareness. There are also many parallels with modern issues of organisational ethics and social responsibility , because at the heart of the issue lie the forces of humanity and efficiency, which to a lesser or greater extent we all constantly strive to reconcile. N.B. People will not necessarily all agree a similar interpretation of the First World War pardons. This makes it a particularly interesting subject for debate, especially in transferring the issues and principles and lessons to modern challenges in organisations, and the world beyond. corporate globalization debate exercise ideas (exploring: corporate globalization issues, corporate response to the debate, and the internet as a powerful force for awareness, challenge and change) Whether you agree with the sentiments or not, this performance by Lizzie West is an immensely powerful comment about corporate globalisation. The nature of its availability and potential 'reach' (an advertising expression for exposure) also illustrates the awesome potency of the internet. Maybe start your next meeting or training session with this and discuss or arrange an organised debate about the issues involved, whatever your perspective. Free live music download: - Lizzie West performing 'Little Boxes' at The Cutting Room in NYC 27 July 2006 Please ensure that when you use this you credit Lizzie West and mention her website as the source: www.lizziewestlife.com. Here are some ideas for exercises to use with this for developing good awareness and outcomes related to globalisation, and particularly corporate globlisation issues: Define 'globalisation' (or 'globalization' - either is correct) - there is no single answer, eg: www.globalisationguide.org What is corporate globalisation? Is it a feature of globalisation or a driver of it? What are the other drivers of globalisation and/or corporate globalisation? Is globalisation and/or corporate globalisation a good thing or a bad thing? Give examples of each. Is our company or organisation an example of good globalisation or not so good globalisation? Name some examples of good organisations on the context of globalisation, and some not so good ones, and say why. What can individual employees and teams do to ensure that the organisation is regarded as a positive effect on globalisation and not a negative one? How does globalisation relate to ethical business, the 'Triple Bottom Line', Fairtrade, etc? How do customers perceive globalisation - what's good about it and what's not good about it? How does globalisation relate to customer service and retention? What are the environmental impacts and potential advantages in globalisation? Which are the subjective (matter of opinion) aspects of globalisation, and which are the clear indisputable good and bad points? What would be a good three or five-point plan for an organisation to use globalisation for good, rather than risk damage and harm? inspirational speech exercises (public speaking, presentation skills, motivation, inspirational leadership) This is a simple idea for a group of between five and around a dozen delegates. Split larger groups into teams and appoint team-leaders. Ask people to select in advance a great speech, verse, piece of poetry, news report, etc., to deliver to the team or group. The chosen piece can be anything that each delegate finds inspiring and powerful, for example Nelson Mandela's inauguration speech, Martin Luther King's speeches about civil rights, The St Crispin's speech from Shakespeare's Henry V, or maybe lyrics from a pop song - really anything that the delegates find personally exciting and interesting. Ask the team members to give their speeches in turn to the group, injecting as much personal style and passion as they can. Then review with the team the notable aspects of each performance, the effect on the speaker, the audience, etc. Preparation in advance by the delegates is optional and in some situations recommended for presentation skills and public speaking courses. Facilitate accordingly. Obviously where delegates are not able to prepare then the facilitator instead needs to prepare several suitable pieces for team members to choose from or select at random. Or to keep matters very simple the facilitator can select just one speech or other literary work for all of the delegates to deliver, in which case encourage and review the different interpretations. A different twist to the exercise is to select a piece or pieces that would not normally be delivered passionately to an audience, such as the instructions from the packaging of a household cleaner or a boil-in-the-bag meal. Encourage people to team members to stretch and project themselves through their performances. If helpful, brainstorm with the group before hand the various elements of an effective speech. If appropriate and helpful organise lectern or suitable stand for the speaker to place their notes on while speaking. Interestingly this exercise works well with several speeches being given to their respective teams in the same room at the same time, which actually adds to general atmosphere and the need for speakers to concentrate and take command of their performance and their own audience. This is a flexible activity - adapt it to suit your situation. For young people particularly give a lot of freedom as to their chosen pieces - the point of the exercise is the speaking and the passion; the actual content in most cases is a secondary issue. See also the presentations page , and bear in mind that many people will find this activity quite challenging. A way to introduce a nervous group to the activity is to have them practise their speeches in pairs (all at the same time - it aids concentration and focus and relieves the pressure) before exposing delegates to the challenge of speaking to the whole team or group. corporation life-cycle exercise (understanding organisational dynamics, corporate maturity and development; market development, organisational systems) This is a simple and flexible activity for groups and teams of any size. Split the group into working teams or pairs and decide the presentation or discussion format, which can be anything to suit your situation. Alternatively run the exercise as one big brainstorming session. First introduce to the delegates the Adizes Corporate Life Cycle model . Then ask the delegates or teams for real company examples of each stage, from team members' own experiences, or their knowledge of their market place, or the general economic landscape, or from a few business pages of newspapers or trade journals (which you can provide as reference materials for the activity). This exercise prompts a lot of thinking and useful debate about the differing 'organisational maturity' found across different types of organisations. This is helpful for understanding how to deal with corporations from a selling viewpoint, and is also useful in providing a perspective of organisational culture for management and supervisory training. The exercise can be extended into (for example): exploring different selling strategies required for different life-cycle stage corporate prospects, or examining different management styles and behavioural issues and challenges within corporations of different life-cycle stage interpreting the delegates' own organisation and divisions in terms of the life-cycle stages, and discussing the implications for working styles, attitudes, need for change, etc. The theme overlaps with the Tuckman model of team and group development, which is a further useful reference point, especially for management development and training, and particularly if extending the discussion to the maturity of departments and teams. world cup/major event 'learning parallels' exercises (strategy skills and understanding global marketing, debating, presentation, and for ice-breakers and warm-up sessions) This sort of activity is handy following any major popular event, such as a sport tournament of entertainment. When people are preoccupied and discussing a popular news story of the moment, harness the interest for development ideas. 'Learning parallels' exist everywhere - use them for explaining and developing understanding about work and organisations. For example, many people will probably be fed up with the World Cup by now, but for delegates at meetings and training sessions who still want to pick over the bones of what happened in Germany, and/or the wider effects of football on life in general, here are some suggested activities which might reap a few positive learning outcomes. There are many parallels between football and business, management, strategy, life, etc., after all football is arguably more of a business than a sport (which might be the subject of a team debate, aside from these other ideas): Activity 1 - Split the group into pairs and give each pair five minutes to prepare a list of five strategic changes for the improvement of football as a sport and business, as if it were a product development or business development project. For example how about changing the rules, because they've essentially not been altered since the game was invented. What about increasing the size of the goal, or reducing the number of players on the pitch? You'll get no agreement of course, but it will get people talking. Activity 2 - Split the group into teams of three and ask each team to prepare and present a critique of the management style and methods of the FA and head coach (Sven) in the last four years, with suggestions as to how things might have been done differently and better by the FA and the head coach. What lessons of management and strategy might we draw from this? Activity 3 - For an open debate or as a team presentation exercise, ask the question: What cultural/social/economic factors influence the success of a nation's football team, and what do these things tell us about fundamental trends of national economic and business performance on a global level? Activity 4 - Split the group into two teams. One side must prepare and argue the motion for and the other the motion against. The facilitator must chair proceedings or appoint a responsible person. Each side has five minutes to prepare, and five minutes to present its case. Then allow five minutes for debate, and then have a vote. The motion is: "Football would be a better game and globally would be more sustainable and appealing if FIFA were run by women rather than men." (Alternative motion: "England would have done better at the World Cup if the FA was run by women rather than men.") See also the football quiz questions and answers . The concepts above are not restricted to football - they are transferable to any popular events that enthuse and interest people - it just takes a little imagination to translate the themes and names for the event concerned and relate them to 'learning parallels' found in work and organisations. newsdesk broadcast exercise (team building, global team building, inter-departmental development, cultural diversity and understanding, video conferencing) This is a simple activity for developing global teams. The activity requires video conferencing facilities. For groups of any size, and any number of teams, although the more teams, the less time should be allowed for broadcasts, so as to avoid people having to sit watching for long periods. The exercise simply requires the teams to use the video conferencing equipment to create and 'broadcast' their own 'newsdesk report/magazine TV program, to be 'broadcast' to the other office(s). The teams' newsdesk broadcasts can be given to each other in rotation during the same session, or at different times, depending on staff availability and logistics issues. Broadcasts can include guest interviews, update reports, personalities and highlights, plans and forecasts, profiles, etc, even adverts and sponsor slots - anything that might be included in a newsletter/company magazine. Teams need to be given suitable time for planning and preparation and rehearsal. The teams' aims are to impress the other viewing departments or locations with the quality, content, professionalism and entertainment contained in the newsdesk broadcast. The them can be decided by the teams or facilitator(s) as appropriate. Timings for preparation and delivery are also flexible. Each team can appoint presenters, producer, directors, make-up staff, technical staff (camera, props, etc), researchers, special correspondents, advertisers and sponsors, etc. Broadcasts can also be recorded for other staff to enjoy at later times. Consideration can also be given to broadcasting to other staff via personal computers using more advanced communications technology if available. In some respects this concept extends the traditional ideas of team-briefing , and can easily be tailored to incorporate team-briefing principles. The 'Newsdesk Exercise' also adapts easily for conferences, particularly for international and global teams who seek to develop mutual understanding and awareness of each others issues, aims, personalities, etc. baking foil modelling games (team-building, warm-ups, mutual understanding, expression of ideas, johari window development, and fun for kids activities) This is not so much a game but a concept that can be used and adapted for all sorts of activities and exercises, ice-breakers, warm-ups. the ideas are also great for young people and school children. Aluminium baking foil is a wonderful material for model-making. A horse is quite easy. Here's one we made earlier... Baking foil is clean, looks great when put on display, and is very easy to clear up. Most people will never have tried using it before, so it's very new and interesting and stimulating. Aside from the ideas below, you can use baking foil for any exercise that you might use newspapers for, especially construction exercise like towers and bridges, etc. Baking foil is also very inexpensive and easy to prepare in advance and to issue to teams and groups. a symbolic interpretation of a SWOT analysis or PEST analysis Using a clean flexible new material like baking foil to express ideas is extremely liberating in today's world when people are so restricted and confined by PC's and computer screens. God help us all when flip-charts disappear, or when we have to work on tiny little hand-held devices to create and express new ideas and solutions. The world is becoming more complex and more challenging. The concepts that people need to grasp and address are multi-faceted and multi-dimensional. It helps therefore to work sometimes with an exciting medium, daft as it sounds, like baking foil, to free-up people's thinking and imagination. See also the organisational modelling exercise on the other team-building page for more ideas about using models to express ideas about organisational shape and structure and culture, etc. triple bottom line game (understanding TBL - profit people planet - implications, developing ethical teams and organisations) With the obvious rising interest in and awareness of modern 'ethical' organisations issues (at last), it's helpful for all organisations to bring TBL-type thinking to life in team activities. Here's a simple exercise to do it: The activity (which can also be used for more structured workshops ) is for groups of any size although large groups of more than twenty people will need splitting into several teams with facilitators/spokes-people/presenters appointed, and extra thought needs to be given to the review/presentation stage to review and collect all the ideas and agree follow-up actions. Split the group into debating teams of 3-7 people. (The larger the whole group, the larger the debating teams should be.) Each team's task is to identify three great new team or department initiatives - one for each of the Triple Bottom Line areas, namely, Profit, People, Planet. Give some thought to team mix - if helpful refer to the Belbin model or Gardner's Multiple Intelligences inventory - it's useful for all teams to have a balance of people who collectively can reconcile ideals with practicalities. If necessary set the scene with a brainstorm or group discussion about what ethics and the Triple Bottom Line (profit people planet) actually means to people, staff, customers, and its significance for the organisation/industry sector concerned. Initiatives must be SMART (in this case SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). Each of the initiatives must focus on one of the Triple Bottom Line areas (profit, people, planet), and at the same time must support the other two TBL areas. For example, a profit initiative must not undermine people or planet. A planet initiative must not undermine profit or people. And most certainly a profit initiative must not undermine people or planet. When we say 'not undermine profit', let's be clear that many ethical intitiatves can reduce profit, especially if the profit was being achieved by doing harm or damage somewhere, and the initiative seeks to correct this. The extent to which profit is affected by ethical initiatives is a matter for discussion and consideration of the wider and long-term view. Within this view are the wider benefits achieved by improving the ethical behaviour of the organisation, which ultimately will improve profits far more than ignoring ethical issues. Instead of looking at loss of profit, think about the risks associated with ignoring the ethical issues, which generally dwarf short-term costs of ethical initiatives. For example, what's the point in sticking with exploitative third-world manufacturing if the consequence of doing so means in the future there'll be no customers prepared to buy the manufactured product? Teams have between 20 and 40 minutes (facilitator decides beforehand) to develop their ideas, and presentations, depending on time available. Presentations can be in any format to suit the timescales, numbers of teams and delegates, and the emphasis given to the TBL theme. Allocate time for presentations to suit the situation, numbers and timescales. David Cameron is entirely correct (and very clever) in identifying that the ' zeitgeist ' (feeling of the times) is for more meaning, humanity and corporate responsibility in work and organisations; the question is how to make it happen. This exercise begins to address the practicalities. Otherwise it's all talk. As with any ideas session or activities always ensure that there is follow-up, and seek agreement for this with the relevant powers before raising hopes and seeking input of people and teams. Follow-up can be for a limited number of initiatives that all delegates vote on at the end of the presentations, or you can agree follow-up actions on a team-by-team basis, depending on levels of enthusiasm, quality of ideas, workload, and perceived organisational benefit. This activity links with the spirit of the development forum gameshow activity , which particularly addresses the people and well-being aspect of the triple bottom line philosophy. jigsaw puzzle game/team puzzle race exercises (team-building, illustrating teamwork, team problem-solving, lateral thinking, etc) For groups of 8-100 people, even more with suitable adaptation - this is a very adaptable game. Divide the group into a number of teams. Give each team some pieces of a jigsaw puzzle and instruct them to assemble the puzzle as quickly as possible. Ensure each team's pieces appear initially as though they could be an entire puzzle in their own right. Say, "The task of each team is to assemble the puzzle as quickly as possible. Each team has the same puzzle. No further instructions will be given," (other than options explained below; the point is for teams to resolve the exercise for themselves working together in teams, not by asking the facilitator). The teams will assume they are competing against each other, but in fact there is only one jigsaw puzzle, and the pieces are shared out among the teams. If the teams are in the same room they soon find out, and begin to cooperate. If they are in different rooms the realisation takes a little longer, but eventually the teams understand that the pieces are held by all the teams and the only way to do the puzzle is to work together. The facilitator's preparation for this exercise is there therefore to obtain or create a jigsaw puzzle whose complexity and number of pieces are appropriate for the group numbers and time available for the activity. Ensure there are sufficient pieces to occupy the total number of team members, and obviously each team needs a suitably sizes table or floorspace to work on, so that all team members can be involved. Larger teams (upwards of five people) will be additionally challenged in areas of team organisation and 'work allocation' to ensure everyone is involved. The exercise can be made easier and quicker for the teams by describing or giving clues as to the shape or image on the puzzle, for example, (if using the template below) "It's a square," or "It's a geometric shape," etc., as appropriate. Offering a prize in the event that the puzzle is completed within a timescale of say 10 minutes (or during the session, day, whatever, depending on the situation), adds extra interest. The prize is obviously given to the whole group, so be mindful of the budget... Use these words or similar: "In the event that the puzzle is completed (within...) a prize will be awarded," rather than referring to 'the winning team," which is not technically correct, because the activity is one of cooperation not competition. Exercises based on this theme demonstrate that all the people and all the teams make up the whole, and no team or individual can do it alone. Ideally you need to have a space somewhere that the puzzle can be kept and worked on during tea-breaks, should the activity over-run the initial time-slot. This is not a problem - people will continue to work on it during the day/session, and the ongoing activity and assembled puzzle serve as a constant reminder to team members of the theme of cooperation and teamwork, so don't worry (and explain this to the group once they've started cooperating) if the puzzle is not completed in the time initially allotted. Here is a jigsaw puzzle pattern (in MSWord) and separately as a pdf . This puzzle is for groups of, for example, twenty people split into five teams of four. The puzzle needs to be significantly enlarged - at least five to ten times bigger - for best effect, so that it's visible and usable for lots of people, and makes a big impact. The more teams and players, the bigger the enlargement is required (and the more pieces - achieved by drawing and cutting more lines). The jigsaw pattern artwork needs to be taken to a decent print/copy bureau, enlarged, printed, laminated onto card or foam and cut by hand. If you possess basic craft skills and the necessary equipment you can do it yourself - it's quite straightforward really. The dashed lines are thick so as to be cut through the centre (along the lines), which helps the puzzle assembly. You can adapt the puzzle for more players by drawing more drawing more lines to increase the number of pieces. The design of the puzzle is currently the businessballs logo although you can substitute it with your own (if using the MSWord version, via box 'fill' pattern). Someone who knows MSWord well will know how to adapt/develop it. Use and adapt the puzzle artwork, or source your own jigsaw puzzle, to suit your own situation. values-led team-driven change activities (team-building, goal-setting, values, philosophy, planning and change management) This is a simple themed activity which can be adapted to suit your situation. It concerns fundamental aims and values - making work more real and meaningful. For groups any size although groups of more than ten or so will need to be sub-divided and facilitators/leaders appointed, and then a forum arranged to share and review ideas and actions afterwards. The activity focuses on reconciling personal dreams/values/philosophies/passions with the organisational aims and methods. Ask: What can we all do to change and improve how our organisation acts? Pick the easy gains. Leave the tough ones for later/ever. Refer people to the Serenity Prayer . Refer (especially if the teams have idealistic compassionate roles/tendencies) to the 'zeitgeist' of our times: organisational ethics, 'Fairtrade', sustainability, corporate integrity, 'Triple Bottom Line' ('Profit People Planet'), etc., and have people visualise what successful organisations will be like in the future, given increasing awareness and expectations of employees, customers and general public opinion in relation to humanistic values. How can the individuals and the team help to develop/influence/behave within the organisation so as to make it (the organisation) fit our personal perspectives and these modern values? You'll need to provide strong support and follow-up afterwards, and ideally get some buy-in from the top. This is a brave initiative, although most organisations are now beginning to understand that the concepts are real and will eventually be irresistible. fantasticat See the Fantasticat page - ideas for motivating, teaching and developing young people - grown-ups too.. transactional analysis activities ideas (understanding transactional analysis , undersanding self, improving tolerance and communications, diffusing conflict) There are many exercises and activities that can be used to illustrate and develop understanding of Transactional Analysis . Many of the exercises in the team-building activities pages on this site will adapt for a TA perspective, especially the activities which relate to the Johari Window theory. When selecting activities and ideas to use, much depends how knowledgeable your audience is. If teams know the basics of TA then a lot of fun and learning can be had from acting out scenarios, reviewing and discussing emotional communications and behaviours (for example in newspapers), and watching films - and particularly TV soaps and sitcoms - with the purpose of looking for different types of transactions between the characters. This invites also the opportunity to critique certain on-screen transactions which are poorly scripted and acted, where behaviours can be seen to be unnatural, and reasons explained and discussed from a TA perspective. At a more fundamental level, people can work in pairs to identify their own personal triggers for parent and child responses: Behaviours which can be traced back to a root cause or emotional trigger are typically for example: losing one's temper, especially with children and subordinates; feeling stressed and upset; exhibiting 'sour grapes' attitudes; messing around; being judgmental or critical; blaming things and people; being too compliant and submissive, etc. Analysis and discussion benefits from using the 'Parent, Adult, Child' model, and also by referring to the 'I'm OK, You're OK' (OK Corral) model. See the modern Transactional Analysis theory pages for more TA guidance and materials. Identifying behaviours and their causes are important steps towards addressing the causes of emotional responses, and changing the behaviours resulting. Transactional Analysis is an excellent model for teaching and developing these concepts. obstacles exercise (team-building, communications, giving or writing clear instructions, teamworking strategies) A team activity for groups of four to twenty people to promote team-building, communications and understanding about clarity of instructions. Much larger groups can be accommodated with suitable space, adaptation and planning. For indoors or outdoors. The exercise can be organised for a single team although normally it will be more effective and enjoyable for a number of teams competing against each other. The activity is simple. Nominated members of teams must guide their blind-folded fellow team-members, using spoken instructions, through an obstacle course made with chairs or other items. In preparing for this activity remember to source sufficient blindfolds for team members. Alternatively instructions can be written, in which case team members (not blind-folded) must negotiate the obstacle course walking backwards (obviously so as not to see the obstacles but to be able to read hand-held instructions). Where two or more teams compete against each other a nominated observer from each team acts as adjudicator, to count the number of times that the walkers make contact with obstacles, resulting in penalty points. Clear adjudication rules must be stipulated so that the integrity of the scoring is protected, for example, after completing the course each walker signs their name against the written score marked by the adjudicator. An example score sheet is shown at the end of this item. The winning team is the one to complete the course as quickly as possible, after deduction of penalty points, for example ten seconds per obstacle contacted. Given a group of just four or six people it is generally better to split this into two competing teams rather than run the exercise as a single group activity, unless you have a particular reason for running a single group exercise. Room set-up is quickest achieved by simply asking the delegates to place their chairs somewhere in the 'playing area', which immediately creates the obstacle course. The facilitator can make any necessary adjustments in case any straight-line routes exist. Teams then have five to ten minutes (at the facilitator's discretion, depending on time available, team size and complexity of the obstacle course) to plan and agree a start point and a finish point through the obstacles - in any direction - and to plan a strategy for guiding blind-folded members through the route planned, (or for the backwards-walking version of the exercise, to write instructions sheets for walkers to use). So that everyone experiences being a guide and a walker you can stipulate that every team member must negotiate the course, which means that team members must swap roles (the guided become the guides having completed the course). This would also require adjudicators to swap roles with guides or walkers of their own teams. This is a flexible exercise that allows the facilitator to decide how difficult to make the obstacle course, how specific to be regarding start and finish points (all teams starting at one side of the room, or leave it up to the teams to plan their routes in any direction from one side to the other), and the strategic complexity of the challenge (determined by team size and number of obstacles - large teams of more than four or five people will also require a strategy for who performs what role and when roles are exchanged). Additionally the facilitator can decide to stipulate whether all instructions are spoken, (blind-folds), written (walking backwards), or a mixture of the two methods (for example stipulate how many team members must use either method). Review points afterwards: Why did the winning team win? What were good strategies? What were good instructions and what were unhelpful ones? What were the unforeseen problems? (One unforeseen problem, especially where competing teams are permitted to decide their own start and finish points and therefore are likely to cross the routes of other teams, is the fact that walkers of other teams will become obstacles during the exercise) What adjustments to strategies and instructions were made along the way? Discuss the merits of practical trials before having to decide strategies and instructions. And lots more points arising from the activities. Here's a simple example of the adjudicator's score sheet: walker's name     portmanteau words games (creativity, ideas and concepts, a vehicle for developing and highlighting issues and initiatives) For groups of any size. This is a basis for various activities. Adapt and use it to suit your purposes and situation. If you need help deciding on format, teams sizes, timings etc., refer to the tips on working with teams and groups and exercises . First see the explanation about portmanteau words - aside from anything else it's very interesting as a perspective on the development of language and communications. Portmanteau words are new words that are made from the combination of (typically) two other words. Common examples are 'Pictionary' (the board game), the Chunnel (the channel tunnel), 'infomercial' (information and commercial advertising); avionics (aviation and electronics), and 'webinar' (web and seminar) The grammatical effect enables the quick and stimulating creation of new ideas and themes, for any purpose. First explain to people about portmanteau words. Then, depending on your theme or purpose for the meeting or session, ask people (can be individually or in teams - pairs or threes ideally unless you ask for lots of work and ideas), to devise their own portmanteau word or words for a particular purpose. Here are some examples of purposes: a new brand name for a product or service (for the people's organisation or any another organisation, depending on the situation and participants) a name for a new company/organisation initiative (perhaps addressing customer service, quality, communications, inter-departmental relationships, training and development - anything that is a challenge or opportunity that would benefit from a fresh and inventive perspective) a new name for the company or organisation to replace the existing one, that will effectively communicate purpose and values, etc. a name to describe a particular problem or challenge within the organisation (agree or state specifics or a range as appropriate), and then a name or names for remedial action(s) a name (or names) to describe the most important skill(s) or attribute(s) for given roles within the organisation (this is a useful way to look at job skills, which are commonly not described or stated very well, and which of course are under pressure to change and develop all the time) a name to describe a particularly challenging customer behaviour, and then name(s) to describe appropriate responsive behaviour from staff a special combination of abilities I'd love to develop for myself a special combination of abilities I'd be really good at coaching and developing in others the name of a conference to improve/develop/raise profile of... (whatever - sport in schools; diversity tolerance; media responsibility; ethics in business; etc) Exercises in creating portmanteau words involve a lot of thinking about meanings, interpretations, communications, and the efficient, effective, creative use of language and ideas. As such this is a potent and flexible activity, for all ages, roles and levels. kitchen top drawer game (introductions and ice-breakers, and for children's activities too) This exercise is a very simple quick activity for ice-breakers and introductions, and for expressing and revealing feelings of personality. Also for exploring team roles. For groups of any size although is best to split large groups into teams of a dozen or less, with appointed team-leaders to facilitate. The task is simply for each team member to liken themselves to a utensil or piece of cutlery commonly found in a kitchen top drawer, and say why they think they are like the chosen item, ideally focusing on strengths and styles. Give delegates thirty seconds to think and decide before asking people to reveal their choices and reasoning in turn. If it helps (especially for young people), start the exercise with a quick brainstorm session with a flipchart or wipeboard of all the sorts of items that people have in their kitchen top drawers at home, which should produce a long list of ideas. For very large groups you can vary the exercise by asking people to think and decide and then circulate around the room finding other people who have chosen the same utensil to represent themselves, and to form into sub-groupings of the same types. Fun and noise can be injected - especially for young people or lively conferences - by asking people to identify themselves by shouting the name of their utensil, and/or by trying physically to look or act like the utensil. Be prepared and on the look-out to instruct potentially large sub-groups of 'knives' into different types of knives, so that no category sub-grouping amounts to more than 20% of the whole group. Extend the activity by asking each group to develop a proposition as to why their particular utensil is the best in the drawer - or 'top drawer' - which they can present in turn to the whole group. Further extend the activity by asking teams or players to vote (secret ballot on slips of paper given to the facilitator) as to the utensil with most and least value to the kitchen, thereby being able to decide the 'winners', should the activity warrant it. Alternatively, so as to emphasise the value of all team members and roles, ask each team to identify a particular typical 'project' (Sunday Roast dinner for instance) for the kitchen which demands the involvement (and in what way) of all of the selected utensils. Add greater depth and interest to the activities by referring to the Johari Window and discussing mutual and self-awareness issues resulting; also refer to personality types and styles to discuss and explore comparisons between 'utensils' and people associating with them, and various personality types from whatever personality models are of interest and relevance to the group. For example, are knives most like Jung's and Myers Briggs 'thinking' types and why? Does the meat-thermometer or the egg-timer most equate to Belbin's 'monitor-evaluator'? What personality types might be represented by the whisk and why? Is it possible to identify a Belbin role with every utensil, and on what basis? Whish are the extravert utensils and which are the introvert ones and why, and what are their relative strengths? Etc, etc. The exercises can of course be adapted for other types of tools instead of those found in the top drawer of the kitchen, for example the garden shed, or the tools associated with a particular industry, perhaps the industry in which the delegates operate. If you stay with the kitchen drawer theme it's probably best to avoid any reference to the 'sharpest knife in the drawer' expression so as not to sway attitudes in this direction - rest assured you will see plenty of people aspiring to be 'knives' as it is without encouraging any more.. employee relations and communications exercise (team briefing role-plays, speaking to groups, handling difficult communications and questions, written communications) This is a simple quick role-play or written communications exercise. For groups of up to a dozen. Split larger groups into smaller teams and appoint team leaders to chair and facilitate. Ask the participants to draft (and then deliver as if in a meeting) a 2 minute employee 'team brief' item or a verbal instruction (or for participants who are not comfortable standing up and speaking to the group a written employee notice or email) relating to a contentious subject. There are some examples below, but you can define different scenarios depending on your situation and the needs of the delegates. Car-park spaces in the front of the reception are now reserved for directors only. Canteen is being closed in order to make room for more office space. Access to site is restricted to employees only - no family or friends permitted unless on company business in which case formal pass and security procedures to be followed. The site is now a non-smoking area everywhere. (Add your own scenarios as appropriate.) You can run the exercise for individuals or in pairs. If in pairs encourage both people to have a go at speaking. More variety is created if you offer different scenarios - for instance by having people pick blind which one they must handle. Alternatively for complex scenarios you might prefer to see how people take different approaches to the same situation. You can additionally/alternatively ask delegates to describe their own particular scenarios for use in the role-playing activities. You can extend and increase the challenge within the activities by asking the team to role-play some 'questions from the audience' at the end of each spoken exercise, which the speaker(s) must then handle appropriately. Review use of language, tone, clarity, effective transfer of key points and reasons, technical and legal correctness, and the actual reaction of other participants to the verbal delivery/written notice. people picture interpretations (relationships, communications, attitudes, body language) The activity is a simple discussion of the group's interpretations of different pictures (photographs of people) - anything between one and six different pictures, depending on how long you'd like the activity to last - each picture/photo featuring people engaged in some sort of activity or interaction. Show a picture to the group and ask them to consider and comment on how they interpret what's happening in the picture - what's being said, how people feel, what the moods are, what the personalities and motivations are, what might have caused the situation and what the outcomes might be - as much as people can read into and interpret from each photograph. Additionally ask the group or teams what questions they would want to ask anyone in the picture to understand and interpret the situation. You can organise the group's response to each picture in different ways - in open discussion, or split the group into pairs or threes and give them a couple of minutes to prepare their interpretation for presentation and discussion in turn, or split the group into two teams and see which team can develop the best interpretation, and optionally, questions. It's helpful, but not essential, for you to know the true situation and outcomes in each picture (perhaps you've read the news story or the photo is from your own collection), which will enable you to give the actual interpretation after each picture is discussed. However one of the main points of these exercises is appreciating the variety of interpretations that can be derived from observing people's behaviour, facial expressions and body language, which means that many situations can quite reasonably be interpreted in several different ways. So knowing and being able to give a definitive 'correct answer' is not crucial - the main purpose of the activities is the quality of the ideas and discussion. To prepare for the exercise, find and enlarge, or create slides of several pictures of people in various situations. These photographs and pictures are everywhere - on the internet, newspapers and magazines, in your own snapshot collections and photo albums. Select photographs of people showing facial expressions, body language , especially interacting with other people. In addition to communications, motivation, relationships, etc., you can link the exercise to Johari Window (the exercise will develop people's awareness about themselves and each other from listening to the different interpretations of the pictures) and personality (different personalities see the same things in different ways). 'christmas is/holidays are brilliant' vs 'christmas is/holidays are a pain in the arse' exercise (team debate activity, warm-up, ice-breaker, group presentations preparation and delivery) A simple warm up after the festive season or the holidays (whenever), for grown-ups or young people, for two teams, (or at a stretch three teams). One team must prepare and present the motion: "Christmas is Brilliant" (or "Holidays are Brilliant" - whatever is appropriate). The opposing team prepares and presents the case against the motion, which is logically: "Christmas is a Pain in the Arse" (or Holidays are a Pain in the Arse"). Begin the exercise by asking the group to organise itself into two separate teams according to their individual views: ie., "Christmas is Brilliant" or "Christmas is a Pain in the Arse" (or "Holidays") . Alternatively split the group into two teams and allot the motions by flipping a coin or similar random method. Teams of five or six are fine provided full participation is stipulated. Teams of more than six will be fine provided team leaders are appointed and instructed to organise their teams into smaller work-groups to focus on different aspects of the presentation, which can be brought together at the end of the preparation time. For groups of more than about twenty you can introduce a third motion, "Christmas is both Brilliant and a Pain in the Arse, depending on your standpoint", and structure the activity for three teams. Timings are flexible to suit the situation, as are use of materials, presentation devices, and number of speakers required from each team, etc. For preparation, as a guide, allow 5 minutes minimum, or up to 15 minutes maximum if more sophisticated presentations are appropriate. Allow 5 minutes minimum for each presentation although you can extend this if warranted and worthwhile. Optionally you can allow each team to ask a stipulated number of questions of the other team(s) at the end of the presentations. The winning team can be decided at the end by a secret ballot, which will tend to produce a more satisfying conclusion (even if there's no outright winner) than a decision by the facilitator, who can vote or not, or have casting vote in the event of a tie - it's up to you. The facilitator should advise the teams before commencing their preparation that the winning team will most likely be the one which prepares and presents the clearest and fullest and most appealing case, and if applicable asks the best questions and gives the best answers. Obviously deciding the winner will not be a perfect science and if using the exercise as a development activity it's important to review structure, logical presentation, and other relevant aspects of learning as might be appropriate. In reviewing the presentations the facilitator can award a point for each logically presented item within the presentation, with a bonus point for any item that is supported by credible evidence or facts or statistics. Award bonus points for good questions and answers if applicable, and award bonus points for particularly innovative and striking aspects or ideas within the presentation. If using the activity as a learning and development exercise it's helpful to explain the review criteria to the teams at the start. Encourage participants, particularly young people in large teams, to use their imagination to create interesting and memorable methods of making their points, for example play-acting scenarios, and injecting movement and lots of activity within their presentations. For more sensitive groups or situations you can of course substitute the word 'nuisance' for 'pain in the arse'. Obviously the activity can be used for any debate exercise - work-related or otherwise - and serves to get people working and cooperating in teams, developing skills in preparing and presenting arguments and propositions, and can also provide much revealing and helpful mutual awareness among team members, and useful insights for the facilitator/group manager. Examples of other motions, which for group selection recruitment exercises can be extended far beyond normal work issues, examples of which appear later in the list below: "The Smoking Policy is..." "This Recruitment Process is.." Etc The exercise can also be used or adapted for a group selection recruitment activity, to provide useful indications of candidates' skills and capabilities in a variety of areas. rotating line introductions icebreaker (warm-ups, icebreakers, communications, communicating styles) This icebreaker or communications activity is for groups of six people or more. Ideal team size is ten or twelve. Larger groups can be split into teams of ten or a dozen people. For large groups where time is limited you can split the group into teams of less than ten, which obviously makes the exercise quicker. Split the (or each) team into two standing lines of people facing each other, two or three feet apart. For example: 1 6 6 Ask the team to introduce themselves to the person facing them, optionally (up to you) by asking and answering questions, such as: Who are you and what do you do? Tell me what interests you and why. What special thing do you want to achieve (at the event, or in life generally - depending on the situation and group) You can design other questions to suit the theme or purpose of the event. You can provide strict instructions relating to questions and answers or (for a simple icebreaker) just ask the people to engage in general introductory conversation as they see fit. You can stipulate that the facing pairs each have a turn at questioning and answering, or that one is the questioner and the other the answerer. Whatever, ensure that everyone has a chance to ask questions and to give answers. If appropriate nominate one line as the questioners and the other line as the answerers. After a minute ask the lines to rotate as follows (one person from each line joins the other line and both lines shuffle to face the next person: 2 6 5 If using the exercise as a simple icebreaker continue the process using the same questions or general introductions. If you are using the activity develop communication skills you can increase the sophistication of the exercise by introducing new questions after the initial introductions, for example: What worked well in the last conversation? What could have been improved in the last conversation? What type of questioning and listening works best in this exercise? Continue rotating the line every minute until everyone has conversed (questioning or answering) with every other person. Logically this takes as many minutes as there are people in the team. Twelve people will take twelve minutes to complete the exercise. If using the exercise to develop or demonstrate communications skills it's worth thinking more carefully before the exercise and explaining more about the questions and points to review. For example, points to review can include: Aside from the words spoken what else was significant in these communications? What aspects were most memorable and why? What aspects or information were most impressive and why? What happens to communications when time is limited? Obviously where team members already know each other there is no need to needlessly go through name and position introductions, although check beforehand as to how well people know each other rather than make assumptions. Where a team has an odd number of members, then you (the facilitator) can become one of the team members in the line. Where the purpose includes developing mutual awareness it can be useful to refer to the Johari Window model . (Ack C Mack) 'straw poll' exercises (identifying and getting buy-in for individual and group learning and training) These team development activities quickly identify team and individual learning needs and wishes, and importantly helps builds 'buy-in' and commitment among the team members to pursue the identified learning or training. The activity can also be extended to explore, encourage and enable more innovative approaches to personal development, and particularly to pursuing 'life-learning' or 'unique personal potential' if such a concept fits with the organisational philosophy. If so, the organisation (or department or at a team level) must first decide how and to what extent it can support people's 'non-work' and 'life learning' aspirations. There are very many ways to do this. Progressive modern organisations have been doing this for several years. Use your imagination. You will find that as far as the people are concerned, you'll be pushing on an open door. The provision of 'non-work' personal development must be defined within a formal organisational process and framework, by which identified individual 'life-learning' ideas can be acted upon. Such process and framework are obviously vital to discussing people's personal needs and wishes in these non-work areas. The exercise is for groups of any size, although large groups should be sub-divided into teams of between five and ten people representing single functions. The bigger the teams the more requirement there will be for good facilitation by a team leader within each team. The level of guarantee for ideas to be acted upon is a matter for the facilitator and the organisation. Promise only what you can deliver to people. Embark on these activities only if you can reliably implement the outcomes, to whatever extent that you promise to the team members. The facilitator should ideally run the session with a flip-chart or wipe-board because the sharing of ideas and discussion is a valuable part of these exercises. Refer to the guidelines for running brainstorm sessions , since the activity uses a team brainstorming process. The aim of the exercise is to gather, list and prioritise collective and individual training and learning needs and wishes for work and non-work learning and development. Involving the team in doing this in an 'immediate' and 'free' informal situation generally exposes many more ideas and opportunities than normally arise from formal appraisal, surveys and training needs audits, or personal development review discussions. Sharing ideas and personal views also helps build teams and mutual awareness (see Johari Window theory). The exercises enable the team leader or facilitator to work with the people to arrive at ideas for learning and development, which can then - according to organisational processes and framework - be fed or built into proposals or plans for implementation. The process of hearing and sharing other people's ideas also greatly assists people in imagining what might be helpful and relevant to their own situations - far better than thinking in isolation. First ask team members individually (allow five minutes) to make one or two short lists: Three things they'd like to be able to do better for their jobs, (and if the organisation supports and enables 'non-work' and 'life learning'): Three things they'd love to learn or do better for their life in general - anything goes. Then ask the team members to call out in turn their top-listed work or job learning personal development item. Write these on the flip-chart. This immediately identifies collective training priorities. Ask for reaction and comment. Then ask for people to call out in turn their second-listed work/job learning item and write the answers on the flip-chart. Then gather the third-listed job/work learning items. Use different coloured marker pens so as to be able to group common elements and to identify patterns and consensus priorities. Ask the group to comment on what they consider to be the 'high-yield' items - ie., the development items that will make the biggest difference to productivity, enjoyment, stress-reduction, service quality, business development, etc., and discuss this issues. Ask the group what type of learning they'd enjoy and best and find most helpful. Additionally explore people's learning styles ; also look at multiple intelligences , and perhaps introduce a learning styles questionnaire . Using these activities and exercises will enable you to identify development opportunities that are high priority according to need and organisational effect, and you can now conclude this part of the session with an agreement with people to investigate or proceed with implementation depending on personal wishes, learning styles and preferences, organisational processes, budgets, etc. The investigation/implementation can involve the people or not, depending on the circumstances. Now, provided the organisation/department/team endorses and supports 'non-work and 'life learning' development, turn to the non-work 'life learning' items featured in the second list. These can be anything: hobbies, pastimes, personal loves and passions, natural abilities stifled or ignored at school, anything. The aim is to explore personal potential and enthusiasm in whatever areas that might be relevant to people and what they want from their lives. It is important to open your own mind and the minds of the team members to the fact that all learning and development is useful. All learning and experience in life benefits people in their work. Everything learned and experienced in life is transferable one way or another to people's work. People commonly don't realise this, because nobody tells them or gives them the confidence to see it. When you see it and talk about it, people begin to see too that there can be more alignment and congruence between their lives and their work. Moreover, organisations are now seeing that when people are supported and encouraged to follow their own life interests and natural potential, so the organisation benefits from their development. When people learn and experience new 'non-work' and 'life learning' capabilities and development, they achieve and grow as people, and this gives them many new skills for their work (especially the behavioural capabilities normally so difficult to develop via conventional work-based training), and a greater sense of value, purpose, self-esteem and maturity. All these benefits and more result from non-work learning and experience. What matters most is that people are given the encouragement and opportunity to pursue experiences and learning and development that they want to. People are vastly more committed to pursuing their own life learning and experiences than anything else. So, the more that organisations can help and enable this to happen for their people the better. People develop quicker and more fully, and they obviously become more aligned with the organisation because it is helping them to grow in their own personal direction - far beyond the conventional provision of work-only skills training and development. Ask people to think about and discuss the skills, knowledge, behaviour, maturity, experience, etc., from personal 'non-work' activities and learning that are transferable to their work. Many people will be able to give specific examples of where they are performing outside work in some activity or other that is way, way, way above their status and responsibility at work. This is the principle that we are seeking to recognise and extend. For example (these examples of experiences and learning and benefits are certainly not exhaustive - they are simply a few examples): Sports and physical pursuits - develop fitness and determination, leadership, discipline, commitment, teamwork, stress-management, goal-setting, excellence, perfection, etc. Travel - develops cultural awareness, maturity, languages, etc. The Arts (art, music, writing, etc) - develops creativity, communications, empathy, interpretation. History - develops cultural and political and philosophical awareness, analytical and interpretation abilities. Voluntary and Care work - develops humanity, team-working, management, leadership, decision-making, etc. Environmental, Animals, Natural World - develop humanity, social responsibility and awareness, team-working, organisational and political understanding. Clubs and Societies - management, planning, organisation, communications, knowledge and information management, etc. Own 'sideline' business - entrepreneurialism, decision-making, management, marketing, customer service. I once knew a wonderful receptionist. She worked part-time. Most people only ever knew she was a receptionist. She never received any training or development. Nor much respect. In her spare time she ran an international market-leading business, supplying high performance components to a specialised sector of the industrial engineering sector. She could have taught the MD a thing or two but they never asked.. Every organisation contains several people like this, and many more people with the potential to be the same. But nobody bothers to ask. When an individual pursues personal learning and development and experience, whether through a hobby or some voluntary work, or any outside-work activity, they always develop as people, and also learn lots of new skills, which are increasingly transferable and valuable to their work situations. The tragedy is that organisations mostly fail to recognise this, and this is a major reason why most people continue to perform at work considerably below their full potential. Non-work experiences, responsibilities, learning and development provide wonderful opportunities for people to grow in capability, maturity, experience, and in specific knowledge and skills areas, that are immensely valuable to employers. Opening people's minds to these possibilities then enables discussion and identification of personal learning aims and wishes, perhaps some consensus, which then naturally enables planning and implementation and support of some new exciting non-work and life-learning activities for people, as individuals and as teams, depending on what people want and will commit to, and how far the organisation is prepared to assist and encourage. playing card bingo (warm-up, icebreaker, exercises to demonstrate competitive effects, team-building, team-working and cooperation - also a great way to teach numbers to small children) This is a bit of fun which can be used as a simple icebreaker or warm-up. The game also adapts to provide a simple yet novel team-working exercise. The game and games variations demonstrate the heightened concentration and focus which results from contest and competition, and as an adapted exercise it prompts teams to work together to approach a complex statistical challenge. For groups of any size. Materials required are simply two packs of playing cards (or more packs, depending on group size). Shuffle the packs keeping them separate. Retain one pack. Deal from one pack between three and ten cards to each team member. The more cards then the longer the exercise takes. If there are more team members than can be supplied from one pack then use additional packs. It is not necessary to remove the jokers, but be mindful of the effect of leaving them in the packs. Team members must arrange the cards dealt to them face up on the table in front of them. The dealer (facilitator) then 'calls' cards (like a bingo caller) one by one from the top of the dealer's own (shuffled) pack, at which the players match their own cards (by turning them over face down). The winner is the first to turn over all cards. Suits are irrelevant - only the numbers matter. Aces count as one. Picture cards as 11 (Jack), 12 (Queen), 13 (King), or simply call them by their normal picture names - again the suits are irrelevant. Jokers (optional) treat as jokers. Players can only turn over one card at a time, in other words, if a player has two 4's they must wait for two fours to be 'called'. Interesting variations can be made to the game to add team-building and cooperation to the activity, for example: Have people play in pairs or threes. Deal cards to each person as normal, but then teams can sort and swap cards between themselves so as to give the team of two or three the best chance of one (or two - it's up to the facilitator) of the sorted sets winning. (This is pure guesswork obviously, but it will test people's approach to the challenge of statistical anticipation.) Have the group play in two or three teams (each team size ideally no bigger six people). Deal each team twenty cards and ask them to pick the fifteen that they wish to play with as a team. Again this is pure guesswork, but it will challenge the teams to think about statistics, and to agree the best tactical approach. Other variations include prohibiting or enabling competing teams to see the other team's cards while they are deciding which to select. To make the games last longer and to alter the statistical perspective you can require that suits are matched as well as numbers/picture cards. Practise your ideas first if possible. 'spice of life' exercise (personal development, goals, true motivation and purpose, visualisation, life balance) A quick simple powerful activity for groups and teams of any size. The exercise can also be used for yourself, and when working with individuals in counselling, coaching and performance reviews and appraisals. Optional preparation for a group activity: buy some green cardamom pods - they are a highly aromatic spice used in Asian cooking and curries - the Latin name incidentally, for interest, is Eletteria Cardamomum. Star Anise - aniseed seed pods - and cloves also work well for this sort of exercise - they reinforce the point and add additional sensory stimulation to the activity. Distribute a pod or clove or several of each spice to each team member. Alternatively you can give different spices to different people if you have them. This will prompt discussion and expectation. You can mention that spices like these are symbolic - they are small and natural, of relatively little monetary value, and yet have a remarkably powerful effect. They also have healing qualities, and being seeds they represent new life and beginnings. Also optionally at this point in the exercise you can ask people do this calculation in their head to further concentrate the mind: Subtract your age from 90 and add two zeros to the answer. Divide that number in two. This is roughly how many weeks you have left on this Earth, assuming you live to a very ripe old age. If you smoke and don't look after yourself properly subtract 1,200 weeks (if you are very lucky). How quickly does a week pass by? Almost the blink of an eye... Then ask the group to close their eyes, take a few slow deep breaths, and visualise.... (it's a bit morbid but it does concentrate the mind somewhat): You are very close to the end your life - perhaps 'on your deathbed'. You have a few minutes of consciousness remaining, to peacefully look back over what you achieved, and what difference you made in the world. And especially how you will be remembered. So how do you want to be remembered? What did you do that mattered? What spice did you add to people's lives? What was the spice in your life? What will you have done that will give you a truly good feeling at the end of your life? And so, how can you best fulfil your own unique potential? We rarely think about our lives this way: that we are only here for a short time, and that what really matters is beyond money, possessions, holidays, cars, and the bloody lottery. Thinking deeply about our own real life purpose and fulfilment helps us to align what we do in our work with what we want to do with the rest of our life. This in turn creates a platform for raising expectations and possibilities about direction and development - pursuing personal potential rather than simply 'working' - and finding ways to do so within our work and our life outside it. (As facilitator do not ask people to reveal or talk about their dreams unless they want to. The exercise is still a powerful one when people keep their dreams and personal aims to themselves.) This type of visualisation exercise is also important in helping people to take more control of their lives and decisions - becoming more self-reliant and more pro-active towards pursuing personal dreams and potential, instead of habitually reacting to work demands and assumptions. 'starter keys' icebreakers and activities (warm-up exercises, introductions, getting people talking, potentially leading to deeper discussions) An easy and flexible exercise (using people's bunches of keys) for ice-breakers and introductions for groups of any size (very large groups need to be split into smaller teams with appointed team leaders). Also a quick fun method for deciding order (who goes first - for introductions, speaking, presenting, etc) and also for splitting a group into smaller teams, threes or pairs. The idea can also extend into various activities for self- and mutual awareness, story-telling, understanding life 'partitions', time management and prioritising, life balance, responsibility, even delegation and management. Keys are of course very personal items with significant personal connections and representations, and so provide opportunities to create lots of interesting, enjoyable and helpful activities around them. Exercises examples: 1. For deciding order- 'Who goes first' - Ask each person to put their bunch of keys on the table in front of them. Order is decided according to most keys on the bunch. Tie-breaker(s) can be decided according to the key(s) with most notches. 2. For splitting group into teams or threes or pairs - Ask the group to sort themselves into the required number (which you would normally stipulate, unless your purpose allows/prefers them to sort into teams of their own choosing) of teams or threes or pairings according to shared features (in common with others) of their key bunches, for example number of keys on bunch; type of key-ring fobs (sensible, daft, tatty, glitzy, unmanageably large, uselessly small, broken, holiday mementoes, promotional giveaways, etc), size of keys, type of keys, colours of keys, purpose of keys. 3. For starting and framing personal introductions and profiles - Ask group members to put their keys on the table. Each person then takes turns (you can use the order-deciding method above) to introduce and describe themselves according to their keys, from the perspective of each key's purpose and the meaning in their life represented by what each key unlocks. 4. For addressing time management, life balance and personal change, etc - Split the group into threes and ask each person to discuss in turn, among their teams of three, what their own keys represent in terms of stuff they're happy with and stuff they'd like to change (where they live, what they drive, what they value, their responsibilities, their obligations, personal baggage and habits, etc). 5. For addressing personal responsibilities and delegation, from others and to others, and responsibilities people aspire to - Ask the group to split into pairs or threes, and as individuals, to discuss with their partners what they'd like their bunch of keys to be like instead of how it is at the moment - what responsibilities (keys) would they like to lose or change or give to others - what new keys would they like to add? How else would they like to change their bunch of keys? If anyone is entirely happy with their bunch of keys ask them to think ahead five years. If they're still happy with their keys ask them to help facilitate... You will no doubt think of your own ideas and variations to these exercises. Let me know anything different and interesting that works for your team. See also the 'letting go' de-cluttering exercise on the team building games page 1, which might give you more ideas for extending and varying these activities. See also the Johari Window model , which helps explain to people the benefits of feedback and developing self- and mutual awareness. 'where in the world' exercise (personal development, icebreaker, warm-up exercise, questions for recruitment group selection or interviews , student presentations) This exercise and the activities that can be developed around this idea provide very simple quick ice-breakers or presentation ideas for all sorts of situations. The activity is for any group size. (For large groups: split group into teams of 5-7 people and appoint team facilitators to ensure full participation by all. Presentations can be given within teams, not to whole group. Teams can then reconvene as a whole group to review the exercise and experience after completing the activities in teams.) Ask the group as individuals to take a couple of minutes to close their eyes and imagine running their own ideal business or enterprise (not necessarily profit-making in a conventional business sense - it can be a service of any sort; some people for example seek to be carers, or writers, or gardeners, or cooks, to have a shop or a cafe, or to teach others. It is important to emphasise that everyone - not just entrepreneurs - can follow their dreams. Visualising and stating one's dreams helps greatly to make them happen). Then ask the group as individuals to close their eyes and think where in the world would they locate their business/service activity and why? Give the team members or delegates anything between two and five minutes to think of their answers and to structure a brief explanation or presentation (again stipulate timing for their presentation or answer), depending on the purpose and depth of the activity. N.B. Giving a presentation is not an essential part of this activity. It might be more appropriate for the participants and/or the situation for people to simply keep their thoughts to themselves, or to write them down privately, perhaps to refer to and consider in the future. In explaining their choice of location team members will be encouraged to think about and express personal dreams and passions relating to their ideal business or service activity or enterprise (which involves exploring their fulfilment of personal potential and strengths), and also where in the world and why they would locate their enterprise or service activity, (which involves each person in considering the environment and context to which they see their dreams relating). Some people will not imagine locations very far away; others will imagine locations on the other side of the world. There are no right or wrong answers - the activity is an opportunity for people to think and imagine possibilities for themselves beyond the constraints that often limit us and our fulfilment. The exercise relates also to Johari Window development, to goals, personal and self-development, and (if ideas are expressed or presented) also provides helpful insight for team leaders, facilitators, trainers, or recruitment selection observers in understanding more about the people performing the exercise. 'one word' exercise (exploring deep values and purpose, and behaviour towards others, which relates to all sorts of development needs and opportunities) Again - this is a simple activity - which contributes to many and various positive outcomes. The exercise is for any group size, although if presentation is required split large groups into smaller teams which can self-facilitate to enable full participation and discussion. If splitting into teams you can reconvene as a whole group for review of the experiences after the team activities. Ask people as individuals to clear their minds, close their eyes, and to think of one word - just one word - which they feel best describes or encapsulates living a good life. A one-word maxim for life. The facilitator might be required to explain what is meant by 'living a good life'. Use your imagination so as to relate the concept to the situation and the participants. Think about: force for good; civilised society; leaving the world a better place than when you entered it. Of course words mean different things to different people, and many people will find it quite difficult to pick just one word, but this is the point: One word concentrates the mind in a way that five or six words, or a longer sentence tends not to. For participants who find it impossible to decide on one word, encourage them to use as few words as possible - but still aiming to focus on the essence, or a central concept, rather than a catch-all or list. It's easy for people to think of a list - one word is a lot more thought-provoking. Ask people to write down their chosen one word (or words if necessary), plus some brief explanation as to what they mean. Then in turn ask people to tell or present their answers to the group or team. It is interesting to hear people's ideas. They will be quite different to how people actually normally behave in organisations - to each other, to customers, to suppliers, etc. And quite different to how people behave in societies in local, national, religious and global communities. Why is this? Where does individual responsibility begin and end? Are we part of the problem - or part of the solution? Do we want to be part of the solution? What actually stops each of us trying to live and behave more often as we know to be right? Are the pressures and habits and expectations that distract us from more often following a right path really immovable and so strong that we cannot rise above them? What personal resolutions and changes might we want to make? The exercise relates also to Johari Window development, to personal life philosophy and values, personal and self-development, and (if ideas are expressed or presented) also provides helpful insight for team leaders, facilitators, trainers, or recruitment selection observers in understanding more about the people performing the exercise. Transactional Analysis and the blame model within the TA section can be a helpful reference to assist people in understanding more about the forces that cause us to behave differently to what we know to be right. See also the articles section about love and spirituality in organisations which helps explain about bringing compassion and humanity to teams and work.  
Pictionary
What is the name for the conical textile tube hung from a pole at airports used to indicate wind direction and relative speed?
team building activities, ideas, games, business games and exercises for team building, learning organisations development,training, management, motivation, kids activities and childrens party games. games and exercises for groups and team building free team building activities ( 3 ) (2) ( 1 ) page 2 of free ideas for team exercises and activities - for team-building, training, employee motivation, learning and development, recruitment, and other group activities If you don't need the introduction - go straight to the games and activities . Here are lots of free and team building games, activities and exercises ideas for team development, employee motivation, personal devepment, ice-breakers, energisers, learning and fun. These activities extend the first section of team building games and activities on this website, which also offers a quick summary listing of exercises. The way you run group activities is crucial for their effectiveness. So please read the tips for planning and running team building activities . Also helpful are the tips on planning and running workshops . Use and adapt these group games and exercises ideas to suit your situation. These free team building activities, games and exercises are great ice breakers for training sessions, recruitment group selections , meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences, organisational development, teaching and lecturing for young people and students. Team building games and activities are useful also in serious business project meetings, where games and activities help delegates to see things differently and use different thinking styles. Games and exercises help with stimulating the brain, improving retention of ideas, and increasing fun and enjoyment. Many activities and games can be used or adapted for children's development and education, or even for kids party games. We cannot accept responsibility for any liability which arises from the use of any of these free team building exercises ideas or games - please see the disclaimer notice below. Always ensure that you have proper insurance in place for all team building games activities, and take extra care when working with younger people, children and if organising children's party games. See the teambuilding games and activities page 1 (which includes a listing of all activities) and teambuilding activities page 3 .   team building games - are the exercises or games appropriate? Before you decide to use any team building games with a group of people, think about whether the activities are appropriate for the team members and the situation. See the notes on checking that games or team activities are appropriate for your situation . The subjects on this website increasingly feature ideas for developing the whole person. Think beyond providing traditional work skills development. Explore everything, and show your people that you have a broader view about development - they'll have lots of ideas of their own if you let them see it's okay to think that way. Team building games are just a part of a very wide mix of learning and and development experiences that you can explore and facilitate for your people - try anything. If it helps your people to feel good and be good, then it will help your organisation be good too. See the guidelines and tips for planning and running team building activities and the free tips on running team building workshops . Ensure that team-building activities comply with equality policy and law in respect of gender, race, disability, age, etc. Notably, team-building facilitators should be familiar with the Employment Equality and Age Regulations , (UK and Europe, and increasingly elsewhere too). For example, a demanding physical activity might be great fun for fit young people, but if any of the team members are old or in any way disabled, then think again, because it wouldn't be fair, and it might even be unlawful. The same applies to any activities that discriminate against people on grounds of gender, race, etc. Team-building games and activities have to agreeable and acceptable to team members, and the exercises have to be fair.   free team building games ( 3 ) (2) ( 1 ) free team building games - warm-ups, quick games and exercises, ice-breakers, exercises and activities These free team building games and exercises generally last less than one hour, and can be adjusted to create longer team building activities, depending on the sort of team building, ice-breakers, training development activities required. Review and discussion are often useful and helpful after exercises which have raised relationship issues, or changed people's perceptions. Plan and practise all unknown aspects of the activities before using them. Logistics, facilitation and especially how you split the group into the numbers of team members per team are factors which have a big effect on how the exercises work and the experience for all. See the team building activities guidelines for tips and techniques. See also the activities and exercises on the team building ideas page 1 on this website, and the quizballs quizzes , especially the management and business quiz for aspiring managers and trainers, and anyone interested in managing people and organizations.   free games, exercises and activities ( 3 ) (2) ( 1 ) company quiz game (icebreaker, discussion-starter, inter-departmental relations, company/product-knowledge, induction training, policy review, staff awareness, etc) This simple exercise format is adaptable for a wide variety of training and development situations. Cut the questions from the grid below, or create your own. Fold each question and put them into a box, or the middle of a table. Members of the group must then in turn take a question, read it aloud, and offer an answer. Before moving to the next question, the group should discuss, refine and agree the correct answer. You can expand the exercise by splitting the group into teams and giving points and offering incorrect answers as bonus questions. Tips and variations: Keep the exercise flowing - don't become stalled for a long time on discussion or disagreement which cannot be resolved correctly and quickly. Make notes of issues which cannot be agreed correctly/satisfactorily, especially those with potentially serious implications, or which highlight a serious development/awareness need. Optionally allocate responsibility for delegates to check and report back to the group later in the day/course about unresolved questions. Ideally the facilitator should know/research the answers to all questions before running the exercise. Optionally ask the group to create the questions - for example, one question to be contributed per delegate, which works well where inter-departmental awareness is a development need. (If anyone draws out their own question they should pick another.) Question grid (devise your own as appropriate): Our top-selling product by value? Our top-selling product by profitability? Our biggest customer by value? Our biggest supplier by value? Our staff grievance procedure first point of contact? Our receptionist name(s)? Our company head of legal department is? Our customer services telephone number is? Our health and safety information is held where exactly? Our COSHH (or equivalent) information is held where exactly? Where can customers / staff park bicycles? How many days holiday are new starters entitled to in the first year? What is our policy on trade union membership? What is our policy on the minimum / living wage? What are our opening hours? Where is the outside rallying point for fire evacuation? Who is our PR agency? What is our main industry trade association? Who is responsible for on-site first aid? Where is our corporate governance policy? When was our company founded? Who founded our company? These questions are just examples. Create your own, and ensure you clarify questions where ambiguity could exist. one small change, one big effect (time management change, commitment, productivity improvement, self-development, personal empowerment) Here's a really simple easy quick activity to use with any group. The exercise is especially relevant for a group after a break, for example after holidays, or when a boost or intervention is required to help people shift habits or assumptions. Our personal time management is usually greatly influenced by: routines habits and assumptions Time management is largely within our personal control, although our routines, habits and assumptions can make us feel/believe/behave otherwise. This activity has two parts: Explore (perhaps discuss, given activity duration) preferably 'high yield' possibilities for changing individually how we manage our time. (As the group leader, see the time management tips and time management tools for ideas and theory - 'high yield' means a big result from a relatively small change.) Then each person should commit (optionally, publicly - to the group) to changing just one aspect of our time management. Tips: Focus on 'high yield' changes: i.e., the small changes that will produce the biggest results. This will help avoid the discussion becoming distracted by the inevitable obstacles which make big changes difficult. Get people thinking about little things that are easy to change (like when to check emails, and understanding the difference between urgent and important). Ask people to state some sort of measure and timescale by which they can check that their individual change has been implemented. Ask people to check with each other that the change has been made. Emphasize that this is about commitment, as much as it is about the change itself. Commitment is the key to overcoming obstacles. Emphasize the need to communicate and explain the change to people affected by it. Look at 'Nudge Theory' for additional ideas to make change easier. 'how to tie a shoelace' instructions exercise (warm-up, clear instructions, process design, effective writing, how to write training notes and user instructions, etc) This is a very simple exercise for any group of people, any age and ability. The task suggested is 'how to tie a shoelace', but you can substitute any other easy instinctive skill (e.g., 'make a paper aeroplane' or 'play a game of noughts and crosses') if you prefer. Ideally something that people can actually do for real in the review. The purpose of the activity is to start people thinking and working, and particularly to assist thinking and learning about: what we know unconsciously ourselves is not always simple to explain to others conscious competence in a skill can produce complacency when teaching/managing/coaching others in that skill (just because it's easy for us does not mean it's easy and second nature to someone else) how to write clearly - instructions, manuals, teaching notes, public information, advertising, etc process design and generally: effective communications/instruction/direction The task for the group - individually, or in pairs or teams or as a whole (depending on your situation and aims) - is to write some instructions as to how to tie a shoelace. Of course nearly everyone aged 4+ probably knows how to tie a shoelace, but that's not the point - the point is how to write a simple process and an instructional guide. You may add extra dimensions to the exercise by suggesting/agreeing: a type of audience/footwear for the instructions (for example, people for whom English is not their native language, young people, people with learning difficulties, people with disabilities, etc) a specification for a correctly tied shoelace (or leave this flexible - up to you, depending on the emphasis you want to apply in the task) scenario(s) - (e.g., sports shoe, fell-walker's boot, workman's heavy boot, etc) The time allowed for the task and review is flexible according to your situation. Obviously avoid arrangements that will be unnecessarily time-consuming and tedious, for example do not ask a group of twenty people to do the task individually and to present their results individually, or the exercise will take til lunchtime.. Ideally review the group's work so that at least some of the resulting instructions can be viewed by the whole group. You should also encourage people to try to follow - in practice - at least some of the resulting instructions (which is often overlooked by writers of manuals and instructions). Review: process - is there one? - numbered steps are usually best clarity of writing/words/language - is it clear and unambiguous? did anyone think to add some diagrams? - a picture tells a thousand words.. did anyone think to be even more creative and make a video?... (as facilitator you can decide if this negates the need for written instructions.. what if the audience can't access the video?..) are elements defined helpfully - did anyone use the word 'aglet'?..(it's the thin tube at the lace ends - it's not a necessary part of the exercise but is a point of trivial interest) ease of reading relevance for given scenario(s)/learner audience The activity offers a very neat association with the concept and principles of empathy, and the metaphor of 'putting yourself in the other person's shoes' when communicating to others. toilet paper icebreaker/introductions exercise This is a very simple and amusing introductions activity, and a super icebreaker and energizer, for groups of 5-12 people, any age and level, or bigger groups subject to splitting people into smaller sub-groups and giving guidance to self-facilitate as required. Equipment: just a roll of toilet paper per group. Give a toilet roll to a group member and instruct the group to: Stand up and form a circle (standing is far more energizing than sitting around a table, although sitting around a table is okay if space is limited). Chant a repeating: "One, two, three - One, two, three.." timed at about two seconds for each repetition. Hand-clapping in rhythm is optional depending on how energizing you require the activity to be. When the chanting is established and consistent, each group member must take as many sheets as they wish from the roll, and then pass the roll to the next person, within the time of a single 'one, two, three' chant. Then, after everyone has taken their sheets (do not issue these instructions until everyone has taken their sheets): Stop chanting (and clapping), thank you. Each person must now take it in turn to tell the group a number of facts about themselves: and the number of facts must equal the number of sheets of paper that the person holds. Facts must be new information to the group (easier for groups meeting for the first time - not so easy in groups who already know each other). Facts must be one very short sentence each (so that the most competitive paper-grabbers, who might now be regretting holding 15 or 20 sheets, do not have to talk for too long..) Aside from the obvious values of the activity (energizing, ice-breaking, quickly introducing people to each other in an interesting way), the exercise cleverly makes the points that: competitiveness can backfire, unless you know what you are competing for, and making assumptions carries risks There are also many ways to vary the exercise and to focus it towards a particular learning subject or workshop purpose, for example (and you will think of better orientations given your own situations/groups): Facts given must be related to (for example) past career, work ambitions, strengths, weaknesses, dreans, passions, hobbies, under-utilized capabilities and interests, things I want to to do before I die/next year/next tuesday/whenever, etc. Facts must not include.. (puppies, kittens, children, motorbikes, fishing, whatever) Facts must include.. (each group member can name a category, and only facts related to these subjects can be given). Facts must be the sort of information, and conveyed in a way, that would hugely impress a job interviewer/potential customer/date. Group members will vote at the end of the session for the most amazing/surprising/inspirational/whatever fact or fact-giving presentation. Facts must be conveyed enthusiastically and inspirationally, etc, etc. Facts can only be mimed, played out like 'charades' - optional points awarded for correct guesses. seasonal bundle of ideas - various ideas, quizzes, Xmas curiosities, etc seasonal team games - activities for groups for xmas and new year personality [self-image] exercise (self-awareness, personality, interviewing and selection) For groups of any size and virtually any ability/age/discipline, subject to organizing the group numbers, facilitation and review, etc. The basic activity is: Instruct delegates to (individually) consider and describe the personality of a well known admired person (which you can suggest, or assist the group in deciding who to describe). The descriptions must be very concise and ideally according to a personality theory that the delegates all know (or which can be explained to the group quickly and easily). Ask delegates to reveal their descriptions, record/share them visibly, and then discuss/review the differences between the delegates' views. A common cause of differences between delegates' views - and a fascinating aspect of the exercise - is that delegates' descriptions of a greatly admired person commonly match their own self-image. This is obviously a useful realization for anyone whose work entails assessing/evaluating other people, for example in management, interviewing and selection, etc. (N.B. For obvious reasons it can be preferable to omit 'self-image' from the name of the activity before you run it with a group.) In more detail.. First review the personality theories section. Select a personality theory which suits the group's needs/interests. Select a well known admired person. Involve the group in this if you wish (but avoid being distracted by other discussions about the selection, unless you welcome such discussion). You may select more than one well known person to repeat the exercise, but of course the point of the exercise is for the group to describe the same person at one time. If the group has expertise in personality theories and psychometric systems, then for extra focus on the technical aspects of personality theories you may select more than one theory for delegates to work with (which means delegates give more than one view - i.e., a view for each theory). Importantly you must be able to explain the basic workings of the chosen personality theory to the group, or the group must already understand the chosen theory to a very basic level. If working with young people or others who have no appreciation of personality theory then begin the activity by helping the group to establish and agree 10-15 key describing words of personality, which can then be used for the exercise. If using this method do not disclose/agree the famous person before establishing the 10-15 key describing words of personality, or the choice of person will influence the choice of words. Encourage delegates to use only 2-4 words to describe the dominant features of the personality. (Ideally for delegates who understand a psychometric system they can use the personality code/terminology of the system concerned.) Some suggestions of well known generally admired famous people: Jesus Christ, Mother Teresa, Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela.. (You and the group will perhaps think of more appropriate examples for your local situation and the group's interests.) Points for review: Why do we see the same people in different ways? To what extent does our view of ourselves influence our views of others? If to some extent, then why? What do we dislike about others, which might be an unreasonably harsh reaction? What do we tolerate in others, which might be an unreasonably generous reaction? Where do these biases come from? What is subjectivity/objectivity? What is discrimination? Is discrimination always against the law? If not is it always okay?.. What problems can result from judging people subjectively rather than objectively? How can we develop more objectivity in judging others? In organizations what safeguards can be introduced to reduce risks of unfair assessment/treatment of others? You will think of other review points, and others will arise anyway. Some useful reference materials: alternative christmas party/office party/staff social event ideas These ideas are for an alternative Christmas office party, or other workplace social event. Commonly staff social events, especially at Christmas time, involve eating and drinking in a pub or restaurant somewhere. The format tends to be: drink, eat, more drink, maybe dance a bit, maybe fall over in the car-park, and for many, have a hangover the next day. The organization, and more likely these days the staff too, spend a lot of money and have little to show for it, let alone a sense of fulfilment or spiritual uplift. Many organizations now seek more wholesome and responsible ways for team members to socialize, celebrate and bond at Christmas parties and other social events. Here are some ideas for alternative workplace social events which can be very enjoyable, very uplifting, very good for teambuilding, and very cost-effective too. 1. self-catering - DIY food and drink Instead of spending (or asking people to spend) a big amount per head on a meal out - instead do it yourselves 'in-house'. Organize your own buffet, or another type of catering. Perhaps ask every staff member of staff to bring in some interesting food. This can be especially rewarding for groups of varying ethnicity. Food reflects culture, and so offers a helpful basis for improving mutual awareness. And/or - you can keep things very simple if you give the event a theme, and make the food fit the theme. If you have a kitchen (most workplaces do), then you can handle a certain amount of hot food. If you don't have a kitchen, then be creative with some camping stoves or an outside barbecue. That's assuming you want to serve hot food. Otherwise keep it to a cold buffet, which depending on the weather and time of year, can be perfectly acceptable. Here's a quick organizer's checklist: Room/venue Jugs (for water and juices, etc) Bowls (for salads, punch, etc) Condiments (salt, pepper, etc) Rubbish bags, wipes, cloths - cleaning-up materials as required Some sort of food list/guidelines so people know what to make/bring - quantities and varieties - savoury, sweet, and vegetarian, or starters, main and puddings. Is there a staff-member with very good catering experience/skills who can help you plan and manage the event? Enlist his or her help. and/or Appoint a team (seek volunteers) to cook a couple of massive pots of something (inc. vegetarian option). and/or If you really don't want to do it yourselves, then bring in some outside caterers - something interesting like a hog-roast, or Indian or Chinese, whatever - be imaginative and talk to local restaurants/providers - they will want your business and will usually be very helpful. N.B. When you feed people in-house, on a biggish scale, it is very cost-effective and can produce excellent quality and quantities of food, for a fraction of eating-out costs. drinks Many groups will expect an alcoholic drink of some sort. Often alcohol is appropriate. Again be creative and imaginative. It is very cost-effective to provide drinks of all sorts in-house - alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Again seek help and involvement from staff members with experience and skills in making and providing drinks for large groups. Punch, sangria and Pimms are easy and inexpensive to make in large quantities - especially when compared to bar/restaurant prices. Recipes are available on the web. Consider the strength of drinks that you provide and consider implications of people's health, proper behaviour, transport, driving, etc. Ensure there are adequate soft drinks for staff members who do not want to drink alcohol. It's always good to provide jugs of water anyway. As with the food, you can keep things very simple if you give the event a theme, and make the drinks fit the theme. Perhaps delegate the bar/drinks responsibility to a department. 2. venue - find a room Most offices have a big space somewhere which can be quickly reorganized to produce a good-sized area for setting up a buffet and eating. Maybe offer starters, mains, and deserts in different departmental rooms, so people circulate and get to know each other better. Maybe ask each department to create its own 'restaurant' or buffet theme. Maybe organize it so the executives/bosses serve the staff, and wait on their every need.. If you don't have a room or rooms then go out and find the space you need. Again be imaginative and creative. There are interesting spaces everywhere. Find some space and make it work. Ideas for venue hire: Schools, colleges, universities Customers' and suppliers' premises Decorate the venue. Appoint a team to do this - and to dismantle and tidy up too. The executives/bosses can perhaps be nominated for these duties.. 3. entertainment A consistent problem affecting traditional workplace parties and social events is that people tend to drink a lot when nothing else entertains them. People engage relatively little, with the event, and with each other. Organized activities instead get people involved and mixing and having fun together, which develops mutual understanding, builds relationships and teams, and diffuses tensions. So think of some activities on which to build your event - to give people some entertainment apart from eating and drinking. Here are some ideas: Organize and 'X-Factor-type Talent Show' or a 'Your Company's Got Talent' show - and/or an 'Open Mic' session - you will be surprised how many instrumentalists and singers you have among your staff members Karaoke Active computer team games on a big screen Bring in some participative musical entertainment - there are perhaps some entertainers among your staff, or certainly your staff will know entertainers Quizzes - there are lots of quizzes in this website , and also on the new Quizballs.com website (Externally provided) Casino or horse-racing activities (not real money, and just for fun, although prizes are usually offered) And think of your own ideas - invite suggestions from your staff - be imaginative and creative in involving and engaging people. Think about activities which will be different and participative, so that people will be active and entertained, rather than sat down drinking and chatting about work and office politics, etc. As already suggested, a really useful tone-setting idea is to have the bosses and executives take a leading role in serving and waiting on the staff. The tone of the event is important. Staff will be positive if the tone is right. If the bosses stand aloof and refuse to help and get involved, then the tone will be unfair and wrong, and staff will not put effort and commitment into the event. If the tone is right and good and fair, then staff will respond positively. Consider that in very many organizations throughout the year, staff see senior managers and bosses enjoy longer lunch-breaks, expenses-paid-for trips and meals, big company cars, reserved car-park spaces, better salaries, bonuses and perks, and all sorts of other privileges. So wouldn't it make a refreshing change for once if the bosses served the staff? You bet it would. A workplace social event is an opportunity for the organization to say thank you to its people. A sit down meal with drinks in a restaurant will achieve this to a degree, and of course in many cases is entirely appropriate, but for many other situations, a social event can achieve a lot more. day colours/colors exercise (individual perspectives, emotional triggers, empathy, johari window, respecting personal differences) This is a very simple quick and fascinating exercise to illustrate how people often have different views of the same thing, which is central to understanding empathy and many related concepts. The activity may be used as an icebreaker or larger discussion exercise, for groups of any size and age/seniority, subject to appropriate facilitation for your situation. Example explanation and instruction to a group: Emotions and feelings within each of us are 'triggered' in different ways. We think differently and therefore see things differently. We often do not imagine that other people may see something quite differently to how we see the 'same' thing. Management and relationships, in work and outside of work too, depend heavily on our being able to understand the other person's view, and what causes it to be different to our own. To illustrate this, and to explore how mental associations can 'colour' (US-English 'color') our worlds differently: Close your eyes and imagine the days of the week What colour is each day? Write down the colour of each day Review and compare people's different colour associations, and - where people consciously know and are willing to share their reasons/associations - review these differences too. Note: If anyone sees all the days as the same color, or sees no colour association at all, or perhaps sees or senses a more powerful alternative association, then this is another equally worthy personal viewpoint and difference. The days of the week are a simple fixed pattern. Yet we see them in different ways. It is easy to imagine the potential for far greater differences in the way we see more complex situations - like our work, our responsibilities and our relationships, etc. Human beings will never see things in exactly the same way - this is not the aim or work or life - instead the aim should be to understand each other's views far better, so that we can minimise conflict and maximise cooperation. Useful reference materials: psychological contract 'iceberg' exercises (the psychological contract, work/life alignment, organizational development, motivational understanding, employer/employee relationships, leadership) The Psychological Contract is increasingly significant in organizational management and development. The Psychological Contract 'Iceberg' model diagram assists explanation and exploration of the subject. Ask group members to create their own version of the Psychological Contract 'Iceberg' diagram - individually, in pairs or teams, and review/discuss as appropriate for your situation. Versions of the 'Iceberg' may be mapped according to different perspectives, for example - how people see it currently; how they'd prefer it to be; from a personal, departmental or workforce standpoints. The exercise can be used as a basis for all sorts of learning and development activities, for example relating to: motivation and attitude alignment of people with organizational aims work/management/leadership relationships with employees mutual awareness (employee/employer) and organizational transparency - and especially in identifying hidden or confused perceptions which may be obstacles to improving employee/employer relationships Refer to the Psychological Contract theory and within it whatever related learning concepts might be helpful to your situation. Johari Window is particularly relevant. lifestyle acronyms game (social demographics, creativity and invention, lifestyle types and choices, compact communications, generational theory) A simple exercise to encourage thinking about demographics , generational ideas, language, and communications. For groups of any size. Split into pairs, threes, or work teams and review as appropriate, or run the activity as a quick ice-breaker. Instruction to the group: Acronyms are powerful in communicating a lot of information very succinctly, and also in illustrating this principle, which relates to generational issues in management and life. We have probably all heard of amusing lifestyle aconyms such as DINKY (Double Income, No Kids Yet); GOFER (Genial Old Farts Enjoying Retirement); ORCHID (One Recent Child, Heavily In Debt); and the more formal term NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training). What acronym can you devise (or suggest one you know already) that is particularly appropriate for modern times? Where groups devise their own acronyms you may optionally award a point for each letter in the acronym and bonus points for: true acronyms (which either seem like a word or make a real word, using the first letter from each word in the full expression) a meaningful 'bacronym' (in which the word spelled by the acronym relates cleverly to the expression) You can alternatively/additionally ask the group to devise new portmanteau words , which by itself would enable a quicker activity. Review/discuss results as appropriate for your situation. Optional equipment - dictionary and thesaurus. guessing game (ice-breaker, assumptions, multiple intelligences, hidden abilities, risks in judgment ) This is a simple and adaptable exercise which can be used to explore various themes. You could run a version on a table-top, or use it to get people moving around quite a lot. As facilitator you need just a tape measure and a pad of small sticky notes. You can change the scale targets (in scale or metric/imperial) according to your situation. You can treat the activities as a competition by awarding scores, and/or run the activity for teams, which adds an interesting extra perspective. Here is the basis of the exercise. Adapt it and use different exercises to suit your own situations. Instruction to group: This is an experiment to explore the brain's capability to estimate scale. Your guesses will be measured and results given. The exercises involve simple guessing, but provide a basis for understanding more about how reliably (or unreliably) our brains can estimate scale, etc., without measuring tools or precise references. This relates to risks of making assumptions, and the merits/risks/surprises associated with guessing, short-cuts, working from habit/instinct, etc. Sometimes guessing and instinctive assumptions are effective; often they are not. (Additionally/separately the activity prompts appreciation and exploration of multiple intelligences theory - specifically how some people are naturally better at some of these tasks than others.) Using sticky notes (to be personalised for identification) mark the following: a distance of ten feet on the floor a height of three feet on a wall a distance of one metre on a table Note: As facilitator it will take you a while to measure and note scores for lots of guesses, so think how best to do this. If using the exercise as a quick icebreaker, or if time is tight, especially if group is large, think carefully about how many measuring exercises to include. Just one is fine for an icebreaker. With big groups and treams issue people with tape measures and have them score each other. Or see the examples for simplifying the activities below. Review the activities as appropriate for your purposes, points for example: What surprises did we find? What clues are there to people's different abilities? What differences are there in guessing different types of scale? What creative methods were used in 'measuring'. How does the brain guess something? In work/life how do we decide when to guess and when to measure, and are these the best criteria? How can we make our guessing more reliable? (If exercises are performed in teams) are team guesses more reliable than individual guesses? What merit is there in the 'Wisdom of Crowds' in guessing and making intuitive judgments? Depending on time and how you want to use the activities, other materials and measuring devices can be used for different exercises, for example: an angle of 30 degrees (ask people to draw two straight lines on a sheet of paper, like two sides of a triangle - facilitator needs a protractor for measuring) a square sheet of paper equal to one square metre (newspaper and sticky tape - a square metre is for some people a surprisingly large area - each side must measure one metre) or, for more adventure, which might appeal to children, explore volume and weight with water and sand, etc, for which basically you only need the water, sand, some plastic foodbags or balloons, and a measuring jug (and some cleaning-up cloths...) For a smaller table-top activity you can give target distances in centimetres and/or inches rather than feet and metres, and use a ruler of greater precision, (and be prepared for some innuendo among certain groups). To simplify and speed up the activities, and to reduce preparations and measuring, have people guess weight/volume/height/distance/etc of a pre-prepared example (for each exercise), rather than have each person produce their own, for example: Show the group a loosely coiled length of string, on a table or the floor, and invite estimates as to the length of the string. For an exercise requiring people to guess a large quantity of units, you can show a bucket of marbles, or simply cut or tear a sheet of paper into lots of pieces (unseen to the group members, too many to count at a glance) and scatter them on a table. Show the group a page of printed words and invite guesses as to how many words. Show the group a pile of coins and ask them to estimate the total value. Team guessing enables additional exploration, for example linkage to ideas about the 'Wisdom of Crowds', and also benefits/disadvantages of working in isolation versus working in cooperation, especially where intuitive or subjective judgment is required. Adapt the exercises depending on how active and logistically involved you wish the activities to be. Reference materials, for example: Kolb learning styles theory - different thinking styles suit different tasks Conscious Competence learning model - how well do we know and trust our own judgment Johari Window - specifically knowing our own and others strengths/weaknesses early bird/second mouse exercise (ice-breaker, creative thinking, presentation skills, debating, analysis, teamworking, group decision dynamics) This is a simple exercise for groups between 8 and 30 people, and involves many different learning elements: understanding strategies, teamwork, presentations, argument, debate, analysis and group decision-making. The activity is based on the funny one-liner (often attributed to comedian Stephen Wright), which is deeper than first seems: "The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese." Split the group into two teams. Nominate one team to be 'early bird' and the other team to be 'second mouse' (or allow the group to decide this themselves, which can be an interesting mini-exercise in its own right). Give the teams 5-10 minutes, each to develop a 60-second presentation (or longer for bigger groups and more learning depth) as to why their strategy ('early bird' or 'second mouse') is best for business (or work or life, depending on your situation). Encourage the teams to make use of the knowledge and abilities and views of all team members in creating their presentations. After the two presentations chair a 5-10 minute debate between the teams of the question: "Early bird or second mouse: Which is the most effective strategy for business (or work or life)?" (Optionally, ask the teams if in light of the presentations they would prefer to frame the question in a different way. People might now see a more constructive approach to the question. Again this can be a useful mini-exercise in its own right.) After the debate hold a 'free' vote to see what the combined group now believes about the question. Allow but do not encourage abstentions ('don't knows'). Encourage group members to vote as individuals, putting their team loyalty to one side. There are many possible learning areas to review after this exercise, depending on your situation and development purposes, for example: different strategies for different situations - adaptability versus consistency different strategies for different types of people and personalities or organizational cultures assembling an argument/case/presentation in a team against a tight deadline presenting a concise and convincing argument/presentation constructive debate and discussion - using evidence, examples, structure, passion, etc (with regard to the optional re-framing of the debate question) the significance of question wording when a group is asked a question, and the potential to distort unhelpfully or focus helpfully on the main issue how groups consider and decide responsibility of those in authority to assist and enable clear understanding, debate and decision-making dilemma of personal views versus 'team' views ('real life' examples: parliamentary voting - keeping to the party-line, or personal convictions/local constituency; also management dilemma in implementing corporate policy with which a manager may personally disagree - what are the important reference points in making these judgements? and other aspects applicable or arising. Some reference materials: Clean Language - an interesting type of neutral enabling questioning, used in therapy touchy feely exercises (sensory perception, self-awareness, non-verbal communications, body language, relationships in teamwork and personal support) Here are some ideas and exercises to explore human physical contact and touching; the types, benefits, risks, associated feelings and reactions, in relation to self others. Touching people is understandably a neglected aspect of relationships and communications, especially in management and education relating to sexual harassment and child protection. Nevertheless touch is a highly significant part of body language, and crucial to human interaction. We therefore benefit by improving our understanding of touch and using it appropriately, rather than avoiding it altogether. A 2010 New York Times article by Benedict Carey reported some interesting findings on human touching: Research suggests that we may be able to detect at least eight different emotions using only a simple touching contact from person to person (M Hertenstein, DePauw University, Indiana US). Separate studies found touch and physical contact among teams to be linked to success in sport (Kraus, Huang and Keltner, Berkeley US). And the amount of physical contact between romantic or married couples when simply sitting side by side has found to correlate with relationship satisfaction (C Oveis, Harvard US), which while not hugely surprising, is perhaps often overlooked or forgotten with the passing of years. Many and various other studies have reported the positive powers of human touch. For example see Leo Buscaglia on hugging and love . As with physical exercise, human touch triggers the release of chemicals in the brain. These are basic primitive human responses, not easily understood, and even now only beginning to be researched and analysed in reliable scientific terms. In time we will know what it all means and how it all works. Meanwhile a little practical experimentation can be helpful and enlightening. Here are some ideas: Based on the Hertenstien research referenced above, ask people to work in pairs or threes and with eyes closed, to experiment in giving their reactions to different types of touches - to the hand, by another person's hand or fingers. Be careful and seek the entire group's agreement before encouraging/allowing any more adventurous touching than this. Hand touching (including handshakes) alone should be ample to demonstrate emotions such as confidence, aggression, timidity, reassurance, curiosity, etc., and any other reactions generated. A third person can act as a toucher and also to observe facial expressions and give external reaction. Hugging: Subject to the group's agreement, get people hugging each other and noting their reactions and feelings. As Buscaglia discovered, and many since then, hugging is potentially powerful medicine. Explore implications and issues. Group-hug: Try it and see how it makes people feel. As a variation split the group into two teams. Ask one team to group-hug. Then give both teams an identical task, competing against each other (for example sorting a pack of cards, or making ten big newspaper balls and throwing them into a bin at the other end of the room). Ask the second team if they want a group-hug before starting. Maybe ask the first team if they want another group-hug. Maybe allow group-hugging at will (if the group likes it go with it..) After the task, discuss relevance of hugging and physical contact to teamworking and bonding, enthusiasm, etc. Were the biggest huggers the most motivated? Is a hugging team generally a winning team? Discuss with the group: what are people's own views and feelings about what sorts of touching are acceptable, unacceptable, positive, reassuring, supportive, etc., according to different situations. Is a gentle pat on the back always okay? What cultural differences exist? What are the real practical no-go areas? Shoulders? Arms? Hands? What's the difference between a light touch and a caress? Different rules for different genders? How do observers (other team members, customers, etc) view touching when they see it? How do we improve our use of this sort of body-language at work, mindful of the risks? Etc., etc. See also the Silent Touch exercise on Teambuilding Games page 1. Reference materials, for example: Tuckman's theory - (from a team-bonding view) And your own policy material on harassment and child protection as appropriate. the outdoors tea-break exercise (different perspectives, context, relativity, perception vs 'reality', and how most things change according to situation) The nature of anything - especially feelings, relationships and communications - changes according to situation and context. This is vitally important in understanding ourselves, others, and the way that human systems operate, in which subjective views are commonly more dominant than objective facts, figures and evidence. Perceptions among people, especially given group effects, has a huge effect on systemic and organizational behaviour. Here is a simple and pleasing demonstration of how something can change when experienced in a new context, particularly when the warmer spring season approaches (in the northern hemisphere): When next facilitating or teaching a group, take your tea/coffee break outside, and ask people if their tea/coffee tastes different, compared to how it normally tastes indoors. The demonstration is clearest if first people pour the drink and take a few sips indoors, and then walk outside, so as to compare the indoor and outdoor taste. Strangely the taste is quite different, sometimes remarkably different. This is probably due to the fresh air being smelled and tasted along with the drink. I am open to better explanations. The effect also works with cold drinks. And picnic lunches, if you've time. In some situations the exercise will work better by not warning people of the reason for going outside, other than to get some fresh air and a leg-stretch, both of which are good for groups anyway. Taste is not the only characteristic altered, for example, in cold weather the drink cools far quicker. Small and insignificant though it is, the drink experience and memory is altered by the different outside environment. The indoor cup of tea or coffee is perceived to be different because of the outdoor context and situation. Everything in life - especially concerning human attitude - alters according to context. The analogy can be used in many subjects which benefit from interpreting differences and implications within relative positions, for example: Self-awareness and mutual awareness - see Johari Window Management and motivation - see Maslow and Adams Equity Theory and Action Centred Leadership Very many theories and models for learning, management, development, etc., contain some sort of relative framework. Understanding relativity is not merely for theoretical explanation - it's a real practical tool for interpreting and acting with more appropriate meaning - rather than a 'one size fits all' mentality - especially concerning the widely different perceptions among people in different situations. newspaper story interpretation exercise (understanding and applying motivational theories, or other principles and models of management) For groups of any size, subject to splitting into working teams and managing the review of the team work. The exercise will take 5-10 minutes plus whatever review your think is appropriate for your situation. Equipment: Some daily national or local newspapers. Enough for every person to have at least 2-3 sheets. Issue the newspapers to the group or team(s). Instruction to team(s): Each person must find a news story in the newspaper to which he/she can apply a motivational theory, by way of interpreting the story and being able to explain the story in terms of the chosen theory. Example theories, which can be illustrated in news stories: Cybernetics You may of course direct group members to any management/motivational theories or models that fit your purposes. You may nominate specific models, or seek examples of models from the group, then write these on pieces of paper, fold, and have people pick them 'blind'. To focus people's attention on key points in their analysis, and to ensure that reviews are kept compact and fast-moving, you can instruct people to present their interpretations in a very concise verbal summary, optionally using a flip chart or white-board, of no more than 30 seconds. Allow discussion and debate of matters arising as appropriate, according to the needs and timings of your session. To save review time - ask people to work in pairs, or in teams - requiring each pair or team to present an interpretation of only one story, being the most powerful example that the pair or team can find in the time allowed. If the group has access to computers, internet and group display this enables the use of online news websites rather than newspapers. the three describers exercise (introductions, icebreaker, johari mutual awareness, team dynamics, team development) This is a long explanation for actually a very simple activity. The game is for groups of up to twenty people, or more provided they know each other. Equipment and set up: Split the group into equal teams of three or four people. Teams of five or six are okay although will require firm time control. Teams of seven or more are not recommended. Issue each person a pen/pencil and four note-sized pieces of paper, or four sticky-notes - 3-5 inches wide. Each team should be sat around their own table, or around ends/corners of a big table, or alternatively on the floor, or around a wall-space if using sticky notes. Instruction to both teams (to each person): Write your own name on one of the notes (in plain handwriting which cannot be identified to you - or ask someone else to do this if you have a distinctive writing style). Write clearly three positive words - one on each note - which strongly describe or represent you. Do this hidden from others, and again in a plain style of handwriting which will not identify you as the writer. (N.B. For the purposes of this exercise only positive describing words are permitted. This activity is not suitable for exposing and discussing individual weaknesses, and negative describing words can be unhelpful given the nature of this exercise. This is important to clarify at the outset, because there's no easy way to remove or substitute unhelpful words once they've been exposed.) Move all describer notes and name notes to the centre of your team's table (or wall-space) and mix them up. (Optionally before this, turn/fold the notes face down. There is benefit where people do not reveal their descriptions to their own team, so that discovery and surprise as to who 'owns' the describers is experienced by everyone and not just the guessing team.) Ask the teams to move to the/an other team's table/wall-space so that they are working with another team's describers. The task for each team is to re-arrange the describers in sets of three beneath the appropriate name note, correctly allocating the describers to the 'owners'. (Obviously negative or controversial words would at this stage become potentially upsetting and problematical.) The winning team is the one which achieves the most correctly allocated describers. N.B. Where more than two teams play the game, the initial review stage (when correct answers are given) becomes complex logistically and so teams should be instructed to show the correct answers on a separate sheet of paper when returning to their tables/walls, rather than disturbing the original suggested answers. This enables everyone in the group, (if warranted - notably for groups which work together), to review all the guesses and the correct answers - which works best using sticky notes and wall-space. Additional guidance notes: Where groups do not already know each other ask them to make brief personal introductions to the group before the exercise. Do not give warning of the exercise to come - but do ask for people to introduce themselves with a little more information than merely name and job. When explaining the exercise - describing words ('describers') can be personality characteristics, such as determined, diplomatic, reserved, confident, friendly, etc., and/or more symbolic words such as music, football, mountain, adventure, family, etc., which represent a very significant personal characteristic. Some people will relate readily to the idea of using symbolic words; others will prefer to use only words which conventionally describe a personality. Emphasise that people should try to use words which genuinely and honestly represent themselves in a positive way. The facilitator reserves the right to withdraw any negative or controversial describing words, and to deduct penalty points from the offending team. The facilitator can explain that exposing personal weaknesses is important, but not in this exercise (so this is not a matter of denial or rose-tinted spectacles - it's a matter of what's appropriate for the exercise, given how it works). The facilitator reserves the right to deduct points from any team where a word is considered to be too obscure and not strongly representative of the person, and to award bonus points where a particularly difficult describing word is correctly allocated. Where several teams play the game, the initial review of correct/incorrect answers - as teams move from one table to another - needs to be planned and controlled appropriately. Ensure teams are instructed not to move the describers arranged by the guessing team, instead to show the correct answers on a separate sheet of paper, which can be used to manage the awarding of points. Where it is not possible to form equal team sizes (for example with groups of 7, 11, 13, 17, etc) the facilitator is advised to to rule beforehand (that either): team totals will be adjusted pro-rate to take account of the imbalance; or that since there is both advantage and disadvantage in having a larger/smaller team, no points adjustment is warranted. The important thing is to decide beforehand rather than be caught out mid-exercise without a firm rule. It is perfectly possible to play this game using ordinary pens/pencils and paper (rather than thicker marker pens), although visibility is reduced and so is less effective, especially for larger groups. Review and reference materials: Relate these issues to team development models, such as Tannenbaum and Schmidt and Tuckman's Forming Storming model . Consider awareness of team strengths in the context of models such as VAK and Multiple Intelligence . Discuss mutual awareness from a team leadership view, for example Adair's Action-Centred Leadership model . Many other views of personality and differences in people can be explored via Personality Models and Theory . N. B. Where the exercise is used as more of an ice-breaker for a group which has only recently been introduced to each other, a separate learning illustration is how much (or little) we seek, observe and absorb about new people we meet, and whether we can be more attentive at such times, since this reflects on perceived levels of empathy, and can influence people's self-esteem and confidence, and readiness to cooperate, etc. quick plan exercise (new year planning, aims, planning, change) A quick icebreaker and kick-start activity with a helpful underlying purpose. For groups of any size. Introduction/scene-setting: The beginning of a new year prompts many of us to consider new aims and plans, or to renew a commitment towards a change or improvement of some sort. Commitments tend to succeed where there is a plan, especially for aims which contain steps leading towards the final result. Without a plan, little can change. This process can help: 1. Think of a commitment or change you want to make. 2. (Write it down) - describe it as a clear, realistic and measurable outcome. 3. Work backwards, identifying the steps necessary for achieving it, back to the starting point: i.e., now. 4. Attach timescales and resources as necessary. You now have a simple plan. Take it away and refine it as necessary. Useful reference materials: multiple intelligences theory and learning/thinking styles - including free self-assessment tests SMART principles within task delegation - the rules apply to 'delegating' a task to yourself just as to delegating to another person. Agree review/feedback expectations with the group before the activity, as appropriate for your situation. Note that review/feedback are not always necessary, especially if the activity seeks to help people to think about personal priorities and plans which they may prefer to keep private. In this situation it is particularly helpful to clarify that people do not need to reveal or discuss their aims with the group unless they want to, since for some people this enables more relaxed and creative thinking. party games bundle (party games for grown-ups and kids) Here is a selection of quick easy fun party games, including some already on these team games webpages. The Map Game - simple fun game for pairs or teams of threes to draw a map of the world from memory. Very funny. Who Am I? Game - simple and easy to make party game. The Smartie Hunt Game - teams make animal noises to direct their leader to collect hidden sweets. PIT - it's easy to make your own cards for this noisy trading game. Helium Stick Game - very strange effect game - play it in teams for parties. Charades - easy, amusing, popular party game. Baking Foil Animals - quick, funny, easy - all you need is a roll of baking foil. You will find other ideas on these pages which can be adapted for party games. Other quick party game ideas (for parties, not for work situations): The After Eight Game - (as featured on a TV advert) the winner is the first person who can move an After Eight mint chocolate from forehead into mouth using only head/face movements. Key-String Game - split the group into teams of at least five people in each and arrange boy-girl-boy-girl-etc. Issue each with a heavy key or spanner similar cold metal tool, tied to about fifty feet of string. The winning team is the first to thread the string through the whole team, passing underneath each team-member's clothing from top to bottom. Orange Game - split the team into teams of at least five people in each and arrange boy-girl-boy-girl-etc. Issue each with an orange (or potato or other similar sized fruit or vegetable). The winning team is the first to pass the orange from person to person and back to the beginning by holding the orange between chin and chest (no hands). Dropping the orange incurs a two-person-stage penalty (move it back two people in the chain). Egg Game - for outside (or indoors if you live in a mansion with a banqueting hall at least fifty feet long). Play in pairs. Give each pair a raw egg (still unbroken in its shell). Pairs face each other in two lines, five paces apart. The egg must be thrown and caught twice between each pair. Move the lines three paces further apart. Again, throw and catch twice. Etc, etc. The winners are the last with their egg intact. (If you are disturbed by the wastefulness of this game don't play it.) Upside-down Drinking Game - not recommended after a heavy meal or drinking session. Can be played in teams of three - one upside-down (standing on head) being supported by a team-mate, being fed a half-pint of a suitable drink from a suitable receptacle. Drinking straws are optional at the discretion of the party games organiser. The winning team is the first to consume the drink. For additional challenge make the drink a pint and require each team member to take a turn in each of the three positions - holding, feeding and drinking. Be careful when planning games to ensure that they are appropriate for your situation. I accept no liability for any untoward issues arising. breakfast project planning exercise (project planning, task planning, preparation, structure and organisation, scheduling, budgeting) The activity is a simple introduction to project planning, and helps develop awareness of structure, scheduling, etc., and the basic process of organising and coordinating time, activities and resources, and optionally finances. For groups of any size and any age. Split the group into pairs or teams appropriate for your situation. The task is to produce a simple project plan for making a cooked breakfast. Issue pens, rulers and paper, or arrange other presentation media as you wish. As the facilitator you may substitute or offer alternative tasks. Cooking a breakfast is merely an example; see other examples below. Specify a task/tasks which the group will find interesting, amusing, enjoyable, etc. For variation you can issue each pair/team with a different task. You can optionally allow pairs/teams to choose a different task of their own liking, provided it is workable for the activity (i.e., it's reasonably simple, requires a schedule, and contains various inter-dependent activities and resources). Using simple non-work-related tasks such as cooking a breakfast enables good focus on the project management method, and an enjoyable quick activity, rather than using real work issues, which can become overly detailed, distracting and/or tedious. Introduce the group to a project management tool(s) as appropriate, for example a Gantt chart, critical path analysis flow chart, or a 'fishbone' diagram. Examples are on the project management page. To extend the activity you can add the requirement that teams must indicate where training or preparation needs are most likely required for any of the process elements. Similar instruction can be given to indicate or comment on obvious needs for knowledge, experience, skills, which can be related to VAK learning styles and/or Bloom's Taxonomy perspectives. Additionally you can introduce a financial element, so that plans must show a breakdown of costs, and a structure to monitor the budget for the project by each separate item. Note that this financial aspect can be a big extra challenge for some learners and is best excluded if the main development need is to learn the basic structure and process of building a project plan. Examples of other tasks you can use for this activity: Cook a roast dinner. Set up a fish aquarium. Create a personal page on a social networking website. You can use any task that group members basically understand and relate to, and importantly which breaks down into a sequence of inter-dependent activities and/or parts whose timing and coordination are necessary to produce a successful result. Project plans can be presented, discussed and reviewed according to your own situation and timings. See project management for lots of supporting materials. Brainstorming is a useful way to begin any planning task. Delegation is a useful reference area because in many real work-based projects involve delegating responsibilities to others, for which clarity and effectiveness of plans are vital. Other potentially useful reference materials, depending on the expertise and interests of the group are: Balanced Scorecard sheet of paper step-through game (icebreaker, teambuilding, problem-solving, togetherness, kids' scissor-skills) A novel paper-cutting icebreaker exercise, played in pairs, or threes, or as a group. The activity can be used as a bigger group problem-solving and team-working task. Equipment: Scissors and sheets of paper, A4 size or similar. Instruction to group: You have five minutes to devise a way of cutting the sheet of paper so that it creates a ring - without any breaks or joins - large enough to fit over both people, and then to step through the ring (in your pair/three/as a group). A cutting solution and diagram are below, and also explained in smaller scale in the business card trick . Depending on your purposes, situation and group, you can change this exercise in various ways, for example: Issue the cutting diagram to all participants. This should ensure that the activity produces at least one successful demonstration of the task. Do not issue the cutting diagram, but instead demonstrate the solution, and instruct the participants to remember it. This tests people's concentration and retention. Issue the cutting diagram half-way through the exercise when (as is likely) participants fail to discover a cutting solution - which highlights the importance of having instructions and knowledge for challenging tasks which might initially seem quite easy. Ask people to do the exercise in teams of three rather than pairs, which increases the brain-power available, but also the potential for confusion, and also the size of the paper ring necessary to fit over three people rather than two. Issue sticky tape, allow joins to be made, and add a two-minute time penalty for each join in the ring. Change the task so that the group creates a paper ring large enough to fit over the entire group - allowing for only one sticky-tape join per pair of delegates. This opens the possibility for many different cutting solutions, because each pair is effectively then required merely to convert their sheet into a long length of paper rather than an unbroken ring. Activity notes: As facilitator it is recommended you practice the suggested cutting solution so that if necessary you can demonstrate it (before or afterwards, depending on your adaptation) to the group. Beware of using this activity in any situation that could cause embarrassment to overweight people or where delegates would be uncomfortable with the inter-personal proximity required. The qualification of putting the ring of paper over a given number of people is that while standing (necessarily very close) together they are able to pass the paper ring over their heads and down to the floor, enabling them to step over and thereby through the ring without breaking it. Here is the cutting diagram, assuming that the sheet of paper is first folded. This is one solution to the exercise. If you know another please send it . Here are examples of alternative solutions . Fold the sheet of paper in half, and cut it through both sides of the paper, as shown in the diagram, in the following sequence: Cut 8-12 slits (8 are adequate - the diagram shows 12), from the folded edge up to about 1-2cm of the open edge, each slit being about 1.5-2cm apart. Cut a slit between each of the above slits, from the open edge to about 1-2cm of the folded edge. Cut along the folded edge, but not the ends marked with blue circles. You should then be able to open the paper into a ring which comfortably fits over two people. Cutting more slits increases the size of the ring, as would using a larger sheet of paper. Slit dimensions can be increased for larger sheets. A further adaptation of the exercise is to issue one large sheet of paper (for example from a broadsheet newspaper) to a group of people (up to ten or even twenty people) and task them to work out how to cut (or tear, for added difficulty) the paper into a seamless ring which will fit over the entire group. This creates lots of problem-solving activity in the planning stage, and much physicality and togetherness when the ring is being passed over the group. You can avoid inactivity for group members during the cutting/tearing by instructing that all group members must take a turn at cutting/tearing. Team members can also plan the step-through strategy and other logistical aspects of the exercise. You will be surprised how large a ring can be created. An A4 sheet easily makes a ring circumference of 3m. A big newspaper sheet easily produces a ring circumference of 7m. alternative solutions Here is an alternative solution (thanks E Roddick and one of his workgroups in San Gabriel Valley, US). Cutting lines are shown in red and blue. The diameter of the ring produced would increase by lengthening the parallel spiral pattern, requiring cuts closer together. I understand from another contributor (thanks Brian) that in 1970s London this method was used by young lads with bus tickets, to ease the boredom of the daily school commute.. The technique entails cutting or tearing the red line first, and then the blue. Here is another alternative solution (thanks A How). The cutting lines are shown in red. The solution is similar to the first folded solution, but without the fold. The blue line is the outside edge of the paper or card. If you have another solution please send it . truth and lies introductions game (ice-breaker, johari mutual awareness, interaction, amusement and fun) Inspired by a sketch on Armstrong and Miller's TV comedy show in October 2009, this is an amusing variation of the usual around-the-table introductions at the start of courses and other gatherings. Instruction to group: Introduce yourself in turn by stating your name (and role if relevant) plus: one true statement about yourself, and one false statement about yourself so as to make it difficult for the group to determine which is the true fact and which is the lie. You have 30 seconds to think of your statements, after which (according to the order decided by the facilitator) each person makes their statements, pausing after each truth and lie for the group to decide which is which. While producing some amusement, the exercise can reveal surprising and impressive information about people (hidden talents and claims to fame, etc). The activity can therefore be useful for team-building from a Johari awareness viewpoint, and it also stimulates creative thinking and group interaction. The exercise also requires group analysis and decision-making in deciding which are the true statements and which are the lies. Gardner's Multiple Intelligences model is a useful reference if using the exercise to illustrate the nature of individual natural or hidden capabilities. (This exercise is adapted from the Armstrong and Miller comedy sketch. Adapt it further to suit your own purposes.) egg balance game (concentration, positive thinking, discovery, breaking down barriers, wonderment and fascination) For groups of any size. Each person must have an egg and a table-top surface. According to myth, due to planetary gravitational effects or similar nonsense, it is possible to stand an egg on its end during the vernal (Spring) equinox, which is on or close to 21 March, when night and day are equal. In fact it is possible with a little patience and a steady hand to balance an egg on its end on a flat level surface, any time. The big end is much easier. Here's one on my kitchen table. This interesting feat of manual dexterity and myth-busting provides the basis for an enjoyable and fascinating group exercise. The temptation to pun is almost irresistible. A raw egg is perhaps easier to balance than a hard-boiled egg because the weight sinks to the bottom and creates a sort of 'googly-man' effect. The science is not especially clear about this and if there are any professors of egg balancing out there I'd welcome your input. You can use this activity in various ways, to demonstrate or emphasise patience, discovery, positive thinking, questioning assumptions, breaking barriers, stress avoidance; and for team contests. Incidentally you can tell the difference between a hard-boiled egg and a raw egg by spinning the egg. A raw egg spins slowly and speeds up, and continues spinning after you stop it; a hard egg spins faster and stays stopped. These differences are due to the independent motion of the liquid in the raw egg, whereas a hard egg behaves as a single mass. An additional point of interest is that a few grains of salt enables a very quick balancing 'trick', which is of course cheating. Facilitators are recommended to practice the task before asking others to try it. The balancing is easier on slightly textured surfaces and a lot more difficult on very smooth surfaces. Eggs with slightly pimply shells are much easier to balance than eggs with very smooth shells. Some eggs are easier to balance than others so have a few spare for any that simply will not balance. A mop and bucket is recommended if using this exercise with children. (Thanks to N Mehdi for the suggestion.) fancy dress exercise (ice-breaker, self-expression, mutual awareness) A very quick and easy ice-breaker, requiring no equipment or preparation. The game can be used to make introductions a little more interesting than usual, or as a separate ice-breaker activity. For groups of any size. Split large groups into teams small enough to review answers among themselves. Instruction to group: You are invited to a fancy dress party which requires that your costume says something about you. What costume would you wear and why? Take two minutes to think of your answer. Review: Simply by asking people to explain their answers briefly to the group/team. The exercise can be varied and expanded for groups in which people know each other: Ask people to write their answers on a slip of paper (in handwriting that cannot easily be identified), and to fold the slips and put them in the middle of the table. In turn group members must each pick a slip of paper from the pile and read the answer aloud. On hearing all the answers, group members must then try to match the answers to the people present. drawing game (teamworking, change, communications, creativity, ice-breakers) A quick flexible exercise for groups of all sizes and ages. It's based on a simple drawing game we have all played as children. Equipment required: Pens/pencils and paper. Split the group into teams of three. Instruction to group: One person in each team starts by drawing a shape or outline. The drawing is then passed to the next team member who must add to the drawing. And so on. Time spent by each person in turn on the drawing is limited to 5 seconds. (The facilitator can shout 'change' when appropriate.) No discussion is permitted during the drawing, nor any agreement before the drawing of what the team will draw. The drawing must be completed in one minute. Optional review (short version of exercise), for example: Did the team draw anything recognizable? How easy was the understanding between team members? How did team members work differently on this task? What was the effect of time pressure? Was there a natural tendency to draw supportively and harmoniously, or were there more conflicting ideas? Continue without the above review for a longer activity, involving scoring and a winning team: After one minute of drawing each team must agree privately a description (maximum three words) of what they have drawn, and pass this to the facilitator, to be referred to later. Teams must identify their drawing with a team name. The drawings are then passed around the group for each team to guess and write on the reverse of other team's drawings what they believe the drawing is or represents. Teams are not permitted to look at the reverse of the drawings (at other descriptions guessed) until they have decided on a description. Drawings are awarded two points for each exact correct description achieved, or a point for a partly correct description. Teams are awarded two points for each correct description guessed, or a point for a partly correct description guessed. (Drawings/teams can be scored by the teams themselves, which is much quicker than the facilitator doing the scoring.) If you score the exercise, ensure teams are instructed to put their team name on their drawing, and alongside their guessed descriptions on the reverse of all other drawings. Final review, examples: What factors enabled teams to produce recognizable drawings? What factors led to drawings being unrecognizable? Are 'drawing' skills especially helpful in this exercise, or are other capabilities more significant? What does this exercise demonstrate about mutual understanding and how to achieve it? What obstacles to understanding and teamwork does this activity illustrate? Variations: Teams can be told to agree what they are to draw at the beginning of the exercise. Deduct ten points for teams drawing any of the following 'obvious' subjects: cat, house, car, man, woman, spacecraft, etc. Award bonus points for teams drawing anything highly obscure and yet recognizable, especially if resulting from no prior discussion. When the facilitator calls out 'team change', one person and the drawing must move to a different team, (which can be likened to certain changes that happen in real organizational work teams). It produces complete chaos of course. group connections activity (icebreaker, mutual awareness, introductions, networking, team-building) Split groups into teams of between three and six people. No equipment or preparation is required. Instruction to group/teams: You have five minutes to discover an interesting, surprising and separate connection you share with each person in your team. (A different connection with each person, not a single connection that every team member shares.) 'Interesting and surprising' does not include working for the same company, living in the same town or country or having the same colour hair. Try to find a connection or something in common that surprises both of you. The purpose of the exercise is to ensure that each person of the team ask some questions and gives some answers about themselves and all other team members, and so gets to know each other better. Discussions can be in pairs or threes. The team can decide how best to enable each person to speak to every other team member in the time allowed. This requires more care in larger teams. Review: No review is necessary if the purpose is merely to enable quick introductions. Group review of individual connections is unnecessary although particularly interesting connections can be volunteered and highlighted as examples if people are keen to do so. More general review aspects include for example, (optional depending on your own situation and wider aims for the group): What sort of questions helped discover most information? How does mutual awareness (knowing each other better) help team-work, cooperation, communications, etc? What normally prevents people from getting to know each other better? You will think of many other review points depending on the situation. Larger teams need more time to ensure everyone learns something new and ideally establishes an interesting connection with each other team member. Examples of questions people can ask each other, if they need prompting: What is your passion in life? Where would you most like to visit/travel? What would you change if you could? What music/food/weather do you most enjoy? What do you like best: words, numbers, pictures or sounds? What is your most under-used strength? Younger people might be happier with questions about less deep subjects, which is fine. Guide the group as you consider appropriate. Some related reference materials: paper bowls game (icebreaker, competition, energizer, teamwork, tactics) For groups of six to thirty people. Play as a team game in pairs, threes, fours or fives, which keeps everyone involved all the time, and introduces teamwork and tactics. The game is essentially team bowls (played like beach bowls or green bowls) using balls of newspaper. Scoring is one point for each ball closest to the 'jack' ball. If a team gets say three or four of its balls closer than the balls of any other team then three or four points would be scored accordingly. The potential to score high - notably for big groups split into big teams - means a winning team can emerge surprisingly late, which sustains full involvement of all players. Equipment: A floor or corridor giving at least 5'x15' playing area. A sheet of newspaper for each player. A different coloured roll of electricians insulating tape for each team (to differentiate their balls from other teams). Tape measure for the facilitator. The larger the floor area then the more energetic the game will tend to be. The game can also be played outside provided there is no strong wind. (For a more messy game outside for kids, supply a bucket of water and instruct that the balls should be wet..) Instruction: The winner is the player/team who rolls or throws their ball(s) to stop nearest the 'jack' (a smaller ball, suitably different, rolled by the facilitator or a contestant to the far end of the playing area). Decide order of play, which should be a player from each team in turn. Variations/rules: Play a specified number of 'ends' (rounds), totalling the points to produce the eventual overall winning team. Or play 'ends' until a team reaches say five points. Or more points for a longer game. (Decide a points target mindful of total maximum score per round per team - for example teams of five can potentially score five points in one round.) A player may roll or throw his/her ball at another player's/team's ball to dislodge it or achieve a position nearer the jack. You'll need a clearly understood rule in the event of the jack being hit out of the playing area, if this can happen. (For example replace the jack to its starting position, which should therefore be marked by the facilitator; or mark the position at which the jack left the playing area as the target.) If you are running this as a reasonably big activity, offer a trial game first for players to practise, develop tactics, and to clarify rules. In any event, you can offer players the chance to practise rolling their balls a few times before the start of the game (they'll probably do this anyway..). The game is very adaptable. Consider and decide your own rules and scoring for your own situation. If playing the game with individuals (for example in a small group of five), allow players two balls each. This makes the game more interesting for individuals, in which the order of throwing can be reversed for the second ball, making it fairer for all, assuming playing only one 'end'. Or play big 'marbles' instead - best on a square playing area - in which players eliminate other players by rolling their ball to hit another player's balls. Players take turns to roll their balls. The winner is the last player remaining whose ball has not been hit by another ball. Players have to decide how close to risk leaving their balls to other balls, so it becomes quite a tactical exercise. Simplest rule here is to eliminate only the first ball hit with each roll, not rebounds. See also the bin toss game , and newspaper towers , for other newspaper games ideas. Review points, optional, chiefly for team play, for example: Would you use different tactics, knowing now how the game is played? Was the teamwork good or could it have been better, if so how? Did the construction (of the balls) affect the quality of play/performance? How competitive did the exercise feel? Why? What advantages arise from playing in a team? How would you change/develop the game to improve it? life highlights game (ice-breaker, introductions, life priorities, self-awareness, johari awareness, motivation and personality) This is a quick adaptable exercise for small groups, or for large groups if split into self-facilitating teams, or alternatively pairs. It's also a longer discussion game for pubs, dinner-parties, etc., especially in couples.. No equipment is required. Instruction to group: Take a minute to consider - What thirty seconds of your life would you most want to re-live, if you only had thirty seconds left? For the purposes of the exercise participants can choose several different life experiences, provided the total time is no more than thirty seconds. Review (various options depending on your situation): Ask people to keep their thoughts private - and then consider the review points below. Or ask people to explain to the group briefly their chosen thirty seconds and why. Or - if review time is limited or if it suits your purposes better - ask people to review/discuss in pairs Or if working with a large group arrange the group into small self-leading/facilitating teams. Review points (examples): What do our chosen highlights tell us about the type of person we are - what we love most in life, and what sort of things we should pursue to be happy and fulfilled? How does your current life and likely outcomes compare with your chosen past life highlights? Are you working towards or away from what really makes you happy and fulfilled? If away from, how might you regain and redirect your focus? Do your chosen highlights provide clues for passions and talents which you are currently under-utilizing or neglecting? Did your highlights come by planning or accident? How significant is money in enabling life's best times? What do our best moments tell us about making the most of what time we have? Variations: Exclude sex from highlights if there is a risk that it will unhelpfully distract, embarrass or be too dominant. Shorten and concentrate the exercise by reducing the highlights time period from thirty to ten seconds, or lengthen and deepen the exercise by increasing the time period to ten minutes or an hour. Note: To make the exercise more dynamic and forward-looking you can encourage people to consider especially life highlights which can be repeated or extended in some way. (Childbirth is for many people a highlight which is not likely to be repeatable, although this can of course prompt thoughts and discussions about the importance of family compared to other life issues.) Useful reference models: Passion to Profit (career/new business start-up process/template) This website accepts no liability for any marital or romantic strife arising if you play this game socially in couples, especially under the influence of drink or other inhibition-reducing substance. (Thanks H) coin logo ice-breaker (ice-breaker, creativity, self-expression, johari awareness) Here's a really quick exercise, ideal for ice-breakers - 5-10 minutes - for groups any age or size. Equipment: Lots of coins, in case participants need extra. (At last a use for all the shrapnel in your piggy bank..) Instruction to group: Take all the coins out of your pockets/purses and put them on the table in front of you. (Lend coins to participants who have none or very few.) You have one minute to make a personal logo - representing yourself - from the coins. Variations: Large groups can be spilt into teams (of 3-6 people). Combine team coins. Produce a single team logo, themed according to the situation. Optionally ask teams to guess the meaning of other teams logos, before the explanations. Allow other pocket/purse/handbag items to be included in the logos, for example pens, phones, diaries, etc. Ask the whole group to combine all coins and produce a logo for the organization/group/department, etc. Split the group into two. Half leave the room while remaining half make their personal coin logos. Half return to room and try to match logos to people. Repeat the process enabling the guessers to make, and the makers to guess. Review: Ask participants to explain their logos to the group, or if pressed for time and for large groups - split the group and have the logos explained among teams of threes. If running the exercise in teams - review the discussions and feelings leading to the design of the logo, and the team theme if appropriate. To enlarge the exercise and offer material about self-and mutual awareness see the Johari Window model . See the other coin exercises on this page, for example: See the money slang and history page for lots of interesting facts about coins and money.  coded team communications game (non-verbal communications, communications systems, body language, team understanding, creativity) This game can be played by one group, or between two or more teams competitively. The activity is more dynamic if played in competitive teams, minimum three players per team, ideally 5-10 per team. This game can be played by very large groups, in teams, for example at conferences. The exercise involves devising and using a simple coded non-verbal (unspoken) communications system. The game may be played just once as a quick activity or ice-breaker, or in several rounds, optionally enabling the group/teams to review and refine their coding systems, at the discretion of the facilitator. This is a very flexible game concept, and can be adapted in many ways to suit your situation and purposes. These instructions are for competitive teams playing the game. Adapt it accordingly for a single group. Equipment: A pen/pencil and paper for each team member. Instruction to teams: Devise a secret coded (non-spoken, non-written) communication system for your team which enables a very simple piece of information - a single digit number between 0-9 - to be passed throughout the whole group/team - person to person ideally - so that everyone knows the number. The winning team is the first to successfully convey the number to all team members. (If playing as a single group then the task is simply to successfully communicate the number throughout the group.) The number must be conveyed using non-verbal and secret signals - it cannot be spoken, mouthed, written, signalled by holding up a number of fingers, or 'tapped' using fingers or feet, etc. Facial expressions and eye contact are likely to be significant in non-verbal code systems developed, although teams will devise other methods, which is part of the fun. Whether to allow or mention touching - for example secret hand-squeezing, which teams might think to try - is at the discretion of the facilitator. The secret code aspect is important if the game is played competitively and teams are given the same number to convey, or awarded bonus points for identifying an opposing an team's number. When receiving the number each player must privately record the number on a piece of paper, as proof of successful communication. Alternatively to avoid risk of cheating or accidentally revealing numbers, instruct people to write down the number after all teams have completed the round. The team leader must raise his/her hand to signal to the facilitator when group/team members have received the number correctly. This potentially requires another team coded signal - to confirm successful understanding - which is a matter for the teams to decide. No speaking is allowed while the game is in progress. Teams can be given between 5-10 minutes to devise and test their codes. Large teams may require longer. The facilitator begins each round of the game by showing the number (a single digit between 0-9) to the team leaders. The team leaders then take their seats or starting positions and await the facilitator's signal to start the game, at which the number must be communicated to all team members - using the non-verbal secret code - and ideally person to person (which introduces greater risk of errors and is a sterner test of the code system devised, and also of teamworking). (At facilitator's discretion) teams may stand, sit around the same table, or on separate tables, although separate tables makes cheating less easy to detect. Standing and mingling makes the activity more dynamic and energising, and increases the need for competing teams to devise a clever code to avoid it being 'cracked' or interpreted by members of competing teams. Variations to the game: A way to enforce the conveying of the instruction person-to-person is to have the teams stand in a line, so that each person sees the conveyed signal individually, then turns about-face to convey it down the line to the next person. Such an arrangement increases the need for teams to consider having a signal for confirming to the leader that all members have correctly received the number. (At facilitator's discretion) teams may or may not make written notes of their coding system (so that each person has a code key). The facilitator can decide whether using a code key, or working purely from memory, will be most enjoyable/beneficial. Allowing written code keys enables more complex codes to be developed, which is appropriate for bigger exercises, whereas not allowing written code keys encourages quicker simpler codes and is more appropriate for a quick game or ice-breaker. Alternatively the facilitator may choose not to mention the possibility of teams making written code keys, and leave it open for teams to use the option or not. Where the game is played between competing teams, the facilitator can choose to give a different number to each team (rather than require teams to communicate the same number). This offers the option to award bonus points for a team which manages to identify the number of an opposing team. Review points: Isn't it amazing how many signals can be conveyed without spoken or written words?.. The section on body language provides useful background theory about non-verbal communications. It's one thing to devise a communications system or set of communications rules - it's quite another challenge to ensure everyone understands it and uses it properly. Vital parts of communications systems/rules work best when people can remember them, without having to refer to complicated instructions. Complex communications systems/rules are often very good in theory, but difficult to apply in practice because they entail an additional dimension - represented in this game by the code key - equating to a reference or instruction manual, which in real work situations people often fail to use, understand, keep updated, etc. Written instructions and reference guides are obviously important for quality management and training, etc., and for the operation of all complex/vital functions, but the fundamental rules of communications (and other critical organisational activities) are best kept as simple, intuitive and memorable as possible, so that core performance is not hindered or made unnecessarily complicated. In terms of this exercise, conveying the communication is only half the communications process - the other half is checking the communication has been received and correctly understood. In terms of wider organisational communications other subsequent steps are required, notably ensuring that the communication is agreed and acted upon, which involves management areas such as: motivation (within which models such as Adams' Equity Theory , and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs are helpful); delegation , especially follow up; and project management , within which reporting and monitoring are vital. tubes strings balls game (teamwork, planning, creativity, icebreaker) For groups of four people or more, best with six people or more. Teams of more than ten become chaotic (which is okay if that's what you are seeking to demonstrate). Equipment: A ball of string or very thin rope. Scissors. Two empty cardboard tubes of Pringles, or similar cardboard tubes (for example postal tubes for rolled papers). Some marbles or golf-balls or other small balls which fit into the tubes. (The exercise works fine with one ball; more and different balls increase the interest.) The group must work together to achieve the task: Place one tube in the centre of the room or table, open-end upwards. This is the 'receptor' tube. Optionally (facilitator decision) secure the receptor tube to the table or floor using sticky putty (e.g., Blu-Tack) - don't put sticky putty on carpet.. Using the string and the other cardboard tube (one end open, other end closed - called the 'transporter' tube), transport a specified number of balls - one at a time - into the receptor tube standing at the centre of room/table. Each group member must hold at least one length of string connected to the transporter tube. No group member may handle a ball within six feet (two metres) of the receptor tube. No group member may move from their position once a ball has been placed into the transporter tube and the transporting commenced. (Strings need to be tied to the transporter tube not only to move the tube, but also to tip it, in order to deposit the ball into the receptor. The facilitator does not need to tell the team(s) this unless failing to realise this becomes counter-productive.) Variations and preparation ideas: Large groups can be split into competing teams - each with their own equipment and floor-space/table. Optionally give groups planning/preparation time. Introduce penalties for dropped balls, dislodging/upsetting the receptor tube, team members moving illegally, etc. Introduce more awkward items for transporting, e.g., coins, pens, chocolate snack bars, etc. At its simplest the game is to transport just one ball. Increase balls and complexity as you wish. Given the variation and interesting dynamics within this exercise you are especially recommended to test it first with a group so you can understand how it works and the sort of controls and guidance or freedoms that you would like to apply for your own situation. It's a very flexible concept; adapt it to suit your needs. Solution example: This exercise is subject to a lot of variation, including the solutions that people devise. If you are a facilitator trying to imagine how it works, this might help.. At least three strings need to be connected to the top (open end) or near the top of the transporter tube, which keeps the tube upright and hanging from the connected strings being pulled tight by team members, and enables the tube potentially to be suspended and moved anywhere by and between the stringholders. Given that people cannot move their positions once the ball is loaded into the transporter tube, the method of 'playing out' string, as well as pulling it, is crucial. Strings that are too short become a problem. At least one team member needs a string connected to the bottom of the tube to enable the tipping. If just one string is connected to the bottom of the tube then the tube can be tipped from just one direction, which means the team needs to have good control over the positioning of the tube. Having more than one string connected to the bottom of the tube (from more than one position) increases the options for the direction of the tipping, but the downside is that (beyond a certain point, depending on the coordination capability of the team) the difficulty tends to increase with more people having more strings connected. Any bottom-connected string that crosses with a top-connected string will encounter a problem when it comes to tipping, because logically the bottom-connected string must get higher than the top-connected strings, hence the example solution which follows. At its simplest, imagine the receptor tube (the target into which the ball must be tipped) being in the centre of a clock face. Three team members are positioned at, say, 12, 4 and 8 o'clock, each of whom has a string connected to the top of the transporter tube, and a fourth team member, say, at 6 o'clock, has a string connected to the bottom of the transporter tube to enable the tipping. The ball is placed in the transporter tube, say by the team member at 12 o'clock. At this time no one can move from their position. The people at 4 and 8 take up the slack while 12 string is kept tight enabling the tube to be lifted. While 4 and 8 pull the tube towards the clockface centre, 12 plays out, keeping a tight string. When the tube is in the correct position for tipping, 6 can pull, while the other three strings stay tight to keep the tube's position, or adjust as necessary. As you can perhaps now imagine, putting six people into a team, compared to four, tends to increase the difficulty because of the risks of top/bottom strings crossing, the complexity of gauging who needs to pull and who needs to play out or slacken off, and the general confusion resulting from a bigger team making more inputs. You will see various creative solutions, often by bigger teams, involving for example: the construction of a sort of cable-car solution, in which the tube can be pulled, suspended from strings acting as 'cables' threaded through the top of the tube teams which discover that they can pass strings/control from one team member to another (which you may choose to allow or disallow - disallowing makes the task more difficult) paper and straws game variation A quicker simpler version of this game can be played using drinking straws, a ball of rolled-up paper and a (very thin) dinner-table place mat: Team members sit around the table. Put the place-mat in the centre of the table. Alternatively stick a suitably sized/shaped piece of paper flat to the table to act as the target area. Alternatively mark a circular target on the table surface - optionally with concentric scoring rings - using chalk or coloured sticky tape (e.g., electrician's insulating tape). The task is for team members to use the drinking straws (one each) to blow the ball of paper onto the place-mat, and optionally (facilitator decision) additional paper balls afterwards (very difficult without dislodging any balls already in place). Facilitator decides how many paper balls are involved in the game, and where the balls are placed to begin (not crucial, provided some way from target). More balls = more complexity/difficulty/time. No team member may be within one yard (one metre) of the paper ball. (You might need to reduce this distance for weak blowers and big balls..) Split large groups into competing teams with their own equipment and table. Optionally require all team members to remain in their seated positions once the blowing commences (this makes the task more difficult than enabling team members to move around the table). A very flat target is required so that 'overblow' happens, which tends then to involve all team members in the blowing, especially if static around the table. (If the target mat is too thick it will stop the ball rolling over it). Warning: Blowing can cause dizziness. Ensure all players are advised not to blow to the point of hyper-ventilation and collapse; it's just a game. Review points (especially for string/tubes game version): Did we work as a team? Leadership - did it happen, what was the style and the reactions? Planning - did it happen? Was it required? Did the activity energise us? How and why? (If competing teams were involved) What were the competitive effects? Lots more review points will arise, and you will think of your own depending on your own situation and purposes. the one question ice-breaker exercise (questioning skills, empathy, self-awareness, needs analysis, cooperation and partnerships) A quick simple ice-breaker or bigger exercise related to questioning, and working together, here is the instruction, for groups of any size and any ages: If you could ask just one question to discover a person's/provider's suitability for .......X....... (insert situation, see examples below), what would your question be? Examples of situations to use for the activity and insert in the instruction: supplying you a vital component/service baby-sitting or child-minding being your boss/employer/leader being the leader of your country/company You can devise your own situations besides these to suit your purposes. There are countless other possible situations. Issue one situation for the whole group, or allocate a different situation to each team member or pair/team to work on. (Increasing the variety of situations allocated will tend to increase the time of the activity and especially its review). Ask people to work individually or in small teams to devise their questions. Ask people to work in pairs or threes to test and reflect and refine (and maybe role-play ) the questions. Give a time limit for questions preparation, and a separate time limit for testing/role-playing. There are no absolute 'right' or best questions - there are many effective questions, depending on the situation and people's needs, but there are certainly questions which do not work well and which should be avoided. Review informally via discussion: Are there advantages in preparing important questions, rather than relying on instinct or invention at the time? What else happens while we ask questions, aside from the words between us? (Explore body language and non-verbal communications.) What sort of questions are least effective and should be avoided? (Try to identify characteristics of ineffective questions.) What sort of questions are most effective? (Try to identify characteristics of effective questions.) How do we feel when being asked effective/ineffective questions? To what extent and how should questions be tailored for the particular listener, and for the questioner's needs? What crucial questions do we ask (at work/in life) which we could prepare more carefully? Refer to relevant topics, for example: Clean Language Buying Facilitation - (widely relevant aside from obvious selling application) N.B. This exercise does not suggest that we can or should use merely one question to identify solutions for anything, especially crucial partnerships. The purpose of the exercise is to focus attention on quality, relevance, style and preparation of questioning, according to the situation and people involved. Questioning is powerful and helpful when prepared well, but wastes everyone's time and creates problems when it is not. The activity can of course be expanded by allowing/instructing people to devise more than one question, or potentially to devise an entire questioning strategy for a given situation. Whatever you do in the review, ensure people understand the nature and purposes of open and closed questions, which is explained in the Questioning section of the sales training page.   classification game - (ice-breaker, introductions, discrimination, mutual perspectives) This is a simple exercise requiring no equipment or materials preparation, for groups of any size and age. Split large groups into teams of six to ten people. The activity is quickest when teams are smallest. Minimum team size is four. Instruction to group/teams: We all tend to classify and stereotype each other - 'pigeon-holing' is a common expression for this. Usually this sort of classification is subjective, unhelpfully judgemental, and sometimes of course it's unfair to the point of being illegal discrimination. Discuss/introduce yourselves in your team(s). Discover a way to divide or classify yourselves evenly into two/three/four subgroups within your team(s) by using criteria (ways of classifiying/describing people) which contain no negative or prejudicial or good/bad discriminatory judgements. Optional briefing: Examples of criteria to evenly divide/classify the team according to - late-night people and early-morning people, or what sort of weather we like, or what sort of food we like, or what we like to do for fun, or our fears, or what we would change in the world.. If as a facilitator you use these examples feel free to instruct the group to think of their own ideas, and not merely to use one of the examples. More complexity and/or specific focus on a subject can be suggested, for example: what we know/imagine our personality profiles to be, or our strongest capability or learning style The purpose of the exercise is to encourage people to get to know each other better, to collectively consider the nature of all individuals within the team, and to think of each other in ways that are quite different to how people tend usually to classify others. Review: Share and discuss the team'(s') decisions, making notes where helpful on a flipchart (or equivalent hi-tech system). How easy was it to find out and think about each other in different ways? How does this thinking differ from potentially negative or subjective judgements? What sort of classifications can be negative? What makes a classification positive/helpful rather than negative/prejudicial? As a facilitator/teacher, you can approach the exercise as a quick ice-breaker, or a more complex longer-lasting learning activity. You can stipulate how many subgroups should be classified within the team(s), and how many different classifications are required (one 50:50 split using a single classification is simplest and quickest), or you can offer wider more open flexibility, and see what the teams develop for themselves. The Johari Window is a useful reference model, as is (up to a point) employment background on discrimination, minorities, bullying, etc. Approach the activity with a broader view than reminding people about employment law and discrimination: The way we understand and regard each other is a big subject, offering far more helpful outcomes than merely applying a legal code. face game (body language, non-verbal communications, ice-breakers) For groups of four to ten people. Split larger groups into teams with leaders who can facilitate the exercise. Equipment required: paper and pens/pencils. Time: 5-20 minutes depending on group size and review discussion. Introduction: Facial expressions are an important part of communications. There are many different emotions and corresponding facial expressions. Some are easier to interpret than others. This exercise helps illustrate different expressions and how some are more obvious and easy to 'read' than others. Task: Each team member must think of one emotion (or two or three emotions, for a longer exercise), which they should then write separately on a slip of paper. Fold the slips of paper and put it into a cup or glass in the centre of the table, to enable 'blind' selection. Each person must then in turn take one of the folded slips and show the emotion on their face to the team, who must guess the emotion. Review points, for example: See Body Language and Mehrabian's communications theory for background. picture pieces game (teamwork, departmental/individual inputs towards a common goal) This exercise is a simple team-working idea, adaptable for any group size, and any ages. Duration is half an hour, or longer if you increase the complexity for big groups, and/or increase the size of the work. Choose a well known picture (or diagram or cartoon) - ideally one well-known and full of detail. Cut the picture (retaining a copy) into as many pieces - ideally equal squares or oblongs - as as there are participants for the exercise. Issue each person a piece of the picture. (The exercise is more challenging and fascinating if the group does not see the whole original picture until the end of the activity, although this question is entirely a matter for local judgement.) Instruct people to create a copy of their piece of the picture exactly (for example) ten times bigger, according to length and width dimension. Size increase (ten-times, five-times, twenty-times, etc) is up to you - the more then the longer the activity takes, and the bigger the final result. You should clarify what 'ten-times bigger, according to length and width dimension' actually means, or different interpretations of this could spoil the result (which is a lesson in itself about consistency of planning and communications, etc). (Multiplying width and length dimensions by ten produces an area which is actually a hundred-times bigger in area. This seems a lot, but it's very reasonable if seeking to produce a good sized result to stick onto a wall. For example, if individual pieces are say 2 inches square, i.e., 2 x 2 = 4 square inches, the instruction of ten-times width and length would produce individual pieces of 20 x 20 = 400 square inches, which when all assembled can produce quite a big wall-display. Technically 'ten times bigger' refers to area, but this isn't very easy to imagine - it's easier to plan and explain the exercise in terms of width and length dimensions.) Issue pencils/drawing/colouring equipment and paper (big enough sheets) and make rulers available for measuring. Give a time limit (5-20 minutes depending on complexity of the work and the magnification level you specify). When all the enlargements are completed ask people to assemble them into a giant copy of the original picture - on the table, or onto a wall using sticky putty, (be careful not to use a wall whose surface could be damaged when removing the sticky putty..). Review points: How would the group have responded to and met the task if the task leader simply asked the whole group to 'Create a copy of the picture ten-times original size'? If the assembled big version is not right in any area, where did the task fail and for what reasons? If anyone has embellished their particular piece (which almost certainly will happen) how does this augment or threaten the final result, and what does this teach us about local interpretation and freedom? Does it depend on the task and the aims (and customer needs) as to whether the result is improved or weakened? (Probably) The activity demonstrates divisionalized 'departmental' working - each person (represents a team or department) working on their own part (representing specialisms), all of which contribute to an overall group aim and result. What are the main factors determining success for working like this? Does each individual person (which represents a team or department) necessarily need to know what other people are doing, in order for the overall task to be achieved? (Probably not in detail.) Does each individual person (which represents a team or department) necessarily need to know what the end aim is in order to achieve the overall task? (Not necessarily, but arguably it's helpful if they do - it depends very much on how well the individual activities are managed and how accurately they represent the part of the whole.) The review of this point can reflect on whether the original whole picture was shown at the start of the activity or not. (Often in work situations communicating the overall aim or vision is difficult or not viable, especially in large complex projects - so how should we approach this challenge and what are its implications, especially if a vision or aim changes half-way through a project?) What level of mutual understanding and checking (while the task is in progress) is useful for this sort of 'departmental' or divisionalized working? Is there a fixed rule for checking in progress, or more likely, does it depend on the task and the performance of it? Here are some suggestions of well-known pictures to use for this exercise: The Bayeux Tapestry (lots of work there..) These are just examples - choose a picture (or diagram or map, etc) that appeals to your group, and which when cut into pieces gives sufficient detail to work on. Other ideas for pictures: geographical maps and weather maps, biological diagrams, well-known posters and cartoons. You can adapt the exercise by altering the 'ten-times widthand length dimensions' enlargement factor, for instance five-times would make the task easier and quicker; twenty or a hundred-times would make it more difficult and longer, (and also more impactful, if you have time and space, and enough paper drawing materials...) The task can be made more complex for large groups by: splitting the group into teams, so that teams work on individual pieces (of suitably large size), either clearly instructing, or enabling the opportunity for, each team to cut its piece of the picture into smaller pieces, giving one smaller piece to each team member The resulting assembled whole picture will indicate how well each team communicated and managed its own divisionalization of the task. the takeaway game (planning, analysis, number skills, ice-breaker, energiser for the brain) Based on an old numbers game this activity can be adapted in many different ways for groups and teams of all sizes. It takes a minute to explain and set up, and as little as a minute to play. You can easily expand the game, add complexity, and turn it into a much longer planning and tactics exercise. The basic game (for two teams, or people in pairs, playing each other): Put fifteen coins (or cards, or keys, or anything) between the contestants. Explain the rules: development of business and commercial management skills identifying and developing new business initiatives Activities and exercises for group selection days and assessment centres can be designed to stretch the participants more if the task is issued several days before the day of the assessment. This allows more preparation and team-working among the candidates, which in turn enables a fuller deeper test and demonstration of people's capabilities. The exercise can be used if issued on the day of the assessment, but obviously due allowance must be made for the resulting time pressure in meeting such a big challenge. Accordingly the exercise is suited to training courses lasting two days or more when delegates can work evenings in their team on the activities. Here broadly is the exercise, adapt it to suit your situation: Teamwork Project The project team must research, identify, develop and present a proposition for a new product/service/business to fit into the employer's organisation. To include: 1. Research the market, brainstorm options, and decide on a new product/service/business. 2. Conceptualise new product/service/business. 3. Design and specify key attributes of new business: description and executive summary SWOT and/or PEST analysis, or similar 4. Create presentation (to sell proposition to the 'board of directors' or an investor - a part which can be played by the recruitment team). 5. Deliver presentation (to include activities and experiences of the project group). 6. An additional angle would be to enable/encourage teamworking on the project between team members prior to the assessment day, via a facebook group (or suitable VLE - virtual learning environment - or employer intranet forum). N.B. If using the exercise for external recruitment and teamworking among candidates prior to the assessment day you would need to ensure data-protection/permission is satisfied regarding the releasing of candidates' names and contact details to each other. stress exercise (stress demonstration, ice-breaker, teambuilding) This is a helpful and non-threatening way to show the effects of stress and confusion, especially in teams, and by implication the effects of stress on productivity, organisational performance and healthy working. Ideally for teams of eight to ten people. Split larger groups into teams of 8-10 and establish facilitation and review as appropriate, appointing and briefing facilitators since each team requires facilitation. You will need for each team about five balls of various sizes, compositions, weights, shapes, etc., depending on team size and the team's ball-handling skills. Five balls is probably adequate for most teams of eight people. Using very different balls makes the exercise work better (for example a tennis ball, a beach ball, a rugby ball, a ping-pong ball, etc - use your imagination). Form each team into a circle. The aim is to throw and catch the ball (each ball represents a work task/objective) between team members - any order or direction. The ball must be kept moving (the facilitator can equate this to the processing of a task within the work situation). Allow the team to develop their own methods/pattern for throwing the ball between members if they find this helpful. A dropped ball equates to a failed task (which the facilitator can equate to a specific relevant objective). A held ball equates to a delayed task. When the team can satisfactorily manage the first ball, the facilitator should then introduce a second ball to be thrown and caught while the first ball remains in circulation. Equate the second ball to an additional task, or a typical work complication, like a holiday, or an extra customer requirement. Continue to introduce more balls one by one - not too fast - each time equating them to work situations and complications. Obviously before not too long the team is unable to manage all the balls, and chaos ensues. Avoid creating chaos too early by introducing too many balls too soon. Allow the sense of increasing stress and confusion to build, according to the ball-handling capability of the team. Introducing balls too quickly will not allow the stress to build. Points for review: Relate the experiences of the game to the work situation, especially effective team working and communications. What does too much pressure and failure feel like? Are these feelings the same for everyone? Do we know how others are feeling and can best deal with stress and confusion, unless we ask? How can we anticipate, manage and avoid these effects at work? (Not easy, especially if the pressure is from above, which often it will be - nevertheless understanding the causes and effects of stressful confusion is the first step to resolving them). What helps us handle these pressures and what makes things worse? Relate this learning to work situations, and then to possible improvements and changes. Use relevant reference materials if helpful, for example: Johari Window model (mutual and self-awareness) Assertiveness (especially for junior people managing stress caused from above) (Thanks to Karen Wright of wrightminded.com for the contribution of this excellent exercise.) learning and thinking styles exercise (learning styles, brain type preferences, self-awareness, johari awareness) This is a quick simple activity for groups of any size. For large groups spilt into teams of about six people and organise the appointment of team leaders for self-facilitation and review. Questions form the basis of this exercise: If you could have only one sense (sight, touch, hearing, taste, etc), what would you want it to be? If you had to lose one sense, what would it be? Rank your senses, in order of importance to you. You will perhaps think of other questions on similar lines. Use one or a number of questions to prompt discussion and thereafter a review of the issues. The purpose of the game is to encourage people to think about how they use their brains and their thinking/working/learning style preferences and strengths. Most people (unsurprisingly) tend to favour their sense of sight. You will find plenty of variation aside from this however, and generally the activity and discussion provides a quick and interesting way to explore personal strengths and preferences without the aid of a testing instrument. The 'five senses' are typically regarded as: sight smell Intuition is a way of explaining the 'sixth sense'. Touch, smell and taste are all closely connected with the 'touchy-feely' (Kinesthetic in VAK) aspect within the VAK model, the other two aspects being sight (Visual in VAK) and hearing (Audio in VAK). Your group might have additional ideas about other 'senses' which you can include in the considerations, for example speech, movement, etc. If so then the exercise relates more strongly to Multiple Intelligences theory. Review angles: What does this teach us about the different ways we prefer to work/learn/communicate/think/solve problems/conduct relationships/etc? What surprises you about other people's preferences? What surprises you about your own preferences? If you augment the exercise with the VAK test and/or MI test (see VAK and Multiple Intelligence below) do the test results confirm or conflict with your sense preferences? Reference models and information: alternative christmas and new year exercise (new year ice-breaker, creative thinking, social values and true life priorities) An exercise for any group size. Arrange appropriate timings and presentation or discussion of the ideas arising. Here's the question. You can adapt various exercises from it to suit your situation and aims: "Imagine you are leader of the western world. Everyone would prefer Christmas and New Year celebrations to more suitably address the needs and issues of the modern age. What changes would you make?" You can add a context if you wish, for example, changes for business, changes for society, changes for kids, changes for the planet, changes for global cooperation, etc. Email me suggestions and I'll publish the best ones on this page. mobile phone/cellphone game (time management, use tools rather than allow tools to use you, manage your environment, communications, addictions to technology and gadgets) This is a simple and funny activity/warm-up/icebreaker for large groups. The exercise especially demonstrates the influencial power of mobile phones (and by inference other communications methods such as emails) to disrupt effective working, time management and organisational efficiency. Normally groups at conferences and training sessions are asked to switch off their mobile phones/cellphones. Try a different twist: Ask all delegates to switch on their phones (or blackberries - or is it blackberrys?..) Say that this is a demonstration of the disruptive and negative effects of technology controlling people rather than vice-versa. You can of course introduce and position the activity to suit other purposes which fit. Ask delegates to select the loudest most annoying message alert tone. Ask everyone to text a friend (or two or several friends each) whom they know to be keen in responding to text messages. Then continue with the training or conference session, and wait for the chaotic interruptions to begin. The chaos is a very audible demonstration of what typically happens in organisations where people are not managing their incoming communications (which according to most research is the vast majority of folk). When your point is made you can (you'll need to) ask everyone to switch off their phones again. Other points of interest: Compulsive checking of emails and being continuously available to incoming text messages, etc., is considered by some experts to be driven by the same impulses that are experienced by gamblers, i.e., following the principle of unpredictable occasional reward, and similar descriptions of such behaviour. Surveys regularly find vast amounts of wasted time spent by workers dealing with emails and email interruptions. A 2008 report in the Guardian newspaper staggeringly calculated that a worker who checks/responds to email interruptions every five minutes wastes 8.5 hours a week, given the recovery time required after each interruption. Inappropriate use of emails prevents people communicating and resolving issues by phone. Inappropriate use of phones/texting prevents people communicating and resolving issues face to face. You'll think of many more points arising from this subject. The Mehrabian research is a useful reference area. seasonal suggestions bundle (christmas activities and ideas for teams and office year-end fun and learning) Some seasonal ideas from this website: See the 'Smile' words and Chaplin story for inspiring positive outlook and triumph through adversity. Charlie Chaplin died on Christmas Day 1977. Seasonal acronyms: BLACPU - Back Later After Christmas P***-up. Seasonal acronym for when work and customers must necessarily fit in around the festivities and holidays. DUTCHIE - Defer Until The Christmas Holiday Is Ended. Seasonal acronym explaining why most business comes to a grinding stop for two whole weeks at the end of the year. LUCID - Leave Until Christmas Is Done. Yuletide acronym, when procrastinators everywhere are joined by most of the western world in deferring anything other than a life-threatening emergency until the Christmas blow-out is properly organized and maximum enjoyment extracted. SHOT IT - Should Have Ordered This In Time. Customer services and despatch expression, especially appropriate approaching department close-down for weekends, holidays, Christmas, etc., and a personal reminder not to leave things until the last moment. NACTAC - Not A Chance Til After Christmas. Understandable response from overworked despatch departments and customer services staff when attempting to explain quite reasonably that it's not possible to process urgent last-minute orders received at lunchtime on the day before holiday shut-down. Variations include NACTAE (Easter), NACTAT (Thanksgiving), etc. Expression origin - "Boxing day" - the day after Christmas - from the custom in seventeenth and eighteenth centuries of servants receiving gratuities from their masters, collected in boxes in Christmas day, sometimes in churches, and distributed the day after. Real Family Fortunes answer: Something that Father Christmas does when he comes to your house: "Feeds your pets.." ( More funnies ) Team games ideal for year-end fun: Businessballs Quickies Many more activities on this page below can be used or adapted to give a seasonal twist. For pure laughs try the funny Weakest Link answers and Letters to the Council (which serve as illustrations of communications breakdowns, if you need a context or excuse for sharing them..) Fantisticat is an interesting way to look at fresh starts and the New Year, especially for young people or those facing or desiring change. Lots of quizzes - see the Quizballs index page . Have fun. the CRITWATNF game (warm-ups, icebreakers, and for demonstrating that things are rarely as crucial as they seem) See the acronym CRITWATNF (Currently Residing In The Where Are They Now File). Explain it to the group. Ask the group to think of an example - any example, from their own personal life (not too personal) or from work or the world of media, politics, economy, anything. Discuss the examples. Discuss how and why things can seem crucial one day, yet often can soon become completely insignificant, given a little time. Discuss the influences of emotions, peer pressure, zietgeist, the media, daft unquestioning management, personal mood, etc., on relationships, strategy, decisions, work, life, etc. Would life/work/society be better if we could all be more objective and critical, and less led by our emotions and by others? passion to profit exercise (life change, self-employment, business start-up and development, outplacement and redundancy support, career change, self-determination and independence) See the Career/New Business Planner page for the full process and detailed template. This is a creative planning process and template for individuals and for groups facing or desiring career change, especially a move into self-employment or starting up their own new business. It can be helpful for people facing decisions about new work or business direction, especially to encourage thinking outside of habits and conditioning, at any stage of a person's working life. This process/template - and the exercises and discussion and thinking enabled by them - seek to: Suggest a more satisfying idea of what work is and can be - for employment, self-employment, business start-up, career change, part-time work - any sort of work. Reduce or eliminate dependence upon an employer for work and financial security. Offer a path - in achievable stages - away from unsatisfying employment, especially if required due to redundancy or an unacceptable work situation (stress, travel, life-balance, or the simple need to be happier, etc). Encourage and enable self-determination, self-reliance, and independence. It's a simple formula. The numbers are linked to the full template sections on the Career/New Business Planner page . The Career/New Business Planner page contains guidance notes within a template tool. quick paper tower icebreaker (warm-up, creative thinking, and/or teamwork, skills and process analysis) A quick table-top exercise for individuals or teams, and a quick version of the bigger newspaper tower activity . Issue a single sheet of paper (A4 or international equivalent) to each group member (or one sheet per team if the exercise is to be played as a team game). Instruction: Using the sheet of paper only - no other materials - construct the tallest free-standing structure - in 5 minutes. Points to review: Planning and timing - who planned and who ran out of time? Pressure - what were the effects on people and performance from the pressure of time? Innovation - what innovative ideas were devised? Risk - what observations could be made about high-risk and low-risk methods/approaches? Learning - would each team/individual be able to improve their result at a second attempt? (Almost certainly.) Discuss how and why, and the value of experience. Best practice - if the whole group were to be given the task to build a single tower what ideas would be combined, and what does this tell us about the power of collective ideas? Skills - what skills were found to be crucial for best performance of the task, and could you have guessed what these vital skills would be before the exercise, or did they only become apparent after actually attempting the task? And what does this tell us about the identification of skills (to be developed/taught) for a given task? (If played as a team game) what were the opportunities and challenges in enabling the team to perform the task effectively? Consider and suggest a process which would enable an effective team approach to the task: What elements and principles from this are transferable to normal operations and team-working? Process improvement - what single tool or additional material (no larger than the width of the paper sheet) would achieve the greatest improvement to the result? Incidentally the best technical approach to this task almost certainly requires the construction and use of connectable tubular rolled or triangular telescopic sections, made from lengthways strips of the sheet. Using this technique it is possible to make a tower at least three times higher than the length of the sheet. If you know better and/or have pictorial evidence of a better solution please send it to share with others on this webpage. The exercise can be adapted to suit your situation, for example giving group members 15 minutes for the task and issuing an extra practice sheet of paper will increase the depth and complexity of the task and the review. tree swing games (awareness and cooperation between teams, departments, divisions, corporations, nations, planets, etc) In conjunction with the new collection of Businessballs tree swing cartoons , ask your people to draw tree swings to illustrate their own particular departmental culture/issues/challenges/priorities/relationships. Or focus the exercise on illustrating the culture/style of competitors, suppliers, and any other significant internal or external group. Focus especially on the differences in expectations between mutually depending groups. Ask people - what does each tree swing look like? What does their own tree swing look like, and what tree swing do they expect of others? What sort of tree swing is expected of your team/department? And what can you best provide? When you understand the differences it's easier to work on bridging them, so the differences have to be considered and shared first, or the gaps persist indefinitely. Drawing - especially given an unusual perspective like the tree swing - is good for creativity and for exploring and sharing feelings and opinions - especially about gaps and matching expectations - which otherwise might not surface in normal discussions. Rather like the poetry activities below, artistic tasks get people thinking in new ways. Split the group into relevant teams - threes usually work well, although the exercise is adaptable for any numbers provided the team split reflects the development aims, and the exercises are facilitated to keep everyone involved. Prompt ideas by showing the treeswing pictures , and then asking questions like: What would your department's tree swing look like? What would the (xyz) department's tree swing look like? What do our own customers want their tree swings to look like? What does head office expect your tree swing to look like? What would your own personal tree swing look like if you could make it any way you want (for the market, or for any other perspective that's relevant to the group - subject to guidance from the facilitator)? What does the boss's/teacher's tree swing look like? And what does your own tree swing look like? The exercise does not aim to produce brilliant artwork - instead it aims to produce fresh thinking and simple visual ideas about the issues which cause outcomes to differ from expectations. Successful work, business and organizations largely depend on matching needs and delivery in one way or another. The tree swing provides a simple way to consider the differences between what's asked for, and what's provided, and then to explore which qualities in each are actually fair and valid, with a view to bridging the understanding and expectations gaps. The activity is adaptable for young people in schools, as well as for grown-ups in any sort of work situation. For everyone of course, there is also the opportunity to work with different media - even if it's just a few boxes of cheap coloured pencils from the pound shop. As with so many of these self/mutual awareness activities, Johari Window is an excellent reference model. poetry activities (poems exercises, creativity, icebreakers, johari awareness, thinking outside of the box, fresh perspectives) Thursday 9 October is National Poetry Day in the UK, although you can be anywhere in the world to enjoy poetry. Helpfully in 2008 the theme of National Poetry Day is WORK. Poetry is great for creativity, fresh perspectives, and improving self/mutual awareness - (refer to Johari model ). Here are some ideas for bringing poetry into your workplace or school, whether for development activities or for the pure fun of it: Icebreaker ideas/group discussion questions - Define the word 'poem'. Why is poetry appealing to us? It's just words, isn't it?... What is your favourite poem/extract/line and why? (Everybody can think of at least a line from a song..) Are all song lyrics poetry? Is rapping poetry? Could Desiderata be adapted to be a corporate/societal values statement? If so, how? Does Rudyard Kipling's poem If serve as a modern set of personal values? If not how would you change it? Can you suggest how the bereavement poem Do not Stand at My Grave and Weep has become so hugely popular around the world, and relate this popularity to the way society behaves? Is Philip Larkin's poem 'This Be The Verse' a valid perspective on society? And how do these notions relate to the responsibilities of developing others, to parenting, teaching, especially of young people? (Warning - the poem contains language that could offend - which gives rise to another discussion question about how the context of words and language determine the actual meaning and sense, far beyond the words themselves). Other group ideas - Create a short poem for the purpose of promoting a product / service / department / initiative / educating / informing / memorising something / your team. Write a limerick about yourself/the organisation (agree the structure/rules of a limerick first). Write a haiku verse for a lesson/value/significant point in life or work (agree structure/rules of a haiku verse first). Issue a page of a newspaper to people working in pairs - ask them to re-structure any chosen paragraph of news into poetry, with or without changing the words. Same as above - changing the words into the style of Shakespeare/Chaucer/Byron, etc. Individual ideas - Put a poem on your notice board or intranet, and see what happens. Send me a poem you've written about any aspect of work or personal development, etc., and I'll publish it on this website. Send me a poem about charisma - and enter the charisma definition competition . Next time you meet someone for the first time, ask them what they think about poetry, and see where the discussion takes you. You will think of many more ideas for using poetry to add fresh perspective to work and play. Send your own ideas , and I'll add them here. Incidentally the word poem is derived ultimately from the Greek word 'poema' (precisely 'póēma'), meaning 'thing made or created'. The word poet comes from Greek - poētēs - meaning 'maker'. the 'what did you learn yesterday' exercise (icebreaker, self-development, life attitude, self-awareness, discussions about what learning and development means) This is a powerful activity. Simple idea, and so potent. Ask any group (to consider individually): What did you learn yesterday? Review answers through discussion, brief statements, or presentations. Optionally you can first establish what sort of learning qualifies to be mentioned, or leave that aspect open because it's obviously an interesting debate in itself which tends naturally to arise from the discussions prompted by the question. Review angles: If you can't think of anything you learned yesterday, how far back do you need to go to find something? Was it learning for work, or life, or both - and what's the difference anyway? How did you learn it? How could you measure/quantify/apply it? How might you transfer it/teach it to someone else? What will change now you've learned it? What further learning does it prompt or enable? Can you analyse the learning in terms of the Kirkpatrick model ? Can you analyse the learning in terms of Johari Window model ? Can you analyse the learning in terms of Multiple Intelligences and/or VAK learning/thinking styles ? What level of Maslow's theory does it impact? What aspect of Erikson's theory does it impact? What value would you put on it? What would you have paid to have learned it some while ago? What could you do to maximise the learning that naturally comes to you every day, for free? You will think of lots more angles, and plenty more suggestions will arise in discussions. Variations: What is the most useful thing you learned in the last week/month/year/previous life? What did you learn at the watercooler/pub after work/party at the weekend/on holiday? What did you learn on your social networking website when you should have been 'working'? What's the most valuable learning you've obtained in the past month/year and how did you get it? What's the most you've learned for the least cost/effort and the least you've learned from the most cost/effort? List an example of your own recent learning for each of the categories: skill, attitude, knowledge, experience. (See Bloom's Taxonomy of Learning Domains for useful reference relating to this aspect, and the exercise as a whole.) Larger groups can be split into smaller work teams to explore what teams have learned and the extent to which learning is shared and assimilated and applied. (This exercise was inspired by a brief story in Leo Buscaglia's wonderful 1972 book 'Love', in which Buscaglia recalls his father asking his children at the end of each day, "What did you learn today?". This expectation encouraged them to seek facts and knowledge - about anything - and the habit was very significant in forming Buscaglia's positive approach to life and lifelong learning. See more about Leo Buscaglia's ideas . I'm grateful to Kiran for reminding me of the source of this, and that Buscaglia's book 'Living, Loving and Learning' contains the same story.) tactical team shove ha'penny (icebreakers, teamworking, tactics, strategy, problem-solving, assessing and countering competitor threats) Equipment: a table (at least four feet diameter) with a smooth surface, some coins, and (optionally) blu-tack, paper, colouring pens and scissors. The activity also adapts as a larger-scale ball game on ground-level, explained at the end of this item. Split the group to make at least two teams - maximum three people per team. Five teams of three per team is fine, so is four pairs or other similar splits. Size of teams, number of teams, and number of coins can all be adjusted to suit the situation. Increase the number of coins to increase the complexity and duration of the game, and to enable more players per team. Issue each team at least six coins - ideally different sorts of coins, and ensure each team has the same number of similar coins. Different size coins create more tactical options. Then, (optionally) instruct the team to create a team logo or emblem and to cut out and colour the shape and fix to their coins using the blu-tack, like a little sail. This is to make it easy to tell the difference between the teams when the coins are in play. Otherwise, ensure that (when the coins are placed flat on the table) each team somehow differentiates their coins from the other teams. (For example if two teams are playing, one team can be heads and the other tails. Or you can issue coloured sticky spots or stars, etc.) The object of the game is to shove the coins, one coin at a time, from the table edge, to create the closest grouping of coins on the table compared to the efforts of the other team(s). Each coin should be moved once only by pushing it 'shove ha'penny'-style, using the pad of the hand at the base of the thumb: Place the coin (about a third of it) off the table edge, and strike it from the side against the edge of the table, using the pad of the hand. The facilitator must be able to demonstrate this, and allow some practice for the teams to get used to the method and speed of the table, and for the teams to decide who in the team will do the shoving. Rules: The winning team is the team to achieve the most (of their own) coins grouped into a specified area, which can be designated and measured by the facilitator before play commences by cutting or tearing a hole in the middle of a sheet of paper, to use as a template. The smaller the area, the more difficult the game is made. Around 12 inches diameter is a reasonable target area. (Do not put the paper on the table; use the paper to measure how many coins are in the groupings at the end of the game. Groupings can be anywhere on the table provided no coin is closer than 12 inches from the table edge.) Coin groupings must be at least 12 inches (30 cms) from the edge of the table (i.e., any coin closer to the edge of the table than 12 inches does not count towards the grouping). Each coin can be shoved once only. Coins may be shoved so as to move coins of own team, or teams may shove their coins to disrupt the groupings of other teams (which makes the game very tactical, and is reason for each team having similar coins since big heavy coins are generally advantageous and easier to use than small coins). Teams take turns to shove and only one team may shove a coin at a time (although for icebreakers and big quick games a time limit can be given instead within which teams can shove their coins freely, which creates different tactical implications). Toss a coin or draw lots to decide the order of play (which can be offered as a tactical option in its own right). State a time limit for tactical discussions between shoves. Review points: Choice between disrupting competitor and building own position. Strategy at beginning, and how it changed during the game. Different approach next time in light of experience? Strategic advantage in order of play? Were the types of coins used at the best times? (Larger coins can be more disruptive, which is useful at the end of the game, but they also help in the early stages to crate stopping points and positions of strength at the early parts of the game.) Effectiveness of team in considering strategic options and making decisions. Extent to which other teams' strategy was observed or anticipated. Fairness of result - element of luck versus skill. Name the 3-5 key capabilities that a winning team would need to perform consistently well at this game. Relative importance of strategy, tactical adjustment, decision-making, and skill - any other major factors? If you were the national coach for this game how would you coach a winning team? N.B. Before the game the facilitator should consider especially the timing of this game. It can take a long time if you have lots of teams and lots of coins. To speed up the game and/or create a quick icebreaker exercise, split the group into pairs, issue three coins per person, and change the rules so that all coins must be shoved in no order (a free-for-all basically) and the game completed within 30 seconds. This format has different tactical implications. Bigger groups, more teams, and more coins, all require a bigger table. Bigger scale indoor or outdoor versions of this game are possible using coloured tennis balls on a playground or a suitably marked floor or grass area, in which case a hula-hoop serves as an ideal measuring template. ageing society exercise (icebreaker, creative analytical thinking, trends, forecasting, ageism, demographics) The aim of the exercise is to get people thinking creatively and analytically. The subject is how the increasing proportion of older people in society will change the world, but actually the subject can be about any large-scale trend. The activity will prompt the use of visioning and imagination, and the consideration of big system changes, consequences, causes and effects. In the case of an ageing society these changes are already upon us, so it's not a hypothetical exercise. The activity obviously also encourages people to think about ageism and age equality issues. Specifically ask group members to consider and decide what they believe will be the single greatest effect in the next 1/2/3/5 years of the ageing population on their area of activity/responsibility/market-place - or on society generally - (years and area of impact decided by the facilitator, depending on the interests/responsibilities of the group). The views of the group members can be discussed or presented or debated depending on the facilitator's aims and constraints of the session. Review points can include: collective group decision as to the most perceptive suggestion what suggestions are the most visionary and forward-seeing how different suggestions might impact on each other the extent to which group members suggestions and views differ according to age of the group members early evidence or indicators of the reliability of each/any of the predictions what information is lacking for more reliable predictions where information might be found if required what differs about this type of thinking compared to day-to-day decisions (proactive deeper thinking compared to reactive shallow) whether drawing diagrams and/or discussing and/or any other methods assist this sort of thinking (for example, is this sort of deeper complex proactive thinking easier when more senses are stimulated, or when more people consider and share ideas?) does this exercise teach us anything about the power of thought as a way to anticipate and develop solutions/responses to situations rather than simply waiting for things to happen? do the collective views of the group seem to support (or not) the notion of 'the wisdom of crowds'. is effective forecasting and predicting of far-reaching effects chiefly based on creative imagination or analytical logic, or equally both? to what or particularly relevant or local trends could we usefully apply the same thinking? Exercise variables at the discretion of the facilitator: thinking/preparation time (icebreaker requires 2-3 mins - bigger exercises could extent to 30 mins or more preparation time) group members to work individually, in pairs or threes, or as two debating teams people could be asked to suggest two or three effects, not just a single effect method of presenting suggestions - discussion, presentation, debate, diagrams, role-play?... anything else? use your imagination the main subject can be varied to focus on any other significant trend - for example: increasing world population, increasing power of new economies (China, India, Brazil, etc), advancing technology (in any market), energy costs and demand, gender or ethnic trends, etc. political qualification game (job skills, training, competence - and many other issues relating to competence and suitability) Appreciating fundamental issues of competence and job profiling necessary for determining suitability, training and qualifications is quite a dry subject. It can be brought to life by applying the thinking to a different situation - different from normal work. Here's the exercise (in pairs or threes, or a discussion group): Imagine you are responsible establishing a professional qualification or NVQ for a politician. A parliamentary MP, or a government minister, or perhaps the prime minister. Agree/nominate parliamentary role(s) as appropriate for the exercise. What competencies would the job require? If helpful structure your answer in terms of skills, knowledge, attitude/behaviour/personality style, experience. How might these be defined, measured and tested? How might a professional qualification be structured and accredited? And a couple of bigger questions of a more philosophical nature if you have time for them: Why in actual fact does the job of a politician escape all normal requirements of professional accreditation? And might this explain why politicians are arguably so incompetent compared to their counterparts in industry? The facilitator can adapt this basic idea for group size, timings, and the precise training aspects of job profiling and candidate selection, development, qualification, etc., as will fit the group's needs and interests. (Incidentally if anyone comes up with constructive and enlightened answers to the last two questions I'd love to see them..) positive behaviour exercise (understanding positive behaviour/behavior concepts, karma, law of attraction, etc) This exercise seeks to enable clearer understanding of positive behaviour and positive thinking, extending to the notion that positive behaviour produces positive effect or reward for the person (or group) acting positively. Instead of trying to unravel the secrets of the karmic universe or the meaning of religious and spiritual life, we can perhaps understand better the effects of our own positive behaviour (or that of a group or entire corporation) by considering how we personally respond to the positive behaviour of others. Ask group members to consider how they personally feel and respond towards someone who behaves in the following ways: 1. smiles a lot and is generally happy   8. absorbs negative behaviour from others with tolerance and understanding   Points to review: Extend some of the examples above to imagine long-term relationships and issues of trust, reputation, recommendation, willingness to do business with such a person, etc. Extend the examples to the responses of many thousands of customers, to many positive behaviours of a corporation, (and then consider the opposite effects: i.e., responses of thousands of customers, and the knock-on consequences, arising from many negative behaviours of a corporation). Positive behaviour of one person is sometimes immediately rewarded or acknowledged by others, but often the effects are not immediate. Cause and effect can be separated by many years, and can be connected by many links in different chains of events. However, positive behaviour in an organisation of many employees and actions inevitably multiplies and accelerates all these effects. The cause and effect cycle - good or bad - is dramatically shortened because there are so many interactions. Positive behaviour is sometimes described using the analogy of ripples from a pebble thrown into a pond - the effects radiate far and wide, and one day reflect back helpfully in ways that are difficult to predict beforehand, or to measure afterwards. Positive behaviour in an organisation could be compared to hundreds of pebbles in a pond every day. Consider your own organisation - are they good ripples or bad ripples? The term 'pseudo-scientific' rightly applies to most concepts linked with positive behaviour, because they cannot be measured and substantiated in conventional scientific ways. Yet millions of people believe strongly that goodness and positivity are more likely to be rewarded in life than selfishness and negativity. And almost without exception successful happy people seem to exhibit and aspire to positive behaviours. The exercise should confirm how positively we each respond to positive behaviour (and negatively to negative behaviour). It's far simpler than karma. Rather than try to find vast universal explanations for the way positive behaviour works, the cause/effect of positive behaviour is perhaps more easily explained by the general tendency for positive/giving behaviour simply and inevitably to attract and to generate positive responses, somehow, somewhere, sometime. Concepts of positive behaviour are difficult to define and explain. Vague terminology such as karma and religious or spiritual associations create further obstacles to exploring the subject. Positive behaviour concepts are confused by lots of vague and emotive terminology and theories, e.g: karma 'positician' (one who acts positively, apparently..) other mumbo-jumbo This exercise offers a way to explore the essential meaning and benefits of positive behaviour, without reference or need to buy in to any of the above. Intangible concepts like positive behaviour can often be better explored from a personal viewpoint, instead of using fixed definitions or rules. Deep complex concepts like positive behaviour are a matter of personal interpretation. N.B. In US-English the word is 'behavior'. In UK-English it is 'behaviour'. 'moneygram' activity/icebreaker (expressing and sharing perceptions about organizations, structures, systems, etc - and creativity sessions and teamworking) This flexible activity is based on using coins to create a 'picture' or diagram of an organizational system or structure which is relevant to the group's work or learning. The subject(s) chosen for the 'moneygrams' (coin pictures) are at the facilitator's discretion, and/or can be suggested by groups, depending on the situation. For example, a subject could be a team, department, division, or an entire corporation, or a market including suppliers, customers, competitors, etc. Or a school, college, a community or an industry sector, or even a region or country, or view of the world. If the main aim is to express/share perceptions of a work or business structure, then the choice of structure is obviously is significant, and the facilitator should ensure a suitable choice. If the main aim is instead to get people working creatively together (for instance young people in school, or a creative workshop session) then the choice of structure is not significant, aside from something that the group will find interesting, and the facilitator can allow the group to choose a structure for their 'moneygram'. The room layout must enable people to make a display on a table or floor and for others to see the display clearly, or for the whole group to work around on a single large display on a table. Coins are of course various values, sizes, colours, years and designs - both sides - and can be stacked, and some stood on their edges. As such coins are potentially a really interesting medium for creating pictures/patterns/diagrams which express ideas and themes of all sorts. The exercise provides a completely different way (unlike normal words, discussion, diagrams, etc) for people to interpret and present their own view of a particular situation. This enables a tactile, fresh, liberating and more objective way for people to express and share their perceptions. The facilitator obviously needs to consider and decide the best way to equip the group with sufficient 'materials' (coins) for the activities. For example a mature adult group could be asked to use the coins from their own pockets and purses. A less mature group should ideally have the coins provided by the facilitator. Complex themes and big require lots of coins. Happily 1p and 2p copper coins very inexpensive materials - in fact probably cheaper than plastic counters and play-money nowadays - and it's useful to have a plentiful supply of coppers, or whatever is your currency equivalent. Foreign coins add international interest and diversity if you have some. If the situation allows, you can ask group members to bring in their piggy banks. The creative use of banknotes, cheques and credit cards is not recommended for obvious reasons. Messing around with loose change carries few risks; bigger values are not appropriate for play materials. If you have any doubts about using real money in the exercise then playing cards can be used instead, which offers another perspective and different interpretations. Be mindful of the time available for the activity and limit the complexity of the subjects accordingly. You cannot expect anyone to map out the global commodities market or the future of the world wide web in a five minute icebreaker with a pocketful of change. See also the organizational modelling activity (teambuilding games page 1), and the baking foil modelling games (this page below) which take slightly different approaches to the same idea. The Johari Window is a useful reference model by which to explain and review the benefits and issues surrounding mutual awareness and perceptions. The money slang and history page offers some entertaining facts and trivia on the subject. As with any exercise much of the value comes from reviewing and discussing the issues arising from the learning experience, and where relevant encouraging people to determine their own preferred reactions. See the notes on experiential learning for additional guidance in this regard. An activity of this nature will tend to highlight various opportunities for future clarification and follow-up actions, especially for work-team leaders. new world exercise (ice-breaker, or bigger exercise for leadership/team roles, multiple intelligences, life skills, analysis and reaction) This is a flexible and fascinating scenario-based activity for groups up to 12 people and all ages. Split larger groups into teams and adapt presentations and reviews accordingly. Schools could potentially develop various extensions to this activity. Ask the delegates to discuss in a group and answer the following question: Scenario: Imagine the world suffered a catastrophic event like a meteor strike, plague or nuclear war, which destroyed most human life and all of the developments of the past century. A mixed group (age, gender, ethnicity, religion) of a few hundred lucky people has survived (it's helpful to agree where - anywhere - because location will influence some aspects of the approach to the question). Question: If this group is to thrive and develop, what initial leadership structure would you suggest, stating 6-12 key roles? (Optionally and ideally ask delegates to justify their suggestions.) Agree timings and presentation/review in whatever ways are useful to the delegates. The number of roles can be the same as the number of delegates, especially if you choose to extend the activity. The exercise can be extended by adding any of the following supplementary questions, which can (optionally) be approached as if the delegates are the survivors leadership team, allocated the key roles identified. Roles can be allocated via volunteering or some other group process, at the facilitator's discretion. Optional supplementary questions: What basic laws would you introduce for the group of survivors? As the leadership team, what would be your ten immediate main aims? What 3-5 main difficulties would you expect in leading the group and how would you try to handle these challenges? What lessons from the modern world would you find most valuable in rebuilding the new world? What would be your five main medium-long term aims? You - and/or the delegates - will be able to devise further questions relevant to your own training/learning situation. There are potentially thousands of useful reference sources which can be incorporated within an exercise like this, really anything you are currently seeking to bring to life and provide context for application. Here are a few examples: SWOT analysis The activity is very flexible. It can be shortened to a two-minute icebreaker, simply to agree the 6-10 roles, or expanded to incorporate all sorts of issues and reference models and tools, depending on the development aims and needs of the delegates. To shorten the exercise into a quick icebreaker simply state the scenario and ask delegates to take 1-2 minutes to think of 3-6 leadership roles. Then quickly gather and count the suggestions on a flip chart or wipeboard, and close with a quick review of the most popularly suggested team roles. Relate to Multiple Intelligence theory or Belbin's team roles theory or another suitably relevant team roles/skills reference model. helium stick games (team building, assumptions, organising tasks, problem-solving) This is a classic teambuilding game, and an amusing exercise around which to design icebreakers. For teams of three upwards, subject to the type and length of 'stick' used in the activity. This explanation includes games variations, and very easily improvised ideas for the stick equipment - as the facilitator you do not need to buy anything. The basic exercise requires all team members to: support a long stick or tube - each person using one finger lower the stick to the ground with no fingers losing contact with the tube. The tendency is for the stick to rise, hence the name of the exercise, because the collective force used to keep fingers in contact with the stick is greater than the gravitational force (weight) of the stick. For this reason use a stick for the exercise that is light enough for this effect to occur, given the number of people in the team. For example a broomstick is too heavy for a team of three people, but would be fine for a team of ten. See the suggestions for stick types per team size below. Other rules and guidelines: The stick (or any alternative item being lifted) must be rigid and not too heavy to outweigh the initial 'lift' tendency of the team size. If it's not rigid it makes it easy for team members to maintain finger-contact. Start with the stick at about chest height. Team members can be positioned either on one or both sides of the stick - depending on stick length and team numbers. The team must return the stick to the starting position if any finger loses contact with the stick. The stick must rest on fingers - the stick cannot be grasped or pinched or held in any way. Typically teams are instructed to rest the stick on the outside (nail-side or 'backs') of fingers, however specifying a side of the finger is not critical to the activity. Optionally you can instruct that a finger from each hand is used, which increases the lifting effect and the difficulty of the task. The length of the stick and the number of team members are also factors in this, i.e., two fingers per person requires a longer stick. Clarify the point at which the stick is considered 'lowered to the ground' - underside of fingers or hands touching the ground is easier to monitor than actually depositing the stick onto the ground, which depending on the ground surface can be very tricky. There are many ways of improvising sticks. Some people use inter-connecting tent-poles, but these are too heavy for very small teams (the gravitational force is greater than the collective lift, which makes the task too easy). Use your imagination - any rigid lightweight stick or tube will do, and if you can't improvise a stick then other materials and shapes can be used instead, as described below. Team size of just three people is not ideal - the activity works best with six to a dozen per team, or even more subject to having a stick long enough. Teams of three would be used mainly for splitting a group of six or nine when a competitive element is required. The bigger the team, the longer the activity will take to complete successfully. This is an important point - for example given a limited time you'd be better splitting a group of twenty into two or three teams rather than run the risk of failing to complete the task, which is not great for teambuilding or for creating a successful mood. Two fingers per person (one finger each hand) creates more lifting effect and challenge but requires a longer stick than one finger per team member. Positioning team members on both sides of the stick enables bigger teams, but can make it more difficult for the facilitator to monitor finger-contact. Games variations: Split large groups into teams, each team with their own stick, and have a race between the teams for the first to lower the stick to the ground. Watch for cheating. If appropriate appoint and rotate observers for say three rounds or a knockout contest. Use a suitably sized square or other shape of cardboard instead of a stick. This achieves a closer team grouping for large teams and adds a different element to the activity if team members already know the stick activity. Cut a big hole in the shape ideally so you can monitor finger-contact. Use a hoopla hoop instead of a stick - a hoop also offers better visibility than a sheet of cardboard. Start with the stick (or whatever else is used) at ground height, raise it to shoulder height and lower it back to the ground. The challenge is stopping it rising beyond shoulder height when it gets there. Issue two sticks per team - one finger for each stick - very challenging. Mix up the teams for different rounds to explore the dynamics of working in a new team even after all members understand the challenge and the solution. Just before starting the exercise ask team members to press down hard with their outstretched fingers onto the edge of a table for 30 or 60 seconds. This confuses the brain still further and increases the tendency for the stick to rise. Ideas for sticks and team sizes (rough guides): joined-together drinking straws (3-6 people) houseplant sticks (3-6) telescopic or interconnecting fishing rods (6-20 people or more) inter-connecting tent poles or gazebo poles (6-20 people or more) drain clearer/chimney-sweeping rods (10-30 people) Review points examples: Why did the stick rise when we wanted it to go down? Did we anticipate the problem? How did we fix the problem? Having achieved the task with this team was it/would it be easier/as difficult with a different team? How did we feel when fingers lost contact? What are the effects of time pressures and competition? How might we coach or prepare others to do this task? And countless other possibilities, many of which you'll see while running the exercises. As a facilitator use your imagination. The 'helium stick' exercise is amusing and effective its basic format, and can be adapted in many ways to support many different themes related to team-working and problem-solving. david davis resignation speech The remarkable 12 June 2008 David Davis resignation speech provides a wonderful unfolding case study for all sorts of teaching and training areas. See the discussion examples, tips and clip on the training clips page . secrets of success exercises (ice-breakers, demonstration and discussion of what enables business success) This activity takes about three minutes in its basic form and requires just a flip chart or equivalent. Ask the group to take a few seconds to think (silently and individually) of someone they know who is successful in business. Tell the group that they do not need to name the person they are thinking of. Then ask the group to think (again silently and individually) : "What is it about that person that enables them to be successful?" After ten or twenty seconds, ask the group to call out the words they are thinking of. Write the words on the flip chart. When you have about eight or more words on the flip chart, ask the group for their comments and observations about the words. Specifically: "What type of characteristics are (most of) these words?" The answer every time is that the words will mostly or entirely describe attitudinal characteristics. Not skills, not knowledge, and not experience. The words will always largely represent attitudinal factors. Develop the discussion in whatever way suits your purposes and session. With positive attitude we can do anything. Attitude also governs how we develop skills, knowledge and experience. Attitude - in whatever way works best for each of us, because we are all different - is the singlemost important factor for success in anything. The exercise most obviously relates to demonstrating the enabling factors for business success, but the factors and exercise can be applied to any other success in life too. This basic activity is a simple quick controlled exercise led by a facilitator using a flip chart, but the idea can be developed in many ways to add extra interest, group interaction, and depth, for example: For large groups split into teams of three. Ask each person to identify three success factors. Ask each team of three to produce a list of the top three factors identified within their team. Display and compare the top three results across all teams. Ask half of the group to think of a successful man, and the other half to think of a successful woman. Compare the identified characteristics for men and women. Link the findings to style and personal strengths and effectiveness, and potentially to discussion about gender and equality. Take similar approach to illustrate and compare characteristics of successful people in different age brackets. This can be linked to discussions and issues concerning ageism and age discrimination. Take a similar approach for illustrating characteristics of successful people according to any other relevant way of categorising people (to your situation or session aims). Apply the exercise to identify success characteristics of teams or companies. Useful reference models and materials are Blooms Taxonomy (to appreciate the difference between different types of personal development), Erikson's Life Stages Theory and Personality Models (to help understand what influences our attitudes). Also NLP and Transactional Analysis are useful models to help understand how it is possible to change our attitudes. change exercises (illustrating and experiencing dealing with change) Here are some simple quick ideas to help demonstrate the brain's reaction to change. They are based on having to accomplish a simple everyday task in a different way: do left-handed a simple task normally done right-handed (or vice-versa) blindfolded or with eyes shut (be mindful of safety issues) outside (instead of indoors - maybe even in the rain/wind - which tends to create radically different circumstances) in pairs (when normally the task is one person's - like using a pair of scissors - which highlights pressures resulting from team changes) by someone other than oneself, to oneself (which highlights fears around personal control and trust) upside-down against a wall being supported by a colleague (task and trust pressures) turn the task upside-down (for example a keyboard - strangeness, unfamiliarity and re-learning pressures) Examples of simple tasks to which the above alternative methods might be applied (where safety and practicability allows): cutting paper shapes with scissors tossing a ball of paper into a bin typing on a keyboard putting a wristwatch onto the opposite arm applying make-up or tying a neck-tie tasks involving counting, sorting or building things (playing cards are ideal for all of these) Not all tasks can be matched with all methods, for example making a cup of tea blindfolded is not very safe. Using a keyboard outside in the rain is neither safe nor practicable. Use your imagination and common sense to devise interesting and memorable combinations. Different methods (types of change) create different pressures - on different parts of the brain - and these effects vary according to the individual. It does not matter that the methods are mostly ridiculous - the point is to demonstrate and experience the different pressures of different types of change. Observe and review how different people react in different ways to different methods. We do not react to change in the same ways. Empathy for other people's feelings is therefore crucial in managing change affecting other people. Motivational and attitudinal models such as those developed by Maslow and Erikson help explain why people react differently to change. One person might feel terribly threatened by a certain change which another person can take in their stride. Personality has a big affect too, for example, steady dependable people can find change more challenging than spontaneous intuitive people. Change of any sort is difficult ultimately when: change requires the brain to overcome fear (of failure and self-doubt, etc) and uncertainty of the change itself (which can be extreme for certain people/personalities), and change requires the brain (and often the body too) to learn something new, or to re-learn or accept something in a different way. Change can be especially frustrating if it involves re-learning something which under a previous method or system was achievable competently (see conscious competence model) - because the brain can imagine and remember being competent, which can cause a sense of loss or failure relative to past experience. The tasks and different methods above a just a few examples. You will think of many others more suitable to your own situation. There are many more activities on this website which address change from more of a mental perspective instead of the physical examples above. Johari Window activities address a particularly useful aspect of change, i.e., self-awareness and exposure to other people's impressions of self. charades icebreaker (session warm-ups, icebreakers, creativity, alternative sources of ideas and inspiration) This icebreaker or exercise combines the traditional charades party game with thinking about work/management (or any other) principles, the central themes and meanings within them, and the value of using non-verbal themes ('vehicles') in conveying an idea, concept, etc. The activity is relevant for any group with roles or interests in training, teaching, team-leading, coaching, presenting, advertising, marketing, design, and communications generally. Basically the exercise is for group members individually to think of and then silently 'act out' a song, a film, a book or a play, etc., which illustrates a particular aspect of work, business or management, or any other key message relevant to the group. The exercise teaches and practises the method of using a vehicle (in this case a book/play/song/film - or other categories if you wish) to convey (and illustrate and emphasize) a message (or a concept or any other important communication). It's for young people as well as grown-ups, and encompasses many of the ' multiple intelligences ' - potentially connecting bodily/artistic/musical with logical/language/interpersonal capabilities. The task concentrates people's minds on the central message and meaning within their chosen principle, and also prompts thought and discussion about using themes and different media and senses to reinforce or deliver an important message, as distinct from using words alone, which are often not the most powerful or memorable way to convey an important point. The sequence of the activity is: Think of a simple message or rule or principle of management/business/or other relevant function. Now think of a book or a play or a film or a song which represents this principle - the 'vehicle' which carries the message. Next think how you can act this book/play/song/film silently to the group, using only gestures (as in the party game charades). Finally each member is given a minute to perform their charade to the group in turn, while the group has to guess the book/play/song/film, and (not so easy) the principle that the 'vehicle' represents. The task also demonstrates the value of using simple clear themes and communications - especially non-verbal signals - that an audience (staff, customers, or any other target audience) can readily relate to and recognize, without the need for lots of explanation and description. If necessary brainstorm and agree the rules for charades, or prepare a rules sheet and issue it, so that everyone has an equal chance for the charades stage of the activity. Here is wikipedia's charades rules . You can use a much shorter set of rules to speed up the exercise, since the point of the activity is to think about themes and messages rather than become experts at charades. You can also award points to group members and to performers for correct guesses of book/play/song/film, and for close and correct guesses of the principles represented. The activity can be run as a much quicker icebreaker by removing the charades element, and simply asking group members for their suggested themes and vehicles rather than acting them out. seasonal icebreaker (session warm-up, icebreaker, discussion-starter for virtually any work-related subject) For groups of between four and twenty people - minimum eight ideally. Duration of activity is between five and fifteen minutes, although the exercise can be extended if further discussion is warranted, for example if exploring implications of issues arising. Split the group into four teams. Draw lots to allocate a season to each team: Spring, Summer, Autumn (Fall), Winter. The task for each team to identify as many seasonal factors related to and influential upon work/business/sales/customer-service/HR/recruitment/training (or any other function relevant to the group, at the discretion of the facilitator) for their allocated season. Give a time limit for the task - anything between a minute and five minutes will be okay. Of course you can give longer if you want to make the exercise more challenging and strategic, rather than seeking quick headline points as would apply for a speedy icebreaker. Organise/facilitate presentations and discussion accordingly. This extremely flexible exercise encourages and enables thinking and subsequent discussion about how situations, demands, needs, priorities, etc., change according to circumstances (predictable events, trends, etc). Discussion can be extended to the implications of the identified effects and how to deal with them. The principle - using seasonal perspectives - obviously focuses on seasonal factors, but can be used to emphasise the need for awareness and adaptability in management, planning, self-motivation and awareness, etc., in relation to all types of changes in causal and influential factors. The more we think about what is likely to happen, then the easier we can plan, and the fewer surprises we have. dice exercise (sales planning, marketing, sales strategy, selling effectiveness, time management, maximising your productivity) This is a quick simple activity for a meeting or training session. The activity illustrates some important lessons. Approach a salesperson (or person with similar responsibilities) with a handful of dice. Hold out the dice, handing just one to the person. Avoid encouraging them to take the other dice. Then ask them to throw six 'sixes' in thirty seconds to achieve success or win a small prize, while you (as the facilitator) continue holding the remaining dice in your open hand. Expect the thrower to build up to frenzied activity as you count down the seconds aloud. Some succeed, some don't. The lessons of the exercise are in the review. The learning points are: The chances of hitting sixes increase with the number of throws - a big part of selling is a numbers game, in which percentages and ratios are significant. So why not throw quickly from the start to increase your chances? Why wait for the deadline to increase energy levels? The thrower could have asked for more dice. (As the facilitator explain in the review that you would have given them more if asked.) Obviously the more dice being thrown, the more sixes are likely to appear. We can expand our range or opportunities by simply thinking how to maximise our effectiveness at the outset of a task. We can ask ourselves (and others) when we approach a new project - What other ways and potential exist? For example, working together in a business to look for cross sales for other departments. And looking for additional distribution methods and market sectors, which can also dramatically increase potential. Also, (prior to the exercise) the facilitator can doctor some of the dice to have an extra six. The facilitator keeps the doctored dice among those retained in the hand. Use correction fluid to make extra dots - fours and twos easily convert to sixes. These doctored dice represent the availability and neglect of methods which offer better returns than the initial assumption, or 'received wisdom'. This demonstrates the value of research, and perhaps testing, of methods and targets which produce a better rate of success. You will uncover more examples related to your own situation which will arise from this powerful yet simple little exercise. Chiefly the exercise is for sales people, but can be used for anyone with responsibility to plan how to use their time, and especially how best to direct their efforts in order to maximise results and rewards. Anyone with average skills can easily out-perform the most skilful operator if they target their effort more strongly and effectively. Success does not only depend on what you do. Success depends mostly on where and how determinedly you do it. Note: Technically 'die' is the singular for dice, and dice is the plural, as in the famous expression 'The die is cast' , which is an interesting item of trivia, not least because it is also connected to the expression ' crossing the Rubicon ', if people are likely to be interested. Thanks to R Chapman (no relation), for the contribution of this excellent exercise. Incidentally die is singular for dice not plural, as I ridiculously stated when I first posted this item, (thanks M Burgess). shoe-wear and foot wear (icebreaker exercise, discussion about self-awareness, different people-types, johari-type development) Mind and body are connected. Here are some simple quick questions to prompt thought and discussion about that notion. The activity is useful as an icebreaker especially because it is active and usually humorous. Look at the backs of the heels of your shoes. Do you wear your heels down on the inside or the outside, or in the middle? Is the wear the same for each foot? To what extent is there a relationship between our personality and the way we walk? And additionally (or alternatively), how does our footwear reflect us as individuals? Discuss with other people your and their reactions to these questions. The facilitator can organize the groups, feedback, discussion, etc., to suit the situation. The Johari Window model is helpful in explaining the value of self- and mutual-awareness. Discussion can be developed in various ways. 'Nature versus Nurture' (genes v upbringing) is often an interesting perspective when considering what makes us the way that we are. Also, the subject of our feet has several strong emotional and cultural connections, which can raise interesting questions about human behaviour and feelings from various angles. Other ways to develop ideas about mind-body connections, for self-awareness and awareness of other people; types, personalities, styles, attitudes, needs, etc: graphology (handwriting analysis) - including self-assessment instrument stress management - many mind-body aspects and for young people especially - fantasticat N.B. Given the nature of this subject, the facilitator should consider any potential discrimination implications. how many 'f's?... (icebreakers, assumptions, checking details, the mind plays tricks, seeing is not always a basis for believing) A quick puzzle with various uses. See "How Many Fs?" on the puzzles page. 'a senseable friend' cards activities (icebreakers, problem-solving, creative thinking, hidden issues, johari, etc) I rarely pick out a product on these pages but this one warrants inclusion because it's so different and appealing. Developed by Peter Middleton, 'A SenseAble Friend' is a pack of 81 triangular cards, each carrying words or phrases designed to provoke and enable reactions, thoughts or discussion. The cards can be used alone, or by a facilitator with a group, and as with other activities teams of three work well. The cards can be used in a quick free-flowing and spontaneous way for activities such as: icebreakers johari window -type development, e.g., developing mutual awareness among teams exploring needs and priorities not revealed in normal discussion a basis for observation of people - for facilitator, team-leader, or among team-members exploring and developing relationships personal reflection, thinking outside of the box, breaking free, etc. The approach, explained via simple and flexible instructions, is highly intuitive, and yet is effective with process-oriented folk as well as with intuitive types. From personal experience I can vouch for the strange power of the cards, which definitely seem to tap into the unconscious in ways that conventional development systems and methods do not. The product would be an excellent addition to a facilitator's toolkit, or simply keep a set on your desk. Trust your unconscious - ideas will echo and return in ways you might not expect. See Peter Middleton's A SenseAble Friend . (My thanks to Soleira Green for drawing my attention to Peter and his concept.) Why 81 cards?... The design evolved from study of scientific, psychological, theosophical and spiritual teachings. In our lives, contrast, or 'natural paradox' is always present. The opposites in us exist comfortably at the same time. They do not need 'fixing'; they exist to provide clarity. Some relate this to 'duality'. Jung's theory , for example, offers some explanation, among other ideas like yin and yang. To give meaning to these opposites and decide who we, we need a third element: consciousness. Aside from this three sided model, our lives can also be represented in terms of four perspectives: physical, psychological, spiritual and divine. The 81 cards evolved to reflect this structure of three to the power of four (3 x 3 x 3 x 3 = 81). There is more to the design, but this essentially explains why there are 81 cards. 'sell a region' diversity game (diversity awareness, teambuilding, presentations, research, understanding other cultures) For group sizes of nine and upwards ideally. A group of eight split into four pairs is probably the minimum. Whatever, split the group into the teams you'd like to work together. Team sizes can be between two and five people. Teams of three generally work well. For larger events bigger teams will work well, subject to finding roles for everyone. Consider the total presentation time available and the total group size to arrive at optimum size of teams. For example - three teams of three would be fine for a small group event, or ten groups of five would be okay for a conference. For groups of more than 50 you can devise supporting roles (coordinator, props, equipment, MC, scheduler, creative, etc) within teams to enable bigger team sizes. This activity requires that people are given time before the event to research and prepare. It is possible to run the exercise in a 'lite' version by offering research facilities at the event, but the benefits of the activity are much increased if people and teams have the opportunity to discover information. The exercise can also be adapted for individuals to work alone, and could potentially be used in a group selection recruitment event, in which case group members people should be given time for research and preparation before the presentation day. A smaller group size, say four or five people, is viable for the exercise if based on individual presentations. Having determined the teams, allocate a part of the world to each team (logically relating to the regions/countries that chiefly feature in your diversity issues) - or invite the the teams to choose their own countries/regions, subject to your guidelines and situation. Each team's task is to prepare and then deliver a team presentation 'selling' their region to the group or conference, imagining the audience to be seeking a holiday home or the holiday of a lifetime. Team members are responsible for researching and preparing the following aspects for their presentation. The number of aspects is variable and at the facilitator's discretion, and should ensure there is sufficient for each team member to be involved: leisure and sport connections with other parts of the world amazing facts you never knew about (the region/country) During the presentations, for which you should issue appropriate timescales, the members of the conference or group vote on the best presentations according to pre-announced criteria (examples below), and as an additional incentive you can ask each team to buy a prize (representing their region up to a stipulated value, depending on your budget. The winners of each category can choose their prize from the pool. Awards categories examples: presentation style and quality star presenter specialist categories according to above presentation criteria, e.g., best historical item, best entertainment item, best amazing fact, etc. The activity offers lots of flexibility for adaptation to suit your particular circumstances and development aims. It challenges people to discover new positive things about other parts of the world, to work in teams, and then to share their discoveries with the group. A neat addition to the exercise, if the situation allows, is to appoint some team members as roving 'cultural advisors' to other teams if among the group you have people with background or knowledge in the allocated regions, and if you are very clever you could actually select and allocate the regions with this in mind. To achieve a competitive balance each team should be able both to offer an adviser and to benefit from the help of an advisor from another team. This exercise can also be adapted to provide a more modern and meaningful interpretation of the desert island or plane crash stranded survival exercise , which essentially encourages group members to identify resources and to formulate a plan of action. To do this, adapt the presentation instructions thus: Purpose of the presentation: to identify a plan for surviving and thriving on a personal or business level (in your allocated region/country). This obviously does not carry the aspect of desperation present in the traditional 'stranded' exercise - instead it gets people focusing on real issues of diversity and personal challenge in a more useful sense. animal perceptions exercise (self-awareness, team discussions and mutual awareness, johari-type development) This is a simple, enjoyable and thought-provoking activity for workshops and team-building. This exercise should be positioned as mostly fun and to prompt reflection, discussion, etc. It is not to be presented or used as a scientific assessment of personality or attitude, and certainly not as an assessment of good or poor skills or temperament. I am grateful for its contribution by Shwetha Singh, a post-graduate in psychology, Punjab University, India. Ideally start the activity with some discussion about how other people affect one's own self-perceptions - for example: "How do significant people in our lives affect the way we perceive ourselves?" This discussion should prompt people to think about their own self-perceptions. Next, ask group members individually to rank the animals below in order of their personal preference.  Lion Dog Parrot Elephant How you'd like to be perceived by others in the future. 4 How you actually truly want to be - without influence of what other significant people in your life feel and think about you.   Some discussion points: To what extent do we shape our self-image and aims according to the influence and opinions of other people? To what extent do we understand how we are actually regarded by others? To what extent does what other people think of us matter? Should the influence of other people today affect what we seek to be in the future? If you could list different animals - or substitute people/role-models instead - what would the list be and what might it tell you about yourself? Whether the exercise produces accurate results is not the point - the point is to encourage thinking about who we are and who we want to be, in more depth than we normally consider these things. The Johari Window model is a useful reference for this exercise and surrounding discussions. Underpinning theory and further reading if desired: Carl Rogers' ideas about Ideal Self and Real Self, and Sigmund Freud's theories, notably relating to animal personalization and influences of significant others (people in our lives). I am grateful to Shwetha Singh for the contribution of this exercise and assistance with its adaptation. This exercise is not presented as a validated or scientific instrument. Please use it carefully. christmas quizzes Free Christmas quizzes - Quizballs 48 (30 questions and answers) - and last year's Quizballs 29 (20 questions and answers) listening games (listening, interpretation, understanding, speaking, creativity) Exercise 1. First here is a quick self-contained ready-made listening exercise (ack Claire Leach) which focuses on listening only. Exercise 2. The activity which follows is different to the ready-made game above - it enables a group to devise their own exercises and therefore includes aspects of creativity and team working in addition to listening. This second exercise is an activity idea chiefly for demonstrating and developing listening, understanding and interpretation abilities, but also for general communications and creative and competitive team working. Split the group into two or more teams of up to five people per team. Split larger groups into more teams and adapt the exercise accordingly - it's very flexible. Each team member (or a given number of people per team) must read out a passage from a newspaper or other suitably detailed text to the opposing team or teams. Rotate the reading around the teams in turn rather than have each team perform all its readings one after the other. Teams must listen to the readings so as to answer questions later, posed by the team asking the questions. Taking written notes while listening is optional at the discretion of the facilitator. If useful and relevant to the skills required then include this aspect. When all the passages have been read, each team must then devise and ask the other team 5/10/20 questions in turn about the passages they've read. Optionally the questions can be devised before the readings, which makes the listening challenge easier since there is no interruption or distraction between the readings and the questions. The winning team is the one to answer most answers correctly. The facilitator can award bonus points for answers which demonstrate particularly good interpretation of the subject matter included in the readings. Adjust the many variables of this activity to suit your situation, notably: structure teams number and size, number of readers, length of passages, number of questions, etc., according to time and group size, and level of difficulty required. Here's an example: two teams of 5 people 3 readers per team (self-appointed by teams) passages to be max 100 words or 30 seconds 5 mins allowed for teams to decide passages (newspapers contain ideal content) 3 mins total time for reading the six passages 5 mins for teams to construct 5 questions based on their passages 5 mins to ask and answer 10 questions, 5 questions each team, asked/answered alternately one from each team winning team is team with most correct answers/points including bonuses total time including set up, excluding review and discussion, about 30 mins The activity format can be varied too, for example breaking the questioning and answering into two different sections, so that teams have a chance to work on their answers, which adds the extra difficulty of noting or remembering the questions properly too. Introduce more fun or additional technical aspects by issuing amusing or obscure or very specific reading material.   money exercise (ice-breaker, talking point, focus on observation, taking things for granted, noticing things right in front of us) This is a quick and very easy ice-breaker or scene-setter. Everyone uses money - notes and coins - most days of their lives. Coins and banknotes are a part of our lives, and yet like other vital and ever-present aspects of our lives, their familiarity and constant presence cause us to ignore their details. The same can be said of our friends, our families, colleagues, our own bodies, the world around us. We go through life taking it all for granted, and only miss something when it is gone. To illustrate the point ask people (individually to write down) how many designs they are aware of on a pound coin. In countries other than the UK choose a suitable equivalent coin or banknote which has many variations. Then ask people to look in their pockets and purses (manbags?... the world is changing, another story..), and show and tell as a group how many actual different pound coin designs exist. You will be surprised. Arguably no harm comes from failing to appreciate the detail, variety and subtlety and purpose of all the designs of our coins or banknotes, but could we pay (pun intended) more attention to the detail, variety and subtlety that exists in other aspects of our world - people especially? The world opens to us when we become more open ourselves to what and who are in it - then we see more clearly the opportunities and bigger priorities we might have been ignoring. Ask the person next to you: "Tell me something important about you that I don't know." Again you will be surprised. With a little effort we can see and enable more to happen, or we merely continue (quite understandably) to focus on our own very narrow priorities and view of the world, which when we take a wider view often don't seem to be so important after all. The picture shows nine of the pound coin designs. How many others can you find? What do they denote? There are fourteen in circulation (as at 2007). See the Royal Mint pound coin page for full details . For more supporting trivia and information about (mainly British) money see the money history and slang page . conkers and acorns activities (various themes for discussions and exploration) A seasonal activity if ever there was one. These ideas are more for young people than for grown-up work environments, although for some there will be connections with work issues. Usefulness and effectiveness will partly depend on openness to intuitive learning and exploration. Various exercises and opportunities arise from these fascinating fruits, for example: Take the group outside to the local park and have them collect conkers and/or acorns. Fresh air and a nostalgic revisiting of simple childhood fun is good for the soul. Be careful if the (big) boys want to throw big sticks up into the trees. Trees are very spiritual and symbolic of many modern issues and challenges, and can be used to prompt all sorts of discussions and ideas. Time, maturity, age, seasons, growth and rest, converting energy and fuel (sun, rain, soil minerals) into life and beauty, design, balance, quality, etc. Ask people to close their eyes, think and then explain their associations and feelings triggered by (physically holding, handling) conkers or acorns. The real thing is far more sensory and emotive than a picture. This illustrates the power of the subconcious and unconcious mind, which is very relevant to our behaviour, as featured in personality , NLP , and Transactional Analysis , for example. For many grown-ups it demonstrates the deep-rooted feelings anchored in our childhood. A good old-fashioned conkers competition. You need a drill and string. Goggles and health & safety disclaimer as appropriate. Have the group design the structure of the competition so that all stay involved from start to end. Explore/develop the selection and preparation of the most competitive conkers. Old conkers are the best. Drilling produces a stronger hole than forcing through a nail or an awl, which creates weaknesses liable to split. Does vinegar really work? Apparently softening with moisturiser works better.. Write the rules of playing conkers so that an eight-year-old would understand them. The pros and cons of regulations in proper competitions which forbid the use of personal conkers. How do rules affect the nature of the competition and the appeal to potential contestants and audiences, in turn affecting the 'market' development? Cultural/diversity discussion - Conkers and acorns have strong British associations. What are the equivalents in other regions/cultures? Acorns symbolise growth and potential: "Parvis e glandibus quercus" - Tall oaks from little acorns grow, is the old anonymous Latin saying. What other imagery and analogies are associated with trees? What are the origins of the words? - chestnut (from Greek 'kastanon' - not the modern English words chest or nut), conker (probably from conch, meaning shell, because apparently early versions of the game were played using snail shells, and/or associated with the word conquer) and acorn (Old English different spelling 'aecern' evolving into modern form by combination of 'ac' meaning oak and 'corn' meaning kernel as in nut - sources Chambers and Cassells). The design of the conker and its prickly casing are a marvel of evolution. Why is it like it is? Why is the acorn like it is? How did that funny little cup arrangement evolve? When we think about the function of fruits we can imagine how they evolved their amazing designs. What can we learn from nature's evolution and design that might be transferable to organizations and society? To what extent should we encourage and enable design and evolution of organizations and policies and systems via external influences (customers especially) rather than internal arrogance and guesswork? Conkers (horse chestnuts) are not to be eaten by people, yet they are safe for certain animals, including horses. The North American Indians used a lot of acorns in their diet, yet acorns are poisonous to horses. How did that happen? Extend the exploration to sweet chestnuts, which of course are very tasty roasted or toasted under a grill and rather easier to prepare than acorns. Or find the best propellors from the sycamore/maple trees. You'll discover a lot more in the park. Maybe combine with a visit to the swings. (See the quickies below). Or just go feed the ducks and the squirrels. Beats spending your lunch-break at your desk any day. how to whistle an acorn competitor-partner exercise (competitor intelligence, competitor research, different perspectives, seeking and finding positives and opportunities instead of difficulties and threats - choice over instinct - collaboration rather than conflict) The assumption is normally that a 'competing' organization or person can only ever be a competitor and a threat, to be attacked, defended, undercut, or beaten or fended off in some way. Such tendencies commonly stem from instincts which give rise to basic human survival behaviours like: tit-for-tat, retaliate before being attacked, to see threats rather than opportunities, and to defend rather than expose our own vulnerabilities, etc. There are good reasons however for taking a more modern rounded collaborative view of people and organizations that operate in our personal or business space or field or market. The first law of cybernetics explains a crucial benefit resulting from considering and choosing our responses rather than defaulting to instinct (or worse still defaulting to the assumed or inherited instinct of others, or convention, tradition, status quo, expectation, etc). Much energy is wasted developing and implementing competitive strategies, which often can either be avoided altogether (because the threat is vastly lower than believed) and/or which can better be channelled into collaborative partnership strategies (which can produce far better outcomes for all concerned). This exercise (which can be simplified or extended) encourages a more sophisticated approach when responding to organizations in markets (or people within work teams) normally viewed as competitors or threats. Split the group into teams or pairs or individuals as appropriate for your situation. Allocate or ask the participants to identify an organization (or group, but can be a trend or a development) that they consider to be a competitor or threat. In certain situations choices can be kept private, for example where the exercise deals with people and relationships. Validate the selections (in light of the remainder of this exercise, so that the subjects are relevant and helpful). Obviously this is more appropriate for commercial competitor situations. Where the exercise is used for private personal relationships just ask people to double-check themselves that they have chosen a suitable subject. Ask people to think carefully about their chosen person/organization, according to the factors in the appropriate grid below (the grids are different for organizations and people), and particularly to cast aside all assumptions and historical beliefs and practices. The factors can be adapted according to the circumstances, and for more complex situations (notably commercial competitor and market analysis) can entail quite detailed research (separate from the session, or part of the session, depending on the time available and local situation). Essentially the exercise weighs the pros and cons of each factor from the perspective of competitor and partner. Emphasise to participants when making the assessment to look continually for a fit between the other organization and their own situation and capabilities and needs. You will often be surprised that there are far more reasons to collaborate than to persist with habitual aggressive or defensive competition strategies and responses. This is the age of collaboration. We can all benefit by checking old assumptions. market competitor/partner grid   Tips: Using colour can make the exercise more intuitive and the results easier to see, for example use green for pros and red for cons. If developing strategy in relation to a single major 'competitor' you can have the whole group work on one big grid, using post-it notes or similarly ingenious display method - in which case allocate parts of the grid to teams or pairs to work on. Or have two teams - one work on the pros and the other the cons; or four teams or pairs, each working on one of the four factors.   people and team relationships grid The competitor-partner grid can also be adapted to help people or a group explore team and group relationships and ways to work together rather than to compete and conflict. Again the emphasis should be on finding a fit between oneself and the other person - in terms of strengths and weaknesses, personality and styles, mutually supporting aims, experience and aspiration, etc. If running an open shared exercise ensure anyone subject to the analysis is present and agreeable, and ideally participating constructing their own grid featuring another member of the team. The tool can of course also be used as a private personal reflective instrument, in which case the findings are to be kept private and personal. It is not appropriate for a group to discuss and analyse a person who is not present and agreeable to the exercise.   © competitor-partner grid concept alan chapman 2007 questioning games (to demonstrate, teach and practise the difference between open and closed questions) Many people habitually ask closed questions when they want to gather information and encourage the other person to talk, instead of using open questions. Here are some scenarios to use with groups in demonstrating the effectiveness of open questions, and the ineffectiveness of closed questions, for gathering information efficiently. Use your own alternative scenarios if more appropriate to your situation. In each case state the scenario to the group, and then role-play or ask for closed questions by which the group must gather all the facts or solve the puzzle. This is neither easy nor efficient of course. Then ask for suggestions of open questions which will reveal the information or answer most efficiently. Scenarios (numbers 2 and 3 are lateral thinking puzzles suitable for questioning exercises): 1. You are seeking to rent a holiday cottage in a particular area (say Cornwall, or whatever). The newspaper has one advert in the Cornwall section, stating merely: 'Holiday Cottage For Rent' and a phone number. Role-play your phone call to discover if the cottage is what you want, using closed questions only. (If helpful, brainstorm a long list of typical requirements beforehand.) Similar exercises are possible using other sale/hire/services scenarios, e.g., cars, houses, party/wedding venues, coaching, clubs, etc. 2. A class of twenty-five children is invited by their teacher to share a bag of exactly twenty-five sweets. After the share-out all the children have a sweet but one sweet remains in the bag. How is this? Instruct the group to ask closed questions to solve the puzzle. (The answer is that last sweet was taken away in the bag.) 3. Two electric trains were mistakenly routed onto the same track in opposite directions into a tunnel. One travelling at 200 mph, the other at 220 mph. Each train passed successfully through the tunnel and was able to continue its journey without stopping or colliding. How so? Instruct the group to ask closed questions to solve the puzzle. (The answer is that the second train entered the tunnel several minutes after the first one had left it.) Use or adapt your own puzzles and scenarios as appropriate for the audience. You can also vary the way that the group asks questions - in turn, one-to-one with observers, in pairs, etc. Here is some explanation of the use of questioning in a sales training context, as typically found in a traditional selling process. Questioning of course features importantly within coaching, counselling, interviewing, investigating, and many other disciplines, so adapt the explanation to suit your needs. Use the poster of Rudyard Kipling's 'six serving men' verse to help explain and reinforce the best way to ask open questions. You can also extend this activity to develop the way that questions are structured and asked (style, emotion, tone, body language , use of words, etc), in which the Mehrabian theory is a helpful reference. For help with enabling powerful facilitative questioning see Sharon Drew Morgen's Facilitative Methodology . (My thanks to Sarah Phillips for this activity idea.) diversity quiz game (for diverse groups, mutual understanding, empathy, diversity training) Here is an easy exercise which makes use of the quiz format to teach and improve people's response to diversity issues. The activity is for diverse groups (mixed age, race, gender, religion, and/or other types of people), but the exercise will be useful for groups of apparently less diverse nature too. Diversity is not just about race and religion - diversity entails all aspects of what makes people different, which can be found in any group of people, even if initially the group seems not very diverse at all. The exercise is basically for the group members to create a diversity quiz by contributing questions individually (or working in pairs or threes depending on overall group size), and then for the group as a whole to take the quiz (or in the same teams). This process enables discovery of real practical local diversity issues, instead of assuming and announcing what they might be. If appropriate first brainstorm and/or discuss and agree/explain what diversity means. Here is a suggested description. Adapt it or use your own explanation to suit the situation. "In a social or work context diversity means difference and variation among people. This difference and variation can be characterised by race, gender, age, religion, physical shape and ability, social class and background, personality and ability: any, some, or all of these. Organizations which make the most of the natural diversity in their staff, customers, suppliers and other partners, have a huge advantage over organizations which fail to do so. Making the most of diversity in staff and other people - often called inclusiveness - increases the depth and range of behaviours and capabilities (also skills, knowledge and styles) that the organization can call upon in meeting the needs of the increasingly diverse market place. Recognising diversity in the market place effectively increases the size of the market. Failing to acknowledge diversity within and outside the organization reduces capabilities, causing the organization to be less appealing, and to fewer people, and in some cases creates organizational liabilities for litigation under discrimination laws. Failure to recognise and respond to diversity often equates to discrimination and is regarded by fair-minded people as unethical." Here is the instruction to group members to create the quiz: 1. You have five (or 10 or 15) minutes to formulate one (or two or three) quiz question(s) and answer(s) for a diversity quiz. You must do this individually/in pairs/in threes. N.B. Timings, numbers of questions and team size depends on the size of the group, for example: work as individuals for group sizes up to 9 people; in pairs for groups of 8-24 people; or in threes for groups of 15 and above. Very large groups should be spilt into sub-groups with appointed facilitators. Consider time available and number of questions needed when deciding your parameters for the activity. 2. Tell the group: when formulating your questions and answers think about subjects that are significant in reflecting or influencing how you, and people like you act, think, behave, decide, etc. Questions can be about anything - history, lifestyle, culture, media, travel, geography, finance, food and drink, language, politics, leisure and entertainment. 3. For the effective running of the quiz, questions must be clear and easy to understand, and have clear short answers - facts, figures, etc., not subjective personal opinions that might be subject to wide interpretation. 4. One of the ironies of diversity is that we all tend to assume that people who are different to us understand how and why we think and behave the way we do. We take for granted the way we are, and expect others to sympathise with us, and to see things from our viewpoint. This starts with the simplest aspects of our lives. Therefore in formulating helpful diversity quiz questions and answers, do not strive for complex concepts. Keep it simple, and you will be surprised how revealing and helpful this can be. 5. Hand the formulated questions and answers to the facilitator, who can then run the quiz for the whole group using all questions. The quiz can be run for people competing as individuals or in the same pairs or threes which formulated the questions. A useful reference model for this activity is the Johari Window . The diversity quiz exercise seeks to enable people to increase what others know about each other, which is at the root of inclusiveness and making the most of diversity. The Multiple Intelligence model is also a useful reference model for considering people's different strengths (to avoid assuming that there is only one type of intellectual capability), and the Erikson life stages model is also helpful in considering age and upbringing issues. questions examples, and adapting exercise into survey The questions and answers should be simple - everyday things that we all take for granted, except when it comes to other people, which is the point. Most obvious examples relate to geographical/cultural facts relevant to people's own native/place of birth/parents' country. For example: national flag design/national anthem/national history/independence. Other diversity issues questions/areas to explore: disabilities and personal physical/mental differences age/generational factors and lifestyle/behaviours/preferences gender/sexuality differences multiple intelligence issues (see Gardner model and test for useful context) - respecting each other's strengths and weaknesses, preferences and aversions, fears, etc home life attitudes and received/conditioned/inherited views/attitudes - exploring cultural aspects of parental influences. Developing quiz questions need not be the most important aspect - it's the discussion and exploration on the way that also holds great potential for mutual understanding, especially in a diverse group. The outcome or ostensible 'aim' of the activity can therefore be altered accordingly - maybe not a quiz - maybe 'ten amazing things I never knew about my group', or 'ten amazing things my team partner(s) and I never knew about each other'.. The concept can also be adapted into/started with a survey - when the group goes out into a busy public area to ask people: "Could you tell me a simple fact about your culture/country that could make a good question and answer for a diversity quiz? (Explain if required: Diversity is understanding and appreciating the differences between people)..." If you run the exercise and produce some questions do let me have them to share on the website.   Please send me quizzes created using the above exercise to share with others , or post them onto the Businessballs free publishing Space . causes and solutions exercises (discussion or illustration of problem-solving, dispute resolution, crisis management and avoidance, solutions-focused thinking) Quick and easy to set up, and very adaptable for all sorts of training and development purposes, this exercise is based on the following simple principle: Ask individuals or pairs or threes (or a larger team with guidance as to team for leadership) to identify an example in a newspaper of some sort of dispute or conflict, and then to analyse the causes and solutions. Ask people to adopt the view of a mediator. Suggest or brainstorm some pointers to help people approach the task, for example: What helpful facilitative questions could be asked of the parties involved to work towards a solution? What might be changed in the methods or attitudes or structures of the situations in order to prevent a recurrence of the problems? How does each side feel and what are their main complaints, feelings, needs and motivators? To what extent could the problem have been averted or predicted, and if so how? How can others learn from the situation? Discussion and presentation format and timings are flexible and at the discretion of the facilitator. Save time if needs be by highlighting suggested articles in the newspapers. Refer delegates to relevant management or behavioural theories and models, and/or ask that delegates do this when they present/discuss their views/analysis. quiz public survey game (research, communications skills, appreciating the knowledge other people possess, human engagement, fun) This is a simple twist to bring any quiz or question to life, and add a wonderful dimension for developing and demonstrating the power of successfully communicating and engaging with other people. Split the group to suit you (teams, pairs, or threes probably best). Decide rules, timing, presentation, discussion, review, etc., to fit your situation. All this is flexible. Take any quiz or series of questions, or one big difficult question. Issue it to the teams (or pairs, or individuals, etc). The task is to go out and engage with the general public to find the answers. Introduce variations to suit your situation. For example if working with competing teams you can arrange that each team has a 'shadow' or observer from another team to ensure no cheating, and also to give observer feedback in any reviews that happen afterwards. (If appropriate brainstorm the review points prior to the exercise with the group - it's easier and better than you doing this by yourself.) You can also define certain areas or places for the teams to go (shopping centre, pubs, library, old folks home for example), although take care to ensure no nuisance is caused. State clear rules for the use of phones. Purists might argue that they are not allowed at all, which is fine, but there is no problem allowing an element of phone research if it fits the group roles/preferences and development situation. There are lots of quizzes in the quizballs section, including many with interesting varied content that would suit this exercise. Or make up your own questions or subjects for the teams to research among the general public, for example: List the last 20 prime ministers/presidents in correct order. List all the county towns/state capitals. Name all the Big Brother winners in order. What's the history of the local town? Who are the most famous people born locally? What are the five most liked corporations, and what are the five least liked corporations? Who would win an election if one were called now? You'll think of lots more ideas. bin toss game (warm-up, tea-break activity, competitive exercise, exploring competitiveness and motivation) Adapt this simple idea any way you want. There are lots of potential variations. A horse-shoe table layout (U-shape) or a ring of tables or a square with a gap in the centre are well-suited to this idea. 'Cabaret'-style layout will also work provided the position of the waste bin target(s) is arranged fairly. You can probably guess already... Position a waste bin or basket on the floor or on a table centrally between the delegates. The winner or winning team is the one to throw the most balls of paper (or any other suitable objects that the facilitator decides) into the bin. Obviously specify a method of identifying who threw what. Variations on the theme are for example: Design a personalised or team brand or logo for each sheet rolled and tossed. Different coloured paper. One bin per team with point deductions for opposing team missiles successfully deposited. Write a letter on each sheet before tossing - words must be spelled from bin contents. Pairs, or threes or teams to devise a party game based around the bin toss idea - then demonstrate and sell it to the group. You'll think of lots more.. When you have why not publish them on the new Businessballs Space ?... bricks in the wall exercise (aims, goals, objectives, steps - for new years, new beginnings, changes and planning, making dreams into reality) This is a simple exercise for goal-setting and making changes. The ideas are relevant for calendar new years, new trading years, new roles, teams and projects, and for personal development. The activity is based on the simple concept that even small aims actually comprise a series of elements which need to be identified, planned, and implemented in correct order. Achieving aims, goals and changes is like building houses - they need to be understood and assembled bit by bit - like bricks in a wall. You might start with a vision or dream or objective, but this cannot be achieved in one single move. A house is not built from the top down or all at once. It starts with a plan - or maybe a vision if the type of house has never been built before - and is then constructed from the foundations upwards, section by section, brick by brick. Like building a house, any aim or change or objective must be analysed and planned, and then built in a sensible order: what will it look like? - describe the vision or end-aim so we will recognise it and be sure it has been achieved correctly what are the components? - the causal factors and circumstances? - what needs to be put in place? - physical resources and materials, maybe people too, and intangibles like agreements, permissions, understanding, etc. and what is the process for assembling it all? - the steps, sequence, timings, etc. Using this concept, ask the group, split into whatever teams or individuals that makes sense for your situation, to visualise and then map out - in very simple terms - one of their own main aims for the coming year/period, quarter/lifetime, whatever. Keep it simple. Resist getting into a lot of detail. Merely seek to explain/reinforce the need for basic structure and sequence and the relationship between cause and effect. This is the extent of the exercise. The framework is: Describe the end-aim - what does the completed change/objective/aim/dream look like? What will it/you be like, feel like, behave like, and what difference will the change make? Is the end aim worth the investment? Is the end aim actually a good and right one? How will you know when it's been achieved, and everyone else too? What are the components of this change? The physical things you can see and touch and put a cost to, and the other factors that are less easy to see and to measure? What are the cause-and-effect relationships - start at the end and work backwards - what needs to happen before this, and this, and this, etc. What is the sequence and timings of assembling the components, and for more complex changes, what is the inter-relatedness (and inter-dependence) of the components? Certain elements are part of sub-sets or sub-structures that need to be built at the same time alongside eachother, converging at a suitable point. Understanding these connections is very important where a project comprises a number of separate inter-dependent structures. (Imagine how long it would take to build a house if only one trade or activity could be on site at any one time, and imagine how chaotic things would be if these different activities were not planned and joined together at the right time.) Finally, having identified the above - in outline terms only - ask people to bring them together as a rough plan for their own particular aim/objective/change, in whatever format people find easiest. (Some people prefer to map out a flow diagram, others prefer a pictorial representation like a house; other people prefer a list; any format is fine as long as it's clear and structured.) The purpose of this exercise is not to produce a heavily detailed project management plan - that can happen afterwards if required (see the notes on project management for examples of traditional planning formats) - the aim of this activity is to explain the importance of cause and effect, and compenents and process, in achieving aims. the ampersand game (ice-breakers, warm-ups, demonstrations of learning, thinking, and brain-types, knowledge versus skill) This simple exercise is a quick icebreaker, or can be extended into something more meaningful. Fundamentally the activity demonstrates that knowing something is very different to doing something. Knowledge is different to skill. The exercise also illustrates certain learning and brain processes, notably relating to retention, practise and repetition, as steps to perfection. Useful reference models would include Bloom's Taxonomy and the Conscious Competence model . The basic activity idea is very simple: It's basically to draw the ampersand symbol (the 'and sign'). The exercise however can be adapted and developed significantly. Everyone has seen the ampersand symbol. Most people call it the 'and sign'. It looks like this, in two common fonts, (Tahoma and Times New Roman): & & In fact the ampersand appears in a wide variety of wonderful designs; it has provided designers through the centuries with more scope for artistic interpretation than any other character. The activity is simply to ask people to draw the ampersand symbol - serif or sans serif - or a more stylised version - at the discretion of the facilitator. (Interesting background about sans serif and serif fonts is on the presentations page.) It's actually not at all easy to draw a good-looking ampersand, especially if team members are not able to see the symbol to copy it. Knowing and recognising the ampersand equates to 'knowledge'. Being able to draw it - to reliably produce one - equates to 'skill'. Different things. Knowledge we can learn by observation and other sensory input. Skill is generally only acquired from experience, practice, trial and error. This is the heart of the activity. Where people should draw and present their artwork attempts - and how large and how long is permitted for the effort - is all flexible and at the discretion of the facilitator. People can use a blank sheet of paper where they sit, or alternatively can practise (or not), and then take turns to draw the symbol on a flip chart. Or ask people to work in pairs or threes or even teams, to design their definitive ampersand. Or encourage branding and styling of people's artwork according to a particular theme, which extends the activity beyond the basic purpose described here. At its simplest the exercise is a two-minute icebreaker. With a bit of imagination it can be adapted into a much bigger activity, if the idea appeals and fits the situation. The exercise emphasises that we can know something very simply intimately but be incapable of reproducing it properly and expertly - whether a printed symbol, or something more significant. The principle extends to behaviour, style, techniques, etc. The activity also demonstrates the significance of practice in becoming good at something. The brain must learn how to do it, which is very different from the brain simply recognising and being able to describe it. Incidentally while the symbol is about 2,000 years old, the word ampersand first appeared in the English language in around 1835. It is a corrupted (confused) derivation of the term 'And per se', which was the original formal name of the & symbol in glossaries and official reference works. More about the origins of the ampersand . Explaining the history can help position the exercise - it took 2,000 years to arrive at today's ampersand designs - hence why it takes a bit of practice to reproduce a good one by hand. seasonal team games (exercises and activities linked to christmas and other celebrations) These activities ideas are not only for Christmas. They'll adapt for other seasons and celebrations. Use these activities sensitively. If there's a risk of causing offence then adapt them or avoid them. The ideas are meant to be fun, underpinned by some useful questions and learning. Split the group however suits you (teams, pairs, or threes probably best). Arrange presentation, discussion, review, etc., to fit your situation. The Roman/Greek god theme below has absolutely nothing to do with the activities, but if it helps add an additional creative perspective by all means go with it. 1. Christmas Community Party - You are a think-tank appointed by Bacchus, god of wine, merriment and debauchery. Bacchus has tasked you to devise a plan for staging a free local community Christmas party or event, to include ideas for the type of event, target audience and guests, funding, staffing, venue, marketing, publicity and ideally on-going benefit for the community, and reasons for the funders and event managers to stay involved and supportive. (Specify a community as appropriate, or leave the teams to decide this themselves.) 2. Brussel Sprout Relaunch - You are marketing advisor to Saturn, not only Roman god of the sky, but also with a secondary portfolio responsibility for agriculture (never knew that did you..) Anyway Saturn is very concerned that one of the greatest vegetables ever - the brussel sprout - has struggled to achieve the popularity it deserves, especially among children, most of whom would apparently prefer to eat a bogie or a big mac instead of a good helping of brussels. Your task, should you decide to accept it, is to devise a product relaunch plan for the brussel sprout, including whatever you think would elevate the vegetable to its rightful place as king/queen of all vegetables. Consider the marketing staples: Product, Price, Promotion, Place, and anything else you can bring into play, e.g., endorsement by Ramsos and Olivos, the two-headed god of culinary evangualisation. The world is no longer your oyster, it's your sprout. (Incidentally sprouts smell bad when they are cooked for too long, so education is worth including in your ideas.) 3. 2020 Retail Visioning - You sit on the advisory panel in the service of Argos, Asdos, Morros, Sainsbos, Tescos, and Waitros, the six musketeer gods of retailing, who have been assembled by Zeus and tasked to redefine the developed world's retail distribution model for the year 2020. Consider how, where, what, when and why consumers will be buying, and from whom. Your 2020 vision for retailing does not necessarily have to include the six musketeers, and in some ways it might be more fun if it does not. For instance, Co-opos, god of mutuality has some interesting ideas, as do Amazos, Ebos and Googlos, the gods of change and basically ripping up the rule book. 4. Seasonal Rebrands - You are marketing assistant to Richus Bransos, the emperor of branding, and he's hungry for a sleeping giant of a product to rebrand and relaunch. Your task is to identify a product or service or a proposition of some sort - anything from a chocolate bar to a whole country - which can be rebranded and relaunched for the Christmas season (or any other season as appropriate) to generate bucketloads of wonga for the Bransos Empire and its shareholders. Consider product/service, price, promotion, place, uniqueness and differentiation, distribution, plenty of photo-opportunities for Richus Bransos to dress up as a banana or a silly girl. (Forget brussel sprouts because Saturn is already working on it, and forget ITV because that other lesser god of the sky Rupertos Murderos has already bollocksed that one up right good and proper). 5. Christmas Diversity Project - You are doing a spot of work-experience for Gallupos, god of questioning. Zeus has raised the matter of the Christmas tree in the foyer and the 'Secret Santa' planned for next Friday lunchtime. Gallupos wants you to go forth into the local high street and canvass the populace (or look on the internet) to discover all the different ways that people celebrate Christmas around the world, and for those who don't celebrate Christmas find out what they do instead and when and how and why. Then (optionally) if you've time, try to roll them all together to conceptualise some sort of celebratory extravaganza for all of humanity that will please everyone, and that we might be able to fit into the foyer. 6. Monetary Exchange project - You are special advisor to Soros, god of money, who has been tasked to devise an improved design of coinage and banknotes, which better reflects people's preferences and practical needs. Your responsibility is to suggest design, size, shape, material, monetary values, and any other innovative ideas for a new system of coins and banknotes. christmas quiz See Quizballs 29 - twenty questions and answers for parties and team games. cartoon and celebrity role-plays (case-studies, character profiles and scenarios for role-playing appraisals, interviews, counselling, disciplinary meetings, and coaching reviews, etc) Creating or compiling case-studies, character profiles, and scenarios for role-play training exercises can be time-consuming and difficult for trainers. This is especially applicable when planning role-plays in training for appraisals, job interviewing, counselling, disciplinary meetings, coaching, etc., when it's important to get people practising and observing techniques and learned skills. Role-plays produce significant benefits for the participants and observers - and provide evidence of learning retention and comprehension - but giving people suitably interesting parts to play usually requires a lot of preparation. Even given good preparation, case-studies which are too mundane or too close to real work situations can hinder enjoyment and the necessary detachment and focus on techniques. Here's a way to generate easily and quickly lots of interesting case-study character profiles and scenarios for role-play exercises, which will also be great fun and very enjoyable to use. Instead of spending ages searching for and developing work-based case-studies, consider using well known characters and situations from the world of news, entertainment and celebrity. You can also get the group involved in thinking of suitable characters or situations they'd like to incorporate into their role-plays, for whatever work skills you are teaching or seeking to demonstrate. Certain characters are useful for different sorts of skills development role-plays. Where helpful or necessary also stipulate a situation that relates to the character. Situations related to characters are especially useful in roles-plays for disciplinary or counselling meetings, and for performance reviews, etc. Here are some character examples. You'll be able to think of many more: Superman, Lex Luthor, Batman, Catwoman, other comic book heroes and anti-heroes (for mediation roles-plays too..) George Bush, Tony Blair, Nelson Mandela, Hillary and Bill Clinton, other politicians Characters from Thunderbirds, Wacky Races , X-Men, Star Trek, etc Characters from TV Soaps; Eastenders, Coronation Street, Friends, Sex in the City, etc Characters from Sci-Fi and fantasy adventure: Dr Who, James Bond, Harry Potter, Bilbo Baggins, etc Rupert Murdoch, Clive Thompson, Richard Branson, and other notable corporate leaders in the news Cruella Deville, Snow White, Homer Simpson, other cartoon characters Tom and Jerry, Roadrunner and Wile E Coyote, (for arbitration role-plays..) Madonna, Naomi Campbell, Paul Gascoigne, OJ Simpson, and other controversial celebrity figures The world of news and entertainment is full of well-known characters and interesting situations that provide unlimited fascinating raw material for role-plays. Using iconic and famous characters enables participants to relate quickly to the personalities and broad issues. Characters and situations are instantly recognisable and instantly available for all sorts of role-play situations. Importantly, not having extensive case-study details encourages people to focus on helpful facilitative questioning and listening, and on clear expression and presentation, all of which is central to successful one-to-one communications. Using very broad and powerful characters and situations enables a strong focus on the development of communications style and techniques for both/all participants, rather than getting bogged down in technical work-based content. (If you want to work with bit more detail you can always use biographies or obituaries of famous people, which are readily available on the web.) It's also a lot more fun role-playing larger-than-life iconic characters than using detailed (and for many, boring) management case-studies. Fully detailed work-based role-plays of course have a place in the learning and development spectrum, but there are times when something quicker and more stimulating will work better. Not forgetting also the benefit for the facilitator, for whom these ideas enable role-playing activities to be organised without having to spend ages compiling and writing case-study profiles. obituaries (personal goals, visualising personal aims and potential, identifying personal potential, life values, purpose and meaning) A simple exercise to lift people out of habitual thought patterns, and to encourage deep evaluation of personal aims, values, purpose and meaning. For groups of any size. Encourage post-activity feedback, review, sharing and discussion (or not), as appropriate, depending group/teams size, facilitators and time available. Encourage and enable follow-up actions as appropriate, dependent also on the situation and people's needs. The activity is based simply on posing the question(s) to team members: "Imagine you are dead - you've lived a long and happy life - what would your obituary say?" Alternatively/additionally ask the question: "How will you want people - your family and other good folk particularly - to remember you when you've gone?" Modern day-to-day life and work for many people becomes a chaotic fog, in which personal destiny is commonly left in the hands of employers and other external factors. It is all too easy to forget that we are only on this earth once. We do not have our time again. So it is worth thinking about making the most of ourselves and what we can do, while we have the chance. Focusing on how we would want to be remembered (who and what we want to be, and what difference we have made) helps develop a fundamental aim or idea from which people can then 'work back' and begin to think about how they will get there and what needs to change in order for them to do so. Follow-up exercises can therefore focus on 'in-filling' the changes and decisions steps necessary to achieve one's ultimate personal aims. Most things are possible if we know where we want to be and then plan and do the things necessary to get there. See the various quotes posters related to life purpose and values, which can be used in support of this activity, for example: telephone chatting activities (team-building for home-based staff, telephone skills exercises, remote teams relationships) Home-based staff and remote teams miss out on the valuable social contact normally available to office-based teams. Personal interaction between staff (typically chatting and engaging in the canteen, elevator, lounge areas, etc) is crucial for developing relationships and mutual awareness among teams, so if teams do not meet frequently then the leader must devise ways to enable this personal interaction to happen. Traditional autocratic management discourages chatting between workers because it considers chatting to be a waste of time, but this misses the point. "You are paid to work not to chat or socialise in the corridor - get back to work.." is actually a very unhelpful management tactic. The truth is the better team members know each other the better the team performs. See the Johari Window model - it is a powerful explanation of the value of increasing mutual awareness, and why mutual awareness is central to effective teams and team building. Within reason, people need to be given every opportunity to get to know each other, and chatting achieves this very well. Chatting develops mutual awareness, and it also helps people feel included and valued. Conversely, if you deny people the chance to engage personally with their colleagues you starve them of interaction that is essential for well-being and life balance. The internet increasingly enables people to connect through 'groups' and 'social networking' websites, but for many remote or home-based work teams a simple telephone-based alternative can provide an easier more natural process, moreover using the telephone - even for chatting - helps improve telephone skills, especially listening. A simple way to achieve this double benefit of team development and skills improvement among remote teams is to encourage telephone chatting (within reason of course) between team members. Here are some ideas for doing this: Introduce a compulsory 15 minutes telephone chat-time which each team member must have with every other team member every week. Give no subject or aim other than having a good chat and getting to know the other person. Introduce a rota or matrix for inter-team chat telephone appointments - timings to suit workloads - again with no aims other than to have a chat and learn something about each other. Introduce a virtual team tea-break or virtual visit to the pub - everyone is in fact by their phone in their own homes or offices (with a cup of tea or a tumbler of what does you good) connected a suitable via telephone conference call - and the tone and spirit of the discussion must be as if the team were gathered around a table in the canteen or at the local pub. There are no aims or intended outcomes aside from having a good chat and getting to know each other better. When people are connecting more regularly and the telephone chats are up and running, maybe try introducing a few discussion subjects - not necessarily about work - anything to get people talking and understanding each other better. Maybe ask the team to suggest topics too, and then see where the team wants to take things. Encouraging and enabling chatting between team members improves telephone communications skills since it involves using the telephone to develop understanding, mutual awareness, empathy and relationships between people. Skills development becomes sharper still if activities are adapted for 'conference' calls connecting several people. Communications skills are placed under greater pressure when the voice is the only medium, which obviously tends to develop people's listening abilities. businessballs quickies (ice-breakers, thought-provokers, ideas you can develop into all sorts of activities) These are quickies in the sense that they are quick for me to explain and for you to understand the basic ideas. What you do with them is up to you. Of course the development of these ideas could also be team exercises in their own right. Have fun. quickie 1 - marbles Take a few bags of marbles into the session. They are inexpensive, extremely evocative and nostalgic, beautiful and can be used for all sorts of exercises, aside from simply organising a quick knock-out competition (in which case be sure to brainstorm and agree the rules first with everyone..) quickie 2 - ultimate sandwiches Provide various loaves of bread, butter, margarine, and various (adventurous) fillings, plus bread-knives and wipes. Competition to make the ultimate sandwich. Variations extend to sending delegates out at lunchtime to buy their own ingredients for the ultimate sandwich challenge. Group tasting and voting as appropriate. Be adventurous with fillings and if appropriate enforce penalties and forfeits for anything you could buy in a sandwich bar. Bonus points for anything including anchovies, capers, etc. Could you patent a sandwich? What sandwich would be most or least profitable? Consider production, packaging and distribution too. Correlations between sandwiches and types of people (makers and eaters)? Brand your ultimate sandwich. How would you market and promote your sandwich? How would you extend your successful sandwich business?.. Fancy rolls/cobs/batches/baps? (any other names incidentally for a bread roll?), pot noodles? restaurants, delivery? Market sectors? Range diversification? Pies, pasties, soup in the basket?.. quickie 3 - papier mache Papier mache, for those who never paid attention at infant school, is newspaper strips and flour paste glue, which is a wonderful modelling material, for small and large constructions, especially with a few tubs of Vaseline (petroleum jelly) as a release agent (if using moulds) and maybe some chicken wire from the local DIY store for making base structures. Painting is optional if you have time for constructions to dry and work on another day. For ideas see papiermache.co.uk . Revisit all the construction exercises you know and consider how they might work with papier mache. Aprons are advisable. quickie 4 - conkers Beyond September/October you might have some left over in drawers that the kids aren't interested in any more. A knock-out championship is the obvious activity, but like marbles they are beautiful and will prompt lots of thoughts, memories, feelings etc., which can be used to address all sorts of issues - environment, cultural diversity, technique, quality, ageism, etc. (Conkers of course get better with age, not vinegar, which just makes them smelly and soggy..) quickie 5 - sweeties Buy a few chocolate bars and tubes of sweets - one or two of the main varieties - and see how the groups responds to them. Why do we each have our favourites? What correlation is there between favourite chocolate bar and personality? Is there a class thing going on? Is there a gender thing? Cultural diversity and team correlations or analogies? What are the brilliant marketing and packaging successes and abject failures? Does anyone in the world like the new Smarties packaging? Bring back the tube I say. The possibilities are endless. quickie 6 - breakfast cereals Another visit to the supermarket, or task the delegates to go shopping at lunch-time for the cereals (according to whatever rules you state) and report back on their service and marketing experiences and observations. Same sort of activities and discussions as above basically. Milk, sugar, spoons and bowls are optional. Who prefers it straight out of the box dry? Anyone prefer water on their cornflakes? Salt and sugar debate, linked to marketing and social responsibility issues? How old is Tony the Tiger? What's the best thing you ever had free from a cereal box? What's the greatest example of added value? Which actually tastes the best and can we predict what your team members will like and dislike? Are the adverts grreeeeaaat or are they a load of rubbish? Can we see similarities in the style and feel of products from the same organisation? Which brands are more likely to succeed globally and which will need re-branding? quickie 7 - groups Essentially this is an activity for the group to organise itself into sub-groups according to the categories you state. People should have space to move around, and materials to create simple signs (for sub-group names). It's up to the group to establish the sub-group sections, which many people will find very challenging - they have to create the structure from nothing and then fit themselves into it. The facilitator can stipulate minimum and maximum sub-group sizes, which obviously increases or reduces challenge of deciding the sub-group structures. Here are some examples of subject categories. These are daft, but daft is thought-provoking, fun, and a great leveller, which makes the topics helpful for relating to each other in ways that are completely removed from usual work or social groupings: preferred washing-up or vacuuming or decorating or gardening methods favourite type of TV or show or entertainment leader role model dream car preferred retirement age Points to review after several group organisation phases would be for example: what did you think when you saw different people in different sub-groups? Who surprised you in their choices? Who was predictable and unpredictable? How did people's behaviour change in according to the different group categories? Who has knowledge or expertise or passion about something that we didn't realise before? quickie 8 - playground visit Take people to a local kids playground and mess around on the swings and roundabouts, etc. Try not to get into trouble with the local authority. Find a location without an upper age limit ideally. Preferable go when the kids are at school. Playgrounds help people get in touch with feelings and imagination that gets buried and hidden at work. And it's fun. visualisation exercises (identifying unique personal potential, careers and direction, lifting limits) A simple exercise with deep meaning, for any group size subject to appointing discussion leaders if appropriate. Review is optional. Thoughts can be shared and discussed or kept private; the type of review and follow-up depends on the situation. The purpose of the exercise is to encourage and enable people to think creatively and imaginatively about their direction and potential. As such it is particularly appropriate for people who are in a routine that is not of their choosing, or who lack confidence, or who need help visualising who they can be and what they can do. Ask people to imagine they are 18 years old and have just received a great set of exam results that gives them a free choice to study for a degree or qualification at any university or college, anywhere in the world. They also have a grant which will pay for all their fees. No loans, no debts, no pre-conditions. So the question is, given such a free choice, what would you study? Put another way, what would you love to spend a year or two or three years becoming brilliant at? For older people emphasise that they can keep all the benefit of all their accumulated knowledge and experience. They can even create their own degree course to fit exactly what they want to do. The important thing is for people to visualise and consider what they would do if they have a free choice. And then either during the review discussion and sharing of ideas, or in closing the exercise, make the following point: You have just visualised something that is hugely important to you. You are (depending on your religious standpoint) only here on this earth once. You will not come back again and have another go. So what's actually stopping you from pursuing your dreams? In almost all cases the obstacles will be self-imposed. Of course it's not always easy to do the things we want to do. But most things are possible - and you don't need to go to university for three years to start to become who you want to be and to follow a new direction. It starts with a realisation that our future is in our own hands. We ourselves - not anyone or anything else - determine whether we follow and achieve our passions and potential, or instead regret never trying. (Additional stimulus and ideas can be provided for the group in the form of university and college course listings or examples, although people should be encouraged to imagine their own subjects. Anything is possible. See also the Fantasticat concept.) team skipping (teamwork, team-building, warm-ups, outdoor activities) These team skipping activities are for groups of ten people or more, ideally twenty or larger, up to very large groups of a hundred or two hundred people. Split the group into teams of five to ten team members - 8-10 is ideal - or bigger teams if you fancy being more adventurous. Issue each team with a length of rope six metres long, or longer if you want to work with larger teams. The rope should be suitable for skipping, about 1cm wide, typically available from DIY and hardware stores. As ever practise and test any untried elements before selecting activities and materials for the actual event or session. The task for the teams is to perform a routine or series of skipping exercises in teams (like children's playground games, with two team members holding the rope, one at each end obviously). Instruct and demonstrate the rope twirling correctly, so that the skipping rope just touches the floor on each downward part of the twirl. Twirling too fast or too high can be dangerous and is punishable by detention or a visit to the head-teacher's office.. The rope holders will create a safer wider higher area of clearance for their team's jumpers by using their arms, not just wrists, to create big circles when twirling the rope. Ensure everyone in the teams has a chance to practise the rope twirling if the intention is to rotate this responsibility during the routines, which will add useful variety and change. Teams can perform simultaneously or one after the other depending on the situation, as planned by the session facilitator, although activities like this are far more dynamic and exciting if everyone is involved at the same time. If you wish you can arrange individual team displays or 'jump-offs' at the end of the activity, which will enable voting and judging by all participants. As implied, voting or judging the best teams and team members can be included in the activity depending on the situation. You can create different prize categories to ensure there are a number of different opportunities for teams and participants to excel in their own way (style, technique, duration, most spectacular rope tangle, most awkward director, overall best skipper, most reliable steady twirlers, best team rhythm, etc, etc.) Music can also be used to add to the atmosphere, in which case be aware of the effect of the music beat on the skipping speed. Encourage team members when not skipping themselves to coach and support those skipping at the time. It is the responsibility of the facilitator(s) to oversee the skipping speeds to ensure teams keep to sensible and safe rhythms. Be mindful of age and health issues, and structure the activities accordingly, for example allowing those who prefer not to skip to be twirlers or coaches or judges. Be mindful also of general health and safety and insurance issues, and where appropriate (especially if you are external provider) ask participants to sign a disclaimer. If using the activities indoors ensure the floor is carpeted or that sponge gym mats are used to cover the skipping areas. If using the exercise outside use a grassed area rather than a car-park. Under no circumstances force anyone to take part. This sort of physical activity must always be voluntary, and also must be appropriate for the group. Warn participants not to jump in high heels (not just the men, the ladies too..) If you really want to use this exercise but are unable or unwilling to risk the rope then consider running the exercise without the rope. Instruct the teams to use an imaginary rope. It might sound a daft idea, but it will get people thinking, moving and jumping about, and working in teams. And it's completely safe. Here are some examples of skipping instructions, which can be issued in advance, or called out during the activity by the facilitator. Plan instructions that are appropriate for the type of group. Variation to instructions can be increased by asking the teams to give a number to each team member. You should clarify the instruction terminology before the exercise begins. Terminology suggestions (adapt according to preferences): skipping zone = the floor area above which the rope is twirling, between the two rope holders step in = enter the skipping zone and start jumping, preferably over the rope at each revolution step out = exit the skipping zone, preferably without getting caught by the rope twirler = a rope-holding team member responsible for twirling the skipping rope These skipping instructions examples are based on a team size of 8-10 people but in principle they'll work with larger or smaller teams. Be creative and imaginative. There are no bounds to the silliness, subject to safety and the group's sense of humour and fun: step in/out boys/girls/all/bosses/directors/team-member1/2/3/whatever change one/both twirlers (while skipping continues) clap/chant/count/sing along to the music/whatever in time with skipping rhythm boys remove ties while skipping girls put make-up on the boys while all skipping make a mobile phone call to a loved one/colleague while skipping you get the idea.. More chaotically challenging variation and team inter-action can be introduced by instructing team members to join or swap team members with other teams. This obviously changes the competitive team dynamic into one of whole group interaction and cooperation. To do this you will need to clearly identify each team. Again, using humour and imagination makes more fun. Examples of a 'whole group' instructions: All teams to synchronise their skipping rhythm so the whole group is skipping 'as one'. All teams maintain at least one/two/three jumpers, while the whole group re-organises into (balanced) teams according to categories specified by the facilitator, for example: boys/girls; job type; length of service; personality type; favourite food; etc, etc. (The facilitator must prepare and list the categories within these broad category headings, for example personality type could offer the categories of reliable-dependable, intuitive-creative, critical-thinking, warm-friendly.) Each team develop into their own actual or virtual team by swapping team members with other teams and then develop their own distinct skipping pattern/sequence/style/performance which reflects their actual or virtual team role in the whole group/organisation (which can be performed and judged at the end of the activity). isolation and intuition team exercises (relationships, bullying and harassment, diversity, intuitive demonstrations) Here are two simple ideas for groups which can each be developed and adapted to suit local situations. Split very large groups into teams of ten to twenty people. exercise 1 - isolation The task demonstrates the feelings that a person experiences when isolated or subject to victimisation, group rejection, etc. As such it supports the teaching of positive human interaction principles, and laws relating to equality, diversity and harassment. Ask the team(s) to nominate a person among each team to be the 'victim', who must then stand away from the rest of the team, while the team members stare and sneer at the unfortunate isolated 'victim'. For very grown-up people you can allow mild criticism directed at the 'victim' (nothing too upsetting or personal please). In any event be careful, and do you best to ensure that the first 'victim' is not the most vulnerable member of the team. Preferably it should be the most confident or senior member, and better still the team's boss. Ensure every team member that wishes to is able to experience being the victim. The review should focus on how 'victims' felt while isolated and being subjected to the staring or worse by the rest of the team. The exercise demonstrates the power of group animosity towards isolated individuals. If appropriate and helpful you can of course end the activity with a big group hug to show that everyone is actually still friends. (Hugging incidentally demonstrates well the power of relationships at the positive end of the scale of human interaction and behaviour. See the Love and Spirituality at Work section for more supporting background to this subject.) exercise 2 - intuition Aside from the lessons from exercise 1 relating to victimisation, the above activity also highlights the significance of intuitive feelings, which although difficult to measure and articulate, are extremely significant in relationships, teams and organisations. This next exercise augments the first one to further illustrate the power of intuition and feelings that resides in each of us. Using the same or similar team(s) in terms of size, then split the team(s) into two halves. One half of the team (called 'the watched') should stand facing a wall unable to see the other half of the team (called 'the watchers') which should stand together, several or many yards away from 'the watched'. The watchers then decide among themselves which person to stare at in 'the watched' half of the team (for say 30 seconds per 'target' person). The watchers can change whom they stare at and if so should make rough notes about timings for the review. After an initial review you can change the sides to ensure everyone experiences watching and being watched. Of course 'the watched' half of the team won't know which one is being stared at... or will they? In the reviews you will find out if any of 'the watched' people were able to tell intuitively who was being stared at, even though 'the watchers' were out of sight. Also discuss generally how 'the watched' and 'the watchers' felt, such as sensations of discomfort or disadvantage among 'the watched', and perhaps opposite feelings among the watchers, all of which can support learning about relationships and human interaction. For review also is the possibility that some people in the teams are more receptive and interested in the activity than others, which invites debate about whether some people are more naturally intuitive than others, which is generally believed to be so, and the implications of preferences either way. Experiments (and many people's own experience) indicate that many people have an instinctive or intuitive sense of being watched, and although there is no guarantee that your own activities will produce clear and remarkable scientific results, the exercise will prompt interesting feelings, discussion and an unusual diversion into the subject of intuitive powers. age diversity exercises for teams (age discrimination training, ageism awareness, diversity development) With the introduction of Age Discrimination legislation (UK 2006, superceded 2010, and consistent with European law), there is an increased need to raise awareness and to train people about ageism and age discrimination. Here are some ideas for activities and exercises which will highlight the issues. See the related notes about Age Discrimination and Equality including rules explaining certain allowable discrimination subject to robust evidence that it is proportionate, reasonable and legitimate. Organise teams and discussions according to your situation. Here are four separate ideas which can be used for exercises and team games. 1. Under age discrimination legislation many customary expressions in written and spoken communications are potentially unlawful if they refer to a person's age (any age - not only older people) in a negative way, and/or which could cause a person to feel they are being harassed or discriminated against. Under the law, individuals are liable (for harassment claims) as well as employers' wider responsibilities regarding discrimination, harassment and retirement. Some very common expressions are potentially discriminatory or harassing if directed at someone at work. Ask people to think of examples - there are lots of them, such as: Teach an old dog new tricks An old head on young shoulders Mature beyond his/her years Put out to grass or pasture Dead man's shoes Too young/Not old enough/Not mature enough 2. Direct age discrimination means treating a person at work less favourably because of their age. Indirect discrimination is more difficult to identify and guard against than direct discrimination, and it is equally unlawful. Indirect discrimination is where policies, criteria, processes, activities, practices, rules or systems create a disadvantage for someone because of their age. These pitfalls can be less easy to identify and eliminate than directly discriminatory behaviour. Ask delegates to think of examples of potential indirect discrimination with your own organisation or within other (real or hypothetical) organisations, and/or based on past experience. Here are some examples - there are lots more: job or person profiles or adverts (and advertising media) which stipulate or imply an age requirement application or assessment documentation which includes reference to age or date of birth training or job selection criteria, attitudes, expectations which differentiate according to age job promotion decisions and attitudes pay and grades and benefits policies holiday entitlement and freedoms social activities and clubs which have or imply age restrictions office and work-place traditions of who should do the tea-making, errands and menial tasks organisational and departmental culture, extending to jokes and banter 3. Age diversity (as other sorts of diversity) offers advantages and benefits to all organisations and employers, especially where a diverse range of people-related capabilities is a clear organisational and/or competitive strength. This is particularly so in all service businesses. In all organisations, age diversity (as other sorts of diversity) is very helpful for management teams, which benefit from having a range and depth of skills, and a broad mix of experience, maturity, and different perspectives, from youngest to oldest. Diversity in organisations relates strongly to the immensely powerful 1st Law of Cybernetics . Ask people to suggest specific benefits which age (or any other) diversity brings to organisations. This helps focus on the advantages of encouraging diversity, aside from simply complying with the legislation. Here are some examples - there are lots more: Diverse organisations can engage well with diverse customer groups, markets, suppliers, etc Diversity in management teams can more easily engage with a diverse workforce A diverse workforce has a fuller appreciation of market needs and trends Diverse organisations have more answers to more questions than those which lack diversity Diversity enables flexibility and adaptability - diversity has more responses available to it than narrowly defined systems (Cybernetics again..) Age Diversity in an organisation collectively understands the past, the present and the future Age diversity naturally enables succession and mentoring Age diversity in management helps executives stay in touch with the whole organisation; helps keep feet on the ground (as opposed to heads in the clouds or up somewhere unmentionable) Full diversity in an organisation collectively understands the world, whereas a non-diverse system by its own nature only has a limited view. N.B. Beware of promoting age diversity by suggesting particular correlations between age and capability, which can in itself be discriminatory. For example it is not right to say that only older people have maturity and wisdom, nor that only younger people have energy and vitality. Instead make the point that by having a mixture of people and ages, an organisation is far more likely to be able to meet the diverse demands of managing itself, and engaging successfully with the outside world, compared to an organisation which lacks diversity. 4. If you do not already have an equality policy (stating the organisation's position relating to all aspects of equality and discrimination) why not start the creative process with a brainstorm session about what it should contain. Incidentally the term 'brainstorming' is not normally considered to be a discriminatory or disrespectful term, just in case anyone asks... Ask the team(s) or group to list your own or other typical major organisational processes (inwardly and outwardly directed, for instance recruitment, training and development, customer and supplier relationships, etc) and how each might be described so as to ensure equality and to avoid wrongful discrimination. Alternatively ask people individually or the team(s) to prepare or research (in advance of the session, or during it if you have sufficient internet connections) examples of other organisations' equality policies, with a view then to suggesting and discussing as a group all of the relevant aspects which could for used for your own situation.   We all, irrespective of age, race, religion, gender, disability, etc., have our own special capabilities and strengths, and it is these capabilities and strengths that good organisations must seek to identify, assess, encourage and utilise, regardless of age or other potentially discriminatory factors. See Equality . shot at dawn discussion (organisational morality, leadership styles and integrity, decision-making, humanity versus efficiency) This is a big emotional subject which enables a variety of discussions about morality, ethics, integrity, leadership styles, policies and decision-making in institutions and organisations, and the wider world. It also provides a stimulating basis for exploring ethics versus autocracy, and for examining the balance in organisations and cultures between humanity and efficiency. Organise the team(s) and debating activities to suit the audience and context. This can include debating, presenting, role-playing, brainstorming, listing and mapping key factors - anything that fits your aims and will be of interest and value to people. The subject also provides a thought-provoking warm-up discussion for any session dealing with ethics, morality, compassion, leadership, decision-making, and organisational culture, etc. Read and/or issue the notes about the Shot At Dawn pardons , which were announced by the British government on 16 August 2006, relating to British soldiers shot by firing squad for 'cowardice' and 'desertion' in the 1st World War. The 'Shot At Dawn' story represents a 90 year campaign to secure posthumous pardons for over 300 soldiers shot by firing squad in 1914-18 when it was known then, and certainly in recent decades, that most of these men were suffering from shell-shock and mental illness. The human perspective is obviously considerable, including the institutional position up to the August 2006 announcement. The story of the Shot At Dawn campaign and its historical background prompts discussion about some fundamental modern issues relating to organisational management, ethical leadership, and wider issues of cultural behaviour, for example (see the organisational perspectives below too): leadership styles - morality-centred versus results-centred (and any other leadership styles models people care to explore) leadership integrity and ethics policy-making methods, purposes and reviews decision-making influences and reference points decision-making pressures which cloud judgement morality and compassion in institutions and organisations - versus the need to maintain controls and systems the growing responsibility and opportunity for ordinary people to hold leaders to account for humanitarian and ethical conduct why did it take successive UK governments much longer than any other nation to begin to reconcile this issue? why is this issue being resolved now and not twenty or fifty years ago? The different organisational perspectives together provide a stimulating way to look at organisational dynamics, systems, and relationships, etc: the army and leaders of the time who saw the need to implement the policy to execute soldiers the politicians and institutional system which until recently refused to acknowledge the injustice of the executions and the avoidance of the truth the campaign dimensions, and how the modern world enables increasing transparency of ethical issues When looking at the issues people will also see meanings and relevance in their own terms, and as such discussion can help personal and mutual discovery and awareness. There are also many parallels with modern issues of organisational ethics and social responsibility , because at the heart of the issue lie the forces of humanity and efficiency, which to a lesser or greater extent we all constantly strive to reconcile. N.B. People will not necessarily all agree a similar interpretation of the First World War pardons. This makes it a particularly interesting subject for debate, especially in transferring the issues and principles and lessons to modern challenges in organisations, and the world beyond. corporate globalization debate exercise ideas (exploring: corporate globalization issues, corporate response to the debate, and the internet as a powerful force for awareness, challenge and change) Whether you agree with the sentiments or not, this performance by Lizzie West is an immensely powerful comment about corporate globalisation. The nature of its availability and potential 'reach' (an advertising expression for exposure) also illustrates the awesome potency of the internet. Maybe start your next meeting or training session with this and discuss or arrange an organised debate about the issues involved, whatever your perspective. Free live music download: - Lizzie West performing 'Little Boxes' at The Cutting Room in NYC 27 July 2006 Please ensure that when you use this you credit Lizzie West and mention her website as the source: www.lizziewestlife.com. Here are some ideas for exercises to use with this for developing good awareness and outcomes related to globalisation, and particularly corporate globlisation issues: Define 'globalisation' (or 'globalization' - either is correct) - there is no single answer, eg: www.globalisationguide.org What is corporate globalisation? Is it a feature of globalisation or a driver of it? What are the other drivers of globalisation and/or corporate globalisation? Is globalisation and/or corporate globalisation a good thing or a bad thing? Give examples of each. Is our company or organisation an example of good globalisation or not so good globalisation? Name some examples of good organisations on the context of globalisation, and some not so good ones, and say why. What can individual employees and teams do to ensure that the organisation is regarded as a positive effect on globalisation and not a negative one? How does globalisation relate to ethical business, the 'Triple Bottom Line', Fairtrade, etc? How do customers perceive globalisation - what's good about it and what's not good about it? How does globalisation relate to customer service and retention? What are the environmental impacts and potential advantages in globalisation? Which are the subjective (matter of opinion) aspects of globalisation, and which are the clear indisputable good and bad points? What would be a good three or five-point plan for an organisation to use globalisation for good, rather than risk damage and harm? inspirational speech exercises (public speaking, presentation skills, motivation, inspirational leadership) This is a simple idea for a group of between five and around a dozen delegates. Split larger groups into teams and appoint team-leaders. Ask people to select in advance a great speech, verse, piece of poetry, news report, etc., to deliver to the team or group. The chosen piece can be anything that each delegate finds inspiring and powerful, for example Nelson Mandela's inauguration speech, Martin Luther King's speeches about civil rights, The St Crispin's speech from Shakespeare's Henry V, or maybe lyrics from a pop song - really anything that the delegates find personally exciting and interesting. Ask the team members to give their speeches in turn to the group, injecting as much personal style and passion as they can. Then review with the team the notable aspects of each performance, the effect on the speaker, the audience, etc. Preparation in advance by the delegates is optional and in some situations recommended for presentation skills and public speaking courses. Facilitate accordingly. Obviously where delegates are not able to prepare then the facilitator instead needs to prepare several suitable pieces for team members to choose from or select at random. Or to keep matters very simple the facilitator can select just one speech or other literary work for all of the delegates to deliver, in which case encourage and review the different interpretations. A different twist to the exercise is to select a piece or pieces that would not normally be delivered passionately to an audience, such as the instructions from the packaging of a household cleaner or a boil-in-the-bag meal. Encourage people to team members to stretch and project themselves through their performances. If helpful, brainstorm with the group before hand the various elements of an effective speech. If appropriate and helpful organise lectern or suitable stand for the speaker to place their notes on while speaking. Interestingly this exercise works well with several speeches being given to their respective teams in the same room at the same time, which actually adds to general atmosphere and the need for speakers to concentrate and take command of their performance and their own audience. This is a flexible activity - adapt it to suit your situation. For young people particularly give a lot of freedom as to their chosen pieces - the point of the exercise is the speaking and the passion; the actual content in most cases is a secondary issue. See also the presentations page , and bear in mind that many people will find this activity quite challenging. A way to introduce a nervous group to the activity is to have them practise their speeches in pairs (all at the same time - it aids concentration and focus and relieves the pressure) before exposing delegates to the challenge of speaking to the whole team or group. corporation life-cycle exercise (understanding organisational dynamics, corporate maturity and development; market development, organisational systems) This is a simple and flexible activity for groups and teams of any size. Split the group into working teams or pairs and decide the presentation or discussion format, which can be anything to suit your situation. Alternatively run the exercise as one big brainstorming session. First introduce to the delegates the Adizes Corporate Life Cycle model . Then ask the delegates or teams for real company examples of each stage, from team members' own experiences, or their knowledge of their market place, or the general economic landscape, or from a few business pages of newspapers or trade journals (which you can provide as reference materials for the activity). This exercise prompts a lot of thinking and useful debate about the differing 'organisational maturity' found across different types of organisations. This is helpful for understanding how to deal with corporations from a selling viewpoint, and is also useful in providing a perspective of organisational culture for management and supervisory training. The exercise can be extended into (for example): exploring different selling strategies required for different life-cycle stage corporate prospects, or examining different management styles and behavioural issues and challenges within corporations of different life-cycle stage interpreting the delegates' own organisation and divisions in terms of the life-cycle stages, and discussing the implications for working styles, attitudes, need for change, etc. The theme overlaps with the Tuckman model of team and group development, which is a further useful reference point, especially for management development and training, and particularly if extending the discussion to the maturity of departments and teams. world cup/major event 'learning parallels' exercises (strategy skills and understanding global marketing, debating, presentation, and for ice-breakers and warm-up sessions) This sort of activity is handy following any major popular event, such as a sport tournament of entertainment. When people are preoccupied and discussing a popular news story of the moment, harness the interest for development ideas. 'Learning parallels' exist everywhere - use them for explaining and developing understanding about work and organisations. For example, many people will probably be fed up with the World Cup by now, but for delegates at meetings and training sessions who still want to pick over the bones of what happened in Germany, and/or the wider effects of football on life in general, here are some suggested activities which might reap a few positive learning outcomes. There are many parallels between football and business, management, strategy, life, etc., after all football is arguably more of a business than a sport (which might be the subject of a team debate, aside from these other ideas): Activity 1 - Split the group into pairs and give each pair five minutes to prepare a list of five strategic changes for the improvement of football as a sport and business, as if it were a product development or business development project. For example how about changing the rules, because they've essentially not been altered since the game was invented. What about increasing the size of the goal, or reducing the number of players on the pitch? You'll get no agreement of course, but it will get people talking. Activity 2 - Split the group into teams of three and ask each team to prepare and present a critique of the management style and methods of the FA and head coach (Sven) in the last four years, with suggestions as to how things might have been done differently and better by the FA and the head coach. What lessons of management and strategy might we draw from this? Activity 3 - For an open debate or as a team presentation exercise, ask the question: What cultural/social/economic factors influence the success of a nation's football team, and what do these things tell us about fundamental trends of national economic and business performance on a global level? Activity 4 - Split the group into two teams. One side must prepare and argue the motion for and the other the motion against. The facilitator must chair proceedings or appoint a responsible person. Each side has five minutes to prepare, and five minutes to present its case. Then allow five minutes for debate, and then have a vote. The motion is: "Football would be a better game and globally would be more sustainable and appealing if FIFA were run by women rather than men." (Alternative motion: "England would have done better at the World Cup if the FA was run by women rather than men.") See also the football quiz questions and answers . The concepts above are not restricted to football - they are transferable to any popular events that enthuse and interest people - it just takes a little imagination to translate the themes and names for the event concerned and relate them to 'learning parallels' found in work and organisations. newsdesk broadcast exercise (team building, global team building, inter-departmental development, cultural diversity and understanding, video conferencing) This is a simple activity for developing global teams. The activity requires video conferencing facilities. For groups of any size, and any number of teams, although the more teams, the less time should be allowed for broadcasts, so as to avoid people having to sit watching for long periods. The exercise simply requires the teams to use the video conferencing equipment to create and 'broadcast' their own 'newsdesk report/magazine TV program, to be 'broadcast' to the other office(s). The teams' newsdesk broadcasts can be given to each other in rotation during the same session, or at different times, depending on staff availability and logistics issues. Broadcasts can include guest interviews, update reports, personalities and highlights, plans and forecasts, profiles, etc, even adverts and sponsor slots - anything that might be included in a newsletter/company magazine. Teams need to be given suitable time for planning and preparation and rehearsal. The teams' aims are to impress the other viewing departments or locations with the quality, content, professionalism and entertainment contained in the newsdesk broadcast. The them can be decided by the teams or facilitator(s) as appropriate. Timings for preparation and delivery are also flexible. Each team can appoint presenters, producer, directors, make-up staff, technical staff (camera, props, etc), researchers, special correspondents, advertisers and sponsors, etc. Broadcasts can also be recorded for other staff to enjoy at later times. Consideration can also be given to broadcasting to other staff via personal computers using more advanced communications technology if available. In some respects this concept extends the traditional ideas of team-briefing , and can easily be tailored to incorporate team-briefing principles. The 'Newsdesk Exercise' also adapts easily for conferences, particularly for international and global teams who seek to develop mutual understanding and awareness of each others issues, aims, personalities, etc. baking foil modelling games (team-building, warm-ups, mutual understanding, expression of ideas, johari window development, and fun for kids activities) This is not so much a game but a concept that can be used and adapted for all sorts of activities and exercises, ice-breakers, warm-ups. the ideas are also great for young people and school children. Aluminium baking foil is a wonderful material for model-making. A horse is quite easy. Here's one we made earlier... Baking foil is clean, looks great when put on display, and is very easy to clear up. Most people will never have tried using it before, so it's very new and interesting and stimulating. Aside from the ideas below, you can use baking foil for any exercise that you might use newspapers for, especially construction exercise like towers and bridges, etc. Baking foil is also very inexpensive and easy to prepare in advance and to issue to teams and groups. a symbolic interpretation of a SWOT analysis or PEST analysis Using a clean flexible new material like baking foil to express ideas is extremely liberating in today's world when people are so restricted and confined by PC's and computer screens. God help us all when flip-charts disappear, or when we have to work on tiny little hand-held devices to create and express new ideas and solutions. The world is becoming more complex and more challenging. The concepts that people need to grasp and address are multi-faceted and multi-dimensional. It helps therefore to work sometimes with an exciting medium, daft as it sounds, like baking foil, to free-up people's thinking and imagination. See also the organisational modelling exercise on the other team-building page for more ideas about using models to express ideas about organisational shape and structure and culture, etc. triple bottom line game (understanding TBL - profit people planet - implications, developing ethical teams and organisations) With the obvious rising interest in and awareness of modern 'ethical' organisations issues (at last), it's helpful for all organisations to bring TBL-type thinking to life in team activities. Here's a simple exercise to do it: The activity (which can also be used for more structured workshops ) is for groups of any size although large groups of more than twenty people will need splitting into several teams with facilitators/spokes-people/presenters appointed, and extra thought needs to be given to the review/presentation stage to review and collect all the ideas and agree follow-up actions. Split the group into debating teams of 3-7 people. (The larger the whole group, the larger the debating teams should be.) Each team's task is to identify three great new team or department initiatives - one for each of the Triple Bottom Line areas, namely, Profit, People, Planet. Give some thought to team mix - if helpful refer to the Belbin model or Gardner's Multiple Intelligences inventory - it's useful for all teams to have a balance of people who collectively can reconcile ideals with practicalities. If necessary set the scene with a brainstorm or group discussion about what ethics and the Triple Bottom Line (profit people planet) actually means to people, staff, customers, and its significance for the organisation/industry sector concerned. Initiatives must be SMART (in this case SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). Each of the initiatives must focus on one of the Triple Bottom Line areas (profit, people, planet), and at the same time must support the other two TBL areas. For example, a profit initiative must not undermine people or planet. A planet initiative must not undermine profit or people. And most certainly a profit initiative must not undermine people or planet. When we say 'not undermine profit', let's be clear that many ethical intitiatves can reduce profit, especially if the profit was being achieved by doing harm or damage somewhere, and the initiative seeks to correct this. The extent to which profit is affected by ethical initiatives is a matter for discussion and consideration of the wider and long-term view. Within this view are the wider benefits achieved by improving the ethical behaviour of the organisation, which ultimately will improve profits far more than ignoring ethical issues. Instead of looking at loss of profit, think about the risks associated with ignoring the ethical issues, which generally dwarf short-term costs of ethical initiatives. For example, what's the point in sticking with exploitative third-world manufacturing if the consequence of doing so means in the future there'll be no customers prepared to buy the manufactured product? Teams have between 20 and 40 minutes (facilitator decides beforehand) to develop their ideas, and presentations, depending on time available. Presentations can be in any format to suit the timescales, numbers of teams and delegates, and the emphasis given to the TBL theme. Allocate time for presentations to suit the situation, numbers and timescales. David Cameron is entirely correct (and very clever) in identifying that the ' zeitgeist ' (feeling of the times) is for more meaning, humanity and corporate responsibility in work and organisations; the question is how to make it happen. This exercise begins to address the practicalities. Otherwise it's all talk. As with any ideas session or activities always ensure that there is follow-up, and seek agreement for this with the relevant powers before raising hopes and seeking input of people and teams. Follow-up can be for a limited number of initiatives that all delegates vote on at the end of the presentations, or you can agree follow-up actions on a team-by-team basis, depending on levels of enthusiasm, quality of ideas, workload, and perceived organisational benefit. This activity links with the spirit of the development forum gameshow activity , which particularly addresses the people and well-being aspect of the triple bottom line philosophy. jigsaw puzzle game/team puzzle race exercises (team-building, illustrating teamwork, team problem-solving, lateral thinking, etc) For groups of 8-100 people, even more with suitable adaptation - this is a very adaptable game. Divide the group into a number of teams. Give each team some pieces of a jigsaw puzzle and instruct them to assemble the puzzle as quickly as possible. Ensure each team's pieces appear initially as though they could be an entire puzzle in their own right. Say, "The task of each team is to assemble the puzzle as quickly as possible. Each team has the same puzzle. No further instructions will be given," (other than options explained below; the point is for teams to resolve the exercise for themselves working together in teams, not by asking the facilitator). The teams will assume they are competing against each other, but in fact there is only one jigsaw puzzle, and the pieces are shared out among the teams. If the teams are in the same room they soon find out, and begin to cooperate. If they are in different rooms the realisation takes a little longer, but eventually the teams understand that the pieces are held by all the teams and the only way to do the puzzle is to work together. The facilitator's preparation for this exercise is there therefore to obtain or create a jigsaw puzzle whose complexity and number of pieces are appropriate for the group numbers and time available for the activity. Ensure there are sufficient pieces to occupy the total number of team members, and obviously each team needs a suitably sizes table or floorspace to work on, so that all team members can be involved. Larger teams (upwards of five people) will be additionally challenged in areas of team organisation and 'work allocation' to ensure everyone is involved. The exercise can be made easier and quicker for the teams by describing or giving clues as to the shape or image on the puzzle, for example, (if using the template below) "It's a square," or "It's a geometric shape," etc., as appropriate. Offering a prize in the event that the puzzle is completed within a timescale of say 10 minutes (or during the session, day, whatever, depending on the situation), adds extra interest. The prize is obviously given to the whole group, so be mindful of the budget... Use these words or similar: "In the event that the puzzle is completed (within...) a prize will be awarded," rather than referring to 'the winning team," which is not technically correct, because the activity is one of cooperation not competition. Exercises based on this theme demonstrate that all the people and all the teams make up the whole, and no team or individual can do it alone. Ideally you need to have a space somewhere that the puzzle can be kept and worked on during tea-breaks, should the activity over-run the initial time-slot. This is not a problem - people will continue to work on it during the day/session, and the ongoing activity and assembled puzzle serve as a constant reminder to team members of the theme of cooperation and teamwork, so don't worry (and explain this to the group once they've started cooperating) if the puzzle is not completed in the time initially allotted. Here is a jigsaw puzzle pattern (in MSWord) and separately as a pdf . This puzzle is for groups of, for example, twenty people split into five teams of four. The puzzle needs to be significantly enlarged - at least five to ten times bigger - for best effect, so that it's visible and usable for lots of people, and makes a big impact. The more teams and players, the bigger the enlargement is required (and the more pieces - achieved by drawing and cutting more lines). The jigsaw pattern artwork needs to be taken to a decent print/copy bureau, enlarged, printed, laminated onto card or foam and cut by hand. If you possess basic craft skills and the necessary equipment you can do it yourself - it's quite straightforward really. The dashed lines are thick so as to be cut through the centre (along the lines), which helps the puzzle assembly. You can adapt the puzzle for more players by drawing more drawing more lines to increase the number of pieces. The design of the puzzle is currently the businessballs logo although you can substitute it with your own (if using the MSWord version, via box 'fill' pattern). Someone who knows MSWord well will know how to adapt/develop it. Use and adapt the puzzle artwork, or source your own jigsaw puzzle, to suit your own situation. values-led team-driven change activities (team-building, goal-setting, values, philosophy, planning and change management) This is a simple themed activity which can be adapted to suit your situation. It concerns fundamental aims and values - making work more real and meaningful. For groups any size although groups of more than ten or so will need to be sub-divided and facilitators/leaders appointed, and then a forum arranged to share and review ideas and actions afterwards. The activity focuses on reconciling personal dreams/values/philosophies/passions with the organisational aims and methods. Ask: What can we all do to change and improve how our organisation acts? Pick the easy gains. Leave the tough ones for later/ever. Refer people to the Serenity Prayer . Refer (especially if the teams have idealistic compassionate roles/tendencies) to the 'zeitgeist' of our times: organisational ethics, 'Fairtrade', sustainability, corporate integrity, 'Triple Bottom Line' ('Profit People Planet'), etc., and have people visualise what successful organisations will be like in the future, given increasing awareness and expectations of employees, customers and general public opinion in relation to humanistic values. How can the individuals and the team help to develop/influence/behave within the organisation so as to make it (the organisation) fit our personal perspectives and these modern values? You'll need to provide strong support and follow-up afterwards, and ideally get some buy-in from the top. This is a brave initiative, although most organisations are now beginning to understand that the concepts are real and will eventually be irresistible. fantasticat See the Fantasticat page - ideas for motivating, teaching and developing young people - grown-ups too.. transactional analysis activities ideas (understanding transactional analysis , undersanding self, improving tolerance and communications, diffusing conflict) There are many exercises and activities that can be used to illustrate and develop understanding of Transactional Analysis . Many of the exercises in the team-building activities pages on this site will adapt for a TA perspective, especially the activities which relate to the Johari Window theory. When selecting activities and ideas to use, much depends how knowledgeable your audience is. If teams know the basics of TA then a lot of fun and learning can be had from acting out scenarios, reviewing and discussing emotional communications and behaviours (for example in newspapers), and watching films - and particularly TV soaps and sitcoms - with the purpose of looking for different types of transactions between the characters. This invites also the opportunity to critique certain on-screen transactions which are poorly scripted and acted, where behaviours can be seen to be unnatural, and reasons explained and discussed from a TA perspective. At a more fundamental level, people can work in pairs to identify their own personal triggers for parent and child responses: Behaviours which can be traced back to a root cause or emotional trigger are typically for example: losing one's temper, especially with children and subordinates; feeling stressed and upset; exhibiting 'sour grapes' attitudes; messing around; being judgmental or critical; blaming things and people; being too compliant and submissive, etc. Analysis and discussion benefits from using the 'Parent, Adult, Child' model, and also by referring to the 'I'm OK, You're OK' (OK Corral) model. See the modern Transactional Analysis theory pages for more TA guidance and materials. Identifying behaviours and their causes are important steps towards addressing the causes of emotional responses, and changing the behaviours resulting. Transactional Analysis is an excellent model for teaching and developing these concepts. obstacles exercise (team-building, communications, giving or writing clear instructions, teamworking strategies) A team activity for groups of four to twenty people to promote team-building, communications and understanding about clarity of instructions. Much larger groups can be accommodated with suitable space, adaptation and planning. For indoors or outdoors. The exercise can be organised for a single team although normally it will be more effective and enjoyable for a number of teams competing against each other. The activity is simple. Nominated members of teams must guide their blind-folded fellow team-members, using spoken instructions, through an obstacle course made with chairs or other items. In preparing for this activity remember to source sufficient blindfolds for team members. Alternatively instructions can be written, in which case team members (not blind-folded) must negotiate the obstacle course walking backwards (obviously so as not to see the obstacles but to be able to read hand-held instructions). Where two or more teams compete against each other a nominated observer from each team acts as adjudicator, to count the number of times that the walkers make contact with obstacles, resulting in penalty points. Clear adjudication rules must be stipulated so that the integrity of the scoring is protected, for example, after completing the course each walker signs their name against the written score marked by the adjudicator. An example score sheet is shown at the end of this item. The winning team is the one to complete the course as quickly as possible, after deduction of penalty points, for example ten seconds per obstacle contacted. Given a group of just four or six people it is generally better to split this into two competing teams rather than run the exercise as a single group activity, unless you have a particular reason for running a single group exercise. Room set-up is quickest achieved by simply asking the delegates to place their chairs somewhere in the 'playing area', which immediately creates the obstacle course. The facilitator can make any necessary adjustments in case any straight-line routes exist. Teams then have five to ten minutes (at the facilitator's discretion, depending on time available, team size and complexity of the obstacle course) to plan and agree a start point and a finish point through the obstacles - in any direction - and to plan a strategy for guiding blind-folded members through the route planned, (or for the backwards-walking version of the exercise, to write instructions sheets for walkers to use). So that everyone experiences being a guide and a walker you can stipulate that every team member must negotiate the course, which means that team members must swap roles (the guided become the guides having completed the course). This would also require adjudicators to swap roles with guides or walkers of their own teams. This is a flexible exercise that allows the facilitator to decide how difficult to make the obstacle course, how specific to be regarding start and finish points (all teams starting at one side of the room, or leave it up to the teams to plan their routes in any direction from one side to the other), and the strategic complexity of the challenge (determined by team size and number of obstacles - large teams of more than four or five people will also require a strategy for who performs what role and when roles are exchanged). Additionally the facilitator can decide to stipulate whether all instructions are spoken, (blind-folds), written (walking backwards), or a mixture of the two methods (for example stipulate how many team members must use either method). Review points afterwards: Why did the winning team win? What were good strategies? What were good instructions and what were unhelpful ones? What were the unforeseen problems? (One unforeseen problem, especially where competing teams are permitted to decide their own start and finish points and therefore are likely to cross the routes of other teams, is the fact that walkers of other teams will become obstacles during the exercise) What adjustments to strategies and instructions were made along the way? Discuss the merits of practical trials before having to decide strategies and instructions. And lots more points arising from the activities. Here's a simple example of the adjudicator's score sheet: walker's name     portmanteau words games (creativity, ideas and concepts, a vehicle for developing and highlighting issues and initiatives) For groups of any size. This is a basis for various activities. Adapt and use it to suit your purposes and situation. If you need help deciding on format, teams sizes, timings etc., refer to the tips on working with teams and groups and exercises . First see the explanation about portmanteau words - aside from anything else it's very interesting as a perspective on the development of language and communications. Portmanteau words are new words that are made from the combination of (typically) two other words. Common examples are 'Pictionary' (the board game), the Chunnel (the channel tunnel), 'infomercial' (information and commercial advertising); avionics (aviation and electronics), and 'webinar' (web and seminar) The grammatical effect enables the quick and stimulating creation of new ideas and themes, for any purpose. First explain to people about portmanteau words. Then, depending on your theme or purpose for the meeting or session, ask people (can be individually or in teams - pairs or threes ideally unless you ask for lots of work and ideas), to devise their own portmanteau word or words for a particular purpose. Here are some examples of purposes: a new brand name for a product or service (for the people's organisation or any another organisation, depending on the situation and participants) a name for a new company/organisation initiative (perhaps addressing customer service, quality, communications, inter-departmental relationships, training and development - anything that is a challenge or opportunity that would benefit from a fresh and inventive perspective) a new name for the company or organisation to replace the existing one, that will effectively communicate purpose and values, etc. a name to describe a particular problem or challenge within the organisation (agree or state specifics or a range as appropriate), and then a name or names for remedial action(s) a name (or names) to describe the most important skill(s) or attribute(s) for given roles within the organisation (this is a useful way to look at job skills, which are commonly not described or stated very well, and which of course are under pressure to change and develop all the time) a name to describe a particularly challenging customer behaviour, and then name(s) to describe appropriate responsive behaviour from staff a special combination of abilities I'd love to develop for myself a special combination of abilities I'd be really good at coaching and developing in others the name of a conference to improve/develop/raise profile of... (whatever - sport in schools; diversity tolerance; media responsibility; ethics in business; etc) Exercises in creating portmanteau words involve a lot of thinking about meanings, interpretations, communications, and the efficient, effective, creative use of language and ideas. As such this is a potent and flexible activity, for all ages, roles and levels. kitchen top drawer game (introductions and ice-breakers, and for children's activities too) This exercise is a very simple quick activity for ice-breakers and introductions, and for expressing and revealing feelings of personality. Also for exploring team roles. For groups of any size although is best to split large groups into teams of a dozen or less, with appointed team-leaders to facilitate. The task is simply for each team member to liken themselves to a utensil or piece of cutlery commonly found in a kitchen top drawer, and say why they think they are like the chosen item, ideally focusing on strengths and styles. Give delegates thirty seconds to think and decide before asking people to reveal their choices and reasoning in turn. If it helps (especially for young people), start the exercise with a quick brainstorm session with a flipchart or wipeboard of all the sorts of items that people have in their kitchen top drawers at home, which should produce a long list of ideas. For very large groups you can vary the exercise by asking people to think and decide and then circulate around the room finding other people who have chosen the same utensil to represent themselves, and to form into sub-groupings of the same types. Fun and noise can be injected - especially for young people or lively conferences - by asking people to identify themselves by shouting the name of their utensil, and/or by trying physically to look or act like the utensil. Be prepared and on the look-out to instruct potentially large sub-groups of 'knives' into different types of knives, so that no category sub-grouping amounts to more than 20% of the whole group. Extend the activity by asking each group to develop a proposition as to why their particular utensil is the best in the drawer - or 'top drawer' - which they can present in turn to the whole group. Further extend the activity by asking teams or players to vote (secret ballot on slips of paper given to the facilitator) as to the utensil with most and least value to the kitchen, thereby being able to decide the 'winners', should the activity warrant it. Alternatively, so as to emphasise the value of all team members and roles, ask each team to identify a particular typical 'project' (Sunday Roast dinner for instance) for the kitchen which demands the involvement (and in what way) of all of the selected utensils. Add greater depth and interest to the activities by referring to the Johari Window and discussing mutual and self-awareness issues resulting; also refer to personality types and styles to discuss and explore comparisons between 'utensils' and people associating with them, and various personality types from whatever personality models are of interest and relevance to the group. For example, are knives most like Jung's and Myers Briggs 'thinking' types and why? Does the meat-thermometer or the egg-timer most equate to Belbin's 'monitor-evaluator'? What personality types might be represented by the whisk and why? Is it possible to identify a Belbin role with every utensil, and on what basis? Whish are the extravert utensils and which are the introvert ones and why, and what are their relative strengths? Etc, etc. The exercises can of course be adapted for other types of tools instead of those found in the top drawer of the kitchen, for example the garden shed, or the tools associated with a particular industry, perhaps the industry in which the delegates operate. If you stay with the kitchen drawer theme it's probably best to avoid any reference to the 'sharpest knife in the drawer' expression so as not to sway attitudes in this direction - rest assured you will see plenty of people aspiring to be 'knives' as it is without encouraging any more.. employee relations and communications exercise (team briefing role-plays, speaking to groups, handling difficult communications and questions, written communications) This is a simple quick role-play or written communications exercise. For groups of up to a dozen. Split larger groups into smaller teams and appoint team leaders to chair and facilitate. Ask the participants to draft (and then deliver as if in a meeting) a 2 minute employee 'team brief' item or a verbal instruction (or for participants who are not comfortable standing up and speaking to the group a written employee notice or email) relating to a contentious subject. There are some examples below, but you can define different scenarios depending on your situation and the needs of the delegates. Car-park spaces in the front of the reception are now reserved for directors only. Canteen is being closed in order to make room for more office space. Access to site is restricted to employees only - no family or friends permitted unless on company business in which case formal pass and security procedures to be followed. The site is now a non-smoking area everywhere. (Add your own scenarios as appropriate.) You can run the exercise for individuals or in pairs. If in pairs encourage both people to have a go at speaking. More variety is created if you offer different scenarios - for instance by having people pick blind which one they must handle. Alternatively for complex scenarios you might prefer to see how people take different approaches to the same situation. You can additionally/alternatively ask delegates to describe their own particular scenarios for use in the role-playing activities. You can extend and increase the challenge within the activities by asking the team to role-play some 'questions from the audience' at the end of each spoken exercise, which the speaker(s) must then handle appropriately. Review use of language, tone, clarity, effective transfer of key points and reasons, technical and legal correctness, and the actual reaction of other participants to the verbal delivery/written notice. people picture interpretations (relationships, communications, attitudes, body language) The activity is a simple discussion of the group's interpretations of different pictures (photographs of people) - anything between one and six different pictures, depending on how long you'd like the activity to last - each picture/photo featuring people engaged in some sort of activity or interaction. Show a picture to the group and ask them to consider and comment on how they interpret what's happening in the picture - what's being said, how people feel, what the moods are, what the personalities and motivations are, what might have caused the situation and what the outcomes might be - as much as people can read into and interpret from each photograph. Additionally ask the group or teams what questions they would want to ask anyone in the picture to understand and interpret the situation. You can organise the group's response to each picture in different ways - in open discussion, or split the group into pairs or threes and give them a couple of minutes to prepare their interpretation for presentation and discussion in turn, or split the group into two teams and see which team can develop the best interpretation, and optionally, questions. It's helpful, but not essential, for you to know the true situation and outcomes in each picture (perhaps you've read the news story or the photo is from your own collection), which will enable you to give the actual interpretation after each picture is discussed. However one of the main points of these exercises is appreciating the variety of interpretations that can be derived from observing people's behaviour, facial expressions and body language, which means that many situations can quite reasonably be interpreted in several different ways. So knowing and being able to give a definitive 'correct answer' is not crucial - the main purpose of the activities is the quality of the ideas and discussion. To prepare for the exercise, find and enlarge, or create slides of several pictures of people in various situations. These photographs and pictures are everywhere - on the internet, newspapers and magazines, in your own snapshot collections and photo albums. Select photographs of people showing facial expressions, body language , especially interacting with other people. In addition to communications, motivation, relationships, etc., you can link the exercise to Johari Window (the exercise will develop people's awareness about themselves and each other from listening to the different interpretations of the pictures) and personality (different personalities see the same things in different ways). 'christmas is/holidays are brilliant' vs 'christmas is/holidays are a pain in the arse' exercise (team debate activity, warm-up, ice-breaker, group presentations preparation and delivery) A simple warm up after the festive season or the holidays (whenever), for grown-ups or young people, for two teams, (or at a stretch three teams). One team must prepare and present the motion: "Christmas is Brilliant" (or "Holidays are Brilliant" - whatever is appropriate). The opposing team prepares and presents the case against the motion, which is logically: "Christmas is a Pain in the Arse" (or Holidays are a Pain in the Arse"). Begin the exercise by asking the group to organise itself into two separate teams according to their individual views: ie., "Christmas is Brilliant" or "Christmas is a Pain in the Arse" (or "Holidays") . Alternatively split the group into two teams and allot the motions by flipping a coin or similar random method. Teams of five or six are fine provided full participation is stipulated. Teams of more than six will be fine provided team leaders are appointed and instructed to organise their teams into smaller work-groups to focus on different aspects of the presentation, which can be brought together at the end of the preparation time. For groups of more than about twenty you can introduce a third motion, "Christmas is both Brilliant and a Pain in the Arse, depending on your standpoint", and structure the activity for three teams. Timings are flexible to suit the situation, as are use of materials, presentation devices, and number of speakers required from each team, etc. For preparation, as a guide, allow 5 minutes minimum, or up to 15 minutes maximum if more sophisticated presentations are appropriate. Allow 5 minutes minimum for each presentation although you can extend this if warranted and worthwhile. Optionally you can allow each team to ask a stipulated number of questions of the other team(s) at the end of the presentations. The winning team can be decided at the end by a secret ballot, which will tend to produce a more satisfying conclusion (even if there's no outright winner) than a decision by the facilitator, who can vote or not, or have casting vote in the event of a tie - it's up to you. The facilitator should advise the teams before commencing their preparation that the winning team will most likely be the one which prepares and presents the clearest and fullest and most appealing case, and if applicable asks the best questions and gives the best answers. Obviously deciding the winner will not be a perfect science and if using the exercise as a development activity it's important to review structure, logical presentation, and other relevant aspects of learning as might be appropriate. In reviewing the presentations the facilitator can award a point for each logically presented item within the presentation, with a bonus point for any item that is supported by credible evidence or facts or statistics. Award bonus points for good questions and answers if applicable, and award bonus points for particularly innovative and striking aspects or ideas within the presentation. If using the activity as a learning and development exercise it's helpful to explain the review criteria to the teams at the start. Encourage participants, particularly young people in large teams, to use their imagination to create interesting and memorable methods of making their points, for example play-acting scenarios, and injecting movement and lots of activity within their presentations. For more sensitive groups or situations you can of course substitute the word 'nuisance' for 'pain in the arse'. Obviously the activity can be used for any debate exercise - work-related or otherwise - and serves to get people working and cooperating in teams, developing skills in preparing and presenting arguments and propositions, and can also provide much revealing and helpful mutual awareness among team members, and useful insights for the facilitator/group manager. Examples of other motions, which for group selection recruitment exercises can be extended far beyond normal work issues, examples of which appear later in the list below: "The Smoking Policy is..." "This Recruitment Process is.." Etc The exercise can also be used or adapted for a group selection recruitment activity, to provide useful indications of candidates' skills and capabilities in a variety of areas. rotating line introductions icebreaker (warm-ups, icebreakers, communications, communicating styles) This icebreaker or communications activity is for groups of six people or more. Ideal team size is ten or twelve. Larger groups can be split into teams of ten or a dozen people. For large groups where time is limited you can split the group into teams of less than ten, which obviously makes the exercise quicker. Split the (or each) team into two standing lines of people facing each other, two or three feet apart. For example: 1 6 6 Ask the team to introduce themselves to the person facing them, optionally (up to you) by asking and answering questions, such as: Who are you and what do you do? Tell me what interests you and why. What special thing do you want to achieve (at the event, or in life generally - depending on the situation and group) You can design other questions to suit the theme or purpose of the event. You can provide strict instructions relating to questions and answers or (for a simple icebreaker) just ask the people to engage in general introductory conversation as they see fit. You can stipulate that the facing pairs each have a turn at questioning and answering, or that one is the questioner and the other the answerer. Whatever, ensure that everyone has a chance to ask questions and to give answers. If appropriate nominate one line as the questioners and the other line as the answerers. After a minute ask the lines to rotate as follows (one person from each line joins the other line and both lines shuffle to face the next person: 2 6 5 If using the exercise as a simple icebreaker continue the process using the same questions or general introductions. If you are using the activity develop communication skills you can increase the sophistication of the exercise by introducing new questions after the initial introductions, for example: What worked well in the last conversation? What could have been improved in the last conversation? What type of questioning and listening works best in this exercise? Continue rotating the line every minute until everyone has conversed (questioning or answering) with every other person. Logically this takes as many minutes as there are people in the team. Twelve people will take twelve minutes to complete the exercise. If using the exercise to develop or demonstrate communications skills it's worth thinking more carefully before the exercise and explaining more about the questions and points to review. For example, points to review can include: Aside from the words spoken what else was significant in these communications? What aspects were most memorable and why? What aspects or information were most impressive and why? What happens to communications when time is limited? Obviously where team members already know each other there is no need to needlessly go through name and position introductions, although check beforehand as to how well people know each other rather than make assumptions. Where a team has an odd number of members, then you (the facilitator) can become one of the team members in the line. Where the purpose includes developing mutual awareness it can be useful to refer to the Johari Window model . (Ack C Mack) 'straw poll' exercises (identifying and getting buy-in for individual and group learning and training) These team development activities quickly identify team and individual learning needs and wishes, and importantly helps builds 'buy-in' and commitment among the team members to pursue the identified learning or training. The activity can also be extended to explore, encourage and enable more innovative approaches to personal development, and particularly to pursuing 'life-learning' or 'unique personal potential' if such a concept fits with the organisational philosophy. If so, the organisation (or department or at a team level) must first decide how and to what extent it can support people's 'non-work' and 'life learning' aspirations. There are very many ways to do this. Progressive modern organisations have been doing this for several years. Use your imagination. You will find that as far as the people are concerned, you'll be pushing on an open door. The provision of 'non-work' personal development must be defined within a formal organisational process and framework, by which identified individual 'life-learning' ideas can be acted upon. Such process and framework are obviously vital to discussing people's personal needs and wishes in these non-work areas. The exercise is for groups of any size, although large groups should be sub-divided into teams of between five and ten people representing single functions. The bigger the teams the more requirement there will be for good facilitation by a team leader within each team. The level of guarantee for ideas to be acted upon is a matter for the facilitator and the organisation. Promise only what you can deliver to people. Embark on these activities only if you can reliably implement the outcomes, to whatever extent that you promise to the team members. The facilitator should ideally run the session with a flip-chart or wipe-board because the sharing of ideas and discussion is a valuable part of these exercises. Refer to the guidelines for running brainstorm sessions , since the activity uses a team brainstorming process. The aim of the exercise is to gather, list and prioritise collective and individual training and learning needs and wishes for work and non-work learning and development. Involving the team in doing this in an 'immediate' and 'free' informal situation generally exposes many more ideas and opportunities than normally arise from formal appraisal, surveys and training needs audits, or personal development review discussions. Sharing ideas and personal views also helps build teams and mutual awareness (see Johari Window theory). The exercises enable the team leader or facilitator to work with the people to arrive at ideas for learning and development, which can then - according to organisational processes and framework - be fed or built into proposals or plans for implementation. The process of hearing and sharing other people's ideas also greatly assists people in imagining what might be helpful and relevant to their own situations - far better than thinking in isolation. First ask team members individually (allow five minutes) to make one or two short lists: Three things they'd like to be able to do better for their jobs, (and if the organisation supports and enables 'non-work' and 'life learning'): Three things they'd love to learn or do better for their life in general - anything goes. Then ask the team members to call out in turn their top-listed work or job learning personal development item. Write these on the flip-chart. This immediately identifies collective training priorities. Ask for reaction and comment. Then ask for people to call out in turn their second-listed work/job learning item and write the answers on the flip-chart. Then gather the third-listed job/work learning items. Use different coloured marker pens so as to be able to group common elements and to identify patterns and consensus priorities. Ask the group to comment on what they consider to be the 'high-yield' items - ie., the development items that will make the biggest difference to productivity, enjoyment, stress-reduction, service quality, business development, etc., and discuss this issues. Ask the group what type of learning they'd enjoy and best and find most helpful. Additionally explore people's learning styles ; also look at multiple intelligences , and perhaps introduce a learning styles questionnaire . Using these activities and exercises will enable you to identify development opportunities that are high priority according to need and organisational effect, and you can now conclude this part of the session with an agreement with people to investigate or proceed with implementation depending on personal wishes, learning styles and preferences, organisational processes, budgets, etc. The investigation/implementation can involve the people or not, depending on the circumstances. Now, provided the organisation/department/team endorses and supports 'non-work and 'life learning' development, turn to the non-work 'life learning' items featured in the second list. These can be anything: hobbies, pastimes, personal loves and passions, natural abilities stifled or ignored at school, anything. The aim is to explore personal potential and enthusiasm in whatever areas that might be relevant to people and what they want from their lives. It is important to open your own mind and the minds of the team members to the fact that all learning and development is useful. All learning and experience in life benefits people in their work. Everything learned and experienced in life is transferable one way or another to people's work. People commonly don't realise this, because nobody tells them or gives them the confidence to see it. When you see it and talk about it, people begin to see too that there can be more alignment and congruence between their lives and their work. Moreover, organisations are now seeing that when people are supported and encouraged to follow their own life interests and natural potential, so the organisation benefits from their development. When people learn and experience new 'non-work' and 'life learning' capabilities and development, they achieve and grow as people, and this gives them many new skills for their work (especially the behavioural capabilities normally so difficult to develop via conventional work-based training), and a greater sense of value, purpose, self-esteem and maturity. All these benefits and more result from non-work learning and experience. What matters most is that people are given the encouragement and opportunity to pursue experiences and learning and development that they want to. People are vastly more committed to pursuing their own life learning and experiences than anything else. So, the more that organisations can help and enable this to happen for their people the better. People develop quicker and more fully, and they obviously become more aligned with the organisation because it is helping them to grow in their own personal direction - far beyond the conventional provision of work-only skills training and development. Ask people to think about and discuss the skills, knowledge, behaviour, maturity, experience, etc., from personal 'non-work' activities and learning that are transferable to their work. Many people will be able to give specific examples of where they are performing outside work in some activity or other that is way, way, way above their status and responsibility at work. This is the principle that we are seeking to recognise and extend. For example (these examples of experiences and learning and benefits are certainly not exhaustive - they are simply a few examples): Sports and physical pursuits - develop fitness and determination, leadership, discipline, commitment, teamwork, stress-management, goal-setting, excellence, perfection, etc. Travel - develops cultural awareness, maturity, languages, etc. The Arts (art, music, writing, etc) - develops creativity, communications, empathy, interpretation. History - develops cultural and political and philosophical awareness, analytical and interpretation abilities. Voluntary and Care work - develops humanity, team-working, management, leadership, decision-making, etc. Environmental, Animals, Natural World - develop humanity, social responsibility and awareness, team-working, organisational and political understanding. Clubs and Societies - management, planning, organisation, communications, knowledge and information management, etc. Own 'sideline' business - entrepreneurialism, decision-making, management, marketing, customer service. I once knew a wonderful receptionist. She worked part-time. Most people only ever knew she was a receptionist. She never received any training or development. Nor much respect. In her spare time she ran an international market-leading business, supplying high performance components to a specialised sector of the industrial engineering sector. She could have taught the MD a thing or two but they never asked.. Every organisation contains several people like this, and many more people with the potential to be the same. But nobody bothers to ask. When an individual pursues personal learning and development and experience, whether through a hobby or some voluntary work, or any outside-work activity, they always develop as people, and also learn lots of new skills, which are increasingly transferable and valuable to their work situations. The tragedy is that organisations mostly fail to recognise this, and this is a major reason why most people continue to perform at work considerably below their full potential. Non-work experiences, responsibilities, learning and development provide wonderful opportunities for people to grow in capability, maturity, experience, and in specific knowledge and skills areas, that are immensely valuable to employers. Opening people's minds to these possibilities then enables discussion and identification of personal learning aims and wishes, perhaps some consensus, which then naturally enables planning and implementation and support of some new exciting non-work and life-learning activities for people, as individuals and as teams, depending on what people want and will commit to, and how far the organisation is prepared to assist and encourage. playing card bingo (warm-up, icebreaker, exercises to demonstrate competitive effects, team-building, team-working and cooperation - also a great way to teach numbers to small children) This is a bit of fun which can be used as a simple icebreaker or warm-up. The game also adapts to provide a simple yet novel team-working exercise. The game and games variations demonstrate the heightened concentration and focus which results from contest and competition, and as an adapted exercise it prompts teams to work together to approach a complex statistical challenge. For groups of any size. Materials required are simply two packs of playing cards (or more packs, depending on group size). Shuffle the packs keeping them separate. Retain one pack. Deal from one pack between three and ten cards to each team member. The more cards then the longer the exercise takes. If there are more team members than can be supplied from one pack then use additional packs. It is not necessary to remove the jokers, but be mindful of the effect of leaving them in the packs. Team members must arrange the cards dealt to them face up on the table in front of them. The dealer (facilitator) then 'calls' cards (like a bingo caller) one by one from the top of the dealer's own (shuffled) pack, at which the players match their own cards (by turning them over face down). The winner is the first to turn over all cards. Suits are irrelevant - only the numbers matter. Aces count as one. Picture cards as 11 (Jack), 12 (Queen), 13 (King), or simply call them by their normal picture names - again the suits are irrelevant. Jokers (optional) treat as jokers. Players can only turn over one card at a time, in other words, if a player has two 4's they must wait for two fours to be 'called'. Interesting variations can be made to the game to add team-building and cooperation to the activity, for example: Have people play in pairs or threes. Deal cards to each person as normal, but then teams can sort and swap cards between themselves so as to give the team of two or three the best chance of one (or two - it's up to the facilitator) of the sorted sets winning. (This is pure guesswork obviously, but it will test people's approach to the challenge of statistical anticipation.) Have the group play in two or three teams (each team size ideally no bigger six people). Deal each team twenty cards and ask them to pick the fifteen that they wish to play with as a team. Again this is pure guesswork, but it will challenge the teams to think about statistics, and to agree the best tactical approach. Other variations include prohibiting or enabling competing teams to see the other team's cards while they are deciding which to select. To make the games last longer and to alter the statistical perspective you can require that suits are matched as well as numbers/picture cards. Practise your ideas first if possible. 'spice of life' exercise (personal development, goals, true motivation and purpose, visualisation, life balance) A quick simple powerful activity for groups and teams of any size. The exercise can also be used for yourself, and when working with individuals in counselling, coaching and performance reviews and appraisals. Optional preparation for a group activity: buy some green cardamom pods - they are a highly aromatic spice used in Asian cooking and curries - the Latin name incidentally, for interest, is Eletteria Cardamomum. Star Anise - aniseed seed pods - and cloves also work well for this sort of exercise - they reinforce the point and add additional sensory stimulation to the activity. Distribute a pod or clove or several of each spice to each team member. Alternatively you can give different spices to different people if you have them. This will prompt discussion and expectation. You can mention that spices like these are symbolic - they are small and natural, of relatively little monetary value, and yet have a remarkably powerful effect. They also have healing qualities, and being seeds they represent new life and beginnings. Also optionally at this point in the exercise you can ask people do this calculation in their head to further concentrate the mind: Subtract your age from 90 and add two zeros to the answer. Divide that number in two. This is roughly how many weeks you have left on this Earth, assuming you live to a very ripe old age. If you smoke and don't look after yourself properly subtract 1,200 weeks (if you are very lucky). How quickly does a week pass by? Almost the blink of an eye... Then ask the group to close their eyes, take a few slow deep breaths, and visualise.... (it's a bit morbid but it does concentrate the mind somewhat): You are very close to the end your life - perhaps 'on your deathbed'. You have a few minutes of consciousness remaining, to peacefully look back over what you achieved, and what difference you made in the world. And especially how you will be remembered. So how do you want to be remembered? What did you do that mattered? What spice did you add to people's lives? What was the spice in your life? What will you have done that will give you a truly good feeling at the end of your life? And so, how can you best fulfil your own unique potential? We rarely think about our lives this way: that we are only here for a short time, and that what really matters is beyond money, possessions, holidays, cars, and the bloody lottery. Thinking deeply about our own real life purpose and fulfilment helps us to align what we do in our work with what we want to do with the rest of our life. This in turn creates a platform for raising expectations and possibilities about direction and development - pursuing personal potential rather than simply 'working' - and finding ways to do so within our work and our life outside it. (As facilitator do not ask people to reveal or talk about their dreams unless they want to. The exercise is still a powerful one when people keep their dreams and personal aims to themselves.) This type of visualisation exercise is also important in helping people to take more control of their lives and decisions - becoming more self-reliant and more pro-active towards pursuing personal dreams and potential, instead of habitually reacting to work demands and assumptions. 'starter keys' icebreakers and activities (warm-up exercises, introductions, getting people talking, potentially leading to deeper discussions) An easy and flexible exercise (using people's bunches of keys) for ice-breakers and introductions for groups of any size (very large groups need to be split into smaller teams with appointed team leaders). Also a quick fun method for deciding order (who goes first - for introductions, speaking, presenting, etc) and also for splitting a group into smaller teams, threes or pairs. The idea can also extend into various activities for self- and mutual awareness, story-telling, understanding life 'partitions', time management and prioritising, life balance, responsibility, even delegation and management. Keys are of course very personal items with significant personal connections and representations, and so provide opportunities to create lots of interesting, enjoyable and helpful activities around them. Exercises examples: 1. For deciding order- 'Who goes first' - Ask each person to put their bunch of keys on the table in front of them. Order is decided according to most keys on the bunch. Tie-breaker(s) can be decided according to the key(s) with most notches. 2. For splitting group into teams or threes or pairs - Ask the group to sort themselves into the required number (which you would normally stipulate, unless your purpose allows/prefers them to sort into teams of their own choosing) of teams or threes or pairings according to shared features (in common with others) of their key bunches, for example number of keys on bunch; type of key-ring fobs (sensible, daft, tatty, glitzy, unmanageably large, uselessly small, broken, holiday mementoes, promotional giveaways, etc), size of keys, type of keys, colours of keys, purpose of keys. 3. For starting and framing personal introductions and profiles - Ask group members to put their keys on the table. Each person then takes turns (you can use the order-deciding method above) to introduce and describe themselves according to their keys, from the perspective of each key's purpose and the meaning in their life represented by what each key unlocks. 4. For addressing time management, life balance and personal change, etc - Split the group into threes and ask each person to discuss in turn, among their teams of three, what their own keys represent in terms of stuff they're happy with and stuff they'd like to change (where they live, what they drive, what they value, their responsibilities, their obligations, personal baggage and habits, etc). 5. For addressing personal responsibilities and delegation, from others and to others, and responsibilities people aspire to - Ask the group to split into pairs or threes, and as individuals, to discuss with their partners what they'd like their bunch of keys to be like instead of how it is at the moment - what responsibilities (keys) would they like to lose or change or give to others - what new keys would they like to add? How else would they like to change their bunch of keys? If anyone is entirely happy with their bunch of keys ask them to think ahead five years. If they're still happy with their keys ask them to help facilitate... You will no doubt think of your own ideas and variations to these exercises. Let me know anything different and interesting that works for your team. See also the 'letting go' de-cluttering exercise on the team building games page 1, which might give you more ideas for extending and varying these activities. See also the Johari Window model , which helps explain to people the benefits of feedback and developing self- and mutual awareness. 'where in the world' exercise (personal development, icebreaker, warm-up exercise, questions for recruitment group selection or interviews , student presentations) This exercise and the activities that can be developed around this idea provide very simple quick ice-breakers or presentation ideas for all sorts of situations. The activity is for any group size. (For large groups: split group into teams of 5-7 people and appoint team facilitators to ensure full participation by all. Presentations can be given within teams, not to whole group. Teams can then reconvene as a whole group to review the exercise and experience after completing the activities in teams.) Ask the group as individuals to take a couple of minutes to close their eyes and imagine running their own ideal business or enterprise (not necessarily profit-making in a conventional business sense - it can be a service of any sort; some people for example seek to be carers, or writers, or gardeners, or cooks, to have a shop or a cafe, or to teach others. It is important to emphasise that everyone - not just entrepreneurs - can follow their dreams. Visualising and stating one's dreams helps greatly to make them happen). Then ask the group as individuals to close their eyes and think where in the world would they locate their business/service activity and why? Give the team members or delegates anything between two and five minutes to think of their answers and to structure a brief explanation or presentation (again stipulate timing for their presentation or answer), depending on the purpose and depth of the activity. N.B. Giving a presentation is not an essential part of this activity. It might be more appropriate for the participants and/or the situation for people to simply keep their thoughts to themselves, or to write them down privately, perhaps to refer to and consider in the future. In explaining their choice of location team members will be encouraged to think about and express personal dreams and passions relating to their ideal business or service activity or enterprise (which involves exploring their fulfilment of personal potential and strengths), and also where in the world and why they would locate their enterprise or service activity, (which involves each person in considering the environment and context to which they see their dreams relating). Some people will not imagine locations very far away; others will imagine locations on the other side of the world. There are no right or wrong answers - the activity is an opportunity for people to think and imagine possibilities for themselves beyond the constraints that often limit us and our fulfilment. The exercise relates also to Johari Window development, to goals, personal and self-development, and (if ideas are expressed or presented) also provides helpful insight for team leaders, facilitators, trainers, or recruitment selection observers in understanding more about the people performing the exercise. 'one word' exercise (exploring deep values and purpose, and behaviour towards others, which relates to all sorts of development needs and opportunities) Again - this is a simple activity - which contributes to many and various positive outcomes. The exercise is for any group size, although if presentation is required split large groups into smaller teams which can self-facilitate to enable full participation and discussion. If splitting into teams you can reconvene as a whole group for review of the experiences after the team activities. Ask people as individuals to clear their minds, close their eyes, and to think of one word - just one word - which they feel best describes or encapsulates living a good life. A one-word maxim for life. The facilitator might be required to explain what is meant by 'living a good life'. Use your imagination so as to relate the concept to the situation and the participants. Think about: force for good; civilised society; leaving the world a better place than when you entered it. Of course words mean different things to different people, and many people will find it quite difficult to pick just one word, but this is the point: One word concentrates the mind in a way that five or six words, or a longer sentence tends not to. For participants who find it impossible to decide on one word, encourage them to use as few words as possible - but still aiming to focus on the essence, or a central concept, rather than a catch-all or list. It's easy for people to think of a list - one word is a lot more thought-provoking. Ask people to write down their chosen one word (or words if necessary), plus some brief explanation as to what they mean. Then in turn ask people to tell or present their answers to the group or team. It is interesting to hear people's ideas. They will be quite different to how people actually normally behave in organisations - to each other, to customers, to suppliers, etc. And quite different to how people behave in societies in local, national, religious and global communities. Why is this? Where does individual responsibility begin and end? Are we part of the problem - or part of the solution? Do we want to be part of the solution? What actually stops each of us trying to live and behave more often as we know to be right? Are the pressures and habits and expectations that distract us from more often following a right path really immovable and so strong that we cannot rise above them? What personal resolutions and changes might we want to make? The exercise relates also to Johari Window development, to personal life philosophy and values, personal and self-development, and (if ideas are expressed or presented) also provides helpful insight for team leaders, facilitators, trainers, or recruitment selection observers in understanding more about the people performing the exercise. Transactional Analysis and the blame model within the TA section can be a helpful reference to assist people in understanding more about the forces that cause us to behave differently to what we know to be right. See also the articles section about love and spirituality in organisations which helps explain about bringing compassion and humanity to teams and work.  
i don't know
Skinny Jeans Tug-O-War, Vinyl Record Spinning, Cloth Tote Sack Race, and Make Your Own Ironic Mustache were all events held at what Olympics that took place in Berlin this last weekend?
The Hipster Olympics 2012: A Berlin Event : Leisure : TravelersToday Every PBR swigging, American Spirit smoking, ironic'd mustache sporting hipster's dream came true this past weekend at Berlin's Hipster Olympics. Advertisement Forget Williamsburg, The Hipster Olympics is where hipsters go to see and be seen by their tattooed, skinny jeaned compatriots. Saturday marked the second annual Hipster Olympic games held in Berlin, that hosts hipster-centric events such as confetti tossing, horned-rimmed glass throwing and vinyl record spinning. The winning team, Jam FM, took home the Golden Club Mate trophy--a gilded bottle of Club-Mate. The winners and losers accepted their place apathetically, since they were too cool to give a crap. Some games include, the "Skinny Jeans Tug-o-War" where two teams of hipsters pull the legs of the pair of skinny jeans until one side loses. With bubble tea being one of hipster's iconic, non-alcoholic beverages of choice, contestants had to suck candy out of cups of bubble tea with a straw in one event. At the "Cloth Tote Sack Race," hipsters used canvas tote bags, their favorite casual journal and iPod carrying utensil, instead of potato sacks. "The Make Your Own Ironic Hipster Mustache Competition" was full of colored paper, scotch tape and makeshift materials for hipsters to create their most ironic mustache to sport at the local dive bar where they can listen to the coolest band that hasn't gone mainstream yet. Advertisement   Hipsters create a fake beard on a teammate's face during a facial hairstyling competition. Credit: Reuters Hipsters compete in a tote-bag race. Credit: Reuters Hipsters compete in a horn-rimmed glass tossing event. Credit: Reuters  
Hipster
Who was the pirate leader in the novel Treasure Island, by Robert Louis Stevenson?
The Hipster Olympics 2012: A Berlin Event : Leisure : TravelersToday Every PBR swigging, American Spirit smoking, ironic'd mustache sporting hipster's dream came true this past weekend at Berlin's Hipster Olympics. Advertisement Forget Williamsburg, The Hipster Olympics is where hipsters go to see and be seen by their tattooed, skinny jeaned compatriots. Saturday marked the second annual Hipster Olympic games held in Berlin, that hosts hipster-centric events such as confetti tossing, horned-rimmed glass throwing and vinyl record spinning. The winning team, Jam FM, took home the Golden Club Mate trophy--a gilded bottle of Club-Mate. The winners and losers accepted their place apathetically, since they were too cool to give a crap. Some games include, the "Skinny Jeans Tug-o-War" where two teams of hipsters pull the legs of the pair of skinny jeans until one side loses. With bubble tea being one of hipster's iconic, non-alcoholic beverages of choice, contestants had to suck candy out of cups of bubble tea with a straw in one event. At the "Cloth Tote Sack Race," hipsters used canvas tote bags, their favorite casual journal and iPod carrying utensil, instead of potato sacks. "The Make Your Own Ironic Hipster Mustache Competition" was full of colored paper, scotch tape and makeshift materials for hipsters to create their most ironic mustache to sport at the local dive bar where they can listen to the coolest band that hasn't gone mainstream yet. Advertisement   Hipsters create a fake beard on a teammate's face during a facial hairstyling competition. Credit: Reuters Hipsters compete in a tote-bag race. Credit: Reuters Hipsters compete in a horn-rimmed glass tossing event. Credit: Reuters  
i don't know
On Aug 2, 1943, what PT boat was run down by the Japanese destroyer Amagiri, resulting in a 5 day evasion scenario for future president John F. Kennedy and his remaining crew?
TLW's JFKscope (tm), by T.L. Winslow (TLW), "The Historyscoper" (tm) U.S. Dem. pres. #35 (1961-3) (first U.S. pres. born in the 21st cent.) (first Roman Catholic U.S. pres.) John Fitzgerald Kennedy (1917-63) was born on May 29, 1917 in Brookline, Norfolk County, Mass. He was the 2nd son of Joseph Patrick Kennedy Sr. (1888-1969) and Rose Elizabeth Fitzgerald Kennedy (1890-1995) , who was the mother of a record three U.S. senators and one U.S. pres., the eldest daughter of Boston mayor and civil rights-promoting Mass. rep. (1895-1901) John Francis "Honey Fitz" Fitzgerald (1863-1950) , and the mother not only of JFK but of Joseph Patrick "Joe" Kennedy Jr. (1915-44) , Rose Marie "Rosemary" Kennedy (1918-2005) , Kathleen Agnes "Kick" Kennedy (1920-48) , Eunice Mary Kennedy Shriver (1921-2009) , Patricia Helen "Pat" Kennedy (1924-2006) , Robert Francis "Bobby" Kennedy (1925-68) , Jean Ann Kennedy (1928-) , and Edward Moore "Ted" Kennedy (1932-2009) (the only Kennedy brother to grow old). Spoiler alert: It all ends in Dallas, Tex. In Nov. 1841 Dallas, Tex. (Gael. "dwellers by the waterfall") in NE Tex. on 640 acres overlooking the Three Forks area of the Trinity River (modern pop. 850K/1.5M) is settled by Tenn. trader-atty. John Neely Bryan (1810-77) ; the site is where JFK is assassinated on Nov. 22, 1963; in 1846 after attracting Anglo-Am. (non-Hispanic) settlers, it and the surrounding county are named after Anglo U.S. vice-pres. George Mifflin Dallas (1792-1864) - shouldn't that be Houston-Mufflin? The name Kennedy ultimately comes from the Gaelic word Kenneth, meaning handsome, yes, there were a lot of Scottish king Kenneths, weren't they handsome, although the Kennedy variant allegedly means helmet or deformed or ugly head . I know, he went from handsome to deformed head in Dallas, Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your long hair. The Kennedy clan traces to Patrick Kennedy (1823-58) (JFK's great-grandfather), a brewery cooper born in Dunganstown, County Wexford , Leinster in S Ireland, who fled the Irish Potato Famine in 1848 to Boston via Liverpool aboard the ship Washington Irving, then married fellow immigrant Bridget Murphy on Sept. 26, 1849. On Jan. 14, 1858 their youngest and brightest of five children Patrick Joseph "P.J." Kennedy (1858-1929) (JFK's grandfather) was born, making his fortune running saloons in Haymarket Square and East Boston, which gave him the money to buy a whiskey-importing business, P.J. Kennedy & Co., becoming #1. Well-connected with the Irish Mob, he served five consecutive 1-year terms in the Mass. House of Reps. in 1884-8 followed by three 2-year terms in the Mass. Senate in 1889-95. In 1888 he fathered Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., using his wealth and influence to get him off to a flying start. In 1912 Joe Sr. graduated from Harvard, imagine the power struggle to get an Irish Catholic Mick into that Puritan stronghold, and became a bank examiner for Mass., giving him the inside knowledge to take control of failing Columbia Trust Bank in 1913 with a $45K loan from his Irish Mafia, er, family, making him the youngest bank pres. in America. After investing in a real estate exploitation firm that concentrated on distressed property and making big bucks, he became a stock broker in 1919, regularly engaging in insider trading and market manipulation before it became illegal. As the 1929 Wall Street Crash approached, he switched to shorting the market, making more megamillions for a total jackpot of $4M ($50M in today's dollars). Switching to pure real estate, he ramped it up to $180M ($2.88B), although maybe not all that way, since all along he was into rum running from Canada, but made sure that nobody could prove it in court, give your word to never shake a baby. His con game was to financially back the Temperance Movement to keep Prohibition (which began on Jan. 16, 1920) from being repealed as long as he could, then right before Dec. 5, 1933, the day it ended, he bought shares in Nat. Distillers at $8.64 a share, which soon shot up to $26 a share, making tens more millions; that's right, a co. that legally was doing nothing until then, how can you make a non-white Christmas not go wrong? Meanwhile the horrible World War I of July 28, 1914 to Nov. 11, 1918 (mother of all conspiracies?) resulted in the October Revolution in Russia on Oct. 25, 1917 Julian (Nov. 7 Gregorian), leading to the creation of the Communist Atheist Utopian Soviet Union in 1922, which sooned turned into a horrible dictatorship under Joseph Vissarionovich Stalin (1878-1953) that became a giant slave labor camp not worth two hoots because it was never self-sufficient and relied on Western bankers to prop it up, check on the MyBoniva Program. No surprise, after causing enormous evil worldwide it crumbled in 1991. The October Revolution caused a Red Scare in the U.S. starting in 1919, leading to an internal struggle that almost became a civil war, a long story we will skip here, suffice it to say that Eastern European Jewish immigrants mainly split on the pro-Soviet side, which was both good and bad, since Jews are the brainiest group on Earth, and their mass immigration really made the U.S. a world power even though the old WASP Puritan establishment groaned under their promotion of sin in entertainment for profit, culminating in our second national capital Hollyweird. The net result was the decade of the 1930s, where the world became a horror show of fascist govts. in Germany, Italy, Japan, and the U.S., under American-style populist dictator-pres. #32 (1933-45) Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882-1945) , who led the A-Team to defeat the Axis of Germany-Italy-Japan by allying with Stalin to keep the closet Commies at home happy, how about all them patriotic Hollyweird anti-Nazi flicks. After helping finance his election, Joe Sr. was paid back with the chairmanship of the new watchdog U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in 1934-5, allowing him to keep his millions while getting in charge of rivals to shut them out from his elite circle, sounds like the Obama era. Speaking of the Irish Mafia (Mob) , made famous in the 1928 book by journalist Herbert Asbury (1889-1963) titled The Gangs of New York: An Informal History of the Underworld and the 2002 film Gangs of New York by dir. Martin Scorsese (1942-) , they owned New York until the arrival of the Italian (Sicilian) Mafia and the Jewish Mafia . By 1925 after the Irish fought among themselves, the Italians took over the waterfront, but the Irish Mafia still had Boston and Philly, with an ideal position for rum running, go like a pro, while the Jewish Mafia could play them off against each other when they forgot about the Catholic-Jewish thang. Snazzy-dressing Jewish mob boss Arnold "the Brain" Rothstein (1882-1928) transformed the Jewish Mafia into a corporate enterprise, fixing the 1919 World Series, and Russian-born Meyer Lansky (Suchowljanski) (1902-83) took over where he left off, founding Las Vegas and getting involved with the rackets in Cuba until Castro kicked them out, causing them to plot his overthrow. Of course, conspiracy theorists later accused any or all of these mafias with involvement in the JFK assassination, turning out every permutation, and gaining traction with the televised assassination of Lee Harvey Oswald by Italian mobster Jack Ruby, you are a business pro, executive of efficiency, you can spot a phony a mile away, spin the roulette wheel, the total of the numbers always comes to 666. Speaking of fighting Commies and organized crime, in 1935 rabid anti-Communist ( closet gay ?) John Edgar Hoover (1895-1972) , later called "that old cocksucker" by Richard Nixon, who first made his name back in 1919 fighting the Red Scare, and on May 10, 1924 became dir. #6 of the Justice Dept.'s Bureau of Investigation (founded in 1908 to raid whorehouses to enforce the Mann "White Slave Traffic" Act), refounded it as the FBI, and became its first dir. until his death, surviving one president after another and staying in power by blackmailing them with his infamous X-Files of dirt, speedy cash, your cash right now. For decades Hoover ignored the mobs in his monomaniac drive to fight Communism, which spilled over into a vendetta against Martin Luther King Jr., whom he thought was a Commie, and Vietnam War protesters for ditto. Maybe he was in er, bed with the mob somehow, or they could prove his weakness for feasting on panther meat and kept him in check, or maybe their work with the U.S. govt. against Castro gave them a pass, but after the French Connection got busted in the 1970s, they finally went after the American mobs and locked the bosses up by the end of the cent., which only made room for Mexican, Asian, Russian and other foreign mafias to move in, how about that naked woman hung on an overpass, at least the old mobs had some class. On July 10, 1935 Bell Aircraft Corp. (later Bell Aerospace) in Buffalo, N.Y. is founded by Mentone, Ind.-born Lawrence Dale "Larry" Bell (1894-1956) , manufacturing the "Bomber Destroyer" YFM-1 Airacuda twin-engine fighter (first flight Sept. 1, 1937), the P-59 Airacomet (first flight Oct. 1,1942) (first U.S. jet fighter), and the P-63 Kingcroba (first flight Dec. 7, 1942), successor to the P-39; in 1941 they hire Paris, France-born helicopter designer Arthur Middleton Young (1905-95) , who designs the Bell Model 30 (first flight June 26, 1943), and the Bell Model 47 (first flight Dec. 8, 1945), the first civilian helicopter; in 1960 it is acquired by Textron, with the Bell Helicopter Co. of Ft. Worth, Tex. manufacturing the Bell UH-1 "Huey" (originally HU-1) military helicopter (first flight Oct. 20, 1956), which is adopted by the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War (16K built); Young later goes philosopher, founding the Inst. for the Study of Consciousness in Berkeley, Calif. in 1972. Back to Joe Sr. In 1938-40 he got FDR to appoint him U.S. ambassador to Britain, which gave him a thrill since Irish were 9th class citizens there and now he had a red carpet to the top rungs, imagine the excitement in Vatican City. Too bad, being a rabid anti-Semite with loose lips who admired if not secretly supported Hitler (at least if he can block Jewish immigration he can keep them in Europe long enough to be disappeared perhaps, it's more than just oil, it's liquid engineering?), he bucked up-and-coming cigar-chomping house nudist rabid anti-Nazi PM (1940-5, 1951-5) (Jewish puppet or at least Jewish-backed) Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965) by backing Nazi-appeasing PM (1937-40) (old-line WASP, see Chariots of Fire) Arthur Neville Chamberlain (1869-1940) , then stunk himself up more by acting like a defeatist and fleeing London during the Blitz. Actually, finding a way to avoid a second horrible world war was honorable, how about the U.S. paying to immigrate all European Jews to some federal land in Arizona or New Mexico while working with Hitler to help them establish the Jewish state of Israel as a bulwark against resurgent Islam and dropping the U.S. alliance with Stalin to buffer him off, then letting both dictators die and working to make their personality-regimes melt away like in Spain, no, it's way more complicated, them sinister Zionist world bankers started it, and wanted to force all of Jew-hating Christian Europe to kill itself off then make their pathetic religionless valueless descendants into their slaves, stop in the name of the law, you dropped your squeeze toy, look at the 2008-9 Stimulus, it's all in a dog day's work, I get it now. But the way outclassed Joe Sr. played it he stunk it all up, setting back his program of getting a son into the White House for 20 years. Maybe it would only have been 15 years, but he stunk himself up again by allying with alcoholic rabid anti-Communist Repub. Wisc. Sen. (1947-57) (fellow Irish Catholic) Joseph Raymond McCarthy (1908-57) in 1950, getting him to hire son RFK in 1953, which put brother Sen. JFK in a dilemma when the Senate was about to censure him, choosing to hide in a hospital during the censure vote on Dec. 2, 1954 (he was condemned but not actually censured, first thing we need is a tow wrench from Mancini's). Joe Sr. never repudiated McCarthy, who once dated his daughter Patricia Kennedy. Obviously McCarthy was a front for the Vatican, but later investigations have vindicated him that the U.S. govt. and Hollyweird were indeed infiltrated bigtime by Commies, some of them agents of Soviet Paradise Chairman Stalin, and a large percentage of them er, Jewish, uh-oh, better get Maaco. By Nov. 1954 all 81 of the people on his famous Feb. 20, 1950 List of Communists in the U.S. Govt. had left the govt., and on June 27, 1956 State Dept. security chief (1953-7) Robert Walter Scott McLeod (1914-61) drew up his own list of 847 more suspected security leaks in his dept., firing 300 of them on suspicion of being Comsymps (Commie sympathizers), let's shift this rescue into overdrive. You guessed it, by the time of the JFK assassination the govt. was cleansed of Commies, so if it was a govt. conspiracy it couldn't be by them, could it? Speaking of conflicted American fatcats with sympathies for Herr Hitler, George H.W. Bush's father Prescott Sheldon Bush (1895-1972) made his fortune by financing Adolf Hitler, along with banking partners William Averell Harriman (1891-1986) and Edward Roland Noel Harriman (1895-1978) , who were all members of the infamous Scroll & Key Society at Yale U. (founded 1841). In 1934 they hired atty. John Foster Dulles (1888-1959) (brother of Allen Welsh Dulles) to help them cover up improprieties with their ownership of Consolidated Silesian Steel Corp. and Upper Silesian Coal and Steel Co. Too bad, Prescott got his holdings in the Union Banking Corp. stripped by the U.S. govt. in Oct. 1942 under the 1917 U.S. Trading with the Enemy Act , which didn't stop him from getting it back after the war, using the loot to back Eisenhower and Nixon, then fight against pinko JFK, getting his son George H.W. Bush into the CIA followed by the White House, how convenient that lone gunman Oswald Wabbit got JFK out of the way, while on the day of the assassination GHW was in Dallas but couldn't ever remember it. Speaking of not remembering, Prescott and the Harrimans were powers behind CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System) , which went with the govt. side of the JFK assassination coverup to the hilt, supplying ready stooge Dan Rather as needed, see below, and we know what it means to serve, let us serve you. Meanwhile on Sept. 11, 1941 ground was broken for the Pentagon in Arlington, Va. near Washington, D.C. on Hell's Bottom, an abandoned railyard, and supervised by Gen. Leslie Richard Groves (1896-1970) , who later headed the Manhattan Project; it was dedicated on Jan. 15, 1943. Before this, war was managed from 17 different locations around Washington, D.C., then consolidated in Foggy Bottom (built on a swamp known for its vapors), which was too small and ends up as the HQ of the State Dept.; FDR ordered the building of a temporary structure for the duration of the war, but the generals secretly appealed to Virginia's Congressional delegation for permanent funds. Guess what happens exactly 60 years later? The world's largest office bldg. (6.5M sq. ft.), the Pentagon has spawned endless theories of Occult Satanic Illuminati Takeover of the U.S. , guess what happened 60 years later, is George Washington rolling over in his monument or what. Speaking of 9/11, on Sept. 11, 1941 American hero Charles Augustus Lindbergh (1902-74) gave a speech in Des Moines, Iowa, charging that "the British, the Jews and the Roosevelt administration" were trying to drag the U.S. into WWII, saying "Instead of agitation for war the Jewish groups in this country should be opposing it in every possible way, for they will be among the first to feel its consequences... Their greatest danger to this country lies in their large ownership and influence in our motion pictures, our press, our radio, and our government." The media backlash caused him to go on the defensive and deny that he was anti-Semitic while hampering his efforts to keep the U.S. out of the war, and of course FDR had no problem getting what he wanted after the all-too-convenient Pearl Harbor Attack on Dec. 7, 1941. Speaking of 9/11 again, the post-JFK 9/11 Attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 saw Islamic terrorism come to America bigtime on daytime TV, which later was connected with the Sept. 11, 1683 Battle of Vienna that saw the last major Islamic push to take over Europe beaten back. While the threat of resurgent world Islam is very real, and al-Qaida seems to be the only suspect, if only them Twin Towers were attacked alone, and didn't fall down so easily, and there were no second attack on the Pentagon that might somehow have been staged by the U.S. itself with a missile, check back with me one day when I and Jesse Ventura figure it all out. With the war as the pretext, FDR had no problem creating the fabled Military-Industrial Complex at jet speed as part of the patriotic war effort, turn in your nylons please. In July 1942 the U.S. Office of Strategic Services (OSS) was formed by William Joseph "Wild Bill" Donovan (1883-1959) to recruit anti-Hitler elements inside Germany as fifth columnists. After the war it recruited Nazis like Klaus Barbie (who flees to Argentina in 1951, followed by Brazil), Gen. Reinhard Gehlen, and Nazi scientists to help it fight the Soviet Union. On July 26, 1947 Pres. Truman signed the U.S. Nat. Security Act , to take effect on Sept. 18, unifying the Dept. of War (Army), Navy, and newly-formed Air Force into the Nat. Military Establishment (NME) , with the Marine Corps staying under the Navy Dept. and the Coast Guard under the Dept. of the Treasury (shifted to the Navy Dept. during time of war). After the abbrevation NME sounds too much like enemy, the name was changed on Aug. 10, 1949 to Dept. of Defense. It also established the Joint Chiefs of Staff , Nat. Security Council (NSC) , and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Sept. to replace the Nat. Intelligence Authority and the Central Intelligence Group. On May 1, 1949 rear adm. Roscoe Henry Hillenkoetter (1897-1982) became dir. #3 of the CIA (until Oct. 7, 1950), going on to join super-secret Majestic-12 and help run the Roswell UFO coverup?. The CIA hired 1K Nazis for spying and intel during the Cold War? On Sept. 17, 1949 U.S. Navy secy. (since 1944) James Vincent Forrestal (1892-1949) , the chief planner of defense unification became U.S. defense secy. #1 (until Mar. 28, 1949), giving it a paranoid dipstick baby-don't-stop-now anti-Communist mentality that spawned the Cold War policies of George Frost Kennan (1904-2005) and Paul Henry Nitze (1907-2004) . The conspiracy theorists got more mojo from the strange sacking and death of Forrestal, who allegedly committed suicide at Bethesda Naval Hospital on May 22, 1949. On Sept. 18, 1949 William Stuart Symington (1901-88) (CEO of Emerson Electric Co., the world's largest manufacturer of airplane armament) became U.S. Air Force secy. #1 (until Apr. 24, 1950). In 1953 the secret MK-ULTRA project was authorized by new CIA dir. #5 (1953-61) (first civilian and longest serving) Allen Welsh Dulles (1893-1969) , which went on to use humans as guinea pigs in an attempt to "crush the human psyche to the point that it would admit anything." Meanwhile Dulles rose to the top of the U.S. spy chain. Getting back to JFK, after graduating from Hahvahd, er, Harvard in 1940, JFK got his freeze-frame moment in the South Pacific, and founded the proud Kennedy tradition of water accidents when on Aug. 2, 1943 the U.S. Navy motor torpedo patrol boat PT-109 of Lt. John F. Kennedy (who was rejected by the U.S. Army in spring 1941 because of his bad back then had his daddy pull strings to get him in the U.S. Navy) sunk near New Georgia in the Solomon Islands after being rammed by Japanese destroyer IJN Amagiri (never recovered). After towing a wounded man to an island then making it to a 2nd island, he met two islanders and got a message out carved on a coconut that read "Eleven Alive Native Knows Port and Reefs Nauru Island", causing a rescue and making him a war hero, prepping his future political career. Maybe the idea of shooting his coconut, naw? On Dec. 30, 1942 Harvard historian Arthur Meier Schlesinger Sr. (1888-1965) gives the pres. address What Then Is the American, This New Man? for the annual meeting of the Am. Historical Assoc.; in 1954 he retires from Harvard U.; meanwhile his son Arthur Meier Schlesinger Jr. (1917-2007) carries on as a history prof. at Harvard U. in 1954-61 sans doctorate, eating up his daddy's tides theory and talking JFK into believing that it's time for the liberal mood in 1961-2. On May 6, 1944 after his time in Britain paid off, Joseph P. Kennedy Sr.'s Roman Catholic daughter Kathleen Agnes "Kick" Kennedy (1920-48) married British Anglican William John Robert Cavendish, Marquess of Hartington (1917-44) , son and heir of the Duke of Devonshire at a local Registrar's office instead of church after both her mother Rose Kennedy and his father were opposed to the "mixed marriage", say it ain't so Joe. Joseph Patrick Kennedy Jr. (b. 1915) , heir apparent to the Kennedy clan was the only Kennedy family member to attend, and was killed 3 mo. later on Aug. 12 along with his co-pilot in an explosives-laden plane over England that detonated prematurely during a secret air mission to Normandy. Hartington was killed on Sept. 10 by a German sniper in Belgium, after which Kick remained in England and died in a plane crash in 1948. Having wasted all that time grooming Joe Jr. for the White House, Joe Sr. feverishly went to work grooming next-in-line JFK, do tires alone make a winner or does it take a whole lot more? On Nov. 5, 1946 midterm elections gave the Repubs. control of the U.S. Senate and the House, while guess-who John F. Kennedy (D-Mass.) was elected to the House of Reps., I passed him again now I'm two full laps ahead. The 1948 U.S. Congress became known for the "Class of 48" of future presidents, all having gone through the war together, fostering a lifelong bipartisan spirit: John F. Kennedy, Richard M. Nixon, Gerald R. Ford, Lyndon B. Johnson. A coincidence that Ford's jersey number at the U. of Mich. (playing center) is 48? They all turned on JFK in 1963? In 1949 after U.S. doctors Walter Freeman and James Watts adopted a technique pioneered in 1935 by Dr. Egas Moniz (1874-1955) of Portugal, who claimed a 30% success rate and became the country's first (only) Nobel Prize in Medicine winner for his barbaric "apple corer" (later ice pick) technique for prefrontal lobotomies, the first-ever U.S. lobotomy was performed on JFK's sister Rosemary (Rose Marie) Kennedy (1918-2005) , which left her childlike and in need of institutionalization, sometimes having money backfires. By 1951 more than 18K lobotomies were performed in the U.S. alone, and they were not discontinued in favor of drug treatment until the 1960s. On Mar. 10, 1952 after taking over in a bloodless coup against pres. Carlos Prio 3 mo. before scheduled elections, Fulgencio Batista (1901-73) becomes pres. #17 of Cuba (until Jan. 1, 1959), and on Mar. 27 the U.S. recognizes his govt.; too bad, Batista opens Cuba up bigtime to U.S. Mafiosi, incl. Meyer Lansky, Santo Trafficante, and Albert Anastasia, who turn Havana into Sin City, featuring fancy nightclubs incl. the Cabaret Tropicana (founded 1939), and bordellos and burlesque clubs featuring live sex, all managed by mobster Joseph "Hoboken Joe" Stassi (1906-2002) ; Sen. John F. Kennedy is allegedly given a good time by three Cuban hos while visiting late in the decade. On Jan. 20, 1953 Repub. 5-star gen. Dwight David Eisenhower (1890-1969) became U.S. pres. #34. Anti-Commie poker-playing Quaker Richard Milhous Nixon (1913-94) became U.S. vice-pres. #36 (youngest so far). Ike was the first U.S. pres. in the 20th. cent. without a double letter in his name, unless you count initials, and the first U.S. pres. to ride in a helicopter. Ike's favorite books were Zane Grey Westerns, since he once considered working as a cowboy in Argentina. Ike's Jehovah's Witnesses background was covered-up. During his administration, the U.S. was the cock of the rock and world policeman, profoundly safe yet suffering from nuclear paranoia and the Red Scare. At least nobody in the U.S. govt. could begin to conspire against the Great White Chief and get to first base. On Mar. 5, 1953 the 25-year (since 1928) assassination-attempt-free reign of Joseph Stalin ("Koba") (b. 1879) was ended by his death at age 73 (6 weeks after the birth of TLW), four days after having a stroke in his Kremlin apt. during an all-night dinner with Beria, Malenkov, Bulganin and Khrushchev which paralyzed the right side of his body. His death was not announced until Mar. 6, after the piranhas fed. On Mar. 6 he was succeeded as PM by WWII aircraft and tank production chief Georgi Maximilianovich Malenkov (1902-88) (until 1958), with secret police chief Lavrenti Pavlovich Beria (1899-1953) as deputy PM (until July 10). Marshal Klimenti Efremovich Voroshilov (1881-1969) became pres. (until 1960). On Mar. 14 Nikita Sergeyevich Khrushchev (1894-1971) replaced Malenkov as first secy. of the Soviet Communist Party, then moved up to head of the Central Committee on Sept. 7 after Beria put was out of the way. JFK's regretted marred coitus with Margaret Coit leads directly to his assassination? In spring 1953 after Baruch's friend Joseph P. Kennedy ran her off, recent Pulitzer Prize winner Margaret Louise Coit (1919-2003) gave an interview to horndog JFK for a new book about Camden, S.C.-born Jewish banker Bernard Mannes Baruch (1870-1965) , and he ends up in her apt. making moves on her, to which she protests "This is only our first date. We have plenty of time", to which he replies "I can't wait, you see. I'm going to grab everything I want. You see, I haven't any time"; the next day she interviewed NYT columnist ("Dean of American Newsmen") Arthur Bernard Krock (1886-1974) , a known sycophant of Joseph P. Kennedy who acted as his ghostwriter and as a secret lit. agent for JFK, who uttered the soundbyte: "John Kennedy - what a tragedy that boy is", explaining: "Don't you know he is going to die? His father told me that he had only four years to live." On June 24, 1953 U.S. Sen. (D-Mass.) John F. Kennedy (b. 1917) and polished finishing school grad. socialite and Washington Times-Herald photographer Jacqueline "Jackie" Lee Bouvier (b. 1929) announced their engagement. He had been dating feisty well-traveled actress Katherine Hepburn, but she wasn't considered First Lady material despite the great beejays. On Sept. 12, 1953 (Sat.) the wedding of pure-classy Jacqueline Lee Bouvier (1929-94) and John Fitzgerald Kennedy (b. 1917) at St. Mary's Church in Newport, R.I. attracted enough internat. publicity to alter the planet's orbit; they honeymooned and saw their first movie (produced by Hearst) in the H-shaped 29-bedroom 40-bathroom Hearst Mansion in Beverly Hills, Calif., most expensive private home in the U.S., which is later seen in the 1972 film "The Godfather"; they went on to have 2 sons John "John-John" Fitzgerald Kennedy Jr. (1960-99) and Patrick Bouvier Kennedy (1963-63) (who died at age 2 days), and 1 daughter Caroline Bouvier Kennedy (1957-) , whose photo as a girl on a pony inspired Neil Diamond's Sweet Caroline . Meanwhile in 1953 after losing his reelection to John F. Kennedy in a close race because of spending too much time supporting Ike's candidacy, former U.S. Sen. (R-Mass.) (1937-44, 1947-53) Henry Cabot Lodge Jr. (1902-85) , grandson of U.S. Sen. (R-Mass.) (1893-1924) Henry Cabot Lodge Sr. (1850-1924) (who went on a tour of duty in WWII as a senator then was forced to resign to stay fighting) was appointed U.S. rep. to the U.N. (until 1960), with his position elevated to cabinet rank, becoming the longest-serving in that position (until ?). His granddaddy defeated JFK's granddaddy John F. Fitzgerald for the same Senate seat in 1916, and later in 1962 Lodge's son George Cabot Lodge was defeated for the same seat by JFK's brother Ted Kennedy. Lodge Sr. hated the League of Nations, but Lodge Jr. was pro-U.N., uttering the soundbyte "This organization is created to prevent you from going to Hell; it isn't created to take you to Heaven." On Dec. 15, 1954 Santa-comes-on-Xmas-eve Walt Disney's Davy Crockett , starring Fess Parker (1924-) (a broad horizontal band across a shield?) debuted on TV (until Dec. 14, 1955), starting a children's craze for memorabilia, Coonskin Caps , and Lincoln Logs; "Born on a mountain top in Tennessee,/ Greenest state in the Land of the Free,/ Raised in the woods so's he knew ev'ry tree, /Kilt him a b'ar when he was only three./ Davy, Davy Crockett,/ King of the wild frontier". In 1954 JFK underwent major back surgery in New York City after being given last rites by a priest; while recuperating he launched a project to write a book to rival Winston Churchill's A History of the English-Speaking Peoples, resulting in Profiles in Courage. 1956 was a pivotal year for JFK, starting on Jan. 1, 1956 with the pub. of Profiles in Courage (Pulitzer Prize); the lives of eight key U.S. Senators (JFK being #9?); suggested by a passage about John Quincy Adams in The Price of Union: The Influence of the American Temper on the Course of History (1950) by Am. journalist Herbert Sebastian Agar (1897-1980) ; forward by Columbia U. historian Joseph Allan Nevins (1890-1971) , who joins colleague Henry Steele Commager (1902-98) in organizing Professors for Kennedy during the 1960 U.S. pres. election; ghostwritten by his Jewish-Am. advisor Theodore Chaikin "Ted" Sorensen (1928-2010) ; the jacket photo was taken in 1952 by Philippe Halsman; after lobbying by his daddy's lackey, NYT columnist Arthur Krock, it is awarded the 1957 Pulitzer Prize for biography; later JFK becomes the first U.S. pres. to win a Pulitzer Prize; "Without belittling the courage with which men have died, we should not forget those acts of courage with which men have lived." On June 14, 1956 John F. Kennedy gave a Harvard Commencement Speech , emphasizing the need for scholars as well as politicians, but warning against giving too political power to experts "who ignore public opinion. Nor would I adopt from the Belgian constitution of 1893 the provision giving three votes instead of one to college graduates, or give Harvard a seat in the Congress as William and Mary was once represented in the Virginia House of Burgesses." On Aug. 13-17, 1956 the 1956 Dem. Nat. Convention in Chicago, Ill. nominated the 1952 losing candidate, erudite Ill. gov. #31 (1949-53) Adlai Ewing Stevenson II (1900-65) for pres. on the 1st ballot. After he declined to choose a running mate, coonskin cap-loving Tenn. Sen. (1949-63) Cary Estes Kefauver (1903-63) was chosen for vice-pres., but JFK nearly beat him, with Sen. Lyndon Johnson shouting "Texas proudly casts its vote for the fighting sailor who wears the scars of battle", until Mo. switched from Albert Gore Sr. to Kefauver. Kennedy appeared on the rostrum to make a short but charming concession speech, giving the country a look at handsome him. Starting with this one, a member of the Kennedy family addresses every Dem. Nat. Convention until the year ?. On Nov. 6, 1956 the U.S. pres. election that reelected Repub. pres. Eisenhower saw the voters wisely hedge their bets, and the Dems. gained control of both houses of Congress. After the election, JFK was told that he will easily win the 1960 vice-pres. nomination, to which he replied "I'm not running for vice-president any more, I'm now running for president." On Aug. 13-17, 1956 the 1956 Dem. Nat. Convention at the Internat. Amphitheatre in South Side, Chicago, Ill. nominates the losing 1952 candidate, erudite Ill. gov. #31 (1949-53) Adlai Ewing Stevenson II (1900-65) for pres. on the 1st ballot; after he declines to choose a running mate, Tenn. Sen. Cary Estes Kefauver (1903-63) is chosen for vice-pres., but John F. Kennedy nearly beats him, with Sen. Lyndon Johnson shouting "Texas proudly casts its vote for the fighting sailor who wears the scars of battle", until Mo. switches from Albert Gore Sr. to Kefauver; Kennedy appears on the rostrum to make a short but charming concession speech, giving the country a look at handsome him; starting with this one, a member of the Kennedy family addresses every Dem. Nat. Convention until the year ?; Harry Truman emerges from retirement in an effort to get N.Y. Gov. W. Averell Harriman nominated, calling Stevenson a "conservative" who lacks "the kind of fighting spirit we need to win", and follows the "counsel of hesitation", succeeding only in making Stevenson all the more sure to lose in Nov.; Ike being untouchable, the Dems. decide to go after vice-pres. Nixon, Stevenson calling him "shifty", "rash", "inexperienced, and a "man of many masks"; after the convention ends, JFK sells his Hickory Hill retreat in McLean, Va. (built in 1840, and purchased in 1955 from Supreme Court justice Robert H. Jackson) to his brother RFK, who raised his family there until his death; on Aug. 20-23 the 1956 Repub. Nat. Convention at the Cow Palace in Daly City (near San Francisco, Calif.) renominates Eisenhower and Nixon; only Terry McGovern Carpenter (1900-78) of Neb. votes against Nixon, casting his vice-pres. vote for a mythical "Joe Smith"; Nat King Cole sings "That's All There Is To That" at the convention to show support for Ike, and later attends the 1960 Dem. Nat. Convention in support of JFK, then attends his inaugural ball; in his acceptance speech Ike berates liberal columnists, bringing the delegates to their feet; the next day newspapers are filled with passionate defenses of freedom of the press, but the Conservative resentment of liberal journalists is finally out in the open; the Repub. campaign slogan is "Peace, Progress, Prosperity", and Stevenson alienates voters by calling for a "new look" at U.S. defenses, incl. nukes, and "ending the draft"; the 1956 Repub. Platform is surprisingly liberal, supporting equal pay for women, the minimum wage, protection for unions, asylum for refugees et al. In 1957 the U.S. Senate labor industry McClellan (Valachi) Hearings , chaired by U.S. Sen. (D-Ark.) (1943-77) John Little McClellan (1896-1977) began, putting Teamsters leader James Riddle "Jimmy" Hoffa (1913-75) on trial for corruption and mob connections, with grilling by up-and-coming atty. Robert F. Kennedy. In 1957 the Teamsters were expelled from the AFL-CIO after Hoffa refused to expel criminals and the Teamsters refused to expel Hoffa, who tripled their wages during his tenure and was super-popular. In 1962-3 Joseph "Joe Cargo" Valachi (1903-71) testified, giving the first public evidence of the existence of the Mafia AKA La Cosa Nostra, before which the feds were playing dumb. Although the Kennedy brothers didn't actually go after the Mafia itself with Hoffa, they did go after some mobsters connected with him, pissing the whole mob off, causing mob-connected daddy Joe Sr. to stump like hell. But when they went right at the Mafia with Valachi, the boilerplate blew, although by then they were in the White House and seemingly untouchable. Would they plot to assassinate JFK, or just send a mob hitman to kill Oswald to spare poor Jackie some grief? Hand me a triple hanky. Or maybe just take orders from the CIA to bump their man off, they say glasses make you look smarter. In June 1958 a Gallup poll showed Richard Nixon leading Adlai Stevenson for the first time in popularity, and in a dead heat with JFK, becoming Nixon's high point of popularity for the entire decade. On Nov. 4, 1958 U.S. nat. elections were a disaster for the Repubs., and JFK won the U.S. Senate race by a margin of 874,608 votes, the largest in any senate race that year. In Sept. 1959 Robert F. Kennedy quit the Senate Rackets Committee to become the pres. campaign chmn. for his bro' JFK. In 1958 JFK pub. A Nation of Immigrants , which coined the term "a nation of immigrants" for the U.S., and called for liberalization of immigration laws. He was revising it when he was assassinated, and it was republished in 1964, after which his brother Ted Kennedy used his super political powers to get the 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act passed, which abolished the 1924 National Origins Formula, and ended up filling the U.S. with tens of millions of poor people, and worse, Muslims who had no desire to assimilate but thought of themselves as the vanguard of an invasion? On Jan. 1, 1959 Cuban dictator (since 1952) Fulgencio Batista fled, and Fidel Castro (1926-) became ruler (until 2008) of Cuba, "the Paris of the Caribbean", marching into Havana after a 7-day 600 mi. march of triumph down Central Highway, saluting their leader "El Caballo" (the Horse). On Jan. 5 Castro's old chum Jose Miro (Mir�) Cardona (1902-74) became PM of Cuba, but on Feb. 13 he unexpectedly resigned, and was replaced by Castro, who appointed him Cuban ambassador to Spain. After rejecting Castro's policies he resigned in July, fled to the Argentine embassy, then to the U.S. in late 1960. On Jan. 7 the U.S. recognized Castro, touting the handsome, dark, cigar-chomping (Montecristo brand, 50 cents each) commandante as the George Washington of Cuba, and undoubtedly anti-Communist when he uttered the soundbyte "Power does not interest me, and I will not take it. From now on the people are entirely free.". On Jan. 21 he named his younger brother Raul Castro (1931-) (a hard-line Communist) as his successor, saying "Behind me are others more radical than I." Of course Castro kicked the mob out, ruining one of their top money-making concessions and causing them to vow to bump him off. The Feb. issue of the John Birch Society's American Opinion exposed Castro as a "vicious, lying, brutal, murdering Communist", which later gained them credibility when he came out of the closet and made a monkey out of the Eisenhower admin., despite a confidential memo from vice-pres. Nixon that he was "incredibly naive about Communism or under Communist discipline." Well, congratulations everyone for making it to the nincompoop. On Oct. 15, 1959 former U.S. Marine (since Oct. 1956) Lee Harvey Oswald (1939-63) , who spent his boyhood in La., New York City, and Tex. with his widowed mother Marguerite Claverie Oswald (1907-81) , and allegedly became a Marxist at age 15 before (non-sequitur?) joining the Marines at age 17 and attaining a sharpshooter rating on the M1, then got assigned to Atsugi Naval Air Facility in Japan, a CIA base for U-2 spy planes flying over the Soviet Union (where he was known as Ozzie Rabbit for being undersized and Oswaldskovich for his Communism), then suddenly got a hardship discharge to take care of his mother, visited her for three days in Ft. Worth, Tex., then took off to Back to the U.S.S.R., arrived in Moscow as a tourist, described himself as "Communist to the marrow", and applied the next day for political asylum, announcing that he will never return to the U.S. After they allegedly refused to grant him Soviet citizenship on Oct. 21, he allegedly sliced his left wrist in his hotel room bathtub, then on Oct. 31 went to the U.S. embassy and renounced his U.S. citizenship, handing them his passport, after which in Nov. they flip-flopped and gave him an entry-level job in Minsk, Belarus at the Gorizont (Horizon) Electronics Factory , along with a nice subsidized heavily-bugged studio apt. and extra rubles as a propaganda ploy, assigning 20 KGB agents to his case, all causing the Marines to change his discharge from hardship/honorable to undesirable. On Jan. 18, 1960 CIA officials, incl. Everett Howard Hunt Jr. (1918-2007) (the mastermind of the 1972 Watergate break-ins) met near the Lincoln Memorial in the office of Cuban Task Force dir. Charles Tracy Barnes (1911-72) (who was fired from the CIA in July 1966 by new CIA dir. Richard Helms), and established Operation 40 , consisting of 40 Cuban exiles trained to assassinate Fidel Castro. The group was run by vice-pres. Richard Nixon, and funded by a group of Texas oilmen headed by George Herbert Walker Bush (1924-) and Jack Alston Crichton (1916-2007) . On Mar. 17 Pres. Eisenhower authorized the program. Operatives included Cuban exile Felix Ismael Rodriguez Mendigutia (1941-) , who later was involved with the 1967 interrogation and execution of Che Guevara, and surfaced again with ties to George H.W. Bush during the 1986 Iran-Contra Affair. Its first successful operation was blowing up the Belgian-flagged La Coubre arms ship in Havana Bay on Mar. 4, 1960. Operation 40 members later surfaced as the 1972 Watergate burglars, and were suspected of involvement in the 1963 JFK assassination. Did washed-up Nixon supply the JFK assassination team to get rid of a pinko pres. in return for a political resurrection and future presidency? Stay tuned. After his arms supply ship blew up, Castro held a rally the same day blaming saboteurs, where Castro's official photographer Alberto Korda (Alberto Diaz Gutierrez) (1928-2001) snapped a Photo of Che Guevara , which became an icon, with millions of copies sold and hung on dorm room walls in the U.S. and elsewhere. Meanwhile in Jan. 1960 German-born Marita Lorenz (1939-) , who had been hooking up with Fidel Castro since 1959 was involved in an assassination attempt on him by the CIA, run by Frank Anthony Sturgis (1924-93) , who allegedly met with Lee Harvey Oswald in Miami, Fla. before the JFK assassination, according to Jim Buchanan. In Aug. 1960 exiled Cuban politician (PM in 1948-50) Manuel Antonio de Varona y Loredo (1908-92) struck a deal with Mafia boss Meyer Lansky to back his CIA-sponsored Cuban govt.-in-exile in return for backing the reopening of his gambling empire. In Oct. 1960 after failing to incite civil war to overthrow Fidel Castro via Operation 40, the CIA sponsored the creation of Brigade 2506 , consisting 1,511 Cuban exiles who were trained to invade Cuba in the Bay of Pigs Invasion in Apr. 1961. On Jan. 2, 1960 JFK announced his candidacy for the Dem. pres. nomination, with the slogan "The New Generation Offers a New Leader", uttering the soundbyte "The presidency is the most powerful office in the free world. Through its leadership can come a more vital life for all of our people. In it are centered the hopes of the globe around us for freedom and a more secure life." He adds that he won't accept the vice-presidency as an option. Liberal Harvard-educated closet-gay columnist Joseph Wright Alsop V (1910-89) calls him an "[Adlai] Stevenson with balls." Frank Sinatra campaigned for him, backfiring when his swinging lifestyle and Mafia connections were used as ammo by Repubs. JFK closes each speech with the Robert Frost quote: "But I have promises to keep,/ And miles to go before I sleep,/ And miles to go before I sleep". That last mile was a doozy? On May 10, 1960 after his 4-1 margin over Hubert Humphrey flopped to 3-2 against when the Wisc. primary brought up the religion issue, and hostility by Eleanor Roosevelt was countered by mailing 50K letters signed by FDR Jr. that claimed that Humphrey avoided military service in WWII, John F. Kennedy won the Dem. primary by 3-2 in supposedly anti-Catholic W. Va. , after which Humphrey ran out of money and dropped out of the pres. race. Rich Kennedy went on to win in Md., Ind., and Ore, locking up 550 of 761 delegate votes by June 27. On July 11-15, 1960 (Mon.-Fri.) the 1960 Dem. Nat. Convention was held in Los Angeles, Calif.. Despite a nominating speech for egghead Adlai E. Stevenson by Minn. Sen. Eugene McCarthy, backed by Eleanor Roosevelt, and more opposition from Sen. Majority Leader Lyndon B. Johnson, on July 13 (167 years after Jean-Paul Marat was stabbed in his bath by Charlotte Corday in 1893) 43-y.-o. Mass. Sen. John F. Kennedy was nominated for pres. on the 1st ballot with 806 votes (youngest pres. candidate and 2nd Catholic pres. candidate in U.S. history after Alfred E. Smith in 1928), giving his New Frontier Acceptance Speech , mentioning a "New Frontier - the frontier of the 1960s - the frontier of unknown opportunities and perils - the frontier of unfulfilled hopes and unfilled threats... It sums up, not what I intend to offer the American people, but what I intend to ask of them"; "Today our concern must be with that future. For the world is changing. The old era is ending. The old ways will not do. Abroad, the balance of power is shifting. New and more terrible weapons are coming into use. One-third of the world may be free, but one-third is the victim of a cruel repression, and the other third is rocked by poverty and hunger and disease. Communist influence has penetrated into Asia, it stands in the Middle East, and now festers some ninety miles off the coast of Florida. Friends have slipped into neutrality and neutrals have slipped into hostility. As our keynoter reminded us, the President who began his career by going to Korea ends it by staying away from Japan"; he ends with "Give me your help and your hand and your voice." Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger uttersedthe soundbyte that if JFK is elected she will "find another place to live". Kess-than-clean Lyndon B. Johnson was nominated for vice-pres. to strengthen the Dem. ticket in the South. Why Johnson accepted a step-down in power to become vice-pres. remains a matter of speculation, unless you subscribe to the conspiracy theory that he waited in the wings at JFK's assassination. LBJ later attacked JFK's father Joseph P. Kennedy (one of the 12 richest men in the U.S., who used his dough to help his son win every primary) at a press conference, saying "My father never carried an umbrella for Chamberlain", which made Robert Kennedy forever hate his guts. Kennedy's campaign theme was that U.S. prestige is slipping and Americans must move ahead. "K-E-Double-N-E-D-Y/ Jack's the nation's favorite guy/ Everyone wants to back Jack/ Jack is on the right track." 7M new Dem. voters were registered vs. only 3M Repub. voters. Meanwhile on On Oct. 12, 1960 (Wed.) (Shoe Day) (15th anniv. session) after Soviet PM Shoechev, er, Khrushchev got away with interrupting a speech by British PM Harold Macmillan twice on Sept. 29 by pounding his fists and shouting in Russian (causing Macmillan to ask gen. assembly pres. Frederick Henry Boland (1904-85) of Ireland that he would like a transation), he ramped it up to the next level by waving and pounding his table with his right shoe during a U.N. Gen. Assembly speech by Filipino delegate Lorenzo Sumulong (1905-97) , after he said that the Soviet resolution condemning Western imperialism should be viewed with the shoe on the other foot when it comes to their domination of Eastern Europe, uttering the rejoinder "You're a hooligan and stooge of imperalism." Bun-dy, Bun-dy? In Apr. 1960 Guns mag. pub. the article Know Your Lawmakers , in which lifetime NRA member JFK uttered the soundbyte: "By calling attention to 'a well regulated militia,' the 'security' of the nation, and the right of each citizen 'to keep and bear arms,' our founding fathers recognized the essentially civilian nature of our economy. Although it is extremely unlikely that the fears of governmental tyranny which gave rise to the Second Amendment will ever be a major danger to our nation, the Amendment still remains an important declaration of our basic civilian-military relationships, in which every citizen must be ready to participate in the defense of his country. For that reason I believe the Second Amendment will always be important." On May 1, 1960 (Sun.) (Mayday) (6 weeks after Lee Harvey Oswald arrived in the Soviet Union) the U.S. Lockheed U-2 spy plane (sortie #4154 of Operation Overflight, commanded by Col. William M. Shelton, leaving at 3:26 a.m. Moscow time) piloted by beefy crew-cut Air Force 1st lt. Francis Gary Powers (1929-77) (salary $30K/year) was shot down at 65K ft. alt. by 14 Soviet S-75 Dvina (SA-2 Guideline) SAMs over the Soviet Union near Degtyarsk (near Sverdlovsk) (the Russian Ruhr) in the Urals (1.3K mi. from the Soviet-Afghan border) on a spy run from Badaber (near Peshawar), Pakistan to Bodo, Norway (1st overflight since Apr. 9, 2nd U-2 overflight since last Oct., and 1st attempt to cross the entire Soviet Union, personally approved by Eisenhower). Powers wasn't shot down but defected ? The incident caused the B-70 Valkyrie high altitude Mach 3 nuclear bomber program (begun in 1957) to be cancelled in 1961, causing the B-52 to be forced to keep on keeping on. Powers was flying U-2 #360, known to be a "dog" with faulty fuel tanks, and waits 56 min. on the flight line waiting for final White House approval. He parachuted onto a large state farm and is held by farmers at gunpoint until the KGB arrived. On May 5 (Thur.) after NASA issued a coverup report about an aircraft missing N of Turkey, claiming pilot oxygen difficulties, Khrushchev reported the true incident in a 3.5 hour speech in the Supreme Soviet, calling it a "spy plane", after which the same day the U.S. responded by lying that it was a weather observation plane that may have "strayed" over the Russian border, not realizing that the plane had been captured almost intact along with its photographic equipment after Powers failed to activate the self-destruct mechanism before parachuting out. On May 7 Khrushchev sprung his trap, revealing that Powers was captured "alive and kicking", and had made a "complete confession", calling his mission "an agressive act" by the U.S. "aimed at wrecking the summit", with the soundbyte "Now just look how many silly things [the Amerikanskies] have said", raising a big stink which causes lasting injury to U.S.-Soviet relations. Powers was carrying the "silver dollar" containing an instant-death curare-tipped needle, but whimped out and didn't use it. On May 6 Lincoln White of the U.S. State Dept. issued an official coverup, with the soundbyte: "There was absolutely no deliberate intention to violate Soviet airspace, and there has never been.". On May 9 Khrushchev warned that any country allowing U.S. spy planes will be attacked by Soviet rockets. On May 11 Ike belatedly assumed personal responsibility for all U-2 flights, and K-Shoe responded by displaying the plane wreckage and uttering the soundbyte "The Russian people would say I was mad to welcome a man who sends spy planes over here." On May 15 Ike suspended future U-2 flights. On May 16 the Four-Nation Summit (U.S., U.K., Soviet Union, France) in the Elysee Palace in Paris began, but collapsed after Khrushchev accused Ike of "treachery" and "bandit" acts, demanded an apology, then demanded it be postponed for 6 mo. and walked out on both shoes. On May 17 at 5 p.m. the summit ended after Ike refused to apologize. On May 18 Khrushchev told a press conference attended by 3K that the U.S. is "thief-like", "piratical", and "cowardly". On July 8 the Soviets charged Powers wth espionage, and he pled guilty on Aug. 17, saying "I have a sackful of pride", er, "I am sincerely sorry that I had anything to do with this." On Aug. 19 he was convicted, and sentenced to 10 years in prison, then exchanged on Feb. 10, 1962 after 17 mo. for English-born German-Russian Soviet spy Col. Rudolf Abel (Vilyam Genrikhovich "Willie" Fisher) (1903-71) at the Glienicke Bridge in Potsdam, Germany, after which he worked for Lockheed as a test pilot until being laid off in 1970. On his way home Ike visits Lisbon to honor Portugal's 71-y.-o. dictator (since 1931) Antonio de Oliveira Salazar (1889-1970) . Powers' survival pack, incl. 7.5K rubles plus jewelry to give women ended up on display with the plane wreck at the Central Museum of the Armed Forces in Moscow, although a small piece of the plane was returned to the U.S. Did the Military-Industrial Complex (MIC) stab Ike in the back to kill the summit by feeding U-2 radar secrets to the Soviets through Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) double-agent Lee Harvey Oswald, who worked at Atsugi U-2 Air base in Japan before defecting to the Soviet Union, and was later allowed to return to the U.S. without arrest and then later used as the patsy when the MIC bumped JFK off? Meanwhile on July 25-28, 1960 the 1960 Repub. Nat. Convention in Chicago, Ill. nominated 47-y.-o. vice-pres. Richard M. Nixon (a Quaker) for pres., and former Mass. Sen. (1936-44) and U.S. U.N. rep. Henry Cabot Lodge Jr. for vice-pres. Nixon gave his 1960 Acceptance Speech , with the soundbye "Let's first examine what our opponents offered in Los Angeles two weeks ago. They claimed theirs was a new program, but you know what it was? It was simply the same old proposition that a political party should be all things to all men, and nothing more than that. And they... promised everything to everybody, with one exception: they didn't promise to pay the bill." Nixon's campaign theme was hard-line anti-Communism, free enterprise, and individual responsibiity (and licking the feet of the Military-Industrial Complex). Lodge was chosen to divert JFK's resources to his home state of Mass., plus to contrast his U.N. experience with JFK's inexperience, but alienated the South by pledging (without his prior approval) that Nixon will name at least one black to a cabinet post. Ike called Kennedy "that boy" (a young upstart), but stabbed Tricky Dicky Nixon in the back by saying "Dick just isn't presidential timber." "Come and click with Dick/ The one that none can lick/ He's the man to lead the U.S.A./ So let's all click with Dick". That's do or don't lick Dick? On Sept. 12, 1960 pres. candidate JFK addressed the Greater Houston Ministerial Assoc. in Tex., and drew applause when he said that he believes in the complete separation of church and state, and that if he ever felt conflicted he would resign, with the soundbyte: "Because I am a Catholic and no Catholic has ever been elected president, the real issues in this campaign have been obscured, perhaps deliberately, in some quarters less responsible than this. So it is apparently necessary for me to state once again, not what kind of church I believe in for that should be important only to me, but what kind of America I believe in. I believe in an America where the separation of church and state is absolute, where no Catholic prelate would tell the president (should he be a Catholic) how to act and no Protestant minister would tell his parishioners for whom to vote, where no church school is granted any public funds or political preference, and where no man is denied public office merely because his religion differs from the president who might appoint him or the people who might elect him." On Sept. 26, 1960 candidates John F. Kennedy and Richard M. Nixon (both former WWII naval officers from the Swing Generation) met in Chicago, Ill. in the First Kennedy-Nixon Debate , the first-ever televised U.S. presidential debate, carried by all three U.S. networks, and hosted by Howard Kingsbury Smith (1914-2002) of CBS-TV. "60 Minutes" creator Donald S. "Don" Hewitt (1922-2009) was exec producer. On Sept. 26 Fidel Castro gave the longest speech in U.N. history (4 hrs. 29 min.), during which he called JFK "an illiterate and ignorant millionaire." More debates followed on Oct. 7, Oct. 13 and Oct. 21. 3M out of 4M viewers who were swayed by the debates went with JFK. On Oct. 7 after he refused makeup, the debate showed unpowdered Nixon sweaty and nervous, causing TV viewers to go for JFK for his cool looks and disposition rather than substance, even though radio listeners went with Nixon, setting the model for future debates. Kennedy's Catholicism caused many Americans to vote on religious lines, even though he claimed "I am not the Catholic candidate for president." Kennedy was coached by future "Bonnie and Clyde" dir. Arthur Hiller Penn (1922-2010) to look directly at the camera and keep his responses brief and pithy. to look directly at the camera and keep his responses brief and pithy; too bad, Kennedy, who runs to the right of Nixon when it comes to a hardline stance on the Soviets lies during the debates that there is a U.S-Soviet "missile gap", when actually the Soviets have 300 and the U.S. has 6K; if Ike had announced that there is no missile gap then Nixon would have won the election?; he also lies about his intentions about Cuba without actually lying, with the soundbyte: "The Republicans have allowed a Communist dictatorship to flourish eight jet minutes from our borders. We must support anti-Castro fighters. So far these freedom fighters have received no help from our government." In Sept. 1960 U.S. Cuba-based Mafia bosses Salvatore "Sam the Cigar" "Momo" "Mooney" Giancana (Giangana) (1908-75) of Chicago and Santo Trafficante Jr. (1914-87) of Fla. are contacted by CIA go-between Robert Aime Maheu (1917-2008) about assassinating Fidel Castro, and after Giancana suggests it they unsuccessfully try getting poison pills slipped into his food - they hadn't invented Pop Rocks yet? On Nov. 8, 1960 (Tue.) after a campaign marked by slogans such as "Nixon Nixon, he's our man, Kennedy belongs in the trash can" (and vice-versa), the 1960 U.S. pres. election saw John F. Kennedy defeat Richard M. Nixon by only 113,057 votes out of 69M cast (34,227,096 to 34,108,546) (303 to 219 electoral votes). Nixon wins Ohio but lost the election, a rarity. Vote tampering was suspected, and rightly so, as the Mafia came through for old man Kennedy in Chicago, Ill., stuffing the ballot box, although Ill. has only 27 electoral votes and Kennedy would win anyway, after which Nixon gamely announced that he would not demand a recount "for the good of the country". In the early 1960s the Suite 8F Group (Crowd) of powerful conservative Dems. begins meeting in the Lamar Hotel in Houston, Tex., forming the power center of the South for right-wing politicians and businessmen; members incl. LBJ and John Connally; if there was a conspiracy to kill JFK they had to be involved up to their necks? On Jan. 17, 1961 (Thur.) U.S. Pres. Eisenhower gave Ike's Farewell Address on radio and TV, saying "I wish I could say tonight that a lasting peace is in sight. Happily, I can say that war has been avoided", and that the Cold War is a "prolonged and complex struggle with liberty at stake." He then throws conspiracy theorists a bone with "This conjunction of an immense military establishment and a large arms industry is new in the American experience", concluding "In the councils of government we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the Military-Industrial Complex. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists and will persist." The Military-Industrial Complex (MIC) then did just what he warned, and got away with it? As Pres. Eisenhower leaves office, there are only 900 "advisers" in Vietnam. On Jan. 20, 1961 salesman Oscar Deslatte and mgr. Fred Sewell of the Bolton Ford Dealership in New Orleans, La. are visited by two members of the anti-Castro Friends of Democratic Cuba, and the first, Joseph Moore, orders 10 trucks on the condition of a special discount for a nonprofit org., telling Deslatte to put the 2nd man's name on the bid, Oswald; the Jan. 6 articles of incorporation list Oswald, ex-FBI agent W. Guy Banister, and steamship shipping co. owner Gerard F. Tujague, who employed Lee Harvey Oswald as a messenger from Nov. 10, 1955 - Jan. 14, 1956. The trucks were to be used in the Bay of Pigs invasion? On Jan. 20, 1961 (Sun.) 43-y.-o. charisma-maximus Mass.-born Harvard-educated WWII Navy PT-boat hero (first to be knocked-off by the Military-Industrial Complex?) John Fitzgerald "Jack" Kennedy (1917-63) becomes the 35th U.S. pres. (until Nov. 22, 1963) in the 51st U.S. pres. inauguration (youngest pres. until?) (first Boy Scout pres.) (first Gemini pres.) (continues the tradition of all Mass.-born presidents being born in Norfolk County, incl. John Adams and John Quincy Adams); "from a medical standpoint, he was a mess", having been hospitalized more than three dozen times and given last rites 3x; snowiest inauguration (8 in. of snow) until ?; Robert Frost delivers his poem The Gift Outright ("The land was ours before we were the land's"); Lyndon Baines Johnson (1908-73) of Tex. becomes the 37th U.S. vice-pres.; JFK makes wearing hats uncool for decades to come?; the inaug. theme is "World Peace Through New Frontiers". The JFK Inauguration Address , mainly written by his "intellectual blood bank" adviser Theodore Chaikin "Ted" Sorensen (1928-2010) (a Nebraskan with a Danish father and Russian Jewish mother), includes the soundbytes: "The world is very different now, for man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all forms of human poverty and all forms of human life. And yet the same revolutionary beliefs for which our forebears fought are still at issue around the globe: the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God. We dare not forget today that we are the heirs of that first revolution. Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans, born in this century, tempered by war, disciplined by a hard and bitter peace, proud of our ancient heritage, and unwilling to witness or permit the slow undoing of those human rights to which this nation has always been committed, and to which we are committed today at home and around the world. Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order to assure the survival and the success of liberty"; "Can we forge against these enemies a grand and global alliance, North and South, East and West, that can assure a more fruitful life for all minkind? Will you join in that historic effort? In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility, I welcome it. I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it, and the glow from that fire can truly light the world. And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for you country"; he adds "I now invite all nations, including the Soviet Union to join with us in developing a weather prediction program, in a new communications satellite program), and in preparation for probing the distant planets of Mars and Venus, probes which may someday unlock the secrets of the Universe." On Jan. 21, 1961 JFK's brother Robert Francis "Bobby" Kennedy (1925-68) becomes U.S. atty. gen., with JFK explaining that it's "to give him... experience before he goes out to practice law" (which is OK despite nepotism because the Nixon Doctrine says that if the president does it it isn't illegal?); Yale U. grad Burke Marshall (1922-2003) is appointed by RFK as asst. atty. gen. in charge of the U.S. Justice Dept.'s Civil Rights Div. (until Dec. 1964), initially chosen because he's not a known civil rights leader and turning JFK off, who says "I have nothing in common with that man", but who later distinguishes himself by using the U.S. govt. power to regulate interstate commerce as the tool to force black civil rights on states rather than the more obvious 14th Amendment; Dem. Pierre Emil George Salinger (1925-2004) (Jewish father, French Catholic mother) becomes White House press. secy., continuing with LBJ after JFK's death; Repub. Clarence Douglas (Douglass) Dillon (1909-2003) becomes treasury secy. #57 (until 1965); Oakland, Calif.-born Repub. Robert Strange McNamara (1916-2009) (pres. of Ford Motor Co. for 1 mo., first who was not a descendant of Henry Ford, one of the Ford Whiz Kids, known for his slicked-back hair, frameless glasses and statistical-quoting technocrat approach, who made the decision to dump the Edsel, who takes a $3M pay cut to take the $25K-a-year govt. job) becomes U.S. defense secy. #8 (until Feb. 29, 1968); Rockefeller Foundation head (a Dem. from Ga., who only takes the job after he gets a partial pension) David Dean Rusk (1909-94) becomes U.S. secy. of state #54 (until Jan. 20, 1969), JFK snubbing his too-liberal campaign foreign policy adviser Chester Bowles (1901-86) (who becomes undersecy., and was fired before the end of the year) for a conservative figurehead who gives an appearance of not appeasing the Commies, although Rusk is the odd man out in the admin. and a weak secy., and JFK really leans on his 25-year friend William David Ormsby Gore, 5th Baron Harlech (1918-85) (British ambassador to the U.S.) and seems to know more about British than U.S. society and foreign policy, esp. U.S. civil rights, and regards Gore's boss British PM Harold Macmillan as a surrogate father after his own daddy's stroke?; on Jan. 21 Jewish-Am. Dem. Conn. gov. (since 1955) Abraham Alexander Ribicoff (1910-98) becomes U.S. HEW secy. #4 (until July 13, 1962); on Feb. 25 JFK appoints egghead (former Harvard dean) McGeorge "Mac" Bundy (1919-96) as nat. security adviser (until 1966); his brother William Putnam "Bill" Bundy (1917-2000) is appointed foreign affairs adviser; both are Yale U. grads, and Mac is a member of Skull & Bones; on Nov. 21, 1963 (1 day before JFK's assassination) McGeorge Bundy drafts sharp escalations to JFK's Vietnam policy called Nat. Security Action Memorandum 273 , even though JFK would not have approved them, making him a suspect in the assassination conspiracy too?; JFK goes hatless to his inaguration, and starts the trend toward 2-button suits? easier to get out of when making out?); JFK favors John Wayne Westerns for White House viewing, and his favorite food is tomato soup with sour cream; he is a sex and drug (methamphetamime?) addict, which the press covers up; his two pet cats are named Kitten and Tom; in 1960 First Lady Jacqueline Lee Bouvier "Jackie" Kennedy (1929-94) (Secret Service codename: Lace) hired fashion designer Oleg Cassini (1913-2006) to create her own look, and he decided that she looks Egyptian, "the Cleopatra of the modern era", making use of her broad shoulders, flat chest, thin hips and long torso, causing her to bite big and spend $100K on haute couture clothes in 1961 alone; she smokes cigarettes even though she is never photographed with one; JFK orders a copy of the Robert Preston exercise song Go, You Chicken Fat, Go sent to every U.S. school; in Nov. 1960 UPI correspondent Helen Thomas (1920-) (Greek Orthodox of Lebanese descent) is assigned to the White House, becoming known as "the Sitting Buddha", sitting in the front row and asking the first question, and beginning the tradition of ending all the conferences with "Thank you, Mr. President"; she resigns from UPI on May 17, 2000 after 57 years, a day after News World Communications Inc., owned by Rev. Sun Myung Moon acquires it, and joins Hearst Newspapers; after on-camera remarks about Jews needing to leave Palestine and go back to Europe surface, she retires on June 7, 2010. After the assassination, the stages of grief of denial, guilt, anger, and acceptance result in the Oct. 25, 1967 release of the Hollywood musical Camelot , which gets retroactively applied to the fabled JFK years by his sad admirers. On Jan. 21, 1961 The Economist pub. an article on JFK's inauguration, containing the soundbyte: "He will need, as well as his brave essay in thought-out leadership, sometimes the intuitive personal flair of Roosevelt, sometimes the warm downright sense of Truman and, often, the patient humility of Lincoln. Then, indeed, many hopes may be fulfilled." On Nov. 30, 1963 they pub. "Leader of the West", extolling the virtues of his successor LBJ, with the soundbyte: "John Kennedy has gone Lincoln's way to the end, and the many hopes now rest upon Lyndon Johnson." It didn't take long for JFK to show his progressive Keynesian side. On Feb. 2, 1961 he delivered a Special Message to the Congress: Program for Economic Recovery and Growth , advocating an economic stimulus to revive the economy along with increased anti-poverty spending, causing Congress to pass six laws by June, providing $200M in extra welfare payments to 750K families, $800M in extended unemployment benefits to 3M, $175M in higher wages, and 420K new construction jobs under the new Housing Act. On Feb. 9 he delivered a Special Message to the Congress on Health and Hospital Care , recommending "enactment of a health insurance program under the Social Security system". On May 20, 1962 he gave a nationally-televised speech before 20K at Madison Square Garden in New York City, advocating a Medicare program for the elderly, with the soundbyte: "The fact of the matter is that what we are now talking about doing, most of the countries of Europe did years ago. The British did it 30 years ago. We are behind every country, pretty nearly, in Europe, in this matter of medical care for our citizens." Oh yes, the Bay of Pigs Invasion. Backing up, on Mar. 17, 1960 Fidel Castro rejected a last attempt by the Eisenhower admin. to reach an understanding, causing Ike to approve the use of a Cuban exile army to oust him. In Apr. the CIA began planning the Bay of Pigs Invasion along with the assassination of Castro (without telling Ike?), with an initial budget of $4.4M, which grew to $46M, arrrgh. On Apr. 15, 1961 six repainted U.S. Air Force B-26 bombers knocked out half of the Cuban air force, but Pres. Kennedy recalled them on Apr. 16 without the 1,511 CIA-trained commandos being informed, and on Apr. 17, 1961 they invaded Cuba in four chartered merchant ships and two landing crafts from Nicaragua in the unsuccessful Bay of Pigs Invasion in Cochinos Bay on the S coast of Cuba 90 mi. from Havana, getting pinned down on a swampy beachhead while their supplies were blocked by reefs until the supply ships were sunk; on Apr. 19 the 300K-man Cuban army finished the invaders off, killing 114 and capturing 1.2K POWs (released in Dec. 1962 for $53M in food and medical supplies, privately raised), after which on Apr. 20 Castro announced the defeat of the invasion; on Apr. 22 Pres. Kennedy accepted "sole responsibility", saying "How could I have been so stupid?" for trusting the CIA and Joint Chiefs of Staff, but he actually held CIA dir. (since 1953) Allen Welsh Dulles (1893-1969) responsible, and he was pressured into resigning in Sept., along with deputy dir. USAF Gen. Charles Pearre Cabell (1903-71) , brother of Dallas mayor (1961-4) Earle Cabell (1906-75) , (1906-75), allegedly saying that he wants "to splinter the CIA in a thousand pieces and scatter it to the winds", although his memo to do it is ignored (turning the whole CIA against him with a reason to assassinate him?); E. Howard Hunt uses the cover name Eduardo in the Bay of Pigs operation; after the Cuban V, Khrushchev gets the idea of installing nuclear missiles in Cuba to protect it from another invasion, and vetoes Castro's plan of doing it publicly, preferring to do it in secret before the U.S. can react; on Apr. 21 JFK holds a press conference , accepting responsibility for the fiasco, with the soundbyte: "There�s an old saying that victory has a hundred fathers, and defeat is an orphan." in Apr.-May the Cuba Study Group , led by retired gen. Maxwell Davenport Taylor (1901-87) performed an "autopsy" of the fiasco, then published a report on June 13 concluding that the invasion was Ike's plan, that JFK's decision to not call in additional air strikes did not doom it, and that the CIA and Joint Chiefs of Staff shared the blame; during this time Taylor became a friend of Robert F. Kennedy, who was wowed by his intellect and named one of his sons after him in Jan. 1965; meanwhile Taylor was recalled to active duty and installed to the new post of military rep. to the U.S. pres., causing him to end up cutting off the Joint Chiefs, until JFK appointed him as chmn. on Oct. 1, 1962 (until 1964). So it is here that the plot to kill JFK, who just approved the execution of a U.S. soldier and stabbed others in the back, began, somebody just bought a new shirt, I told you it was your color? Pretend I'm not your boss, I'm just some guy you met in a bar. On Apr. 30, 1961 U.S. expatriate Lee Harvey Oswald married 19-y.-o. Leningrad pharmacology student Marina Prusakova Oswald (1942-) (daughter of a KGB col.) (Soviet agent?) six weeks after meeting her. Their first child June Oswald (1962-) was born in Feb. 1962. Despite being a traitor to the U.S. and facing sure execution, Oswald suddenly decided he doesn't like the Soviet paradise after all, and after obtaining a loan from the U.S. embassy in Moscow, he returned to the U.S. with them on June 1, 1962, being met at the dock in Hoboken, N.J. by State Dept.-recommended prominent Bulgarian-Am. anti-Communist Spas T. Raikin , then settling in the Ft. Worth, Tex. area to be with his mother and brother, meeting Russian-born CIA man George de Mohrenschildt (1911-77) , who got him a job four days later at a graphics art co. working for the U.S. Army Map Service on maps related to U-2 spy missions over Cuba, and became a father figure; de Mohrenschildt was a friend of Jackie Kennedy, and was a business partner of Aristotle Onassis in oil deals in the Caribbean prior to Castro's takeover of Cuba, while Onassis' brother-in-law was the cover employer of CIA Sukarno coup plotter Al Ulmer (1916-2000) , who visited Dallas the week of Nov. 22, 1963; when Oswald moved to New Orleans in Apr. 1963, de Mohrenschildt got a $285K contract to do a geological survey for Papa Doc Duvalier of Haiti (which he never did), introducing Oswald to Ruth Hyde Paine. In 1977 after admitting that he contacted Oswald for the CIA and was set to meet House Select Committee on Assassinations member Gaeton Fonzi (1935-) , Mohrenschildt allegedly committed suicide. Was he one of Oswald's handlers at the CIA ? Was Oswald in the CIA or ONI before going to Russia, or did they induce him to join it in order to be given safe passage back to the U.S.? If the latter, they must already have decided to assassinate JFK? If the former, they may or may not have already decided to do JFK, but must have eventually decided that Oswald was nearing the end of his life cycle and was to be used, abused, and losed in Dallas? Marina's KGB connections allows Oswald to be portrayed as a KGB agent later by the CIA when they find it convenient? Meanwhile on May 1, 1961 Cuban expatriate Antulio Ramirez Ortiz hijacked a Nat. Airlines Convair 440 flight en route from Marathon, Fla. to Key West to Havana allegedly to warn Castro of an assassination plot, becoming the first hijacking from the U.S. to Cuba. After arrival he became a hero and was nicknamed Numero Uno. The first skyjacking was in 1947, in order to escape a Communist country, with U.S. approval, after which there were 21 more skyjackings by 1956, 18 to escape Communism. So why would Oswald want to kill JFK when the best he could hope for would be to escape to Communism, from which he already fled? In July 1961 at a Nat. Security Council meeting, Joint Chiefs Chmn. (1960-2) Gen. Lyman Louis Lemnitzer (1899-1988) and CIA Dir. Allen Dulles presented JFK with a plan for "a surprise nuclear attack", causing him to leave the meeting, remarking to Dean Rusk "And we call ourselves the human race"; the MIC begins calling JFK a pinko traitor Commie-appeaser behind his back, who wanted to end the cold war instead of escalating it to a hot war and winning it? On Mar. 13, 1962 Lemnitzer presented his plan for Operation Northwoods to U.S. secy. of defense Robert McNamara, calling for false flag acts of terrorism in the Miami area to create support for military action against Cuba; on Mar. 16 JFK told Lemnitzer that there is no way the U.S. will take military action against Cuba on his watch, after which Lemnitzer was denied another term as JCS chmn., pissing off the Pentagon and causing AF chief of staff gen. Curtis LeMay on Oct. 19 to utter the soundybte "This is almost as bad as the appeasement at Munich" - giving them a reason to get revenge as well as stop a pinko in the White House? In Jan. 1963 Lemnitzer was appointed Supreme Allied Cmdr. of NATO (until July 1969). On Nov. 30, 1961 Pres. Kennedy authorizes aggressive covert operations against Fidel Castro's govt. in Cub, becoming known as Operation Mongoose (the Cuban Project) , setting Oct. 1962 for his overthrow, with CIA agent ("America's James Bond") William King "Bill" Harvey (1915-76) in charge; he later masterminds the assassination of JFK? On Dec. 19, 1961 JFK's daddy Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. suffers a debilitating stroke in Palm Beach, Fla. - who was she? In 1961 La.-born CBS-TV journalist Howard Kingsbury Smith (1914-2002) , who started out under Edward R. Murrow in Berlin in 1940 and interviewed Hitler, Himmler, and Goebbels at Berchtesgaden before they threw him out of the country quits CBS after he incl. a quote from Edmund Burke at the end of his documentary "Who Speaks for Birmingham?" that "All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing", pissing-off CBS pres. William S. Paley, who orders him to remove it; he moves to ABC-TV, which is running #3 behind CBS-TV and NBC-TV, and helps pump it up while turning into a Vietnam War hawk and earning the love of Richard Nixon, who gives him a rare 1-hour interview in 1971, although he later becomes the first nat. TV commentator to call for his resignation over Watergate; meanwhile Pres. Kennedy appoints Edward R. Murrow to head the new U.S. Info. Agency (USIA) (until 1963), causing him to leave CBS News, where Paley had already cut his See It Now show back; meanwhile after revealing CIA info. about Israel's Dimona nuclear weapons plant to the New York Times last Dec., gaining JFK's attention, U.S. Atomic Energy Commission chmn. (since 1958) John Alexander McCone (1902-91) becomes dir. of the CIA (until 1965); meanwhile CIA agent Richard Lehman (1923-2007) initiates PICL (pr. like pickle) (President's Intelligence Checklist) , the first daily memo for a U.S. pres. summarizing global intel news, guiding JFK through the Cuban missile crisis et al.; it is later called the President's Daily Brief; meanwhile at JFK's request a U.S. inspection of Dimona is carried out, finding the facility "within the scope of peaceful character"; after Levi Eshkol replaces Ben Gurion as Israeli PM in 1963, JFK requests another inspection, which is still pending when he is assassinated - giving anti-Semites an opening to accuse Israel of JFK's assassination? William Cornelius Sullivan (1912-77) becomes dir. of the FBI's domestic intel div., putting him in line for J. Edgar Hoover's job; in 1964 he helps arrange for a tape recording of MLK Jr.'s hanky panky with women to be mailed to his wife Coretta Scott King, calling MLK Jr. "a fraud, demagogue, and scoundrel"; too bad, he is "the only liberal Democrat to break into the top ranks of the bureau" (NYT), and after he begins criticizing Hoover about his overemphasis on the Am. Communist Party compared to civil rights violations in the South, and about illegal activities of his COINTELPRO activities, he ends up summarily fired on Oct. 1, 1971, which doesn't stop him from going public with his allegations. In Jan. 1962 Pres. Kennedy appointed Texas-born Fred Korth (1909-98) as U.S. Navy secy. after Texas-born John B. Connally Jr. (appointed on Jan. 25, 1961) resigned last Dec. 20 and Texas-born LBJ lobbied him in. Within weeks Korth got the X-22 V/STOL contract switched from Boeing of Seattle, Wash. to Bell Aerospace Corp. of Ft. Worth, Tex.. Too bad, after a prototype crashed on Aug. 8, 1966, the program was cancelled. Meanwhile the $6.5B joint Navy-Air Force swing-wing TFX/F-111 program was up for bids, and with his and LBJ's lobbying, General Dynamics Co. of Ft. Worth, Tex. got the award on Oct. 24, despite Boeing Co. of Washington state having a better design and bidding $100M lower. Too bad, on Dec. 12 when LBJ visited GD for their big celebration, Texas Dem. rep. (1955-89) James Claude "Jim" Wright Jr. (1922-) , representing the Texas 12th District based in Ft. Worth slipped and uttered the soundbyte "You have to have friends and they have to stick with you through thick and thin even if you do have merit on your side", causing the U.S. Senate to begin an investigation. On Nov. 20, 1963 a Senate investigating committee held hearings on the TFX (Tactical Fighter Experimental) Fighter Plane Scandal where General Dynamics had received a $7B contract in 1962. On Nov. 22, 1963 they heard testimony about an alleged $100K cash payoff to vice-pres. LBJ, but after the assassination of JFK there was no follow-up, hmmm, JFK, Cuba, the U.S.S.R., Oswald, Marcello, General Dynamics, LBJ... let's make a movie? On Feb. 3, 1962 after sending fellow cigar smoker on a mission to get him 1.2K green Petit Upmanns for his personal humidor, JFK ordered the Cuban Embargo , banning all U.S. trade with Cuba on Feb. 7 except for food and drugs; too bad, other countries didn't follow suit. On Mar. 22, 1962 J. Edgar Hoover lunched with JFK and told him about 70 wiretapped phone calls between him and mob moll Judith Campbell Exner (nee Inmoor) (1934-99) , who were introduced in Las Vegas by Frank Sinatra in 1960, after which he breaks off the relationship, and it is covered-up until 1975. On Apr. 22, 1962 John Ford's The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance debuts, the last of John Ford's B&W Westerns (the last great film of the Golden Age of Movies?), starring John Wayne as rancher Tom Doniphon of Shinbone, James Stewart as inept Eastern lawyer Ransom "Ranse" Stoddard, Vera Miles as his babe Hallie, and Lee Marvin as badass outlaw Liberty Valance, who Doniphon shoots and kills from a hidden position to make it look like Stoddard did it, causing him to become a hero and rise to gov. and U.S. sen.; the hit Hal David-Burt Bacharach theme song The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance by Gene Pitney (1940-2006) is released after the film comes out; first movie where John Wayne uses the word "pilgrim", which becomes a standard for Wayne impersonators; "This is the West, sir. When the legend becomes a fact, print the legend"; offscreen Ford needles Wayne for not serving in WWII while Stewart was a war hero, with "How rich did you get while Jimmy was risking his life?"; "When Liberty Valance rode to town the womenfolk would hide, they'd hide/ When Liberty Valance walked around the men would step aside/ 'cause the point of a gun was the only law that Liberty understood/ When it came to shootin' straight and fast - he was mighty good/ From out of the East a stranger came, a law book in his hand, a man/ The kind of a man the West would need to tame a troubled land/ 'cause the point of a gun was the only law that Liberty understood/ When it came to shootin' straight and fast - he was mighty good./ Many a man would face his gun and many a man would fall/ The man who shot Liberty Valance, he shot Liberty Valance/ He was the bravest of them all" - gives Lee Harvey Oswald ideas, or LBJ? On May 19, 1962 (Sat.) aging #1 Hollywood sex symbol Marilyn Monroe (Norma Jeane Baker) (1926-62) sung a sultry rendition of Happy Birthday, Mister President to her secret lover Pres. Kennedy at a Dem. fundraiser in Madison Square Garden attended by 17K incl. Jack Benny, Maria Callas, Ella Fitzgerald, Jimmy Durante, and Peggy Lee, while wearing a dress described as "skin and beads" by Adlai Stevenson (her last pubic, er, public appearance); the dress by Jean Louis was auctioned for $1.15M by Christie's auction house on Oct. 27, 1999; after hearing that Marilyn would be at the party, Jackie uttered the soundbyte "Screw Jack" and refused to attend; a photo of Marilyn and JFK taking after the song becomes the only one of the two to survive after the Secret Service confiscated all the others but missed this one because it was left in the negatives dryer; it was not pub. until June 1, 2010 - did she hum it for him again in private? On July 28-29, 1962 she was at the Cal-Neva Lodge in Lake Tahoe, owned by her former lover Frank Sinatra and Mafia boss Sam Giancana, where she moped that Bobby had dumped her and fantasized that he might divorce his wife for her, then threateneed to tell all to the press about her flings with him and JFK, and after she got too drunk, Sinatra cut her loose and quit protecting her? On Aug. 5, 1962 (Sun.) after telling Peter Lawford "Say goodbye to Pat, to the president, and to yourself, you're such a nice guy", Marilyn Monroe (b. 1926) was found dead in her Brentwood, Calif. deluxe hacienda-style cottage at 12305 Fifth Helena Dr. at the end of a cul-de-sac, with a telephone in one hand and bottle of sleeping pills in the other, according to AP; her pshrink Ralph Greenson finds her dead; neighbors allegedly reported seeing an ambulance in front of her cottage the evening before, along with a heli hovering overhead and loud voices and breaking glass inside; others allegedly hear a hysterical woman in the early a.m. screaming "Murderers, you murderers, are you satisfied now that she's dead?"; Bobby Kennedy visited her that night, and she told him that she had been "passed around like a piece of meat", and he smothered her with a pillow to stop her screams?; an ambulance took her away breathing and brought her back dead?; she spent her last night alive at Frank Sinatra's lodge with Mafia boss Sam Giancana after being picked up and dropped off by hair stylist George Masters?; a plastic yellow duck floats in her pool, beside which hang antique wind chimes donated by Carl Sandburg; Allan Abbot and Ron Hast, the two morticians who prepare her for burial find hairy legs, false teeth, and purple blotches all over her face; a few weeks earlier 20th Cent. Fox studio boss Peter G. Levathes fired her from Something's Got to Give (a remake of the 1940 film "My Favorite Wife", co-starring Dean Martin after Gardner McCay turned down the part), slapped her with a $500K breach of contract lawsuit and replaced her with Lee Remick; after she was fired from the film, Aristotle Onassis offered her the use of his yacht Christina for R&R; she willed 75% of her estate to her acting coach Lee Strasberg, and 25% to her pshrink Marianne Kris, which was contested by her business mgr. Inez Melson due to her being under their "undue influence"; "Over the Rainbow" was played at her funeral; she was buried in Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in W Los Angeles, after which ex-hubby Joe DiMaggio sent a half-dozen red roses to her crypt three times a week for 20 years and never remarried; she was buried in Corridor of Memories #24, a pink marble crypt, which Hugh Hefner owns the rights to the crypt next to; after an autopsy by Los Angeles deputy coroner (1961-7) Thomas T. Noguchi (1927-) (who became chief coroner in 1967-82, and performed autopsies on RFK and Sharon Tate, becoming known as "Coroner to the Stars"), her death was ruled a probable suicide from an OD of sleeping pills because a concentration of Nembutal (Pentobarbital) equal to 90+ pills was found in her blood, although no pills are found in her stomach and no drinking glass in her room; in 1972 Veronica Hamel bought her Brentwood cottage, and found sophisticated bugging equipment in every room, probably installed by the FBI, which cost her $100K to remove. Was it really a mob hit ordered by JFK for threatening to rat about their love affair by publishing her diary, which is never found? Or was it caused by her doctor prescribing a chloral hydrate suppository thinking she had been weaned off Nembutal and not knowing that another doctor had refilled her prescription? Her cottage was purchased in 1994 by film dir. Michael Ritchie for $995K. "Sex is part of nature, and I go along with nature"; "A professional amateur" (Laurence Olivier); "Directing her was like directing Lassie" (Otto Preminger); "Anyone can remember lines, but it takes a real artist to come on the set and not know her lines and give the performance she did" (Billy Wilder); "Yes, there was something special about me, and I knew what it was. I was the kind of girl they found dead in a hall bedroom with an empty bottle of sleeping pills in her hand" (Marilyn) - the good die young? In May 1962 Nikita Khrushchev (1894-1971) gets the idea of putting intermediate-range nuclear misiles in Cuba to counter the U.S. lead in strategic missiles and protect it from another Bay of Pigs invasion. In July Fidel Castro's hardline brother Raul visits the Soviet Union, receiving a promise of Soviet missiles to be installed in Cuba, and they approve it on Sept. 2, 1962. On June 6, 1962 JFK signs Nat. Security Memorandum 160 , ordering the installation of Permissive Action Links (PALs) as safeties in all U.S. nukes in Europe; too bad, out of concern that they might prevent their use when needed, U.S. Minuteman missiles use the code 00000000 (eight zeros) until 1977; it takes until 1987 to install them on all U.S. nukes. On June 6, 1962 JFK gives the Commencement Address at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., followed on June 11 by the Commencement Address at Yale U. , where he is awarded an honorary doctorate, starting with the soundbyte: "Now I have the best of both worlds, a Harvard education and a Yale degree"; after noting that the federal govt. has not grown as fast as the economy, he argues for a more activist role, with the soundbyte: "The truth about big government is the truth about any other great activity - it is complex. Certainly it is true that size brings dangers, but it is also true that size can bring benefits." On Sept. 12, 1962 JFK gives his Man on the Moon Speech at Rice U. in Houston, Tex., promising to deliver genuine Yankee astronauts to its surface by the end of the decade to beat the pesky Soviets and prove that Capitalism is better than Communism, causing Socialist NASA and Capitalist Hollywood to work together to film the ultimate simulation on a secret soundstage to push off on the public via the TV networks as a top national security priority? It worked didn't it? The juice from the Sputnik coup was reversed, and Commie bragging rights in the non-Commie world went kaput, leading to the ultimate collapse of the Soviet Union in another 20 years, all for only umpteen billion. Naw, they really did it, they wouldn't want to weather the backlash, it's just that no other country has been able to go there since to verify it, a country we can trust to tell the truth like China - check back with me later. On Oct. 14, 1962 after wasting three weeks photographing the wrong end of the island despite intel reports indicating the real location, CIA U-2s detect Soviet ballistic missiles in Cuba; U.S. Air Force pilot Maj. Richard S. Heyser and CIA contract pilot James A. Barnes Jr. (1929-99) identify missile sites in separate flights; on Oct. 16 Pres. Kennedy is informed of them, beginning the Cuban Missile Crisis on Oct. 16-29, 1962, forcing nuclear missiles out of Cuba only after bringing the U.S. to DEFCON 2 on Oct. 24 (until Nov. 20), and coming close to World War III; too bad, JFK fails to consult Canadian PM John G. Defenbaker before requesting Canada to put its forces on DEFCON 3 status, pissing him off; on Oct. 16 JFK recites the following verse to the State Dept. after being told of the crisis: "Bullfight critics ranked in rows/ Crowd the enormous plaza full;/ But only one is there who knows,/ And he's the man who fights the bull"; on Oct. 18 JFK meets foreign minister Andrei Gromyko (1909-89) ; on Oct. 22 JFK announces an air and naval blockade of Cuba; on Oct. 23 U.S. ambassador to the U.N. (1961-5) Adlai Ewing Stevenson II (1900-65) speaks at the U.N. about the Cuba crisis; on Oct. 24 JFK signs Proclamation 3504 , officially beginning the U.S. blockade of Cuba (ends ?); on Oct. 25 mouse-turned-lion Stevenson presents photographic evidence of Soviet missile bases in Cuba to the U.N. Security Council, demanding that Soviet ambassador Valerian Alexandrovich Zorin (1902-86) answer regarding Cuban missile bases, uttering the immortal mouse-that-roared soundbyte "I am prepared to wait for my answer until Hell freezes over"; on Oct. 26 JFK warns Russia that the U.S. will not allow Soviet missiles to remain in Cuba; on Oct. 27 Khrushchev sends a note to JFK offering to withdraw the missiles if the U.S. closes its bases in Turkey; on Oct. 28 after receiving a telegram from Castro reading "We should deliver a nuclear first strike", causing him to tell his son Sergei "That is insane", Khrushchev informs the U.S. that he had ordered the dismantling of the Soviet missile bases in Cuba, and on Oct. 29 Radio Moscow reports the nuclear missiles in Cuba as deactivated, although they really start doing it on Nov. 1?; in Nov. Che Guevara utters the soundbyte "If the missiles had remained, we would have fired them against the very heart of the U.S., including New York. The victory of Socialism is well worth millions of atomic victims." In 1992 Fidel Castro tells Robert McNamara: "Of course I knew the missiles were nuclear-armed. That's precisely why I urged Khrushchev to launch them. And of course Cuba would have been utterly destroyed in the exchange." "My dream is to drop three atomic bombs on New York City" (Raul Castro, Nov. 1960). On Oct. 24, 1962 John Frankenheimer's The Manchurian Candidate (B&W), written by Frankenheimer and George Axelrod based on the 1959 Richard Condon novel set in 1952 debuts, starring Frank Sinatra as Maj. Bennett "Ben" Marco, Laurence Harvey as Medal of Honor winner Raymond Shaw, Angela Lansbury as his Commie agent mother Mrs. Iselin, James Gregory as her Commie agent hubby U.S. Sen. John "Johnny" Iselin ("there are exactly 207, er, 104, er, 275 card-carrying members of the Communist Party in the State Dept."), and Janet Leigh as Sinatra's babe Eugenie "Rosie" Rose (Eldorado 5-9970) in an eerie mix of the Korean War, the McCarthy years, brainwashing theory, and the JFK assassination, which hasn't occurred yet, pissing-off both leftist and rightist critics while pleasing conspiracy theorists; Oswald got the idea to assassinate JFK from it?; somebody else did?; Khigh Dhiegh plays Commie pshrink Yen Lo, Henry Silva plays Korean double agent Chunjin, John McGiver plays Sen. Thomas Jordan, Leslie Parrish plays his daughter Jocie; establishes TV dir. Frankenheimer as a film dir.; the Queen of Diamonds sets off Raymond Shaw's assassin programming mode; "Raymond Shaw is the bravest, kindest, warmest, most wonderful human being I've ever known in my life"; "Raymond Shaw, hell, hell" (ending); refilmed in 2004. On Nov. 6, 1962 (Tues.) JFK's younger brother Edward Moore "Ted" Kennedy (1932-2009) is elected Dem. U.S. Sen. in liberal Mass. (until 2009). On Nov. 7 after losing the Calif. gov. race to gov. (since 1959) Edmund Gerald "Pat" Brown Sr. (1905-96) by 300K votes after revelations that his Washington, D.C. home had been sold under restrictive covenants preventing a black or Jewish buyer, Richard Milhous Nixon (1913-94) tells reporters "You won't have Nixon to kick around anymore, because, gentlemen, this is my last press conference", adding "You won't have Dick Nixon to kick around any more"; Howard K. Smith of ABC-TV presents the documentary The Political Obituary of Richard Nixon , which incl. an interview with Nixon's nemesis Alger Hiss, pissing-off sponsors, who cause his show (since 1962) "Howard K. Smith: News and Comment" to be cancelled, and the new show "ABC News Reports" to replace it in 1963-4. On Nov. 17, 1962 the FBI cracks a plot in New York City by Cuban agents to bomb Macy's, Gimbel's, Bloomingdale's and Manhattan's Grand Central Terminal with 500 kilos of TNT, set to go off the day after Thanksgiving. On Nov. 20, 1962 JFK mandates an end to religious or racial discrimination in federally-funded housing. On Dec. 14, 1962 JFK delivers a speech to the Economic Club of New York, advocating tax cuts to spur business activity. On Feb. 5, 1963 JFK sends a Special Message to Congress About the State of Mental Health , introducing legislation delegating the Nat. Inst. of Mental Health (NIMH) to administer community mental health centers for those discharged from state psychiatric hospitals. On Mar. 29, 1963 Tex. financier Billie Sol Estes (1924-) is convicted of 57 counts of mail fraud for swindling investors and the federal govt. of $24M through false claims of inventory of cotton and anhydrous ammonia fertilizer as loan collateral, and is sentenced to 15 years in prison. His slimy dealings and apparent suicides of associates are the first topic of JFK's May 17, 1962 press conference, the whole affair causing him to decide to drop LBJ as his 1964 running mate. Meanwhile Estes gets his conviction overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court (5-4) in 1965 because TV cameras were allowed in the courtroom, after which he claims that he funneled millions into LBJ's pockets, and that they worked together to murder witnesses, and also that LBJ ordered the murder of JFK; LBJ's associate Malcolm "Mac" Wallace (1921-71) (who had an affair with LBJ's sister Josefa Johnson) iss suspected in the June 3, 1961 murder of Henry Marshall (1909-61) , who was investigating Estes; his fingerprint is found in the 6th floor of the Texas School Book Depository? An offer so big it can only be called a game day gamechanger? In spring 1963 Jackie Kennedy's younger sister Princess Lee Radziwill (Caroline Lee Bouvier) (1933-) , wife (1959-74) of Polish Prince Stanislaw Albrecht "Stash" Radziwill (1914-76) starts hooking up with Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Socrates "Ari" Onassis (1906-75) , pissing off RFK, who arranges for her to leave Onassis' yacht Christina to accompany JFK on his trip to Berlin, after which she reaffirms her marriage to Stash in a Roman Catholic ceremony, then goes right back to the Christina in early Aug. right before Jackie's premie son Patrick dies, causing Onassis to invite Jackie to join them on his yacht, pissing off the Kennedy brothers, who know his rep for conquering women and are concerned about a U.S. govt. suit against him for fraud. On Sept. 18, 1963 after Jackie gets fed-up with JFK's affairs with Marilyn Monroe, Mary Pinchot Meyer et al. and decides to get even and accepts, the White House announces that she will spend the first two weeks of Oct. vacationing and convalescing in Greece, neglecting to mention Onassis; on Oct. 4 she boards the yacht Christina at Piraeus, joining with her sister Princess Radziwill and hubby, and Suzanne and Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr.; meanwhile pissed-off RFK swears to "destroy" Onassis, causing Onassis to respond "My boy, you don't frighten me, I've been threatened by experts"; on Oct. 17 Jackie returns, refreshed, and JFK telephones Onassis to personally thank him (the secret is that we all began spending time together away from the show?); meanwhile Onassis' old news babe Maria Callas returns to Paris to lick her wounds, clinging to him in vain for years as her opera career tanks. On Apr. 10, 1963 after moving to New Orleans in early Apr. and getting a job at the Reilly Coffee Co., which was owned by CIA man William Reilly and located near the office of Guy Bannister (who supplied and trained anti-Castro paramilitaries), Lee Harvey Oswald (who began receiving $200 a mo. from the FBI as informant #179) attempted to assassinate right-wing John Bircher U.S. Maj. Gen. Edwin Anderson Walker (1909-93) (who had been relieved by JFK from his command in West Germany in 1961 for distributing right-wing lit. blasting Truman, Dean Acheson, and Eleanor Roosevelt for treasonous tendencies and resigned, then lost the Dem. Tex. gov. primary in 1962 to John B. Connally Jr., and finally was arrested for sedition until the charges were dropped on Jan. 21) with an 8 lb. $12.78 mail order Carcano M91/38 (not Mannlicher-Carcano) bolt-action short-barrel 6.5mm carbine (with a 4X scope) that he ordered in Feb. 1963 from Klein's Sporting Goods in Chicago, Ill. through a P.O. box registered in the name of Alek James Hidell, which he practiced rapid-firing techniques on at a local shooting range, and which he proudly displayed in a Photo of Oswald Holding Rifle in His Backyard that his wife Marina allegedly took on Mar. 31 and was later discovered, although it has suspicious indications of a forgery . He wasn't caught, so he decided to return to the Soviet Union or Cuba, writing letters to their embassies. On May 10, 1963 Oswald and his South Bend, Ind.-born cancer researcher lover Judyth Vary (1943-) were allegedly hired for a secret research project to create a biological weapon to kill Fidel Castro at Reilly's Coffee Shop, after which Oswald allegedly tried to go to Cuba to deliver the materials, but they had too short a shelf-life; she also allegedly met Guy Bannister, Jack Ruby, and David Ferrie, and claims that Oswald admired JFK and tried to penetrate an assassination ring in Dallas, but ended up da patsy. Speaking of ordering guns, in Mar. 1963 Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly ordered a .38 Smith and Wesson revolver from Seaport Traders, which was later used to kill Dallas police officer J.D. Tippit - the verdict, it was Oswald, the sentence, death without trial? On May 6, 1963 the first evidence is claimed by the U.S. that Communists have been parachuting supplies to the Viet Cong guerrillas; meanwhile the U.S. Pacific Command finally gives JFK a plan for withdrawal from Vietnam, but its extended timeline pisses-off defense secy. Robert S. McNamara, who orders them to draw up plans for withdrawing 1K military personnel by the end of the year. On May 8, 1963 JFK utters the soundbyte "We support the security of both Israel and her neighbors", becoming the first U.S. pres. to say so officially, giving them anti-aircraft rockets to back it up. On May 22, 1963 U.S. wheat farmers defied the Kennedy admin. and vote to defeat their program of production controls and price supports, ending the 30-year govt. program of controlling surplus production, causing a huge surplus next year. On May 23, 1963 Pres. Kennedy denied Repub. allegations that the U.S. might abandon Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba, saying "It will not be done"; meanwhile 125K cheering Commies in Moscow bid farewell to Fidel Castro, who has been visiting the Soviet Union for four weeks, and warns that any blockade or attack on Cuba by the U.S. would provoke a graver crisis than the one last Oct.; Khrushchev accepts Castro's invitation to visit Cuba in the near future. On May 23, 1963 (eve.) JFK attended a pre-birthday party in the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, attended by 600 people who had each given at least $1K to the Dem. Nat. Committee; too bad, no Marilyn? On June 4, 1963 after the U.S. Silver Purchase Act of 1934 is repealed, Pres. Kennedy issues Executive Order 11110 , allowing the pres. to bypass the Federal Reserve and issue currency, and empowering the U.S. Treasury to issue $4.3B in silver certificates against silver bullion, although the last silver certificates were issued in 1957, and thanks to JFK being conveniently put out of the way 5 mo. later, and LBJ and Nixon not continuing his program, no more are issued until Pres. Reagan rescinds this order by his own Executive Order 12608, amending Executive Order 10289. The day of govt. fiat coins has arrived, threatening the end of the Federal Reserve System and pissing-off the Rothschild family so much that they begin to arrange for JFK's assassination, as proved by LBJ rescinding the executive order on the Air Force One flight from Dallas to Washington, D.C.? One of many strings leading from the JFK assassination to the hands of godfather David Rockefeller (1915-) , CEO of Chase Manhattan Bank, son of John D. Rockefeller Jr.? In 1964 LBJ utters the soundbyte : "Silver has become too valuable to be used as money." On July 23, 1965 the 1965 U.S. Coinage Act eliminates silver from the quarter and dime, and reduces the content in the half-dollar from 90% to 40%; another law makes U.S. Treasury certificates no longer redeemable in silver after June 28, 1968, and on Dec. 31, 1970 the U.S. Bank Holding Co. Act (BHCA) Amendments clarifies the 1956 BHCA, withdrawing silver from the dollar coin and replacing it with copper and nickel, requiring the Federal Reserve Board to regulate bank holding cos., and establishing permissible and non-permissible non-bank activities. On June 6, 1963 JFK addresses San Diego State College in Calif., slamming "the de facto segregation of the North as well as the proclaimed segregation of the South"; meanwhile union spokesmen in New York City pledges to end discrimination in building trades unions, and on June 8 the U.S. Army begins an effort to hire more black and Puerto Ricans in the New York City area. On June 9 JFK addresses the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Honolulu, Hawaii, uttering the soundbye that in this "moment of moral and constitutional crisis", "the time for token moves and idle talk is over", calling for elimination of local segregation ordinances and replacement with equal opportunity ordinances and other positive actions. On June 10 JFK delivers his Peace Speech at American U. , announcing his intention of ending the Cold War, with the soundbyte: "I have, therefore, chose this time and this place to discuss a topic on which ignorance too often abounds and the truth is too rarely perceived, yet it is the most important topic on Earth: world peace. What kind of peace do I mean? What kind of peace do we seek? Not a Pax Americana enforced on the world by American weapons of war... I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on Earth worth living, the kind that enables man and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children, not merely peace for Americans, but peace for all men and women. Not merely peace in our time but peace for all time." Followed by the soundbyte "I speak of peace because of the new face of war. Total war makes no sense in an age when great powers can maintain large and relatively invulnerable nuclear forces and refuse to surrender without resort to those forces. It makes no sense in an age when a single nuclear weapon contains almost ten times the explosive force delivered by all of the allied air forces in the Second World War. It makes no sense in an age when the deadly poisons produced by a nuclear exchange would be carried by the wind and water and soil and seed to the far corners of the globe and to generations unborn." Followed by the soundbyte "Some say that it is useless to speak of world peace or world law or world disarmament, and that it will be useless until the leaders of the Soviet Union adopt a more enlightened attitude. I hope they do. I believe we can help them do it. But I also believe that we must reexamine our own attitude, as individuals and as a nation, for our attitude is as essential as theirs. And every graduate of this school, every thoughtful citizen who despairs of war and wishes to bring peace, should begin by looking inward, by examining his own attitude toward the possibilities of peace... Too many of us think it is impossible... But that is a dangerous, defeatist belief. It leads to the conclusion that war is inevitable, that mankind is doomed, that we are gripped by forces we cannot control." After this speech, his ass was grass and the MIC had the lawnmower? On June 11 after deploying 825 law enforcement officers, and ignoring pleas from JFK and 46 Philly attys. not to interfere, Ala. gov. George C. Wallace makes his famous Stand in the Schoolhouse Door at Foster Auditorium of the U. of Ala. in Tuscaloosa against federal troops to block school integration by the federal govt.; after turning the Justice Dept. back 4x, Wallace is escorted by Nat. Guard Gen. Henry V. Graham (1917-99) , and Vivian Malone Jones (1942-2005) and James A. "Jimmy" Hood (1943-) are peacefully admitted, embarrassing racists with their dignity, even though at the time Wallace gets the TV cameras to make it look like he had caused them to back down, declaring "I stood eyeball to eyeball with them and they turned back"; that evening JFK delivers his Civil Rights Address on nat. TV, calling segregation morally wrong, saying that black discontent has produced a "moral crisis", adding that it's "time to act", promising to send sweeping legislation to Congress to speed up school desegregation, with the soundbyte: "Next week I shall ask the Congress of the United States to act, to make a commitment it has not fully made in this century to the proposition that race has no place in American life or law"; meanwhile MLK Jr. assails JFK's civil rights record, and the Am. Jewish Congress calls the policy of gradualism in achieving racial equality a "folly and a failure"; in 1996 Wallace apologizes to Jones and Hood and gives them an award - don't shoot until you see the whites of their eyeballs? On June 11 as the action blazes in Ala., troops are withdrawn from the peaceful integrated U. of Miss. campus. On June 19, 1963 Leslie H. Martinson's PT 109 debuts, based on the 1961 book by Robert J. Donovan, starring Clifford Parker "Cliff" Robertson III (1923-2011) as JFK, who has a personal 9/11 on Aug. 2, 1943; 5 mo. later JFK's coconut gets knocked off again?; he is later assigned PT 59; does $3.5M box office on a $4M budget. On June 26, 1963 (Wed.) during a 4-day visit to Western Germany, JFK visited the Berlin Wall and made his famous Ich Bin Ein Berliner Speech ("I am a jelly doughnut" - he should have left out the "ein"); after his visit East Germany begins selling antiques and prisoners in an effort to acquire hard currency - he did become a jelly doughnut, on Nov. 22? On June 27, 1963 Pres. Kennedy began a 4-day visit to Ireland , starting with his ancestral home in Dunganstown, 4 mi. from New Ross in Wexford County, Leinster, where his great-grandfather came from, becoming the first U.S. pres. of Irish stock to visit Ireland. The cat's away allowing the mice to play? In summer 1963 JFK sent a written demand to Israel to dismantle their nukes and permit U.S. inspection; they never respond?; ever since Israel intel refuses to warn the U.S. of pending terrorist attacks even though it has infiltrated them, incl. the 1983 Beirut Marine barracks bombing and 9/11? On July 26, 1963 JFK gave a radio-TV address announcing the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty , drafted by MIT scientist Jerome "Bert" Wiesner (1915-94) , which was signed in Moscow on Aug. 6 by the U.S., U.K., and Soviet Union after eight years of negotiations, banning above-ground nuclear testing, also underwater and in outer space; too bad, on July 29 Charles de Gaulle announced that France will not sign it; with the help of a public campaign, JFK prevailed on the Senate to ratify it; within a few mo. 100+ other govts. also sign it, except France and the People's Repub. of China; meanwhile JFK engaged in secret negotiations with Cuba seeking an accomodation. Speaking of mice playing, in July 1963 the Lake Pontchartrain Training Camp on the N shore near Lacombe, La. for Cuban expatriate guerrillas was run by Cuban expatriate Richard Rudolph Davis ; JFK ordered the FBI to shut it down? On Aug. 7, 1963 4 lb. 10 oz. Patrick Bouvier Kennedy , the youngest child of Pres. Kennedy and Jackie was born 5-1/2 weeks prematurely at Otis AFB Hospital in Falmouth, Mass.; Jackie requires two units of blood after giving birth via Caesarean section; he died on Aug. 9 after 1.5 days of hyaline membrane disease (respiratory distress syndrome), sparking public awareness and research, and reducing the overall mortality to 15%; after hearing the news, Lee Harvey Oswald sobs, according to his wife Marina. In Aug. 1963 Oswald tried to infiltrate the New Orleans branch of the Rev. Students Directorate (DRE) , an anti-Castro anti-JFK org. in Miami run by Carlos Bringuier (1934-) , and stage-managed by Greek-born CIA agent George Joannides (1922-90) , all of which was covered-up for a long time. On Aug. 12, 1963 after one-sidedly joining (not waiting for a reply to his application) the Fair Play for Cuba Committee on May 26, 1963 (founded in 1960 by Vincent T. Lee ), then renting an office at 544 Camp St. in New Orleans, La., where he prints out 1K flyers and begins handing them out on Aug. 9 (along with Ted Cruz's father Rafael Cruz ?), Lee Harvey Oswald was accosted on the street by Cuban-born anti-Castro leader Carlos Bringuier (1934-) and members of his militant CIA-financed anti-Castro anti-JFK Cuban exile group Directorio Revolucionario Estudiantil (DRE) , causing a publicized street fight which got him arrested, a $10 fine on Aug. 12, and mucho publicity, along with a jail visit by FBI agent John Lester Quigley (who destroyed his interview notes), and resulted in a radio interview on Aug. 17 on the Bill Stuckey Radio Show , where Oswald debated Bringuier (who shared Oswald's office and was later found in possession of Oswald's Marine guidebook) and claimed that he's not a Communist but a Marxist-Leninist. Funny, Oswald's and Bringuier's office at 544 Camp St. was across a hallway from 531 Lafayette St. (same bldg.), the offices of La.-born right-wing racist ex-FBI agent William Guy Banister (1900-64) , causing later suspicions of a plot between all three to assassinate pinko JFK. George E. Joannides (1922-90) is the CIA case officer overseeing the DRE, after which in 1978 Joannides was made the CIA liaison to the House Select Committee on Assassinations without telling them of his role, and later in 2003-? the CIA fights in federal court to keep hundreds of documents about its dealings with the group secret, the empty-belly defense. In Aug.-Sept., 1963 Oswald was seen in cahoots with New Orleans gay businessman Clay Laverne Shaw (1913-74) and gay pilot David William Ferrie (1918-67) in Clinton, La. ? After his arrest in Dallas, Ferrie's library card was allegedly found by the police on Oswald according to Jack Martin, but an investigation comes up with nada until after Ferrie's death, when Oswald's landlady and a former neighbor told investigators working for Jim Garrison that Ferrie had visited them after the assassination and asked about his library card. On Sept. 26, 1963 Lee Harvey Oswald travels to Mexico on a Continental Trailways bus, checking into the Hotel del Comercio in Mexico City (a HQ for pro-Castro activities) for five nights on Sept. 27, visiting the Cuban embassy in Mexico City on Sept. 27 (11 a.m.) and asking for a visa to Cuba for Sept. 30, after which he planned to move back to the Soviet Union, using newspaper clippings of his arrest in New Orleans to back him up, after which he is sent to the Soviet embassy to get an official clearance for travel to the Soviet Union, is told it will take several mo., and when he returns to the Cuban embassy he lied and told them he was already cleared, is found out and expelled; the CIA station chief in Mexico City (since 1956) is Winston Scott (1909-) ; David Atlee Phillips (1922-88) was #3 there, and was fingered by E. Howard Hunt in his 2007 deathbed statement as a JFK assassination plotter. On Nov. 25, 1963 23-y.-o. Nicaraguan-born Gilberto Alvarado (1940-) told Scott that when Oswald visited the Cuban embassy he received $6.5K-$7K from a red-haired black man, which caused J. Edgar Hoover to tell his good friend, Washington, D.C. neighbor for 19 years, and fellow Freemason LBJ about it on Nov. 29 and surmise that the JFK assassination was a Cuban plot, but decide that Oswald must be proven to be a lone nut too explain why he, er, the FBI couldn't protect JFK; CIA counter-intel chief James Jesus Angleton (1917-87) (known for his thick black eyeglasses) suspected that Oswald was in Mexico City to meet with his KGB handlers to finalize his plans for assassinating JFK; it was really an Oswald impersonator?; after the assassination the CIA begins a disinfo. campaign to link Oswald with Castro, causing LBJ to get J. Edgar Hoover to help him shut them down?; either way the affair shows that Oswald wasn't just a lone nut, but was a VIP with the CIA? In Sept. 1963 Cuban exile Antonio Veciana allegedly met in Dallas with Lee Harvey Oswald and intelligence agent "Maurice Bishop". On Mar. 3, 1964 CIA dir. (1961-5) John Alexander McCone allegedly sent a confidential memorandum to U.S. Secret Service dir. (1961-73) James Joseph Rowley (1908-92) confirming that Oswald is a CIA agent. Meanwhile in Sept. after she was introduced to the Oswalds at a party in Feb. by CIA man George De Mohrenschildt, and her hubby suddenly decided to leave her and move into an apt. in Dallas, liberal Quaker Russian student Ruth Hyde Paine (1932-) drove from the Va. home of her sister Sylvia (who works for the CIA) to pick up Marina Oswald and her daughter and drive them to her home in Irving, Tex. to live with her, claiming she will help her Russian studies. Oswald allegedly stores his Carcano rifle in her garage. Ruth's father also worked for the JFK-hating CIA. Her hubby Michael Paine (1928-) , whose stepfather Arthur Young invented the Bell helicopter worked for Bell Helicopter in Ft. Worth since 1958. Ruth's mother is related to the Forbes family in Boston, Mass., and her lifelong friend Mary Bancroft (1903-97) was a WWII spy and the mistress of Allen Dulles, after which Dulles became the one to question the Paines in front of the Warren Commission to avoid asking revealing questions, and their income tax returns were classified as secret. Meanwhile in late Sept. Lee Harvey Oswald (a CIA double?) took a bus to Mexico City, where he attempted to get a visa to Cuba, and returned on Oct. 3 after being rebuffed, then returned to Dallas, getting a job on Oct. 16 at the Texas School Book Depository through Ruth Hyde Paine (a CIA agent who is later magically protected from her name becoming mud?), where he filled orders for books by publisher Scott-Foresman; the depository had been owned since the 1930s by Tex. oil baron David Harold "Dry Hole" Byrd (1900-86) , cousin of explorer Richard E. Byrd and his brother Harry F. Byrd, "the leader of conservative opinion in the United States", who founded the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) six days before the Dec. 6, 1941 Pearl Harbor attack; in early Nov. just before JFK's assassination Byrd left for a 2-mo. safari in Africa with USAF U.S. Gen. James Harold "Jimmy" Doolittle (1896-1993) , and when he returned in Jan. his good buddy LBJ was in the White House, and in Feb. his Ling-Temco-Vought (LTV) aircraft co. (founded 1961) was awarded a large defense contract to build A-7 Corsair II fighter planes, paid out of the 1965 budget not yet approved by Congress; in May 1964 Byrd had the "Oswald window" removed and kept as part of his estate. On Oct. 3, 1963 "Dean of American Newsmen" Arthur Bernard Krock (1886-1974) pub. The Intra-Administration War in Vietnam With High Frequency Disorderly Government in the New York Times, with the soundbyte: "The CIA's growth was 'likened to a malignancy' which the 'very high official was not even sure the White House could control... any longer.' 'If the United States ever experiences [an attempted coup to overthrow the government] it will come from the CIA and not the Pentagon. The agency 'represents a tremendous power and total unaccountability to anyone.'" On Oct. 7, 1963 Lyndon B. Johnson protege Robert Gene "Bobby" Baker (1929-) (AKA Little Lyndon), majority secy. of the Senate, who started as a page boy from S.C. at age 14 then became a millionaire through his Senate connections incl. casinos in the Dominican Repub., kickbacks from mob-owned (Sam Giancana, Meyer Lansky) vending machines for federally-granted programs, and who is being investigated by U.S. atty. Robert F. Kennedy despite his procurement of babes, incl. suspected Soviet spy Ellen Romesch (1936-) of East Germany for his brother JFK resigns amid charges of influence peddling by the press; his secy. Nancy Cole Tyler (-1965) dies in a plane crash near Ocean City, Md. on May 10, 1965; her roommate is Mary Jo Kopechne of Chappaquiddick fame; in 1967 Baker is found guilty of seven counts of fraud, theft, and income tax evasion, and is sentenced to 3 years in federal prison, serving 16 mo.; in 1978 he pub. Wheeling and Dealing: Confessions of a Capitol Hill Operator ; "The Baker scandal then is truly the hidden key to the assassination, or more exact, the timing of the Baker affair crystallized the more or less vague plans to eliminate Kennedy which had already been in existence. The threat of complete exposure which faced Johnson in the Baker scandal provided that final impulse. He was forced to give the go-ahead signal to the plotters who had long been waiting for the right opportunity." (Joachim Joesten) On Oct. 9, 1963 Pres. Kennedy announced that the U.S. govt. will approve export licenses for selling wheat and other agricultural products to the Soviet Block; next Jan. 3 the Soviet Union buys wheat from the U.S. for the first time. On Oct. 9 FBI agent Marvin Gheesling conveniently decided to remove Lee Harvey Oswald from the FBI surveillance watch list. On Oct. 11 after Robert S. McNamara returned from a trip to South Vietnam, JFK signed Nat. Security Action Memorandum 263 , calling for withdrawal of 1K U.S. military personnel by the end of the year, followed by training the Vietnamese to take over completely by the end of 1965; JFK sent McNamara on the trip in order to recommend what he already wanted? On Oct. 18, 1963 the Cuban embassy in Mexico City approved Oswald's visa, and on Nov. 9 Oswald wrote a typed Letter to the Soviet Embassy in Washington, D.C., which is unusual, because all his previous letters were handwritten (Ruth Hyde Paine typed it?). On Oct. 19, 1963 JFK delivered a speech at the U. of Maine, reviewing the crises of the last 12 mo. and concluding that although there can be no coexistence with the Soviets in the field of ideology, coexistence without war is possible, with the soundbyte: "In times such as these, therefore, there is nothing inconsistent with signing an atmospheric nuclear test ban, on the one hand, and testing underground on the other; about being willing to sell to the Soviets our surplus wheat while refusing to sell strategic items; about probing their interest in a joint lunar landing while making a major effort to master this new environment; or about exploring the possibilities of disarmament while maintaining our stockpile of arms. For all of these moves, and all of these elements of American policy and allied policy towards the Soviet Union, are directed at a single, comprehensive goal, namely, convincing the Soviet leaders that it is dangerous for them to engage in direct or indirect aggression, futile for them to attempt to impose their will and their system on other unwilling people, and beneficial to them, as well as to the world, to join in the achievement of a genuine and enforceable peace" - goodbye, parting is such sweet sorrow? On Oct. 19 (eve.) JFK attended a New England Salute to the President in Boston, Mass., with the soundbyte: "This is the chance that we have, and it depends on two things: first, that this country move steadily ahead economically, that we do not limp from recession to recession, denying so many of our people an equal chance, a fair chance, a job, an opportunity. So what we need, in the first place, is to make sure that the United States does what other free countries have done for a decade, and which we did not do in the late fifties, and that is, enjoy a steadily rising economy, a steadily increasing standard of living, a steadier, richer, and wealthier country. That is within our grasp." On Oct. 22 JFK welcomed Bolvian Pres. Victor Paz Estenssoro at the White House. On Oct. 24 JFK gave an interview to Algerian-born French Jewish humanist leftist journalist Jean Daniel (Bensaid) (1920-) , with the soundbyte: "I approved the proclamation Fidel Castro made in the Sierra Maestra, when he justifiably called for justice and especially yearned to rid Cuba of corruption. I will go even further. To some extent it is as though Batista was the incarnation of a number of sins on the part of the United States. Now we will have to pay for those sins. In the matter of the Batista regime, I am in agreement with the first Cuban revolutionaries, that is perfectly clear." On Oct. 25, 1963 JFK: Wanted for Treason handbills by Robert A. Surrey (associate of Gen. Edwin Walker) began to be handed out in Dallas, Tex., containing a list of inflammatory allegations that JFK was pinko, anti-Christian (really anti-white supremacist), etc.; the DPD compiled a List of 23 Subversives , of which Lee Harvey Oswald was #1, causing all of them to be followed by the DPD except him - trick or treat, sucker? On Oct. 26-27, 1963 (Sat.-Sun.) JFK and his family spent the weekend together at their new home in the Va. countryside built by Jackie, which she calls Wexford ; on Oct. 27 he attended church with his family. On Oct. 28, 1963 JFK issued a statement honoring recently deceased Tex. Dem. Sen. (1929-53) Thomas Terry "Tom" Connally (b. 1877) , who was instrumental in creating the U.N. On Oct. 31, 1963 (Halloween) JFK had his last meeting with J. Edgar Hoover - trick or treat, sucker? Who Killed JFK Day Minus 21 - the Cui Bono Day? On Nov. 1-2, 1963 the U.S.-backed Diem Coup in Saigon, led by gen. Duong Van "Big" Minh (1916-2001) (known for the soundbyte "They had to be killed... Pres. Diem was too much respected among simple, gullible people in the countryside") overthrows the Diem govt., causing pres. (since 1955) Ngo Dinh Diem (b. 1901) of South Vietnam and his younger brother Ngo Dinh Nhu (b. 1910) (the brains of the outfit) to escape to the suburb of Cholon, where they are offered safe conduct out of the country, then murdered in the back of an armored personnel carrier by capt. Nguyen Van Nhung (1919-64) , after which the pop. goes wild with joy, tearing down the statues and photos of Diem and his BBQ-loving sister-in-law Madame Ngo Nhu; "The name I would write under his portrait is the Patriot Ruined by the West" (Graham Greene); the Diem brothers were adamantly opposed to full-scale U.S. military involvement beyond the 16K combat advisers already there?; from now on the U.S. owns Vietnam, and pesky JFK can finally go? On Nov. 2-3, 1963 JFK met with Defense Dept. and State Dept. officials to discuss the situation. On Nov. 2, 1963 New Orleans mob boss Carlos Marcello is acquitted of his crimes; Robert F. Kennedy later claims that he was behind the murder of his brudder JFK - payback for some dirty work for the govt.? On Nov. 2, 1963 a Cuban plot to assassinate JFK in Chicago, Ill. is aborted after the Secret Service receives a teletype from the FBI, according to Secret Service agent Abraham Wendell Bolden Sr. (first African-Am. SS agent, personally brought into the White House detail by JFK in 1961, calling him the "Jackie Robinson of the Secret Service"), after which he is framed, er, found guilty of accepting a bribe and spends six years in prison to shut him up? On Nov. 9-10, 1963 (Sat.-Sun.) Pres. Kennedy and his family spent their last weekend at Wexford , along with Newsweek editor Ben Bradlee and his wife Toni, who had been neighbors of JFK and Jackie in Georgetown when JFK was in the Senate, and Jackie's friends Paul and Eve Fout; they scheduled the next visit for Nov. 24 (Sun.) afternoon. On Nov. 11, 1963 (Mon.) (Veteran's Day) JFK took his son John Jr. to Arlington Nat. Cemetery to watch his speech. On Nov. 12, 1963 Pres. Kennedy signs a top secret memorandum to CIA counterintel chief James Jesus "Jim" Angleton (1917-87) , AKA "the Kingfisher", telling him to begin sharing CIA UFO intel data with the Soviets through NASA; meanwhile he order NASA chief #2 (1961-8) James Edwin Webb (1906-92) to begin a peace overture to the Soviets via joint space exploration. On Nov. 15, 1963 JFK has his last love tryst with White House intern Marion Fay "Mimi" Alford (nee Beardsley) (1943-) at the Carlyle Hotel in New York City. On Nov. 16-17, 1963 (Sat.-Sun.) JFK visits Md., N.Y., and Fla., where he inspects Cape Canaveral and watches the firing of a Polaris missile. On Nov. 18, 1963 JFK visited Tampa, Fla. , where an assassination attempt involving Cuban patsy Gilberto Lopez was uncovered by the Secret Service. On Nov. 18, 1963 Secret Service agents Winton G. Lawson (1929-) and Forrest V. Sorrels (1901-93) along with two DPD reps. staged a dry run of the final dogleg turn in Dealey Plaza where JFK was killed on Nov. 22 - should be no problem to set him up? After Lawson ordered the motorcycle cop escorts to redeploy from the JFK's sides to the safe rear (to make it easier to hit him?), Lawson and Sorrels rode the lead car ahead of JFK's (so they could have a nice alibi?); on Nov. 22, 2003 Lawson gave an interview to Michael Granberry of the Dallas Morning News with the soundbyte "I must have thought a million times, what could I have done to prevent it?... From Love Field to Dealey Plaza, there were 20,000 windows. How could we possibly check them all?" - he should have said 19,999 times - I'm sure he never missed a retirement check? On Nov. 19, 1963 the Dallas Times Herald and other Dallas newspapers published JFK's motorcade route - as if to advertise to all assassins he's yours? On Nov. 19, 1963 (100th anniv. of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address) JFK told his personal secy. (1953-63) Evelyn Maurine Norton Lincoln (1909-95) that he was going to replace LBJ as his vice-pres. for his 2nd term with N.C. Dem. gov. (1961-5) James Terry Sanford (1917-98) , a former FBI agent known for higher education reform and for Research Triangle Park, who became pres. of Duke U. in 1969-85. Too bad JFK went to LBJ's town for a 3-hour tour, a 3-hour tour? On Nov. 19, 1963 JFK also had a conversation with RFK about his reelection and Vietnam, saying "Monday? Well, that's a tough day", to which RFK replied "It's a hell of a day, Mr. President." On Nov. 19, 1963 did I mention that the parade route for JFK's upcoming visit was announced, showing him driving right by the Texas School Book Depository despite there being no reason the motorcade had to make this final detour before getting on the Stemson Freeway other than a 1-in. concrete divider built into the road to force traffic to take the detour through this "historic area", which could have easily been taken care of for, ahem, security? Duh, this points a big finger at the Secret Service as being in on the assassination? On Nov. 21, 1963 JFK and Jackie began a 2-day tour of yee-haw Texas, making love aboard Air Force One aboard the short flight from San Antonio to Houston in the afternoon, where they were booked into Rice Hotel in the evening in separate bedrooms; JFK failed to rehearse for a press conference the next day because his mind was on Vietnam, telling asst. press secy. Malcolm MacGregor "Mac" Kilduff Jr. (1927-2003) , "I've just been given a list of the most recent casualties in Vietnam. We're losing too damned many people over there. It's time for us to get out. The Vietnamese are not fighting for themselves. We're the ones who are doing the fighting. After I come back from Texas that's going to change. There is no reason for us to lose another man over there. Vietnam is not worth another American life"; at 9 p.m. JFK gave a speech at the Rice Hotel in Houston at a gala given by the League of United Latin Am. Citizens (LULAC) , where they were filmed on 8mm film by Roy Botello (1922-) , who kept the film in his drawer for almost 47 years before releasing it to the public; Jackie gives a speech in Spanish; LBJ says "But I know I speak for all of you when I say that we are very proud and very happy that we have our beloved president and our lovely First Lady here with us tonight." On Nov. 21, 1963 Lee Harvey Oswald gets co-worker Wesley Buell "Wes" Frazier (1944-) (his trainer at the Depository) to drive him to Irving, Tex., and on the morning of Nov. 22 returns with him with a paper package of "curtain rods" after leaving his wedding ring and $170 in cash with his wife; he allegedly stored his rifle in the Paine garage without their knowledge, since after the Big Brain Blow Ruth Hyde Paine passed the photo of him allegedly holding the rifle plus info. to the investigators linking him with the attempted assassination of right-wing Gen. Walker, then after the JFK assassination delivered a blanket that allegedly was used to store the rifle to the police, and that clears her of all suspicion (of disloyalty to the new world order?); too bad, the blanket was tied with a granny knot, which no Marine would make?; Frazier and his sister later express doubts that the package was long enough to contain the rifle, or that he could carry it tucked into his armpit with the base cupped in his hand; Frazier later expresses doubts that Oswald did the shooting at all. On Nov. 21, 1963 (night) Lyndon B. Johnson allegedly met in Dallas, Tex. with Dallas millionaire H.L. (Haroldson Lafayette) Hunt Jr. (1889-1974) , Tex. oil tycoon Clint Williams Murchison Sr. (1895-1969) (whose son Clint William Murchison Jr. (1923-87) later bought the Dallas Cowboys NFL team), other right-wing businessmen, Richard Nixon, and FBI dir. J. Edgar Hoover, and after leaving allegedly told his mistress Madeleine Duncan Brown (1925-2002) "After tomorrow those goddamn Kennedys will never embarrass me again, that's no threat, that's a promise"; she later claimed that Johnson and Hunt hatched the assassination plot during the 1960 Dem. Convention, telling her "We have lost a battle but we're going to win a war", and after the assasination gloating "We won the war", meeting in a lodge outside of Dallas with Hunt for two years first; LBJ couldn't have been in Dallas since he was in Houston with JFK? After the assassination, May Newman , family maid of Clint Murchison Sr. says: "The mood in the Murchison family home was very joyous and happy. For a whole week after like champagne and caviar flowed, every day of the week. But I was the only one in that household at that time that uh felt any grief for his assassination." On Nov. 22, 1963 (a.m.) Cuban intel officer Florentino Aspillaga is ordered to "stop all your CIA work" and "put all of my equipment to listen to any small detail from Texas", as he later alleges after defecting. On Nov. 22, 1963 (a.m.) the Dallas Morning News , pub. by Edward Musgrove "Ted" Dealey (1892-1969) (son of George Bannerman Dealey, namesake of Dealey Plaza) carried an ominous black-bordered full-page ad associating JFK with Communism, personally approved by Dealey, pub. by the John Birch Society-affiliated Am. Fact-Finding Committee , which incl. H.L. Hunt and his son Nelson Bunker Hunt (1926-) , and Jewish wannabe-John Bircher Bernard W. Weissman (1937-) , who placed the $1,465 ad in the paper after allegedly meeting with Jack Ruby and J.D. Tippit at the Carousel Club on Nov. 14. So assuming that Lee Harvey Oswald could read, he would never plot to bump-off a fellow Commie like JFK, would he, but the Hunt brothers sure would? Also on Nov. 22 JFK had originally been scheduled to receive an honorary degree from Texas Christian U. in Ft. Worth in the morning, then fly to Dallas for a midday luncheon, but on Nov. 1 the Board of Trustees changed their minds and cancelled the offer. If the government's so perfect, why did it send me a license saying I'm a woman? The You Always Remember Where You Were Day? The Day the U.S. Constitution Died Like That, 1-2-3? The first fully televised tragedy? A turning point in U.S. history, as the most forked-up official coverup in Illuminati history offers the old One Lucky Plucker Theory, which seems on closer inspection like one of them Japanese magic shows with black ninjas? The JFK Assassination is like a dark alley, with a stand in front holding a voluminous official story, which you are told to accept by the government, while if you try to go in the alley to see for yourself, you will end up dead, and all historyscopers can do is hope to shine a little light in the alley while looking downstream and seeing who had the power to do it, who benefitted, and who had the power to cover it up? The Mighty U.S. comes to a stop for a month, during which who knows what's going on behind the scenes during the nonexistent coup d'etat? "And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed; and all the world wondered after the beast" (Rev. 13:3)? On Nov. 22, 1963 (11-22-33, er, 11-22-63) (6+3=9 and 22-11=11, thus the first real 9/11?) (Fri.) U.S. pres. (since Jan. 20, 1961) (34 mo., 2 days) ( 64 press conferences , avg. viewership 18M, max 65M) after approving a probe to see whether relations with Fidel Castro can be improved earlier this mo., John Fitzgerald Kennedy (b. 1917) , visiting the 2nd of three Tex. cities (San Antonio, Ft. Worth, Dallas) with his wife Jackie leaves the Texas Hotel during a light rain after accidentally leaving his St. Jude and St. Christopher medals hanging on his Texas Hotel Suite 850 shower head, and asking Jackie to wear her pink suit, and commenting "We're heading into nut country today", stopping to give some brief remarks on a platform set up outside: "There are no faint hearts in Fort Worth. I appreciate your being here this morning. Mrs. Kennedy is organizing herself. It takes longer, but, of course, she looks better than we do when she does it", adding a remark about "the willingness of the citizens of the United States to assume the burdens of leadership"; he then leaves from Carswell Air Force Base (in operation 1942-94) 5 mi. NW of Ft. Worth, Tex., then 13 min. later lands in Love Field in Dallas on Runway 31 at 11:39 a.m., leaving in his 22-car motorcade and touring downtown Dallas (250K spectators) in his 1963 Blue Lincoln Continental (license plate GG-300), chauffeured by Irish-born 10th grade-educated William Robert Greer (1909-85) (one of three special-built cars), with the non-bulletproof bubbletop left in the trunk (JFK's idea, so people could see Jackie, or ordered removed by the Secret Service to make it easier for the shooters to see?), and with no motorycle cops riding in the usual flanking positions, as ordered by the Secret Service; the usual flat-bed truck for reporters to ride in front of the limo is cancelled; vehicles were in the wrong order, with Kennedy's limo in front, when it should been in the middle; Mafia-connected Dallas County sheriff (since 1949) James Eric "Bill" Decker (1898-1970) (who rides in the backseat of the motorcade's lead car) withdraws all police protection for the motorcade; as they leave Love Field, Secret Service agent Emory P. Roberts in the SS car behind JFK's car (taking orders from their new pres. LBJ in the car behind that, as they quit protecting soon-to-be dead pres. JFK in favor of him to keep their jobs?) orders agent Henry J. Rybka (standing on the back bumper of the pres. limo) to jump off and remain at the airport, with only Clint Hill on the bumper on Jackie's side, after which he too is gone by the fatal turn onto Houston St.; Jackie sits next to JFK wearing a (brain-colored?) pink suit and pillbox hat, designed by gay Am. fashion designer Halston (Roy Halston Frowick) (1932-90) , which ends up stored in the Nat. Archives until the year 2103; in the front seat next to driver Greer is Secret Service agent Roy Herman Kellerman (1915-84) , in the 2nd row are the Connallys, and in the 3rd row the Kennedys; the 1956 Cadillac 9-passenger convertible behind it contains eight Secret Service agents, and the rented 1964 Lincoln 4-door convertible behind that contains shining Teflon LBJ and his left-wing Texas. Dem. Sen. buddy Ralph Yarborough (1903-96) , who had been feuding with Connally and had believed LBJ was leaning towards his side, causing him to snub LBJ and refuse to ride in the same car with him in San Antonio on Nov. 21, but had been quickly reconciled; this is the first time that the Secret Service has allowed both the pres. and the vice-pres. to ride in the same motorcade, why why why ask the sky?; LBJ's driver is Texas Highway Patrolman Hurchel D. Jacks (1929-95) ; Secret Service Agent Rufus Youngblood (1924-96) sits in the front passenger seat of LBJ's car, and throws himself on top of him to protect him during the shooting (later getting promoted by LBJ to #2 in the Secret Service), while Kellerman only turns around and stays seated, but is later promoted, while later claiming to believe there was a can-you-spell-conspiracy that he wasn't in; the agents protecting LBJ's cars react instantly after the shooting starts, opening the left rear door, while JFK's agents stand around doing nothing; photos of LBJ's car in the motorcade later seem hard locate; the usual military aide with the telephone suitcase, as well as JFK's physician are not in the limo; meanwhile loose cannon Jack Ruby, owner of the Carousel strip joint is placing ads in the Dallas Morning News, and British "Brave New World" author Aldous Huxley (b. 1894) is dying of cancer, going down high by taking 100 micrograms of LSD intramuscularly at 11:45 a.m. before croaking at 5:21 p.m.; English writer C.S. (Clive Staples) Lewis (b. 1898) also croaks at 5:33 p.m. of renal failure; "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Polka Dot Bikini" singer Brian Hyland (1943-) is touring with Dick Clark's "Caravan of Stars" in Dallas, and sees the motorcade passing by but forgets to remove the lens cap from his camera; after driving through downtown Dallas through 250K cheering onlookers, where the 112th Military Intelligence Group at Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio is mysteriously told to not show up to protect him like they're supposed to, and the usual four motorcycle cops are called off each side of the pres. limo and told to ride in the back of the motorcade, it reaches its end (where JFK's cheering supporters can't help him anymore, since he's now in copland, the oldest part of Dallas, where the cops control every square centimeter?), and about 12:00 instead of continuing on Main St. to the Triple Underpass (built 1936) (which allows a railway to pass over Commerce, Main and Elm Sts., where there are some railroad cars parked), it turns right from Main St. onto S Houston St. in front of the 1895 Romanesque Pecos Red sandstone 3-story Dallas Criminal Courts Bldg. ("Old Red") on the right, with the 1913 Dallas County Jail (where Bonnie and Clyde were once held) on the left; after passing the Dallas County Records Bldg. on the right and going one block N, it turns left in front of and away from the 7-story Dal-Tex (Dallas-Textiles) Market Bldg. (built 1902) at 501 Elm St., and passes in front of the 7-story red brick Texas School Book Depository at 411 Elm St. (built 1893, rebuilt 1903) (which sports a Hertz Rent-a-Car and Chevrolet sign on the roof and incongruous open windows on the 5th and 6th floors) onto Elm St. into Illuminati-friendly Devil's, er, Dealey Plaza (Lat. "rule of the goddess"?) in W Dallas, named after Dallas Morning News founder (1885) George Bannerman Dealey (1859-1946) , located in the birthplace of Dallas (also home to its first Masonic Temple), just S of deg. 33 lat. near the Trinity River; going against all the usual Secret Service rules , the naked hearse, er, limo then slowly enters the Kill Zone, passing the Grassy Knoll , a term coined by UPI correspondent Albert Merriman Smith (1913-70) (who rides in the press pool four cars behind JFK and later sends the message on his radiotelephone "Three shots were fired at President Kennedy's motorcade in Dallas") on the way to the Triple Underpass, then to the N Stemmons Freeway, where JFK is scheduled to attend a luncheon at the Dallas International Trade Mart and deliver a speech to 2.6K which includes the soundbyte: "If we are strong, our strength will speak for itself. If we are weak, words will be no help"; the excuse for the end-route diversion is that there is a 3-in. concrete divider preventing crossing from Main onto the freeway on-ramp to force traffic into the plaza for commercial reasons, although for a president removing it would have been no problemo, as if they couldn't all easily drive over it?; around 10:30 a.m. after some early rains, Julia Ann Mercer claims to see a pickup truck parked next to the curb beyond the Triple Underpass, and a man remove a rifle wrapped in brown paper and carry it toward the Grassy Knoll; on Nov. 23 she IDs Jack Ruby as the driver for the FBI, who treat her like merde, mama said there'd be days like this; at 12:19 Dallas Morning News mail room employee Jerry Boyd Belknap (1940-) , who was hit by a car several years earlier, requiring 3x a day medicine for fainting spells forgets it and faints while lined up to watch the motorcade on the W side of Houston St. (100 N. Houston), causing an ambulance to be dispatched from Parkland Memorial Hospital, after which he is given his medicine and walks out of the hospital without registering; a diversion to allow the shooters to get into place?; at 12:30 p.m. after the limo stops at the foot of Elm St. after making a wide turn in front of the Texas School Book Depository, then passes the "Stemmons Freeway" sign on the right (270 ft. from the 6th floor window in the Depository), U.S. Pres. John Fitzgerald "Jack" Kennedy (b. 1917) is assassinated with three shots from some kind of gun during a 5.6 sec. shooting window (8.6 sec.?), becoming the 7th straight victim of the Zero-Year Presidential Curse (after W.H. Harrison, Lincoln, Garfield, McKinley, Coolidge, and FDR); the distance from the Magic Window to JFK is 88 yards, and Oswald had been rated as a sharpshooter who can accurately and rapidly hit targets at 200 yards, albeit with an M1; Texas gov. #38 (Jan. 15, 1963-Jan. 21, 1969) John Bowden Connally Jr. (1917-93) (key aid to LBJ in his congressman days, who switches to the Repub. Party after LBJ dies in 1973), riding in JFK's limo in the front seat is seriously wounded; JFK's driver William Greer suddenly slows down and stops after JFK's neck is wounded, then hits the gas only after the shots stop, and speeds to Parkland Memorial Hospital (founded 1894) at 5201 Harry Hines Blvd., Oak Lawn, later claiming to glance over his shoulder, see Connally shot, get told by Kellerman to "Get out of here fast", then step on the gas, while "a flurry of shells come into the car"; Greer later claims there was a conspiracy (which doesn't incl. him); some later claim to see photographic proof that Greer pulls out a pistol and plugs him right between the eyes, then puts the gun away quick and speeds up to the freeway, and others claim that the pistol is gas-powered and has an exploding bullet, all supplied by the CIA; too bad, it turns out to be a reflection from the top of Connally's head, although he still might have been in on it because of hitting the brakes; Connally's wife (since 1940) Idanell "Nellie" Connally (1919-2006) is not hurt, and later becomes the last living person that was in the car, claiming that the last words she said before the shots were "Mister President, you can't say Dallas doesn't love you"; Jackie Kennedy sees JFK raise his right hand before falling, saying "He raised his hand just like that, it was neat, it was beautiful", and shouts out "Oh, no, they've shot Jack"; she then climbs out on the trunk to retrieve a piece of her hubby's skull (brain?), and later turns it over to the surgeon at the hospital, asking "Will this help?"; the photo of Jackie on the trunk by Dallas-born photojurnalist James William "Ike" Altgens (1919-95) becomes iconic; motorcycle cop Bobby Harkiss , riding to JFK's left rear is hit by a spray of brain matter, at first believing he has been shot, and later says "When I turned back to look, that's when the president was shot in the face"; there were two head shots , the first from the rear, the 2nd a half sec. later from the front, which blows out a piece of his skull along with brains, which is what Jackie reaches for?; during the shooting, Secret Service agent George Hickey (1923-) rises to his feet in the follow-up car with his AR-15 machine gun, but doesn't fire it?; he accidentally shot JFK, causing the big coverup?; Dallas policeman Dallas policeman Joe Marshall Smith races to the Grassy Knoll and meets a mysterious Secret Service agent in the parking lot, who flashes his credentials; the first radio announcement is by Edwin Newman (1919-2010) of NBC; at 12:36 the first nat. news bulletin of the shooting is aired by ABC Radio, with Don Gardiner (-1977) interrupting a recording of Doris Day's "Hooray for Hollywood"; the first TV announcement comes at 12:40 p.m. as CBS journalist Walter Leland Cronkite Jr. (1916-2009) , who had broadcast various warnings of danger to JFK in Dallas files an audio report after "As the World Turns" is interrupted, along with several others, later breaking up with emotion over the assassination, viewed by up to 70M Americans plus viewers in 23 other countries, causing Charles Collingwood (1917-85) to be called in to replace him during the day, and Harry Reasoner to anchor the CBS Evening News; Cronkite later reads the Soviet reaction to the JFK assassination by Valentin Alexandrovich Zorin (1902-86) , containing the soundbyte "Those who know how the security of President Kennedy is organized know that it is not possible for a fanatic to commit such an assassination. A political crime, thoroughly prepared and planned has taken place.... It is not accidental that it took place in the Southern states, which are well known as a stronghold of racist and other fascist scum. It is precisely here that Goldwater, who is one of the contenders for the presidency gets his support"; the govt. sticks to the 3-shot lone gunman theory from the get-go despite 58 of 90 witnesses interviewed (out of 400 total), incl. William Eugene "Bill" Newman and his wife Frances Gayle Newman , who are interviewed by WFAA-TV Channel 8 by 6'9" actor-journalist-organist Theodore Crawford "Ted" Cassidy (1932-79) (later Lurch in "The Addams Family"), claiming they thought the shots came from between the Depository and Grassy Knoll, and medical student Evalea Glanges (1940-99) claiming to see a bullet hole in the front windshield, and Earl Jack "Jay" Watson (1926-2001) , mgr. of WFAA-AM, who was in the Book Depository and saw a man run out of the bldg. shortly after the shooting, then hiked back to the station, becoming the first to break the news of the assassination (but was snubbed by the police?); Orville Nix Sr. (1920-88) takes a 24.5 sec. video of the assassination from the far side at the corner of Main and Houston Sts., and the first public viewing isn't until the year 2000; Dallas Jewish dress manufacturer Abraham Zapruder (1905-70) (whose office is in the Dal-Tex Bldg.) takes an 8mm color home movie of the final moments from the Grassy Knoll side using a 1962 Model 414 Bell & Howell Zoomatic and Kodak Kodachrome II film, showing JFK's head exploding out the front, spewing a halo of vaporizing brain tissue as his body lurches back sharply and to the left at 2g acceleration, even though no witnesses in Dealey Plaza reported the body motion, and a motorcycle cop to the left rear was hit by his brains wich such force that he thought he himself had been shot; instead of showing the film, small-time Tex. newscaster Dan Rather (1931-) describes the film on CBS-TV, brazenly lying that JFK's head jerked forward rather than backward, after which he makes a meotoric rise at CBS, while the film is purchased for $150K by Time-Life and kept from the public for 14 years; how convenient that Clare Boothe Luce (1903-87) , wife of Time and Life magazine founder Henry Robinson Luce (1898-1967) was not only a supporter of the anti-Castro movement, but a friend of suspected JFK assassination plotters David Atlee Phillips and Gen. Edward Lansdale? (see below); some later find evidence that the Zapruder film was faked or altered or manufactured to bolster the lone gunman theory; spectator (USAF vet) James Thomas "Jim" Tague (1936-) is struck on the right cheek by a bullet ricochet from the curb 23.5 ft. from the E edge of the Triple Underpass railroad bridge, after which an unidentified man in a suit is seen picking up a bullet in the grass on Elm St. in the company of deputy sheriff Eddy Raymond "Buddy" Walthers (1929-) and Dallas policeman Joe W. Foster ; after they can't coverup Tague's story, the problem of too many bullets causes the Magic (Single) Bullet Theory (bullet CE399) to later be manufactured, calling this the 2nd bullet, although later investigators suspect it came from the 2nd floor of the Dal-Tex Bldg.; too bad, there is also a large oak tree in the way that makes shooting at JFK from the Depository difficult for the first two shots; on the S side of Dealey Plaza is the white 5-story U.S. Post Office Terminal Annex Bldg. (built 1937), where Oswald rented P.O. Box 6225 on Nov. 1; to the W of Dealey Plaza is parking lot and a railroad tower, where signalman Lee Edward Bowers Jr. (1925-66) is working, later testifying to seeing two men behind the stockade fence W of the Grassy Knoll, along with a flash of light and smoke, after which on Aug. 9, 1966 his new car crashes into a bridge in Midlothian, Tex., killing him (drugged?); Norma Jean Lollis Hill (1931-2000) (AKA "the Lady in Red" because of her long red raincoat) stands next to JFK's car during the assassination, and later claims to see a white man in a brown overcoat and hat running W from the Depository toward the railroad tracks, IDing him as Jack Ruby; Hill stands with friend Mary Ann Moorman (1932-) , who takes a photograph of the Badge Man behind the Grassy Knoll less than 1/6 sec. after JFK's head exploded; is Badge Man none other than J.D. Tippit , making the reason he ends up assassinated later clear, to cover the tracks to the DPD?; across from the Grassy Knoll "Umbrella Man" Louie Steven Witt stands at the curb in Dealey Plaza holding an opened umbrella, which he later claims is a protest against JFK's appeasement of Commies, mimicking umbrella-loving Neville Chamberlain; it's really a parting message to JFK from the CIA that they're getting even for him not providing an umbrella of protection at the Bay of Pigs?; a fake Secret Service agent is seen on the Grass Knoll by DPD officer Seymour Weitzman (who discovers the rifle in the Depository, calling it a 7.65 Mauser before changing his story to the official version), who later IDs him as Bernard Leon Barker (1917-2009) , a former member of the Batista Cuban secret police, who was later one of the 1972 Watergate burglars, incl. Eugenio R. "Musculito" Martinez (1924-) (Cuban), Frank Anthony Sturgis (Frank Angelo Fiorini) (1924-93) (Va.-born Am. who worked in Cuba), and Virgilio R. Gonzalez (1926-) (Cuban); three tramps are taken out of one of the three railroad cars on the nearby tracks after the shooting, and photographed being led around by police in Dealey Plaza, two of them resembling E. Howard Hunt and Frank Sturgis; the bums later turn out to really be bums named Harold Doyle, Gus Abrams, and John Forrester Gedney?; some witnesses later claim to see known CIA operative Gerald Patrick "Gerry" Hemming (1937-) carrying a rifle case near the scene; meanwhile after all the careful solo planning, hiding plenty of ammo and weapons in his nest for days in advance, then shooting at JFK while he's heading straight at him so that he can get him right between the eyes, and having an easy time shooting the driver first to stop the car, then taking out LBJ's driver, LBJ, a bunch of Secret Service agents and a few cops, maybe Connally for extra points, plus that French Marie Antoinette bitch in the pillbox hat, er, taking out LBJ since he's the right-winger not JFK, or maybe waiting until they swing around and start heading toward the freeway, leaving JFK alone and losing him behind the big oak tree, then finally getting a good shot at LBJ, er, after killing them all, lone gunman Oswald, knowing he will be made in minutes because of his background and job there goes on to take several hostages and hole-up in the Depository, demanding a press interview, where he crows that he did it in the name of Communism to prove that Capitalism is weak and Marx rocks, and demands a plane to Cuba, where he will be welcomed as a hero, er, 74-90 sec. after the assassination Dallas motorcycle cop Marion L. Baker sees Oswald in the 2nd floor lunchroom drinking a Coke, where he is ID'd by bldg. suptd. Roy S. Truly , the same man who had hired him, who later testifies he is "calm, cool, normal and not out of breath in any way", after which Oswald quietly leaves the bldg. at 12:33 through the front door carrying the Coke bottle, then boards a bus at Field St. and Elm St. to his rooming house, later switching to a taxi; Oswald actually made his getaway from the Depository in a light-colored Rambler station wagon belonging to Ruth Hyde Paine?; meanwhile a police search of the Depository finds three spent shells lying in a row by the open window on the SE corner, a paper bag containing a pop bottle and chicken bones, and a 7.65 Mauser bolt-action rifle hidden among the book boxes at the head of the stairs, which later turns into a British Lee Enfield .303 Rifle (Tom Whelan on NBC-TV), and finally a Carcano; initially David Brinkley of NBC-TV reported that the rifle has no fingerprints ; three days later a photo of the 6th floor window from the inside shows cartons piled up to look like a sniper's nest, although they are piled differently on the day of the assassination, arranged to block access so that nobody could have fired shots from the window?; two black men are looking out of a window on the 5th floor right beneath the Oswald window, incl. Harold "Hank" Norman (1938-) , who claims to hear the three shots being fired plus the bolt working and the shells hitting the floor, along with James "Junior" Jarman Jr. (1930-) , while Bonnie Ray Williams (1944-) (who ate his chicken, Fritos and Dr. Pepper lunch on the 6th floor at 12:10-12:15) is looking out an adjacent window, after which they all run up to see who did the shooting, er, go down and exit the building; "The second and the third shot was closer together than the first shot and the second shot... And it sounded, it even shook the building, the side we were on cement fell on my head" (Williams); deputy sheriff Harry Weatherford , best shot in the dept., who was assigned to the top of the County Records bldg. claims to see pigeons fly from the top of the Depository bldg. after the first shot, a muzzle flash from the 2nd shot, and to have fired at Oswald's window a microsecond before the 3rd shot, causing it to go high over Jackie and hit the curb on the S side of Elm St.; he was the real assassin?; Billy Lovelady , AKA Doorway Man is photographed standing on the ground floor of the Depository during the shooting wearing a plaid shirt and V-necked undershirt remarkably similar to that being worn by Oswald that day; at 12:45 after the genius police take a statement from eyewitness steamfitter Howard L. Brennan (1919-83) , who claims to have seen Oswald in the Depository window from across the street, without knowing his name, and put two and two together at jet speed, a description is broadcast on the police radio, "Attention all squads, the suspect in the shooting at Elm and Houston is reported to be an unknown white male approximately 30, slender build, thought to be armed with anything but a 30-caliber rifle, no further description or information") (a description matching thousands of men, despite Oswald being the only Depository worker to flee and was duly reported by his boss?), after which no police are dispatched to any specific location other than Parkland Hospital and Dealey Plaza, and there is no manhunt or roundup?; the witnesses claiming to see him in the Depository window claim he has light colored hair and shirt, when Oswald has brown hair and is wearing a rust-brown shirt); at 1:00 p.m. Kennedy is pronounced dead in Trauma Room 1 of Parkland Memorial Hospital, given last rites by Roman Catholic priest Oscar L. Huber (1910-75) , and after a confrontation at 2:00 between Dallas police and Secret Service agents, where Dallas County coroner Earl Rose attempts to enforce a state-mandated autopsy law, only to be overruled by district atty. Henry Wade, at 2:08 the corpse is whisked to Air Force One (so that the corpse of J.D. Tippit can be whisked in?); meanwhile a bullet is found in the hospital, and later U.S. rear adm. David P. Osborne (retired surgeon) claims that he saw a bullet roll out of sheets wrapping JFK's body at the military autopsy in Bethesda, Md., and handled it; surgical intern Charles Andrew Crenshaw (1933-2001) , who placed JFK in a coffin later claims that he had four gunshot wounds, incl. one-two from the front, and that the neck wound was later tampered with (via a tracheotomy on a non-breathing corpse?) to make it look like an exit wound; in 1998 testimony to the Warren Commission is first released that a 2nd set of photos was taken at the military autopsy at Bethesda Naval Hospital in Bethesda, Md. and covered-up; the military autopsy is performed at 8 p.m. to midnight by Navy chief pathologist James J. Humes (1925-99) , who burns his autopsy notes in his fireplace on Nov. 24 then makes up new improved ones, claiming that "the bullet penetrated the rear of the president's head and exited through a large wound on the right side of his head"; in 1973 the federal govt. purchases Trauma Room 1 and places it in a locked vault in Ft. Worth; at 1:00 p.m. neighbors near Red Bird Airport (later Dallas Executive Airport) in the Dallas suburb of Richardson 6 mi. SW of downtown Dallas call police to report a noisy twin-engine Comanche-type airplane revving its engines at the end of the airstrip on a grassy area near a fence, with airport employee Louis Gaudin reporting that about 2:00 p.m. three men in business suits boarded it, and it took off then returned with two passengers, being met by DPD officer ? Haake ; J.D. Tippit is killed near R.L. Thornton Freeway, the route to the airport; that was where Oswald was headed to fly to Houston, where David Ferrie would fly them to Mexico then South Africa, which has no extradition treaty with the U.S.?; at 1:03 or 1:04 p.m. after arriving at his rooming house at 1026 N. Beckley St. in Oak Cliff (W of Dealey Plaza), Oswald Wabbit is seen leaving fast by diabetic widowed landlady Earlene Roberts (-1966) , who says there was a mysterious police car parked outside on the street with two cops in it, which honks its horn twice and drives away first (Tippit's car, and if so, who is the other guy, Tippit's killer?); at 1:07 p.m. Dallas police officer (JFK lookalike?) J.D. Tippit (b. 1924) is murdered at E 10th St. and Patton Ave. in the Oak Cliff area 3/4-mi. from his rooming house by Oswald or somebody in front of several conflicting witnesses , incl. Acquilla Clemmons , who told police that she saw two men, a short heavy gunman and a tall thin man in khaki trousers and white shirt, and cop favorite Mrs. Helen Markham , who claimed to see the whole thing, and later IDs him in a lineup after seeing him on TV, but later goofed up when being interviewed by Mark Lane, describing him as "short", "a little on the heavy side", with "somewhat bushy hair", and makes other mistakes; at 1:16 civilian Domingo Benavides , who claims to see Oswald kill Tippit while driving in his pickup stops and uses Tippit's police car radio to call it in; R.C. Nelson is the only other officer assigned to the southwest Dallas area that day, and Tippett has Oak Cliff all to himself; after JFK dies at 1:00, his asst. press secy. Malcolm MacGregor "Mac" Kilduff Jr. (1927-2003) walks up to LBJ and addresses him as "Mr. President", causing Lady Bird Johnson to utter a short scream, after which LBJ tells him not to announce it until he leaves the hospital, later saying "I asked that the announcement be made after we left the room... so that if it were an international conspiracy... they would destroy us all"; shortly after JFK's death, John Connally's wife Nellie Connally hands a note from her hubby to his press secy. Julian Read to give to Jackie at Parkland Hospital, reading: "My thoughts have been with you constantly since being told the full truth today. I am overwhelmed beyond words. Nellie and I grieve for you and your children and pray that God will sustain you and give all of us the courage and wisdom we need in this dark hour in our nation's history"; at 1:33 Kilduff announced the death of JFK to the press in the Nurse's Room, with the soundbyte "President John F. Kennedy died at approximately 1:00 CST today here in Dallas. He died of a gunshot wound in the brain. Dr. Berkeley tells me that it was a simple matter of a bullet right through the head. I have no other details regarding the assassination of the president""; at 1:50-55 (51 min. after the assassination?) suspected not single but double assassin Lee Harvey Oswald (b. 1939) is arrested with mucho publicity in the Texas Theater at 232 W. Jefferson after he sneaks in without paying the 90-cent admission and Johnny Calvin Brewer , asst. mgr. of Hardy's Shoe Store made him from a radio description, alerts the ticket clerk Julia Postal (who is distracted by passing police sirens, and claims that Oswald had a panicked look on his face), then waits at the back and points him out for the cops after the lights are turned on; the theater is showing the 1963 B&W Korean War film "War is Hell", dir. by Burt Topper (one of two B war movies on the bill), and it had just started when Oswald is arrested amid the sound of onscreen gunfire, shouting "Well, it's all over now", then punching in the nose and pointing his .38 pistol at officer Nick McDonald (1928-2005) , who catches the hammer in the web of his fingers, after which police detective Paul Bentley (1921-2008) jumps over several rows and arrests him, cutting Oswald's eye with his Masonic ring, causing him to cry police brutality; (JFK is dead for 2 hours, and the patsy is already in jail while the real culprit is making his getaway in Air Force One?) at 2:05 Oswald arrives at the police station in the custody of five DPD officers, and takes Dallas Police Mugshot #54018 ; at 2:30 p.m. he is interviewed in the office of DPD homicide and robbery chief Capt. John Will Fritz by Dallas FBI agent James P. Hosty (1928-) , who had visited his wife Marina on Nov. 1 and Nov. 5, after which Oswald walked into his FBI office on Nov. 12 and gave a note to him, which he later claims is a complaint about the harassment but he conveniently destroyed, the secret taking until 1975 to come out, which Hosty pub. a book about in 1996; at 2:05 as Oswald is being brought in, Hosty tells the DPD criminal intel squad chief, lt. Jack Revill that he knew that known Commie Oswald is a likely candidate for a pres. assassination, which the DPD later twists into he was capable of committing the assassination, which Hosty later hotly denies, thinking the DPD is trying to blame the FBI for it; Marina Oswald (1941-) is taken into custody by the Secret Service and held at the Inn of the Six Flags in Arlington (near Ft. Worth), Tex. for 2 mo., during which time she is probably threatened with deportation if she doesn't cooperate by regurgitating the coverstories they're feeding her, after which she claims to have locked her hubby in the bathroom once to keep him from shooting Richard Nixon, although it locks from the inside; at 2:18 Jackie Kennedy arrives on Air Force One (Boeing 737) in her blood-soaked pink dress, which Lady Bird Johnson suggests she change out of, to which she replies "No, I want them to see what they have done to Jack"; at 2:38 p.m. 6'2" Tex.-born horse-trading backroom-dealing super-politician (obsessively watches the evening news on multiple TVs, has a button panel installed in the Oval Office reading "Coffee, Tea, Coke, Fresca", and enjoys high speed drives around his Texas ranch) Lyndon Baines Johnson (1908-73) (who did-I-mention rode in the limo behind JFK's and didn't get a scratch?) becomes the 36th U.S. pres. (until 1969) in the 52nd U.S. pres. inauguration as federal judge (1961-82) Sarah Tilghman Hughes (1896-1985) (first woman to do it) gives him the oath of office before takeoff on a Roman Catholic missal found in near JFK's bed on the plane, with grief-stricken Jackie Kennedy standing at his left, becoming the first U.S. pres. sworn in on a Catholic missal, after which there is a rumor that it was Hughes' personal Bible, or that it was lost or stolen by LBJ; Kilduff makes the only audio recording of the event using a Dictabelt Dictaphone from JFK's desk on the plane; future House speaker (1971-77) Carl Bert Albert (1908-2000) winks at smiling LBJ after he is sworn-in; JFK's classmate Theodore Harold White (1915-86) gets an exclusive interview with stoic Jackie shortly after the assassination, and becomes the first to compare JFK's short-lived presidency with the British legend of Camelot; Jackie Kennedy comments: "He couldn't even have the satisfaction of being killed for civil rights... it had to be some silly little Communist"; Jack Valenti (1921-2007) , who rode in the motorcade ends up with LBJ on the plane, and becomes his adviser; First Lady is Claudia "Lady Bird" Alta Taylor Johnson (1912-2007) (Secret Service codename: Victoria), who utters the soundbyte "I feel like I am suddenly onstage for a part I never rehearsed"; LBJ, known for his in-your-face intimidating Johnson Style soon becomes known for sleeping through most movies shown in the White House (his mental movies being far more interesting?); William Allen Harper finds a piece of JFK's skull, which the govt. denies is from the lower occipital (back) area, later losing it; Oswald is interrogated for approx. 12 hours by 11:15 a.m. on Nov. 24; CBS reporter Bob Schieffer (1937-) drives Oswald's mother Marguerite Claverie Oswald (1907-81) to see him in jail, where he is not permitted to talk to him, claiming an FBI man threatened to kill him, after which he says the JFK affair "turned us into a cynical people"; there is worldwide mourning, with writer John Steinbeck (1902-68) , in Poland on a cultural mission for the State Dept. comments that he'd never seen so much mourning; the Dow Jones Industrial Avg. drops 21 points (3%), then recovers within a week; at 7:05 p.m. Oswald is charged with Tippit's murder by known corrupt justice-for-the-police Dallas DA (1951-87) Henry Menasco Wade (1914-2001) , and at 7:55 p.m. he is trotted out bearing bruises and cuts in front of TV cameras by Texas lawmen wearing Stetson hats, giving him his big chance, where he utters the immortal soundbyte "I'm a Communist, and I killed your president all by myself, despite all your Dallas Police, FBI, Secret Service, CIA and military could do, which proves that your degenerate system is weak and Khrushchev and Castro rock, and that's why I did it, to make myself a big man and win one for Marx and Lenin, eat me", er, "They're taking me in because of the fact I lived in the Soviet Union", and "I'm just a patsy" , and "I didn't shoot anybody, no sir"; he is then is told by a reporter that he's being charged with JFK's murder too, which seems to surprise him, and he is officially charged at 11:26 p.m. (state charges only, since it's not a federal offense to kill a U.S. pres. yet); after Dallas police put out an APB on a '57 Ford, Donald Wayne House (1941-) of Ranger, Tex. is arrested in Ft. Worth (30 mi. W of Dallas) 90 min. after the assassination, then after he says he didn't do it he is released, although the TV reporter slips and says that Tippit was shot by a man in a car; Mormon missionary Robert Earl Croft of Denver, Colo. takes four photos of the assassination, which the FBI and Secret Service later claim had a malfunction on the frame coinciding with the head shot; at 8:15 after JFK's body is delivered to Bethesda Naval Hospital in two different caskets at two different times (6:35 p.m. in a body bag in a plain shipping casket, and 8:00 p.m. in white sheets in a bronze casket), the military autopsy of JFK begins; as JFK is being assassinated, his press secy. Pierre Salinger is on a plane to Tokyo with six of nine cabinet members incl. state secy. Dean Rusk to set up an economic conference next Feb., which would make JFK the first U.S. pres. to visit Japan since WWII; LBJ retains Salinger as his press secy., after which which he serves as Dem. Calif. Sen. from Aug. 4-Dec. 31, 1964, then becomes RFK's pres. campaign mgr., witnesses his assassination, and moves to France to become a correspondent for L'Express. On Nov. 22, 1963 (afternoon) Robert Francis Kennedy Jr. (1954-) was picked up early from Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., and told about what happened to Uncle Jack, while Justice Dept. atty. Dean Markham picked up his little brother David at Our Lady of Victory and did ditto. RFK Jr. later blames right-wingers for the assassination. JFK was really assassinated for having too much interest in UFOs? :) On Nov. 23, 1963 (Sat.) (dawn) a fire at the Golden Age Nursing Home near Fitchville, Ohio kills 63, most while sleeping. On Nov. 23, 1963 after Secret Service agent Gerald Blaine mistakenly points his submachine-gun at him in early morning darkness at his home, new Pres. Johnson declares Nov. 25 a Nat. Day of Mourning , his first official act of office - except for him and his friends, who party hearty, you can't go without the green bean casserole? On Nov. 23, 1963 a mysterious Clay Bertrand contacts New Orleans, La. atty. Dean Andrews and asks him to go to Dallas to represent Lee Harvey Oswald; New Orleans DA Jim Garrison later connects him to Clay Laverne Shaw. On Nov. 23, 1963 Backyard Photos of Lee Harvey Oswald Holding a Rifle in One Hand and a Commie Newspaper in the Other are found at the home of Ruth Hyde Paine and released by Dallas police, cinching the lone nut gunman theory for the public; one of the photos is shown on the cover of Life mag. in Feb. 1964; when Oswald is shown the photos he says it's his face posted on somebody else's body, and the black shirt and pants in the photo are never found; a shadow on his chin stays in the same place even when his head is tilted; his real chin has a cleft, but the photo shows no cleft, since it's at the line where a photo cut would have to have been made; the photo shows him wearing a watch, although he never wears one. On Nov. 23, 1963 a 3 in. German-made Minox Spy Camera is found in Oswald's sea bag by detectives Gus Rose and Richard Stovall; it is not available to the public at this time?; on Nov. 26 the DPD turns it over to the FBI, who attempt a coverup, calling it a light meter. On Nov. 23, 1963 after being whisked from Methodist Gen. Hospital to Parkland Hospital on Nov. 22 right after JFK is whisked to Air Force One, then processed and never seen by kin, the body of DPD officer J.D. Tippit is buried in a sealed casket because his wounds allegedly disfigure his face; he is later described as being shot in the right temporal area in the same place as JFK, and since his photos bear a striking resemblance to JFK, were their autopsy X-rays switched , esp. the Death Stare Photo and the Devil's Ear Photo , causing the existence of a massive govt. conspiracy to stare us in the face? On Nov. 23, 1963 (Sat.) (5:25 p.m.) the long-running campy sci-fi series with a catchy musical theme in the opening (the best thing about the show?) Doctor Who (a Timelord from the planet Gallifrey who travels in a spaceship that looks like a London police call box on the outside and an Edwardian mansion on the inside) debuted on BBC-TV with An Unearthly Child , dir. by Indian-born Cambridge-educated Waris Hussein (1938-) ; the cool Doctor Who Theme is more interesting than the campy show? On Nov. 23, 1963 (Sat.) (night) after Cuban exile students pub. a broadsheet with photos of him and Oswald together under the headline "The Presumed Assassins", Fidel Castro gives a Speech on JFK's Assassination 30 hours after the assassination, denying any connection with it, denying he ever heard of Oswald, and calling it a CIA provocation; CIA agent Brian Latell later claims that "Castro and a small number of Cuban intelligence officers were complicit in Kennedy's death but that their involvement fell short of an organized assassination plot"; instead they "exhorted Oswald," and "encouraged his feral militance"; CIA man George Joannides (1922-) paid for the broadsheet in an effort to destabilize Castro and prep the public for another U.S. invasion? Did you order that Code Red, Colonel? Spring little Cobra, getting ready to strike? The first live murder on TV, compliments of the Dallas Police Department? On Nov. 24, 1963 (Sun.) (11:21 a.m. CST) (47 hours after you know what) while being transported to the county jail, Lee Harvey Oswald (b. 1939) is neatly assassinated with a snub-nosed Colt Cobra .38 revolver to the guts in the Dallas police station basement parking lot by local strip club owner and suspected Mafia made man (Jewish) Jack Leon "Sparky" Ruby (Rubenstein) (1911-67) in front of nat. TV cameras (first murder seen live on U.S. TV), with the Dallas police standing idly by doing nothing to stop him and leaving the cameras good angles so that everybody knows who did it this time (now he can't be given a r outine 2-3 day murder trial with a good lawyer and easily convicted, ha ha); press photographer Robert "Bob" Jackson , who witnessed a rifle in the 6th floor window of the Depository takes an iconic photo of the shooting of Oswald by Ruby; after being rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, Oswald dies in Trauma Room 1 at 1:07 p.m., 48 hours 7 min. after JFK died; Ruby tells reporters he did it to zoom zoom prove that "Jews have guts", that he is helping the city of Dallas "redeem" itself, and that he wanted to spare Jackie Kennedy the ordeal of appearing at Oswald's trial, although after having time to think he changes his story and says he did it on the spur of the moment (he was taking the diet pill Preludin (Phenmetrazine) , which raises the metabolism) (how convenient that this case never sees the inside of a courtroom?); Ruby's gun was purchased at Ray's Hardware and Sporting Goods in Dallas, run by Lawrence Brantley (1921-96) ; Ruby had previously wired money to a friend/employee, and left his dachshund Sheba in his car, and has no trouble getting let into the garage (by police confidants?), and afterward the govt. does nothing to officially establish Ruby's Mafia ties; Stetson hat-wearing Dallas police detective James R. "Jim" Leavelle (1920-) is handcuffed to Oswald when he gets the lead, becoming a celeb, while detective L.C. Graves (-1995) (brother-in-law of Paul Bentley) wrenches the pistol from Ruby's right hand; on Nov. 24 J. Edgar Hoover writes a memo stating "The thing I am most concerned about... is having something issued so that we can convince the public that Oswald is the real assassin", I guess the investigation was already over; Oswald's mother Marguerite begins her own investigation , later claiming that her dear son, whom she knew better than anybody, was a govt. agent and a patriotic hero, and would one day be cleared, while the press treats her like merde; the three major networks (all liberal) paint JFK's assassination as the result of a "climate of hate" caused by conservatism, despite Oswald's Commie past, stinking conservatism up until Reagan in 1980?; the Hollywood movie "The Manchurian Candidate" is withdrawn from theaters because of its similarity; meanwhile U.S. TV screens become boring to kids with no network shows, only dreary mourning (a nat. security alert and news blackout in case of a revolt?); on May 8, 1964 (after he earns it by running the Federal Bureau of Uninvestigation to keep his regime stable?) J. Edgar Hoover is appointed FBI dir. for life by new pres. LBJ. On Nov. 24, 1963 (Sun.) one of the greatest high school football games in yee-haw-we-killed-JFK Texas history was played between Lee and Brackenridge in San Antonio as running back Linus Baer led Lee in a last-second 55-48 win over Brackenridge and future U. of Houston star Warren Douglas McVea (1946-) . On Nov. 25, 1963 (Mon.) after Robert Kennedy fails to show up for work, acting (deputy)U.S. atty. gen. Nicholas deBelleville "Nick" Katzenbach (1922-2012) sends a memo to LBJ's aide Bill Moyers, detailing a coverup plan, incl. suggestions for influencing the FBI and setting up a special hand-picked commission to circumvent a congressional investigation, with the soundbyte: "The public must be satisfied that Oswald was the assassin,that he did not have confederates who are still at large; and that the evidence was such that he would have been convicted at trial"; LBJ makes Katzenbach atty.-gen. (#65) in Feb. 11, 1965-Oct. 2, 1966. On Nov. 25, 1963 (Mon.) after Jackie Kennedy acts as de-facto pres. for two hours in the Red Room of the White House, receiving eight dozen internat. delegations solo, the John F. Kennedy State Funeral sees his body laid to rest at Arlington Nat. Cemetery (in "the most beautiful spot", picked by Robert S. McNamara) in a cathartic nationally-televised event that features the caissons, the funeral march, Jackie leading the delegations on foot like a female pres., and his son John Fitzgerald "John-John" Kennedy Jr. (1960-99) (his 3rd birthday) saluting him while his mommy in a veil plays Madonna with Child; the bronze casket in which JFK was flown from Dallas to Washington, D.C. is dropped into a 9K-ft. military dump site off the Md.-Del. coast; JFK had set Nov. 25 as the date for a meeting with the U.S. ambassador to Vietnam to relieve him from his duties in preparation for a gradual diminishing of the U.S. presence in Vietnam. On Nov. 26, 1963 Newsday reporter Jimmy Breslin (1930-) pub. an article on the man who dug JFK's grave. On Nov. 28, 1963 the Crusher defeats Verne Gagne in St. Paul, Minn. to become NWA champ. On Nov. 28, 1963 the Beatles single She Loves You returns to #1 on the U.K. pop singles chart, becoming their first million-seller before "I Want to Hold Your Hand". On Nov. 28, 1963 Pres. Johnson announces that the NASA Space Center at Cape Canaveral, Fla. will be renamed after JFK; it is changed back in 1973 after a local vote. On Nov. 29, 1963 Pres. Johnson signs Nat. Security Action Memorandum 273 , reversing JFK's pullout of U.S. troops from Vietnam, or at least advisers. On Nov. 29, 1963 Pres. Johnson issues Executive Order 11130 , establishing the Warren Commission , headed by chief justice Earl Warren, and incl. a motley crew of suspects, er, members, incl. former CIA dir. (1953-61) Allen Welsh Dulles (1893-1969) , Sens. Richard Brevard Russell Jr. (1897-1971) (D-Ga.) and John Sherman Cooper (1901-91) (R-Ky.), U.S. Reps. Thomas Hale Boggs Sr. (1914-72) (the only one who disagrees with the Magic Bullet Theory, after which he has a mysterious fatal airplane crash in Alaska in 1972) and Gerald Rudolph "Jerry" Ford Jr. (1913-2006) , U.S. Treasury secy. #57 (1961-5) Clarence Douglas (Douglass) Dillon (1909-2003) (overseer of the Secret Service), and JFK adviser John Jay McCloy (1895-1989) (known for opposing the payment of German reparations after WWI, the bombing of the railways leading to Auschwitz in WWII, the atomic bombing of Japan, the compensation of Japanese-Am. POWs, and for his pardoning of Nazi war criminals) to coverup, er, investigate the assassination, which hears its first witness on Feb. 3, 1964, followed by 551 more. On Nov. 29, 1963 an evening episode of Route 66 titled I'm Here to Kill a King is cancelled because of the JFK assassination; it was aired on Mar. 20, 1964. On Nov. 29, 1963 Jackie Kennedy gives the Camelot Interview to T.H. (Terence Hanbury) White (1906-64) in Hyannisport, Mass., which was partly pub. in the Dec. 6 Life mag., the rest in White's 1978 posth. memoir In Search of History: A Personal Adventure , containing the soundbyte: "I'd get out of bed at night and play it for him, when it was so cold getting out of bed... on a Victrola 10 years old. And the song he loved most came at the very end of this record, the last side of Camelot, sad Camelot... 'Don't let it be forgot, that once there was a spot, for one brief shining moment that was known as Camelot'... There'll never be another Camelot again...", launching the JFK Camelot myth. Bzzz! Gotcha! Terence Hanbury White is the author of "The Once and Future King", about, er, Camelot. This White is Theodore Harold White (1915-86) , a former classmate of JFK, this White is Right. On Nov. 30, 1963 the body of Karyn Kupcinet (b. 1940) is found in Los Angeles, Calif. two days after death; a few days before JFK's assassination she tried to place a long distance call, and the operator allegedly heard her scream that JFK was going to be killed. This is just one of 100+ suspicious deaths related to the JFK assassination - you know what I think of averages? On Dec. 1, 1963 Jackie Kennedy writes a letter to Khrushchev, with the soundbyte: "The danger which troubled my husband was that war might be started not so much by the big men as by the little ones. While big men know the needs for self-control and restraint, little men are sometimes moved more by fear and pride. If only in the future the big men can continue to make the little ones sit down and talk, before they start to fight." On Dec. 4, 1963 Malcolm X (1925-65) gives his Chickens Come Home to Roost Speech , where he philosophizes that the white violence against blacks that JFK failed to stop came back to haunt him. On Dec. 7, 1963 a videotaped instant replay is used for the first time in a live sports telecast of the Army-Navy Game (originally scheduled for Dec. 1, which JFK was planning on attending, and which is played at Jackie's request in his honor) as CBS-TV replays a 1-yard TD run by Army QB Rollie Stichweh . Navy defeats Army 21-15; should have had a replay two weeks earlier, in Dallas? On Dec. 10, 1963 Walter Cronkite reairs a CBS News report from London on the Beatles that had been originally scheduled for the CBS Evening News of Nov. 22, launching the Beatles craze in the U.S.; meanwhile Capitol Records signs a right of first refusal agreement with the Beatles. On Dec. 22, 1963 after the Nat. Christmas Tree at the White House is left dark, the 30-day mourning period for dead president Kennedy ends, and a Minute For Peace was broadcast, sponsored by John McConnell (1915-) . On Dec. 22 (after suspecting CIA involvement in JFK's assassination?) former Pres. Harry S. Truman pub. an article in the Washington Post early ed. (excised from later eds.), warning about the dangers of the CIA, with the soundbytes: "For some time I have been disturbed by the way the CIA has been diverted from its original assignment. It has become an operational and at times policy-making arm of the Government. This has led to trouble and may have compounded our difficulties in several explosive areas", and "We have grown up as a nation, respected for our free institutions and for our ability to maintain a free and open society. There is something about the way the CIA has been functioning that is casting a shadow over our historic position and I feel we need to correct it." On Dec. 23, 1963 William Mann in the London Times calls John Lennon and Paul McCartney "the outstanding English composers of 1963". On Dec. 24, 1963 New York's Idlewild Airport is renamed JFK Airport. On Dec. 26, 1963 the Beatles waste no time releasing "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and "I Saw Her Standing There" to bored Yankee teenie girls. On Dec. 29, 1963 the 11-1-2 Chicago Bears defeat the 11-3 New York Giants on a freezing day by 14-10 to give "Papa" Bear George Halas his last of six titles (first 1921); he retires in 1967. On Dec. 30, 1963 the U.S. Congress authorizes the Kennedy $1 bill, er, half-dollar coin, which is issued next Mar. 24. Later in 1963 Pres. Johnson attends the dedication of the Agudas Achim Synagogue in Austin, Tex., where they thank him for saving 400-500 Jews during WWII; LBJ tells an Israeli diplomat "You have lost a very great friend [JFK], but you have found a better one." White English TV personality David Frost (1939-) (known for having an affair with African-Am. actress Diahan Carroll) holds a tribute to JFK on "That Was the Week That Was", causing his fame to spread to the U.S., after which Frost began interviewing all British PMs since 1964 and U.S. presidents since 1969. Black Beat poet Bob Kaufman (1925-86) takes a Buddhist vow of silence until the end of the Vietnam War in 1973, which he breaks by reciting his poem All Those Ships That Never Sailed . Lincoln-JFK Coincidences : Lincoln was first elected to Congress in 1846, JFK in 1946; Lincon was elected as pres. on 11-6-60, JFK on 11-8-60; both are succeeded by Southerners named Johnson, one born in 1808, the other in 1908; both are shot in the back of the head on a Fri. while their fashion plate wives (who die around the age of 64) are present; John Wilkes Booth was born in 1839, Oswald in 1939, and both are shot before they can come to trial; Booth did it in a theater and ran to a warehouse, while Oswald did it in a warehouse and ran to a theater; Lincoln is shot in Ford's theater, and JFK is shot in a Ford Lincoln; JFK's secy. (since 1963) was Evelyn Maurine Norton Lincoln (1909-95) , who advised him against going to Dallas, and made a list of suspects after the assassination that included LBJ, Richard Nixon, the CIA, Communists, and the KKK. Hours before his assassination, Lincoln told White House guard William Henry Crook (1839-1915) : "I believe there are men who want to take my life... And I have no doubt they will do it... If it is to be done, it is impossible to prevent it"; hours before his assassination, JFK tells his wife Jackie and personal adviser Ken O'Donnell: "If somebody wants to shoot me from a window with a rifle, nobody can stop it, so why worry about it?" On Jan. 24, 1964 Warren Commission gen. counsel (U.S. solicitor gen. in 1956-61) James Lee Rankin (1907-96) admitted in a secret meeting that Lee Harvey Oswald had been on the payroll of the FBI until the time of the JFK assassination, receiving $200 per mo.; it takes 10 years and a lengthy court battle by JFK researcher Harold Weisberg to make it public. In June 1964 after meeting him in the early 1950s in Harlem, Warren Commission staffer William "Bill" Coleman (only African-Am. atty. on the commission) visited Fidel Castro in Cuba, who denied any involvement in the JFK assassination, claiming to admire him; the meeting was first revealed by the London Times on Jan. 7, 2006. In June 1964 the Warren Commission finally got around to interviewing Jack Ruby, who told them "Gentlemen, I want to tell the truth, but I cannot tell it here. If you want a fair shake out of me, you have to take me to Washington", which Earl Warren answers by "No, it could not be done, it could not be done. There are a good many things involved in that, Mr. Ruby." Ruby kept fingering LBJ, writing a Letter from Jail , with the soundbyte: "You must believe me that I know what is taking place, so please with all my heart, you must believe me, because I am counting on you to save this country a lot of blood-shed. As soon as you get out you must read Texan looks at Lyndon [A Texan Looks At Lyndon by J. Evetts Haley], and it may open your eyes to a lot of things. This man is a Nazi in the worst order." It also contained the soundbyte: "Isn't it strange that Oswald who hasn't worked a lick most of his life, should be fortunate enough to get a job at the Book Building two weeks before the president himself didn't know as to when he was to visit Dallas, now where would a jerk like Oswald get the information that the president was coming to Dallas? Only one person could have had that information, and that man was Johnson who knew weeks in advance as to what was going to happen, because he is the one who was going to arrange the trip for the president, this had been planned long before the president himself knew about, so you can figure that one out. The only one who gained by the shooting of the president was Johnson, and he was in a car in the rear and safe when the shooting took place. What would the Russians, Castro or anyone else have to gain by eliminating the president? If Johnson was so heartbroken over Kennedy, why didn't he do something for Robert Kennedy? All he did was snub him." It's our turn to get some Honkin Tonkin joy in Vietnam? On July 30-31, 1964 (midnight) the U.S. Navy fires on the North Vietnamese islands of Hon Ngu and Hon Me ; on Aug. 2 (afternoon) destroyer USS Maddox is allegedly attacked in the Gulf of Tonkin by three Vietnamese PT boats from Hon Me, who score one bullet, after which it retreats, then returns on Aug. 3 accompanied by the USS C. Turner Joy , after which on Aug. 3-4 (night) U.S. ships from Danang shell two points on the North Vietnamese mainland; on Aug. 4 (night) both destroyers fire after radar blips indicate a 2nd torpedo boat attack, after which on Aug. 5 carrier USS Ticonderoga helps them sink one gunboat and chase two others, while Operation Pierce Arrow , a bombing of North Vietnam by planes from USS Ticonderoga and USS Constellation takes out a major petroleum storage facility in Vinh; too bad, Navy Lt. Everett Alvarez Jr. (1937-) is shot down and captured in beautiful Ha Long (Chin. "Descending Dragon") Bay , becoming the first U.S. naval aviator captured by the North Vietnamese, and the 2nd longest-held POW in U.S. history (released in 1973 after 8.5 years); on Aug. 5 in response to the 2nd Tonkin Gulf Incident, LBJ gives a U.S. Policy on Southeast Asia Speech at Syracuse U., with the soundbytes "The attacks were deliberate, the attacks were unprovoked, the attacks have been answered", and "There an be no peace by aggression, and no immunity from reply"; on Aug. 7 after U.S. defense secy. Robert Strange McNamara strangely deceives LBJ about the nature of the attack, and the North Vietnamese are characterized as the aggressors despite a report from USS Maddox Capt. John J. Herrick that "freak weather effects" caused false radar readings and that no North Vietnamese patrol boats had been sighted, the U.S. Gulf of Tonkin Resolution is passed 414-0 in the House and 88-2 in the Senate, giving Pres. Johnson virtually unlimited war powers; it is repealed on Jan. 13, 1971; the no votes are from Sens. Wayne Lyman Morse (1900-74) (D-Ore.) (1945-69) and Ernest Henry Gruening (1887-1974) (D-Alaska) (1959-69); in 1971 it is revealed that the U.S. boats violated Vietnamese territorial waters and were the real aggressors; the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution is LBJ's payback to the CIA for helping him take out JFK?; in 2001 NSA historian Robert J. Hanyok finds that there was no 2nd attack, and that NSA officers deliberately distorted intercepts (the NSA covers this up until 2005); on Jan. 28, 1973 Turner Joy becomes the ship to fire the last official shot of the Vietnam War for the U.S. This is the Age of Aquaverups? Another case of history being written by the winning side? On Sept. 24, 1964 (Thur.) the Warren Commission delivered to LBJ the 888-page, 296K-word Warren Commission Report (published in paperback by Bantam Books), concluding that dead Lee Harvey Oswald acted good enough to win the Oscar, but had no supporting cast, crew, writer, dir. or producer, er, acted alone, and there was no conspiracy anymore, because the coverup is now complete, hold it in your hands, with the immortal soundbyte that if there was a conspiracy, it is "beyond the reach of all the investigative agencies and resources of the United States"; 26 vols. of supporting evidence (20K pages, 10M words) are also provided, with no index; the records are sealed in the Nat. Archives for 75 years (until the year 2039), but the 1966 U.S. Freedom of Info. Act causes all but 1% to be released, after which the 1992 U.S. JFK Records Act changes the date to 2017 (25 years after 1992) (after the conspirators are all dead?). The report claiming that lucky dog Oswald Wabbit did it all alone with three bullets contains the Magic (Single) Bullet Theory of Philly Dem. atty., commission junior counsel and future U.S. Repub. Sen. (1981-2011) Arlen Specter (1930-2112) , the first shot, which hits both JFK and Connally and does a little too much work for one bullet, with a total lapse of all presidential security and all the wheels coming up cherries just clearing Oswald's way by luck, incl. the fact that the bullet needs to enter JFK's back at the base of the neck, no lower than the first thoracic vertebra (T1), when the JFK Death Certificate , signed by JFK's personal physician (since July) Rear Adm. George Burkley (1903-91) (who goes on to become LBJ's personal physician, and is promoted to vice-adm.), along with other reports place it lower at T3?; the Carcano has a muzzle velocity of 2K fps, when for the Magic Bullet Theory to work it has to have a velocity of at least 2.6K fps?; if the bullet entered the neck, it would have severed the spinal chord, making it impossible for him to reach for his throat, etc.?; there is no need for a Magic Bullet after accurate computer simulation takes account of Connally sitting on a jump seat 6 in. to the left of and 3 in. lower than JFK?; the Magic Bullet has been proved to have come from Oswald's rifle?; JFK's head was turned leftward and downward, putting only Oswald in a position to make a wound in the top right back of his skull?; Gerald R. Ford changes the final draft of the Warren Commission Report to have the bullet enter "the base of the back of his neck slightly to the right of the spine", which he later admits, saying "My changes had nothing to do with a conspiracy theory. My changes were only an attempt to be more precise"; in 2013 James Fetzer declares that he's solved the assassination, and that it was done by six shooters, not incl. Oswald; Tippit's widow receives $647,579 from sympathetic Americans, incl. $25K from Zapruder from the sale of his film; the assassination was really plotted in the Pentagon with Howard Hunt of the CIA by Gen. Alexander Meigs Haig Jr. (1924-2010) ? The government starts out with the high ground in the national media, case closed? On Sept. 27, 1964 (6:30 p.m. EDT) CBS-TV aired a 100 min. (plus commercials) Special on the Warren Report , hosted by Walter Cronkite and Dan Rather, the first public airing of the contents of the Warren Commission Report, sticking to the report as gospel in an overt attempt to sell it to the public, focusing on the burning question of whether magic man Oswald could have possibly been able to do it all by his little self without help from the angelic Dallas Police, who are sanctimoniously excused for their little security lapses, while leaving wild card Jack Ruby dangling; features Dan Rather trying to explain how a high school dropout who can't learn to drive a car can teach himself Russian, get a job on the parade route after JFK's visit is announced but before the route is decided on, and avoid all of the massive security to set up a sniper nest in plain sight and do all the crack shooting and score two bullseyes with three, count them three shots, then attempt an escape with no escape plan and no tickets booked to anywhere, plus a great interview with mystery woman Ruth Hyde Paine, another with Oswald's doting mother Marguerite claiming he's a govt. agent acting under orders while being treated like she's nuts, and gov. John Connally saying there was no way the bullet that went through JFK's neck was the one that hit him, plus a jailer telling how calm, cool, and collected Oswald was in jail, and police chief Jesse E. Curry saying he wouldn't let the media inside city hall if he had to do it over. In Sept. 1964 British genius Bertrand Russell (1872-1970) pub. 16 Questions on the Assassination , which questions the Warren Commission version of the JFK assassination; "The official version of the assassination of President Kennedy has been so riddled with contradictions that it is been abandoned and rewritten no less than three times. Blatant fabrications have received very widespread coverage by the mass media, but denials of these same lies have gone unpublished. Photographs, evidence and affidavits have been doctored out of recognition. Some of the most important aspects of the case against Lee Harvey Oswald have been completely blacked out. Meanwhile, the F.B.I., the police and the Secret Service have tried to silence key witnesses or instruct them what evidence to give. Others involved have disappeared or died in extraordinary circumstances"; "We view the problem with the utmost seriousness. U.S. Embassies have long ago reported to Washington world-wide disbelief in the official charges against Oswald, but this has scarcely been reflected by the American press. No U.S. television program or mass circulation newspaper has challenged the permanent basis of all the allegations - that Oswald was the assassin, and that he acted alone. It is a task which is left to the American people." On Oct. 12, 1964 blonde blue-blooded liberal Vassar grad. Mary Pinchot Meyer (b. 1921) (JFK's lover up to his assassination, which pissed off the CIA) was professionally murdered on a walking path by the Potomac River. Her ex-hubby Cord Meyer (1920-2001) worked for the CIA since 1949 and founded the United World Federalists who want a OWG, with members incl. Walter Cronkite. On his deathbed Cord said "The same sons of bitches that killed John F. Kennedy" killed her. He ran LBJ's operation to kill JFK? FBI agent Don Adams investigated States Rights Party and KKK member Joseph Adams Milteer shortly before the assassination, claiming that he bragged about how the best way to kill JFK was "from an office building with a high-powered rifle", and later claimed he's the true assassin and that the FBI covered it up. On Oct. 14, 1964 pesky Khrushchev was removed in a bloodless coup. Speaking of genius. Did we mention that a govt. conspiracy and govt. coverup are suspected by anybody with an IQ higher than a jelly doughnut (except Manson prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi (1934-), writer Norman Mailer (1928-) et al.), but only after a small group of independent investigators begin digging, including Mark Lane (1927-) , Sylvia Meagher (1922-89) (who produces a subject index for the Warren Report in 1966), USAF Col. Leroy Fletcher Prouty (1917-2001) , Vincent J. Salandria (1926-) , and Harold Weisberg (1914-2002) , who don't get much media attention until 1966, after which by 2007 1K+ books are pub. on the subject, with the gen. public believing that Oswald didn't act alone, while the pro and anti-conspiracy experts are well entrenched, smug and intransigent; the first in a chain of State Crimes Against Democracy ? Speaking of state crimes, Col. Prouty was a specialist in pres. security who was sent off on a wild goose chase assignment out of the U.S. during the assassination by USAF Maj. Gen. Edward Geary Lansdale (1908-87) ("General Y" in the 1991 Oliver Stone film "JFK"), whom he claimed to recognize in the famous Three Tramps Photo walking away from them. Speaking of coverup, Am. physicist Luis Walter Alvarez (1911-98) (designer of the exploding bridgewire detonator for the Fat Man A-bomb) proposes the Jet-Recoil Theory to explain why JFK's body jerks backwards if the shot is coming from behind, although Newton's Laws of Motion require the body to go in the direction of the bullet, no matter how it flies apart (unless he's attached to a rubber band), and a jet recoil effect could only come from an exploding bullet, although the fact that JFK's neuromuscular reaction could make him jerk in any direction makes it all academic; the Ramsey Clark Panel meets in Washington, D.C. in 1968, and concludes that JFK was hit by two bullets from above and behind him; by 1978 118 of 1.4K witnesses die, 83 of them from officially unnatural causes, causing a statistical anomaly that proves a conspiracy?; in 1979 the House Select Committee on Assassinations concludes that Oswald killed JFK "probably... as the result of a conspiracy", pointing to a dictabelt recording allegedly from DPD motorcycle cop H.B. McLain , who denies being in Dealey Plaza during the assassination, and no surprise, the U.S. Justice Dept. gets the Nat. Research Council of the Nat. Academy of Science to review the dictabelt evidence, and on May 14, 1982 the 12-scientist Norman F. Ramsey Panel concludes that "reliable acoustic data do not support a conclusion that there was a second gunman"; in 2008 the Discovery Channel claims to have proved that Oswald did it using blood spatter analysis (no account taken of a possible exploding bullet?); Century 6, Quatrain 37 of Nostradamus is later dredged up as predicting the assassination, incl. the Grassy Knoll shooter and Oswald Patsy parts: "The ancient work will be accomplished,/ And from the roof evil ruin will fall on the great man:/ They will accuse an innocent, being dead, of the deed:/ The guilty one is hidden in the misty copse." Meanwhile "What's My Line?" TV star Dorothy Mae Kilgallen (1913-1965) interviews Jack Ruby and gets his Warren Commission testimony ahead of LBJ, and publicly doubts the commission's findings, claiming to be about to break the case wide open by connecting Ruby with Tippett and David Ferrie, plus a rich Texas oilman, before suddenly Marilyning in her townhouse on Nov. 8, 1965, after which the show chills, er, folds within 15 mo. Speaking of nuts, the nut of the serious Who Killed JFK Conspiracy Theory is that Oswald must have been made to look like he could have possibly done it all by himself in an official DPD investigation, because Oswald is the only one who's officially supposed to be in the Depository, i.e., can't have his presence there covered up, and whoever really did it got away without a trace under the nose of the DPD despite a massive follow-up U.S. govt. investigation, and therefore had to be working for those who were put in the position of doing the investigation, viz., the DPD and the U.S. govt., who really uninvestigated it, i.e., set up and stuck to the Oswald-did-it theory to always keep themselves from becoming suspects by covering up all tracks to the ones on the ground, because uncovering their identies would lead straight to themselves, and they always have the problem that if it was a Commie conspiracy, why they didn't they go after much more anti-Commie LBJ, but knock out left-leaning JFK to put him in the White House? Of course, one must always forgive the DPD, Secret Service, FBI, CIA, MIC, etc. for not stopping little bitty lone gunman Oswald the Wabbit, what a collective lapse, make that two for not stopping little fat lone gunman Ruby the Rabbit, chuckle, hey smart, book your room yet? Suspects for the food chain incl. E. Howard Hunt (1918-2007) (later head of the Watergate Burglars) ( paymaster for the assassination?), Richard Nixon (who later shocks Repubs. by appointing Dem. John Connally to his cabinet), George Herbert Walker Bush (1924-) (who was in the CIA since the 1950s, and was in Dallas on the day of the asssassination, and called the FBI from Dallas on Nov. 22 to frame an innocent person although he later claims not to remember where he was when JFK was assassinated), et al.; "Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive" (Sir Walter Scott); years later the 1991 Oliver Stone film JFK crystallizes public opinion that there was a conspiracy and coverup, and calls it "a military-style ambush from start to finish... a coup d'etat with Lyndon Johnson waiting in the wings"; U.S. mob figures Santo Trafficante Jr. (1914-87) and Carlos Marcello (1910-93) are believed to be involved (either with the killing of JFK, Tippit or Oswald) by some because the Mafia had been working with the CIA to oust Castro before JFK pulled the plug, and turned them against him; Tippit is suspected of having contacts with Oswald and Ruby prior to the assassination. In Mar. 1965 a year after his conviction Jack Ruby gives a short TV news conference containing the soundbyte : "Everything pertaining to what's happening has never come to the surface. The world will never know the true facts of what occurred, my motives. The people who had so much to gain, and had such an ulterior motive for putting me in the position I'm in, will never let the true facts come above board to the world." When asked by a reporter "Are these people in very high positions Jack?", he responded "Yes." On Jan. 3, 1967 Ruby (b. 1911) died in Parkland Hospital of cancer, which he suddenly contracted while in jail, and his secrets died with him; the govt. injected cancer cells into him to shut him up into Camp Sleepaway? On July 4, 1966 the Yad Kennedy memorial to JFK near Jerusalem opens. On Sept. 17, 1966 the TV series Mission: Impossible debuts on CBS-TV, wising-up the American people to the existence of govt. agents who go on missions that they officially disavow knowledge of, as if crookedness and lying is cool, which it is, the way they portray it, since they always target foreigners, not our own, there go Cinnamon and Rollin Hand taking off their rubber masks in the dressing room. On Jan. 4, 1967 a CIA Memo to Press Assets is pub., warning them of "conspiracy theorists", esp. those who try to implicate LBJ and/or the Warren Commission, giving them ammo to discredit them - the smoking gun? On Apr. 4, 1968 Martin Luther King Jr. (b. 1929) is assassinated in Memphis, Tenn., allegedly by escaped white convict James Earl Ray (1928-98) , causing conspiracy theorists to go to town again, maybe MLK-hater Hoover was getting his payback for covering up the JFK thing. On June 4, 1968 the Standard & Poor's (S&P) 500 index (founded 1957) closes above 100 for the first time (100.38). Then in the distance I heard the bulls? On June 4, 1968 U.S. pres. candidate (D.-N.Y.) Robert Francis "Bobby" Kennedy (b. 1925) wins the Calif. Dem. pres. primary, beating Eugene McCarthy (Hubert Humphrey was not entered) and giving him a total of 174 delegate votes, incl. those won in Ind. and Neb., and his loss in Ore.; too bad, on June 5 (Wed.) (12:50 a.m. PDT) he iss shot as he exited through the kitchen after a campaign speech at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, Calif. (opened in 1921) (where he stands beside UFW leader Dolores Huerta, and utters the soundbyte "Fear not the path of truth for the lack of people walking on it") by Jerusalem-born Jordanian Christian Sirhan Bishara "Sol" Sirhan (1944-) , who lived in the U.S. since the 1950s; he dies 26 hours later on June 6 in Good Samaritan Hospital; singer Andy Williams (a friend of the Kennedy family) is present at the speech, and Bobby had asked him to be a delegate for him even though he is a Repub.; RFK's bodyguards incl. Rafer Johnson and Rosey Grier; Sirhan uses a snub-nose 8-shot .22-cal. Iver-Johnson revolver (Model 55SA), given him by his big brother Munir "Joe" Sirhan, an employee at Nash's Dept. Store, originaly purchased for $31.95 in Aug. 1965 by a Los Angeles resident for protection during the Watts Riots; Sirhan receives the death sentence, which is commuted to life in priz in 1972 when the Calif. Supreme Court invalidates the death penalty; in 2006 he comes up for parole at a time when gov. Arnold "Terminator" Schwarzenegger is married to Maria Shriver (1955-), daughter of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, RFK's sister, and is denied; singer Rosemary Clooney is present at the assassination; ABC-TV journalist Howard K. Smith is anchoring coverage of the Calif. pres. primary at 3 a.m. as the closing credits are airing when word comes in of the shooting, causing him to leave the camera showing a wide shot of the newsroom for several min. while he goes backstage to confirm the story and return with a special report, continuing to air reports of RFK's condition for several hours; was the CIA behind the assassination because the fatal shot came from behind RFK, perhaps from security guard Eugene Cesar , while Sirhan was standing in front, and they couldn't let RFK become pres. and figure out that they were behind the muddah of his bruddah?; how did Sirhan know that RFK would be sneaking through the pantry?; Bobby's brother Edward Moore "Ted" Kennedy (1932-2009) became the target of constant death threats, incl. a $1M reward offered by Sirhan Sirhan to a jailmate to kill him (which he declines), causing him to delay his run for U.S. pres. for 12 years; liberal Jewish-Am. U.S. rep. (D-N.Y. (1969-71) Allard Kenneth Lowenstein (1929-80) later exposed the anomalous forensic evidence on William F. Buckley Jr.'s PBS-TV show Firing Line in 1975. On Oct. 25, 1967 Joshua Logan's Camelot (Warner Bros. - Seven Arts) (179 min., cut down to 150) debuts, based on the 1960 Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe musical, starring Richard Harris as King Arthur, Vanessa Redgrave as Guinevere, and Italian hunk actor Franco Nero as Lancelot, who hooks up with her on the set, resulting in son Carlo Nero in 1969; they finally get married in 2007; meanwhile fading Warner Bros. Studio head Jack Warner tries in vain to keep Richard Burton and Julie Andrews in the leading roles, and proves right after the film flops; JFK admirers later apply the Camelot myth to the entire JFK era after Jackie Kennedy reveals to Life mag. that JFK loves the line: "Not might makes right, but might for right"; "Don't let it be forgot/ That once there was a spot/For one brief shining moment/that was known as Camelot"; does $31M box office on a $13M budget; watch trailer . The RFK assassination turned Jackie Kennedy against the U.S.: "I hate this country. I despise America and I don�t want my children to live here anymore. If they�re killing Kennedys, my children are number one targets... I want to get out of this country." On Oct. 20, 1968 after he dumped opera diva Maria Callas for her, widow Jackie Kennedy married Greek oil magnate Aristotle Sokatris (Socrates) "Ari" Onassis (1906-75) on the privately-owned island of Skorpios; after pre-negotiations with Ted Kennedy, he offered her in advance $3M plus $1M for each son, plus $150K a year for life, beware Greeks bearing gifts. Too bad, Onassis' daughter Christina poisoned his mind against Jackie, which considering the double assassination curse wouldn't have been hard. When he croaked Jackie got $10M-$26M, which was turned into $100M+ by her new late-life love (1980-), mature, cultured Antwerp-born Jewish diamond merchant Maurice Tempelsman (1929-) .
PT-109
In the 1967 Disney movie The Jungle Book, who taught Mowgli The Bare Necessities?
Zen in War - Documents Documents Share Zen in War Embed <iframe src="http://docslide.us/embed/zen-in-war.html" width="750" height="600" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" style="border:1px solid #CCC; border-width:1px; margin-bottom:5px; max-width: 100%;" allowfullscreen> </iframe> <div style="margin-bottom:5px"> <strong> <a href="http://docslide.us/documents/zen-in-war.html" title="Zen in War" target="_blank">Zen in War</a></div> size(px) Download Zen in War Transcript PREFACE Foreword Being born a Hungarian, raised a Ronin-Refugee in Denmark from 1956, I happened to find a home in Japan since 1971 resulting in these writings with the following intention: Honoring the dead and cautioning the living. It is a handbook for high school- and university students in Japan, China, Korea and Vietnam as well as the USA and other Pacific countries, written with the conviction that they all deserve to know as much perspective about their resent history as possible. I hope that many, better and more accomplished historical works will follow. I believe in the eventual success of the search for historical truth, irrespective of shallow national, political and bigot religious and racial interests, and I am sure that the youth of modern, progressive, pragmatic Asia/Pacific Rim of today desire to become aware of the aspects, facts and reality of the bloody Pacific 20th century ii Introduction Usually a hundred years has to pass, before historic conflicts, wars and events can emerge and be analysed free of tainted and biased political and religious interests, as well as glorification of the victorious and demonization of the defeated. The Pacific war is no exception, and until recently most historical works about the conflict have been obviously one sided, branding Japan as the sole aggressor and all other parties as victims. But that is no way to write history. These commonly accepted, comfortably shallow victory-addicted historians, having published thousands of books and articles on the Pacific War, often ignore the fact that war is a mere continuation of politics by other means (Clausewitz), and that both Japan and America only pursued their state policy; this resulted in that iii many large and small events led to the spectacular military confrontation between the two major Pacific powers ending in a total restructuring and transformation of the political, economical and military landscape of Asia and the Pacific of today. The first casualty in any armed conflict is the truth, so in my book I have tried to avoid branding like aggressor, war criminal, savage, fanatic, fascistic, militaristic and imperialistic. I have tried to understand how and why a historically relatively peaceful (having not been at war for almost 300 years since 1603), progressive Japan, with no allies, (Germany actually being the ally of nationalist China,) ended up in one of history's bloodiest conflicts with such overwhelming, superior combined adversaries as USA, UK, Canada, Australia and China, later additionally the USSR. Nevertheless it is now a matter of historical record that once the conflict between Japan and China esca- lated into a full fledged, total war with the USA and UK, the Japanese did not pull their punches and displayed a modern naval/aerial military excellence that forever put the western-christian superiority legend to rest. This later inspired other Asian and African nations to armed resistance against all forms of colonialism and foreign domination. It also became evident that all US supported Asian leaders, including Chiang Kai-sheek, Syngman Rhee, Ngo Dinh Diem and Marcos were all failures, ultimately resulting in America losing most of its influence in Far Eastern events and major economies by the end of 1980's. My conclusion is, that the Pearl Harbour-Hiroshima chain of events were only a part of an ongoing, larger, more complex, hegemony-oriented, geopolitical scenario, not to be distorted by forcing the conflict into a mere five years called The Second World War. To get a clear view, first of all the beginning and end of the conflict and thus the name must be revised and pinpointed. Names such as - WW II (European history writing), - Greater Asian War (official Japanese name from 1941), - The 15 Years War (according to Chinese and Korean history books) are all misleading since the Pacific War did not start in 1931 (battle of Mukden) or in 1941 (Pearl Harbour) and it did not end in 1945 (Hiroshima-Nagasaki). Rising above political conventionalism and the superficial historical establishment, accepting the fact that many wars start with a peace treaty, we can safely establish the beginning of the conflict as 1895 (Shimonoseki Peace Treaty) and the end as 1975 (Fall or liberation of Saigon depending of point of view). This 80 years period is an unbroken chain of small and big battles and armed conflicts one leading to the other, with an array of treaties, military alliances, revolts, coup d'etats, between ever changing parties and interests. Including opium traffickers, californian sugar barons, emerging oil giants, and industrialists all led by the escalating ambitions of The New Colonialism in the Pacific and East Asia, the major players being USA, UK, France, Holland, Japan, Russia/Soviet Union and China. iv In the USA, legendary President Theodore Roosevelt, setting the course for the American century in October 29, 1900 announced: I wish to see the United States the dominant power on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Actually he was only, officially institutionalizing the dramatic aggressive American westward expansion, beginning with the gentle annexation of Oregon with the Pacific harbours Seattle and Portland from Britain, and the conquest of 1.300.000 sq. km of Mexican national territory after a brutal war. This ended with Mexico ceding the present day California, Nevada, Utah, part of Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Wyoming and Texas, America paying Mexico 18 million $(about 450 million in todays dollars) or about half the amount the US had offered Mexico before the war. In 1867 USA had purchased Alaska for $7.2 million from Imperial Russia, adding another 1.520.000 sq. km to US territory and geographically embracing the Pacific Ocean ready to future westward expansion eyeing the domination of China as final American industrial-political and strategical-naval goal. Crowning the intruding into the Pacific with the annexation of Hawaii and the Philippines the USA was now dominating the Pacific after the American- missionary v backed overthrow of The Hawaiian Kingdom of Queen Lili'uokalani on January 17, 1893 and the US war with Spain by the end of the century. (1) Map of American westward conquests, annexations and acquisitions in the 19 century After the bloody Philippine-American war (1899-1902) and the first spectacular Japanese victories in 1895 over China and in 1903 over Russia the USA began viewing Japan a serious obstacle to American domination of China and the Pacific at large, resulting in the major powers of Pacific Asia emerging as potential opponents; modern progressive, homogeneous Imperial Japan and neo-colonialist, fundamentalist Christian USA. Of course wars never go according to plan, conflicts have their own inertia and nobody thought at the beginning of The Pacific 80 Years War that it would become so long and so bloody. vi Chapter 1 PRELUDE TO THE PACIFIC 80 YEARS WAR The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 and later the US purchase of the gigantic Panama Canal project in 1904 (opened in 1914) accelerated the progress of New Imperialism (1871- 1914). During this period, the advanced European nations conquered 20% of the Earth's land area (nearly 23.000.000 km2). phase of imperialist expansion; in the latter two regions, Japan and the United States joined the European powers in the scramble for territory. USA and Europe motivated by gaining monopoly markets and trading-rights and Japan mainly driven by security concerns, raw-material/energy-supplies; particularly on the week and exposed Korean Peninsula, considered a vassal of and dominated by a collapsing Imperial China as well as threatened by the aggressive Asian expansion of Imperial Russia. Invasion of Japan had always come from the Korean peninsula. It is like a pistol aimed at Japans heart so the Korean peninsula was given top priority in Japanese security strategy. Additionally replacing the fragile and volatile dependency on American oil and steel supplies with reliable, secure raw-material and energy supplies had become vital to Japan. Decline of British hegemony and free trade, the long depression (1873-1896), protectionist measures by Germany (1879), France (1881) resulting in limitation of both domestic and export markets forced governments and business leaders in Europe, and in the USA, to find the solution in sheltered overseas markets united to the home country behind steep tariff barriers. New overseas colonies would provide export markets free of foreign competition, while sup8 2) Historical map of the Pacific (2) Historical map of the Pacific Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands, the remaining world regions that had not yet been colonialized by Europeans, became the primary targets of this new plying cheap labour and raw materials. The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 and later the US purchase of the gigantic Panama Canal project in 1904 (opened in 1914) accelerated the progress of New Imperialism (1871- 1914). During this period, the advanced European nations conquered 20% of the Earth's land area (nearly 23.000.000 km2). Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands, the remaining world regions that had not yet been colonialized by Europeans, became the primary targets of this new phase of imperialist expansion; in the latter two regions, Japan and the United States joined the European powers in the scramble for territory. USA and Europe motivated by gaining monopoly markets and trading-rights and Japan mainly driven by security concerns, raw-material/energy-supplies; particularly on the week and exposed Korean Peninsula, considered a vassal of and dominated by a collapsing Imperial China as well as threatened by the aggressive Asian expansion of Imperial Russia. Invasion of Japan had always come from the Korean peninsula. It is like a pistol aimed at Japans heart so the Korean peninsula was given top priority in Japanese security strategy. Additionally replacing the frag9 ile and volatile dependency on American oil and steel supplies with reliable, secure raw-material and energy supplies had become vital to Japan. Decline of British hegemony and free trade, the long depression (1873-1896), protectionist measures by Germany (1879), France (1881) resulting in limitation of both domestic and export markets forced governments and business leaders in Europe, and in the USA, to find the solution in sheltered overseas markets united to the home country behind steep tariff barriers. New overseas colonies would provide export markets free of foreign competition, while supplying cheap labour and raw materials. This new imperialism was spearheaded by Christian missionaries galvanising the moral bases, and lending monotheistic divine justification to the large land grab in Africa and Asia with the objective of mercantile monopolies. It also found support in Europe and USA by ultra- nationalist and racial supremacist forces. It was popularised to the general public by e.g Rudyard Kipling, and other self-appointed ambassadors of white supremacy, urging the United States to Take up the White Man's burden of bringing the European version of civilisation to other peoples of the world, regardless of whether they wanted this form of civilisation or not. Kipling even wrote a poem in 1899 to justify the American annihilation of the Philippine- Tagalog republic. Take up the White Man's burden-- Send forth the best ye breed-- Go bind your sons to exile To serve your captives' need; To wait in heavy harness, On fluttered folk and wild-- Your new-caught, sullen peoples, Half-devil and half-child. Take up the White Man's burden-- Have done with childish days-- The lightly proferred laurel The easy, ungrudged praise. Comes now, to search your manhood Through all the thankless years Cold, edged with dear-bought wisdom, The judgment of your peers! Additionally modern industrial shipping and navies demanded new bases and deep-sea, ice- free harbours and strategically ideal, reliable refilling supplies (coaling stations) and secure warehousing facilities of course protected by significant military and naval presence whenever possible. In the wast Pacific this re(3) The white mans burden sulted in US, British, French and German seizures and annexations of various islands and atolls in furious competition with each other and, until the US annexation of Hawaii, with the Kingdom of Hawaii. Events in Hawaii during this period can be considered prototype manual in this new American imperialistic political manipulation. In William Meyer's book The U.S. War Against Asia he writes: There was already a U.S. military presence in Hawaii, as in 1874 U.S. troops were used to suppress rioting following the 10 electoral victory of David Kalākaua over Queen Emma in an election to pick a successor to King William Lunalilo, who was a puppet of the U.S. planters. In addition it was feared that if a trade treaty were not enacted the British might seize the islands. The Reciprocity Treaty of 1875 formalised trade relations between the nation of Hawaii and the United States of America. It provided for duty-free trade for most items. It might serve as a warning that a free trade treaty can be a prelude to annexation. Claus Spreckels became one of the richest men in the United States. Production of sugar cane in Hawaii doubled over the next decade. King Kalakaua was further corrupted by gifts from Spreckels, who also made loans to the Hawaiian government. His personal attorney, John T. Dare, was appointed Attorney General of Hawaii. The greater sugar production required large numbers of immigrants, making native Hawaiians a minority on their own islands. In 1887 American-identified citizens of Hawaii led a revolt that used military force to coerce King David Kalākaua to adopt a new constitution. The Americans were led by Lorrin A. Thurston, a sugar plantation developer and newspaper publisher. The House of Nobles, equivalent to the U.S. Senate, now became elected rather than appointed. But a property qualification requirement prevented poor citizens from voting; that included most descendants of the native Hawaiians. It also denied voting rights to anyone of Asian descent (Japanese and Chinese). It is unlikely that it is a coincidence that in 1887 the Hawaiian government gave the U.S. rights to use Wai Momi, renamed Pearl Harbour, as a naval base. In the 1890 McKinley tariff put all imported, unprocessed sugar on the duty-free list, after heavy lobbying and campaign contributions by the Sugar Trust, which had consolidated East Coast refiners. This left Hawaiian producers and the Spreckels refinery at a relative disadvantage; prices for their sugar fell 40%. Henry Havemeyer, leader of the Sugar Trust, had contributed substantially both to Republican Congressman McKinley and to Grover Cleveland, who would become the President in 1893, the first Democratic Party nominee to succeed since the Civil War. In addition, rather than continue to face ruinous competition, Spreckels made a deal with the Sugar Trust to pay for 11 sugar in San Francisco the same price as was paid in New York City. But at that time there was a 2 cent per pound bounty for domestic sugar production. If Hawaii were annexed by the U.S., that bounty would save the Hawaiian growers. The U.S. international policy was one of imperial expansion; the U.S. Minister to Hawaii, John L. Stevens, encouraged Americans in Hawaii to seek annexation. Queen Liliukokalani had had enough of Americans by this time. She proposed changing the Hawaiian constitution to disenfranchise them. Although this proposal failed to pass, it served as a pretext for the 1893 revolt against Queen Liliukokalani. U.S. Marines aided the leaders of the pro-American coup. On January 16, 1893 a provisional government was proclaimed and recognised by Minister Stevens, who must have had instructions in advance from the government of the United States. In the last days of the Harrison Presidency a Treaty of Annexation was drawn up; it was signed February 14th, 1893. But the newly elected President, Grover Cleveland, refused to sign the treaty. He claimed the revolt was illegal and unfair to Queen Liliukokalani. He sent a special investigator to Hawaii who found the natives not in favour of annexation. But he had also been elected partly with large donations from the Sugar Trust, which opposed domestic production of sugar. Another problem for Spreckels and other planters was the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1886. Hawaiian cane planters had become used to a system where Chinese were contracted in China to work essentially for food. If Hawaii became part of the United States that pool of nearly free labor would dry up. In the end Havemeyer had to sacrifice the Hawaiian pawn to make more meaningful gains. Congressman McKinley was elected President McKinley in the elections of 1896. The Sugar Trusts interests were aligned with the imperialist faction (Theodore Roosevelt being the best known member); war with Spain was provoked in order to gain Cuba and Puerto Rico. Amidst the fever of war, which was declared on April 11, 1898, the idea of annexing Hawaii became unstoppable. Formal annexation came on August 12, 1898, which gave full U.S. citizenship to citizens of Hawaii even if they were not of European descent. The Territory of Hawaii was not a democracy; a Governor was appointed by the President of the United States. The first 12 appointed Governor was Sanford B. Dole. Dole had served as an appointed Associate Judge of the Supreme Court of Hawaii when it was an independent nation, but turned traitor to become the leader of the 1893 revolution and then President of the Republic that was established. His cousin James Drummond Dole developed the Hawaiian pineapple industry and the Dole Food Company; James did not move to Hawaii until after it had been annexed by the United States. In 1898 the only Hawaiian export of importance was sugar, valued at $16.614.622. Fortunately, Hawaii was included in the U.S. census of 1900. Here is the population, broken down by national derivation: Group Hawaiian/mixed: White: Japanese: Chinese: Other: % of population 24.4% 18.7% 39.7% 16.7% 0.5% It is surprising that Japan did not go to war with the United States in 1898. She might have seized the Philippines and Hawaii while the U.S. had its hands full fighting Spain. But unlike the U.S., the Japanese were still trying to act like a civilized, peaceful nation. Over the next few decades, the U.S., Great Britain, Germany, Russian and France would continue to hammer home the lesson that being peaceful was for losers. Militarists would come to dominate the Japanese government and intimidate its normally peaceful population. But even so, Japan tried to stay at peace with the U.S. until it was given no other choice but war (or complete surrender) by the Franklin Roosevelt administration in 1940. The Spanish American War with the objective of securing Cuba as a US vassal and the Caribbean a US lake, eliminated Spain as a Pacific power and resulted in US annexing the Philippines, Guam and Samoa. British rule in India was institutionalised in 1858 following a rebellion the previous year, and the 1880's saw Britain's conquest of Burma and French takeover in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos completing the French Indochinese Empire. 13 Imperialist ambitions and rivalries in the Pacific and Asia now inevitably came to focus on the vast Empire of China with more than a quarter of the world's population. 14 Chapter 2 CHRONOLOGY OF THE PACIFIC 80 YEARS WAR CHRONOLOGY OF THE PACIFIC 80 YEARS WAR 1895 1895 1897 1898 1898 1898 1898 1899 1900 1902 1904 Treaty of Shimonoseki Triple Intervention by Russia,France and Germany Trans-Siberian Railroad in Vladivostok Spanish-American war (Guam and Philippines annexed by USA) Treaty of Paris Philippine Declaration of Independence US annexation of Kingdom of Hawaii German-Spanish Treaty (About 6000 Pacific Islands bought by Germany including Carolines, Marianas and Palau for 17 million marks) Boxer rebellion and Eight-Nation Alliance Anglo-Japanese Treaty British invasion of Tibet 1904-1905 The Russo-Japanese war 1905 1905 1905 1905 1905 1912 Russian revolution Secret Taft-Katsura agreement Renewal of Anglo-Japanese treaty Treaty of Portsmouth Formation of Asiatic Exclusion League in US and Canada Republic of China, end of Imperial China 16 CHRONOLOGY OF THE PACIFIC 80 YEARS WAR 1915 1917 1919 1919 1922 1911-1941 1919-1927 1927 1927-1950 1927-1937 1928-1938 1929-1939 1931 1936 1936 1937 1937 Twenty-One Demands Lansing-Ishii Agreement May Fourth Movement Treaty of Versailles Nine-Power Treaty Sino-German alliance Kuomintang, Sun-Yatsen, Chiang Kai-Shek and the Canton years Shanghai massacre Chinese Civil war Nanking decade Mongolian-Soviet republic Great Depression Mukden Incident Xi'an Incident Anti-Comintern pact, Sino-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact Madam Chiang Kai-Shek, recruiting American Pilots Sino-Japanese War 17 CHRONOLOGY OF THE PACIFIC 80 YEARS WAR 1941 1941-1942 1941 1942 1942 1942 1942 1942 1942-1943 1943 1943 1943 1943 1944 1944 1944 1945 Niitakayama Nobore Battle of Philippines Battle of Malaya Battle of Slim River Battle of Singapore, Malay no Tora Battle of the Java Sea Battle of the Coral sea Battle of Midway Battle of Guadalcanal Battle of Komandorsky Islands Battle of Attu Battle of Tarawa Cairo declaration Battle of China, Ichigo sakusen Battle of Saipan Battle of Palau Battle of Iwojima 18 CHRONOLOGY OF THE PACIFIC 80 YEARS WAR 1945 1945 Battle of Manchuria Battle of Taiwan 1945-1950 Battle of Korea 1945-1950 Battle of Indonesia 1945-1949 Battle of mainland China 1946-1954 Battle of Indochina 1954 1950 Battle of Dien Bien Phu Battle of Cambodia 1959-1975 Battle of Vietnam 1970 1975 Battle of Laos Fall of Saigon 19 Chapter 3 MOST WARS BEGIN WITH A PEACE TREATY A prominent example is the Treaty of Versailles ending the First Great European Industrial War (also called W.W. I) and automatically starting the evolvements toward W.W. II between UK, France, Russia (the Allies) and the Third Reich of Germany. The Treaty of Trianon, forcefully creating the British-French dominated states of Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia and Romania to hinder German and Austro-Hungarian access to the Mediterranean, thus protecting the shipping lanes to the Suez Canal, even resulted in the Balkan Wars of the 1990's. The Pacific 80 Years War also started with a peace treaty. Namely the Treaty of Shimonoseki signed in the Shunpanro hall on April 17, 1895 between the Empire of Japan and The Empire of China ending the first Sino-Japanese war when Japan defeated Chinese troops at Pyongyang liberating Korea September 1894. In the treaty terms, China recognised the independence of Korea, ceded Penghu, Taiwan and Eastern bay of Liandung to Japan, as well as opening Shashi, Chungking, Soochow and Hangzhou to Japanese trade. Although the treaty was a clear and important 21 victory for Japan and progressive Koreans and Formosans, it immediately lead to the ultimatum by the Western powers resulting in the Triple Intervention by Russia, France and Germany forcing Japan to withdraw its claim to the Liaodong peninsula. This was a great setback for Japan's security and the economical development of the whole region. Especially the obvious Russian designs for Port Arthur and the beginning of Russian construction of the railway to Harbin in spite of China's protests, the Trans-Siberian railway in Vladivostok, US annexation of Guam, the Philippines and Hawaii, Germany taking over 6.000 Pacific islands from Spain, the Boxer rebellions bloody end and the Eight Nation Alliance, sacking Peking and burning the Summer Palace, all too well confirmed Japans fear of Western expansionist policy in the Pacific and China, right at Japan's doorstep in Liaodong and Korea. Within a few years also Germany, France and Great Britain embarked on taking unbridled advantage of the economical and political weakness of the Chinese Empire, taking control of significant regions on the Chinese mainland. The Triple Intervention was seen in Japan as a great humiliation and Russian lease of Liaodong two years later, the control of the railway and the Russian fortification of Port Arthur with its strategically critical location vis a vis Korea, The Yellow Sea and Bohai Gulf, determined the place and time of the first major battle in The Pacific 80 Years War. 22 Chapter 4 THE BATTLE OF PORT ARTHUR This first battle 1904-1905, conventionally called the Russo-Japanese War, started with the Battle of Port Arthur central to the conflict and after the defeat of the Russian Pacific fleet, culminated in the Siege of Port Arthur. The siege, introducing all the weapons of modern warfare, such as massive 28 cm mortars, 500 Kg shells, maxim machine guns, rapid howitzers, barbed wire, telephone lines, searchlights and hand grenades ended unexpectedly with total Japanese victory both on land and at sea. The Russian surrender was accepted and signed January 2, 1905 and the following battles of Mukden, Manchuria and the annihilation of the Baltic fleet in the Tsushima Strait eliminated Russia as a Pacific power for the next forty years. Imperial Navy, its training- and command structure. Japanese victory of these first series of major battles shocked the Western world and Asia, and created, respect, admiration, suspicion and fear all at the same time. Most failed however to draw the right conclusions from Japanese victories, and Russia's humiliation. Both the Japanese and the Russians had Whitehead torpedoes but only the Japanese hit their targets. The fact that general education in Japan was much higher then in Russia and that the education level in a modern navy and army determined the outcome of the battle explains Japan's success. Already in 1860 50% of japanese males, and 25% of females could read and write thanks to the buddhist teragoya, at a time when general literacy in Russia was a mere 0.3%! JAPAN 117 dead 583 injured 3 torpedo boats sunk 4,380 dead 5,917 captured 21 ships sunk (7 battleships) 7 captured 6 disarmed RUSSIA (4) Admiral Heihachiro Togo on the bridge of his flagship Mikasa The battle of Port Arthur also heralded the high human cost of modern industrial trench- warfare as well as the impressive capabilities of the Japanese 24 This explains that whereas the infantry losses were close to equal (40.000- 70.000 on each side), the naval losses were dramatically different. The consequences were global. Revolution in Russia, German planning of war with Russia's ally France, the secret Taft- Katsura agreement confirming Japans position in Korea in exchange for US dominance in the Philippines. Renewal of the Anglo-Japanese treaty covering all of East Asia, enlargement of the British docks in Auckland, Bombay, Fremantle, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sidney, and a bit less significant the presentation of a lock of Admiral Nelsons hair to the Japanese Imperial Navy. (5) Japanese woodblock print: Tsar Nicholas II waking up 25 Chapter 5 ROOSEVELT’S BIG STICK The Treaty of Portsmouth engineered by US president Roosevelt was received with strong disappointment by the Japanese public, riots erupted in major cities, and marked the beginning of the growing Japanese distrust of of the West and the military's efforts to influence events in North China as well as a general escalation of the conflict in the Pacific. In 1912 a republic emerged on the ruins of Imperial China. The end of over two thousand years of imperial rule in China replacing it with the Kuomintang one party system, quickly deteriorated into warlordism and declaration of independence of several chinese provinces as well as a free for all scramble for a peace of China. The foreign policy of Republican China, heterogenous by competing internal centres of power all claiming legitimacy, invited foreign interference and invasion and the government of Yuan Shikai had to de facto give control of Tibet to UK and Outer Mongolia to Russia in exchange for being considered the legitimate Chinese government. Officially called the Beiyang government it ruled in Beijing from 1912 with Yuan Shikai as President and as a short lived Emperor of China (1915-1916), cracking down on Kuomintang and forcing Sun Yat-sen to exile in Japan from where he called for a second revolution against Yuan. KMT's second revolution ended in disaster and Yuan's victory, laying the foundation for warlordism that crippled China for the next two decades. 27 Japan's twenty-one demands In 1915 Japan sent China a secret ultimatum with twenty-one demands. The Twenty One Demands were in five groups: Group 1 Confirmed Japan's recent acquisitions in Shandong province and expanded Japan's sphere of influence over the railways, coasts and major cities of the province. Group 2 Pertained to Japan's South Manchuria Railway Zone extending the leasehold over the territory into the twenty-first century, and expanding Japan's sphere of influence in southern Manchuria and eastern Inner Mongolia to include rights of settlement and extraterritoriality appointment of financial and administrative officials to the government and priority for Japanese investments in those areas. Group 3 Gave Japan control of the Hanyeping mining and metallurgical complex, already deep in debt to Japan. Group 4 Barred China from giving any further coastal or island concessions to foreign powers except for Japan. Group 5 Contained a miscellaneous set of demands, ranging from Japanese advisors appointed to the Chinese central government and to administer the Chinese police force (which would severely intrude on Chinese sovereignty) to allowing Japanese Buddhist preachers to conduct missionary activities in China. After China rejected Japan's revised proposal on April 26, the Genrō intervened and deleted ‘Group 5’ from the document, as these had proved to be the most objectionable to the Chinese government. A reduced set of Thirteen Demands was transmitted on May 7 in the form of an ultimatum, with a two-day deadline for response. Yuan Shikai, competing with other local warlords to become the ruler of all China, was not in a position to risk war with Japan, and accepted appeasement a tactic which was followed by his suc28 cessors. The final form of the treaty was signed by both parties on May 25, 1915. The international consequences of Japan's heavy handed diplomacy resulted in strong negative reaction especially by the USA and even Japan's closest ally, Great Britain protested. 29 Chapter 6 THE GREAT EUROPEAN WAR, ITS EFFECTS IN THE PACIFIC (7) WW I Alliances (6) Europe in 1914 In Europe the Great War began in early August 1914 and Britain soon requested Japanese assistance against German presence in the Pacific. On August 15, Japan issued an ultimatum demanding that Germany withdrew its warships from Chinese and Japanese waters, and transfer Tsingtao to Japan. On August 23, Japan declared war on Germany and commenced naval operations off Tsingtao, including the introduction of the first seaplane carrier in the world, Wakamiya, heralding a very efficient new aspect of naval warfare in the Pacific. Also landing 23.000 troops for the siege of Tsingtao the battle ended with German and Austro- Hungarian surrender November 16. 31 The British Government - and the international community as a whole - were concerned about Japanese intentions in the region and had decided to send a small symbolic British contingent of 1.500 man into the area. German reaction to the Japanese capture of Tsingtao was very bitter. Rear-Admiral Schlieper wrote on November 8, 1914: The United States entered the war April 1917 and the Japanese and Americans found themselves on the same side despite the growing tensions between them over China and the status quo in the Pacific. This resulted in the partly secret Lansing-Ishii Agreement, signed November 2, 1917, both parties promising open door policy in China but the US recognising Japanese special interests due to its geographic proximity. This treaty proved to be completely ineffective and competition for special rights in China, between various powers went on relentlessly until the Washington Naval conference (1920-1921) and the signing of the Nine Power Treaty (1923) by USA, Japan, China, Britain, France, Holland, Italy, Belgium and Portugal, upgrading the open door policy to international law. In 1918, upon the collapse of the Russian Empire, Japan and US sent troops to Siberia to help Admiral Kolchak defeat the Bolshevik revolution, with Japan planning to send over 70.000 soldiers as far as Lake Baykal. The operation was scaled back and failed, due to US opposition and suspicion of Japans intentions. Kolchak was defeated and the Soviet Union was born. But we here at home, we will continually repeat it to our children: Do not forget November 7, 1914: do not forget to pay back those yellow Asiatics, who had learned so much from us, for the great wrong they have done to us, stirred up though they were by the petty English mercenary spirit! In February 1915 Japanese navel forces based in Singapore helped suppress a mutiny by Indian troops against the British and in December 1916 Britain again asked Japanese navy assistance in the Mediterranean. In return Britain recognised Japanese claim to Shantung and all pacific islands north of the Equator. The 1916 treaty with Russia (not to make separate peace with Germany) de facto confirmed Japans dominance in Manchuria and Inner Mongolia. 32 The war to end all wars had caused terrible casualties: WW I CASUALTIES Allied Military dead Military wounded Military missing Central Military dead Military wounded Military missing 525,000 12,831,500 4,121,000 4,386,000 8,388,000 3,629,000 The end of WW I in Europe did not bring any peace in the Pacific, as the attention of the big powers and the emerging Soviet Russia turned to Asia and in particular China, which by 1919 was disintegrating and the old spheres of influence there was becoming obsolete. (9) The end of the great European Industrial war (8) Territorial changes 33 (10) Asia 1910 34 Chapter 7 THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS The Versailles Peace Conference with the big four (US, UK, France, Italy) granted Japan permanent seat on the council of the League of Nations and confirmed the transfer of German Pacific holdings (Shandong and South Pacific Islands) to Japanese mandate called The South Pacific Mandate (Saipan, Palau, Yap, Truk, Ponape, Jaluit Atoll) thus Japan emerging as a great power. Nevertheless Japan's proposal of amending a racial equality clause to the covenant of the League of Nations was rejected by the United States, Britain and Australia. The proposal, like the equality of nations basic principle of The League of Nations, received a majority vote on April 28, 1919 when 11 out of 17 delegates voted in favour and no negative vote was cast. Japan France Italy Brazil China Greece Serbia Czechoslovakia Total: 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 11 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes British Empire United States Portugal Romania Belgium 2 2 1 1 2 Not Registered Not Registered Not Registered Not Registered absent (11) League of Nations 36 The chairman, US President Woodrow Wilson, overturned it saying that although the proposal had been approved by a clear majority, that in this particular matter, strong opposition had manifested itself, and that on this issue a unanimous vote would be required. This strong opposition came from the British delegation. Needless to say this kind of democracy in The League of Nations was not very attractive to Japan. Arrogance and racial discrimination towards the Asians especially in California, Canada and Australia had plagued Japanese-Western relations and the Japanese delegation perhaps naively considered it a major obstacle to smooth and fair international relations. Additionally the issue was widely covered by the Japanese media resulting in public pressure on the government. Ironically it was not until 1945 that racial equality was accepted in the U.N charter. Alfred Deakin chief of white Australia policy concluded: ble energy, their power of applying themselves to new tasks, their endurance and low standard of living that make them such competitors. Edmund Barton formulated it differently: The doctrine of equality of man was never intended to apply to the equality of the Englishman and the Chinaman. Also Australian Prime Minister B. Hughes vehemently opposed Japan's racial equality proposition. Hughes believed that such a clause would be a threat to White Australia and made it clear to British Prime Minister Lloyd George that he would leave the conference if the clause was adopted. When the proposal failed, Hughes reported in the Australian parliament: The White Australia is yours. You may do with it what you please, but at any rate, the soldiers have achieved the victory and my colleagues and I have brought that great principle back to you from the conference, as safe as it was on the day when it was first adopted. It is not the bad qualities, but the good qualities of these alien races that make them so dangerous to us. It is their inexhausti37 Needless to say, from an Asiatic/Pacific point of view the Paris Peace Conference ended in humiliation and the League of Nations in failure. It also became obvious that absolutely no consideration was given to human, democratic, national circumstances when French-English strategic and economic interests ware at stake. Hungary e.g. lost over 72% of her territory with 64% of its inhabitants including 3.3 million ethnic Hungarians resulting in approx. 5 million Hungarians today living outside of Hungary. The Versailles Peace Treaty blaming the war on Germany enforced also unacceptable terms and war reparations to the tune of 226 billion gold marks which Germany will finish paying in 2020. It can be said that pragmatically both the Trianon and Versailles treaties were rather declarations of war than peace virtually guaranteeing the emergence of an opportunistic terrorist turned politician like Hitler. The British, French, Italian secret plan (tripartite agreement) already signed in 1915, of the partition of the Ottoman Empire, illustrated to what length Western powers would go to monopolize and control, oil concessions and trading interests. This British and French obsession with total domination of all trade between Europe and the Far East of course influenced events in China, Indochina, Indonesia and in the Pacific at large. (12) The Treaty of Trianon was not a peace treaty but a deathsentence 38 (13) The secret plan 39 (14) Treaty of Sèvres 40 Chapter 8 TEN THOUSAND MILES FROM TIP TO TIP From the US point of view the Panama Canal, Hawaii, Philippines and thus China and Japan was the key to controlling events in the Far East and dominate the Pacific. From 1919 the involvement and integration of East Asia in the economic interest's of Europe meant, that the course of events in the region was determined by the European Powers rather than its own logical development. In the Pacific, Britain embarked on strengthening its dominating position, America having opened the Panama canal saw the promising economic growth in China as the Oriental Dream while the Soviet Union, having consolidated its borders in the west, began reestablishing it's presence in China rendering aid and weapons. Furthermore it was evident that Dutch Indonesia and French Indochina would follow British policy and adapt to US strategy in East Asia. Japan was indeed alone and in a very difficult position. (15) Then thousand miles from tip to tip 42 The Washington Naval conference This was the first international conference in America, and Washington had very specific goals with arranging it. Although it was hailed as a disarmament conference, the first in history, the real objective was to isolate Japan by terminating the Anglo-Japanese alliance, thus ending Anglo-American tensions in the Pacific and forcing Japan to accept unfavourable Naval ratios as well as curbing the growing Japanese influence in China. By this time American leaders and businesses had decided to become the dominating power in East Asia and adopted the century-old British policy of subduing an emerging strong power in a region, by supporting the second strongest power as well as trying to achieve absolute naval superiority. This was the first real American participation in global politics, with tree objectives; isolation of Japan, naval hegemony in the Pacific and monopolizing the Chinese market by the American manufacturing industry. At the Washington naval conference, American negotiators started the efforts toward these objectives with the British carefully on the sidelines and the 43 Japanese doing their best to resist the forces of US intimidation. The Japanese delegation was handicapped from the beginning. The Black Chamber, MI-8 or Cipher Bureau, United States' first intelligence organisation, later the National Security Agency, could decipher the encrypted messages from Tokyo, thus the Americans knowing the Japanese position in advance and the details of the minimum naval tonnage that Japan could accept. Thanks to this first ungentlemanly conduct of opening other peoples letters, the success of this US eavesdropping led to significant growth of such agencies. The conference ended with The Washington Naval Treaty, also called the Five Power Treaty. It set specific tonnage limits on the signees as well as restricted armament size and expansion of naval facilities and fortifications. The established tonnage ratio was agreed on as follows: It was signed February 6, 1922 by the representatives of US, Japan, UK, France and Italy and needless to say every party started to circumvent the treaty be- fore the ink on the paper was dry, with new concepts like pocket-battleships and light cruisers. Capital Ships (tons) Aircraft Carriers (tons) US Britain Japan France Italy 525,000 525,000 315,000 175,000 175,000 135,000 135,000 81,000 60,000 60,000 According to recently published research by Russian historians, the US effort to isolate Japan was not limited to naval treaties but an emerging, top secret cooperation with the Soviet Union, e.g. concerning the Mongolian border conflict, which was undertaken, de facto the US financing Soviet military buildup there, provoking Japan and resulting in border clashes and the battle of Khalkin Gol in 1936. After the revolution and a bloody civil war, with over 1.2 million casualties, Soviet Russia with Stalin as undisputed and capable leader, had consolidated its western borders and began reemerging as a Far Eastern power, regaining influence in China. By early 1920's American, British and Soviet interests and objectives were almost identical in their effort to curb and counterbalance Japanese interests in East Asia, specifically China. This new Soviet Russia, leading a worldwide movement towards abolishing monarchies and traditional social orders and establishing workers dictatorships or peoples republics globally, was considered a very serious threat by Japan, and American-British support of it in East Asia further strengthened antiamerican sentiments in Tokyo. 44 The 5-5-3 tonnage ratio, forced on Japan was based on the argument that the US needed a two ocean navy, the British a three ocean navy and Japan only a one ocean navy (Pacific). USA comfortably ignored that these divisions were outdated since the opening of the Suez- and Panama Canals, let alone the emerging possible scenario of US and UK combining their navies against Japan. (As it happened later). Naturally the treaty contributed significantly to the political climate-change in Tokyo and the deterioration of US-Japan relations, strengthening the antitreaty fraction and resulting in Japan leaving the treaty in 1936. Knowing today that Soviet Russia and Communist China came out victoriously by the end of the Pacific War with the fall of Saigon in 1975, it is important to understand the nature of World Communism at its beginning. In my book Buddhas Salesmen I have detailed a comparable analyses of the root and organisational structure of Communism, basically concluding that all aspects as well as historic significance of Communism is rooted in and similar to Christianity. Communism was simply a return of orthodox, fundamentalistic, absolute, monotheistic Christianity, with Lenin as son of God (Marx) and Stalin as his only true disciple and absolute leader of the sacred party, officially declaring the goal of worldwide victory over all non Communists; just like fundamental Christianity is committed to the final global Christianisation (16) Pope of all peoples. Both organisations practiced identical tactics to reach state power, the Christians in Imperial Rome and the Communists in Imperial Russia, both secretive and clandestine, sacred organisations consider 45 ing all outsiders enemies, the Christians calling them heathens and the Communists labelling them class enemies only to be annihilated. It is not a coincidence that Stalin, originally studying to be an orthodox priest became such a successful leader of World Communism. Neither fundamentalist Christianity or fundamentalist Communism can coexist with or tolerate other religions or any democratic institutions let alone liberal civic organisations and are therefore by their nature and definition absolute intolerant and monolithic, (17) Stalin branding the slightest insubordination heresy. With most of the monarchies gone in Germany, Austria-Hungary, Russia, China and Turkey, Japan felt additionally threatened by this emerging new partnership of USA and Soviet Russia both being anti-monarchist and both aspiring for hegemony in China. Indeed, Japan found herself in a threatened, isolated position, surrounded by hostility, uncertainty, and fragile oil- and industrial raw material supplies. Doing nothing was not an option and the logical con- clusion was to try redirecting events in China by somehow counterbalancing the entrenched centuries old European influence and the new powerful American industrial, economic domination; but pacifying a socialist Chinese intelligentsia, supported by Stalin and limiting the influence of a corrupt, colonial, Christian business/industrialist elite supported by the USA did not prove to be an easy task. Soviet Russia established a communist government in Mongolia in 1927 and upon Sun Ya- tsen's death in 1925 Chiang Kai-shek became leader of Kuomintang and nationalist China (Generalissimo). Chiang's career is a mirror of the chaotic conditions in a disintegrating post-Imperial China. Just like Stalin in Russia and Hitler in Germany Chiang was propelled into prominence by lawlessness, famine, poverty and the escalating US-BritishGerman-Japanese interference in a heterogeneous, leaderless China. Entering Rikugun Shikan Gakko in Japan, serving in the Japanese Imperial Army (1909-1911), returning to China in 1911 he became a founding member of Kuomintang, spending his time between exile in Japan and luxury in Shanghai's foreign concessions, 46 during the Yuan Shikai period, cultivating ties with underworld gangs and leaders (the notorious Du Yuesheng of the Green Gang). In 1924 Sun Ya-tsen, with the help of mercenaries and Soviet Russia (officially Comintern) regained control of Guangzou province and sent Chiang to Moscow to study the Soviet military, where he met Trotsky and other Soviet leaders. In Canton-Guangzou the Kuomintang mercenaries camping in and around Canton, receiving $35.000 a day for food and upkeep, were no model-soldiers, engaging in piracy, sizing ships, taking hostages, robbing shops, running gambling, prostitution and drugs. Actually no province led a more miserable life then Canton under Sun Yat-sen and his lieutenants; it was the most misgoverned city in China. Merchants had to lend the administration cash to pay soldiers, there were duties on everything from pigs to dancing halls operated by Russian women. The city's 800 opium dents had to pay high duties; monopolies, official jobs and public property were sold for cash, boat owners had to by special flags, or risk being attacked by the police as pirates; Sun even tried to seize the customs revenue being sent to Beijing. Retuning to China Chiang became commander of the National Revolutionary Army in 1925 and undertook the Northern Expedition to defeat the warlords of northern China. Chiang was allied with the Chinese Communists (Wang Jingwei) and advised by Soviet agent M. Borodin, when he suddenly began purging the Communists which lead to the beginning of the Chinese Civil War. 47 Chapter 9 EVENTS AND INCIDENTS IN CHINA In the summer of 1927 Japanese Prime Minister Giichi Tanaka convened the Far East Conference with key members of the Foreign Ministry, Finance Ministry, The Imperial Navy and Army. They reached a compromise/consensus that Japan should support the Kuomintang government of China against the Chinese Communists, as long as General Zhang Zuolin could consolidate a virtual autonomous Manchuria, keeping the Soviet Union from dominating the northern Chinese provinces. The Soviet secret police, GPU, produced a forgery called the Tanaka Memorial in Chinese, circulating and channelling it to various groups in USA and China, claiming that Japan was planning to dominate the world after conquering all of China; the Soviet objective was to obstruct Kuomintang-Japanese reconciliation, and provoke armed conflict between the two, to advance Soviet interests. The Tanaka Memorial was one of the most successful dirty tricks of the twentieth century and a document forgery so brilliant that many Westerners still believe in it. The document was the key evidence in the Tokyo War Crime Trials, consequently convincing serious scholars to doubt the integrity of all the war crime convictions in the Pacific and the Far East. The Tanaka Memorial was translated to english first time by The American Communist Party published in December 1931. Its authenticity was even vouched for by Leon Trotsky in one of his last writings when he already was a dissident in Mexico, as well as the anti-Japanese Christian-missionary turned politicians in Washington welcomed and accepted the bogus document as real. The British intelligence knew that the Tanaka Memorial was a forgery already in 1937 but it was not until September 2007 that Chinese historians officially declared the document to be a forgery. Today almost all academic histo- (18) GPU propaganda rians consider the Tanaka Meposter morial document a clever forgery. 49 The Drug Warlord In Shanghai there were two power centres supporting Chiang, one being the wealthy Chinese merchants and foreign capitalists, the other organised crime, dominated by the red and the green gangs with the green gang young godfather, Du Yuesheng. He became one of Shanghai's most influential citizens, narcotics overlord, anti-Japanese patriot and Chiang's best friend and Kuomintang's dakokubashira (main supporting pillar). Du Yuesheng began his career in Shanghai's French Settlement the main centre for criminal activities since the French permitted criminal gangs to operate freely even turning the administration of the settlement over to the gangs in return for tax profit on vice. Du started as a lieutenant of Pockmarked Huang chief of detectives in the French concession and also a major leader in the Green Gang. Until 1918 Shanghai's opium traffic was based in the British concession, but after a crack down by the British the opium traffic was taken over by the green gang based in the French settlement. With Du Yuesheng becoming the Opium King, he even produced anti-opium pills as a cure for opium addiction, containing heroin, selling by the millions with his 50 gang even importing tons of heroin annually from the West. He became one of the Big Three Shanghai gangsters and the key to Chiang's total annihilation of the strong united labour movement and communist organisers/student activists. On April 12, 1927 the gangsters executed a vicious crack down on labour organisations establishing a reign of terror, the Green Gang in a pact with Kuomintang getting a virtual free hand to operate throughout Nationalist China and a strong grip on official power. After the Geneva Convention ban on heroin traffic in 1928 the Shanghai gangsters set up their own refineries, becoming very successful with heroin outselling opium and a major export to the USA by 1934. Du's monopoly on power in Shanghai helped Kuomintang to destroy the communists as well as the ministry of finance became totally dependent on funds from the drug trade. For Chiang Kai-shek the money was never enough, so in 1935 he took control of all opium revenues in Yunnan gaining control of the opium business in the Yangtze basin. He turned most of the opium enterprises over to his ally Du Yuesheng, establishing strict control on cultivation and sale by Chiang's government monopoly, providing revenue since the workers and poor farmers would rather by opium before buying food. In Shanghai the Green Gang boss Du, supervised an efficient narcotics distribution network of Kuomintang's opium, controlling all underworld operations. He ran the local government and even finances being the head of Chung Wai Bank and chairman of The Commercial Bank of China, first of all financing his own criminal dealings. He was now the most powerful man in China and a member of the Opium Suppression Commission, ruthlessly suppressing all competition and independent drug traffickers until he was chased out of Shanghai by the Japanese invasion in 1937. Settling in Chungking he adapted well to the new circumstances, setting up lucrative drug smuggling between free and occupied China, his new organisation financed by several banks to the tune of 150 million Chinese national dollars. By the late 1940's it became clear for Shanghai's gangsters that the Communist forces would occupy the city, and the gangsters participation of the 1927 massacre of labour unions and communist supporters was not forgotten. So between 1947 and 1950 the entire Shanghai underworld moved to Hong Kong where the police was overwhelmed by the massive in51 flux of criminals and organised crime flourished. The Green Gang was a national organisation and its control was in the hands of Nationalist army LTG Kot Siu-wong, setting up a new alliance known as the 14K Society spreading out to Taiwan and Macao after 1949, then further to Thailand, San Francisco, Vancouver, Manchester and Australia. The Green Gang master chemists trained Hong Kong local chemists in heroin refining, the colony becoming the centre for heroin trade by 1950's and the Kuomintang controlled highlands of the golden triangle connecting with distribution channels in USA and Europe. Du Yuesheng retired to Hong Kong where he died in 1971. Taking over Taiwan from Japan in 1945, the Kuomintang governor Chen Yi, ruling the island as a private fiefdom, influence peddling and pillaging, paid special attention to the fate of Japanese Narcotics Monopoly stocks. The monopoly did not publish figures, but records show a 1934 stockpile of 67.000 kg raw opium and 19.000 kg prepared opium and 1935 stock of 424.500 kg coca leaves, 6.000 kg morphine and 1.250 kg of cocaine. Ten years later Chen Yi an- nounced that the Japanese had only surrendered 4.000 kg opium and a small quantity of cocaine. These narcotics he said had been released to the local Bureau of Health and the Army medical services in Nanking and added that the manufacture of cocaine and its derivatives would be given up with his agents taking control of the cocoa plantations in Taichung and elsewhere. After the Kuomintang defeat and Mao's victory in 1949 Chiang Kai-shek fled via Hong Kong to Formosa (Taiwan) and Genral Lee escaped Yunnan settling in Northern Thailand and Burma from where the remnants of his army developed the heroin trade. Both the Thai government and the West turned a blind eye to the heroin trade, with the CIA funded Kuomintang remaining in Burma until 1961 developing and expanding the Shan State opium production in Thailand and Laos from 40 tons in 1949 to 400 tons by 1962. From the Kuomintang bases in northern Thailand, huge mule caravans were dispatched to bring out the Shan States opium harvest for over twenty years, since the CIA first began supporting Kuomintang troops in the golden triangle, controlling a third of the worlds total illicit opium supply. Whether the Kuomintang in Taiwan had any connection to this thriving trade between north Thailand and the USA/ Europe remains anybody's guess. Logically Taipei had little incentive to risk US help flowing in after the Korean War. Nevertheless in 1991 US authorities seized half a ton of heroin in California originating in China having transited Taiwan on route to the US and in 1993 Taiwanese police sized 336 kilograms of pure heroin on a fishing boat. The 337 million US $ valued heroin seizure was the biggest in Taiwan's history and added Taiwan to the Majors List in 1995, but the past few years, the opening of major container ports on mainland China has diminished Taiwan's role in the drug trade. 52 Generalissimo Cash My Check During Chiang's rule, the Kuomintang became extremely corrupt, with leading officials and military leaders hoarding funding, material and armaments, especially from military aid provided by the US to the tune of 750 million, or 9.669 million in 2008 - US dollars. President Truman wrote that tary. Ordinary Chinese suffered much under Kuomintang rule, with children forced to work in 13 hours shifts and sleeping by the machines, women being sold off as concubines and slaves, loan-sharks lending money to peasants at outrageously high interest rates, seizing the land when they were unable to pay back. While Chiang Kai-shek's army warehouses overflowed with grain, people in many provinces were starving, eating leaves and bark. Rape by Kuomintang soldiers was common so the Chiangs, the Kungs and the Soongs are all thieves and C.P. Fitzgerald describes China under the rule of KMT as the Chinese people groaned under a regime Fascist in every quality except efficiency. US General Stilwell began to note the amount of US tax-dollars being wasted on the Chiang regime largely due to rampant corruption with US supplies never making it to the starving conscripts (380.584.000 in 1944 US $) and The Cambridge History of China estimates that some 60-70% of Chiang's KMT conscripts did not make it through basic training, with some 40% deserting and the remaining 20% dying of starvation before full induction into the mili53 when Nationalist soldiers came, young girls fled to the mountains, cut their hair and covered their faces with dirt. Actually Chiang never controlled China and there were now three capitals. The internationally recognized Beijing, CPC controlled Wuhan and the KMT capital Nanjing, lending its name to the Nanjing decade. The Battle for China began with the Shanghai massacre of 12 April, 1927, when Chiang Kai- shek ordered general Bai Chongxi, former warlord turned the best Kuomintang commander and Shanghai underworld godfather Du Yuesheng to arrest, execute, all the communist leaders and destroy the organised labour unions in Shanghai. Arrests and executions of prominent intellectuals as well as suspected communistand labour-leaders spread to all major cities in China including the execution of Li Dazhao, Mao's mentor, captured during a raid on the Soviet Embassy in Beijing. He was executed with nineteen others on the orders of Zhang Zuolin on April 28, 1927. The so-called northern expedition, with the objective of unifying China under the Kuomintang, had begun in 1926 already and Chiang had to defeat three warlords and two independent armies. Chiang Kai-shek's most important strategic victory in his efforts to become dictator of China was not on the battlefield but in a hot spring resort near Kobe. There, end of September 1927, he lured Charlie Soongs widow into accepting him marring her daughter Soong Mei-ling, by promising to become a good christian, showing the divorce papers from his first marriage. So on December 1, 1927 Chiang married Soong Mayling, Sun Ya-tsen- widow's younger sister and daughter of Charley Soong a Christian bible salesman turned millionaire. To get accepted by the Soong fam54 ily, Chiang had to divorce his first wife, get rid of his concubines and convert to christianity. For Chiang this was the shortcut to become accepted as Sun's successor and get access to American political corridors. As we shall see later, Soong May- ling, known in America as Dragon-lady, became a major asset for Chiang in his efforts to win allies in USA and thus to become a key figure in the Pacific War. He was baptised in a Methodist church in 1929 and promised to abandon all his concubines and wives, including Jennie. Chiang tried to rape her when she was 13 and married her two years later although he already had two concubines; additionally he gave her gonorrhoea on their honeymoon in Shanghai. Given his lifestyle this was hardly surprising since about 15% the population of Shanghai suffered from syphilis and about 30% from gonorrhoea. Forty years later, Jennie (Ah Feng also called Chen Jieru) wrote her memoirs, but the US agent handling the book, was attacked, beaten up twice and his office broken into, threatened with lawsuits and investigated by the FBI. Finally Chiang's son bought the manuscript for $170.000 to make sure that Jennie's recollections would never see the light of the day. However eight years after Jennie died in 1971, Professor Lloyd Eastman tracked down a copy and the book was finally published in 1992. Despite his new Christian convictions, Chiang regularly used violence and mafia-methods, like hired gangsters from the brutal Green Gang in Shanghai to kill thousand of students and labour organisers, as well as Kuomintang in Shanghai began controlling the opium-trade. He also denied being married to Jennie, having sent her to New York to study and promising her, that his marriage to Mei-ling was only political to save China, and that he later would resume life with Jennie. The wedding on December 1, 1927, was according to Shanghai Times tion of the US press, carefully selected (by Mei-ling, born and educated in America) details were leaked about the lonely soldier having found his lady, calling her Darling and My Lady in english. Jennie read the stories in American newspapers, where Chiang was quoted denying being married to Jennie, describing her as an old concubine, and voicing his surprise that she claimed to be his wife, as well as confirming, that he was free to marry according to the most monogamous practises. He added, that a lady like miss Soong would never agree to marriage under any other circumstances. Jennie was shattered and went to the Chinese consulate, but was politely shoved out; she became so upset that she was screaming on the street, tearing her hair, wandering the city and about to drown herself in the Hudson River, when somebody restrained her. She returned to Shanghai in 1933 and lived on funds from Chiang and language teaching, ending up in Hong Kong in 1960's in a house bought by Chiang. the most important marriage in recent years, bringing military power, politics and finance together. A Christian service in the Soong house and a Chinese ceremony in Majestic Hotel with a 1.300 crowd inside was held; leading local figures and national dignitaries were present, with the consuls of US, UK, France and Japan, while the Mendelssohn wedding march was played by a Russian orchestra. For the consump55 In June 1928 KMT captured Beijing and with Soviet supplies and US help took control of most of eastern China, whereupon the Nanjing government received prompt international recognition as the sole legitimate government of China. Officially! The reality on the ground was actually very different. Japan controlled Manchuria, the Communist held much of Shanxi, the Soviet Union Mongolia and Xinjiang, and the Europeans controlled the ports on China's coast. Given these conditions Chiang moved his government from city to city depending on circumstances and deals with shifting power centers and warlords. The wars of 1922 and 1924 saw the soldiers under warlord flags grow to a total of 1.5 million costing money the warlords did not have. In relatively rich Manchuria Zhang Zuolin spent $51 million on his forces in 1925 on a revenue of only $23 million. Consequently both warlords and KMT practised most immediate and repressive methods to fill their coffers. Twenty-seven taxes on salt (Sichuan), seventy levies on everything from firecrackers to prostitutes (Xiamen), e.g. a shipment of paper was taxed eleven 56 (19) The Nanking Decade times along the Yangtze. Some warlords slapped 100% tax on railway freight and in the mid 1920's there were 673 different land taxes.Some peasants were even taxed for land belonging to their ancestors. A warlord, driven out, collected taxes for leaving, and the next would do the same on arrival. Defeated armies demanded travel money and victorious commanders welcome payment. Banks were forced to lend, businesses had to by bonds, provinces printed $22 million on a reserve of $1 million (Hunan), $55 million on a silver reserve of $1.5 million (Shandong). Exploiting the opium trade introduced by the British became commonplace, with drug monopolies leased to the highest bidder and revenue raised on production, distribution and use and farmers ordered to grow poppies with those refusing fined for laziness. Annual revenues from narcotics were $50 million in Yunnan, $20 million in Gansu and Fujian, $30 million in Sichuan and troops from Yunnan grew very rich from the drug trade making more in a day than the ordinary monthly salary. Most warlord soldiers were untrained peasants or unemployed from the cities, with some garrisons 90% illiterate. US adviser to Chiang Kai-shek, J. Stilwell reported that of a scarecrow company 20% were under 4.5 feet tall, many under fourteen, some barefoot. - he wrote in his diary. Many warlords called in advisers and mercenaries. The Russians who helped Kuomintang and the Christian general Feng Yuxiang were there for ideological and political reasons, the Japanese supporting Wang Jingwei of strategic and security reasons, but most foreigners in China were there for pure economical gain. Americans flew planes for twice the salary of a pilot in the US, White Russians fleeing the Soviet regime fought in Manchuria and Shandong with General Nechanev's troops being especially ruthless, driving around in three armoured trains machine-gunning civilians and stealing everything movable. A leading writer, Lu Xun, likened the state of China to syphilis: congenitally rotten and with dark and confusing elements in its blood vessels requiring total cleansing. In 1930 the Central Plains War, an internal conflict of the KMT, was launched by Feng Yuxiang, Yan Xishan and Wang Jingwei, with both parties committing over 1.300.000 troops, causing over 300.000 casualties. As a 57 The wildest stretch of the imagination could not imagine this rabble in action except running away result the Nanjing government faced bankruptcy, and failure to destroy Mao's Soviet Chinese Republic, as well as it indirectly resulted in the Japanese intervention and the Xi'an Incident in 1936. Ironically a cardinal point in the Japanese policy towards China was the fear of Soviet influence and the spread of communism as well as the traditionally anti-monarchy sentiment of US establishment of industrialists dominating the nationalists in KMT. After the breakdown of the united front with KMT, Mao issued this order to all CCP party members: hiding in some mountain cave today. No, we are grateful and do not want your war reparations. Our aim is to develop the military power of the CCP in order to stage a coup d'etat. Therefore the main directive is to be strictly followed: 70% of our efforts for expansion, 20% for dealing with the Kuomintang, and 10% for resisting Japan. In 1972 when Japan and China established diplomatic relationship, and P.M. Tanaka apologised to Mao for invading China, Mao said: You don't have to say sorry, your country made a great contribution to China. Why? Because if Imperial Japan did not enter the war, how could we communists become mighty and defeat Chiang Kai-shek? If it were not for Japan I would be 58 Chapter 10 THE STALIN DOCTRINE AND IL LUCE The Xi'an incident A year after the Long March, on December 12, 1936, Chiang Kai-shek was taken prisoner by his own generals at Hua Qing Pool, a Tang Dynasty resort near Xian. Chiang was taken, wearing pyjamas, after a Manchurian general, Zhang Xueiling made a deal with Zhou Enlai under orders of Stalin for the Communists and Kuomintang to stop fighting and unite against the Japanese. Stalin was concerned about growing Japanese influence and ordered the CPC to fight along with Kuomintang against Japan. Chiang met with Communist and Manchurian leaders, ending the civil war temporary, in a deal worked out by Madam Chiang, arriving in Xi'an eleven days after her husband's capture, talking Zhang into letting Chiang free. Chiang vindictively later arrested Zhang and imprisoned him; he was kept in a Taiwan jail until 1992, seventeen years after Chiang's death. A few month after the Xi'an incident, Chiang manoeuvred the Manchurian troops out of Xi'an, getting ready to make a move on the Communists when the Japanese mounted a major invasion in 1937 forcing him to cancel his plans and face the Japanese. Japans full scale entry into the battle for China was in fact considered to be beneficiary to the general strategic situation in the Pacific both by the US and Soviet Russia. Stalin wanted China to fight Japan, so Japan would be tied down, and the US found a good reason to put pressure on Japan and circumvent the neutrality act by openly supporting anti-communist Chiang Kai-shek with hundreds of millions of dollars and military supplies. The Marco Polo Bridge incident that resulted in full scale war between Kuomintang-China and Japan is still controversial among historians. Some consider it an accident, some an evident Japanese provocation, others a well executed plan by Soviet and US agents to force Kuomintang to fight the Japanese (e.g. according to historian Li Fu-jen, just like the Mukden incident). Whatever the truth, it is a fact that at this stage of the Pacific War in 1937, both the Soviet Union, Germany plus to a lesser degree UK and France as well as the USA found themselves all on the same side against Japan although for very different reasons. Stalin, preparing for war in Europe, wanted China waging full scale war on Japan to avoid a possible Japanese attack on Soviet Siberia and risk a two60 front war. Germany and China had a very close economic and military cooperation, with half of Germany's arms export going to China in exchange for badly needed raw materials for the German industry. Japan had nothing Germany needed and Germany had nothing Japan needed (oil and steel). Even when it came to military technology, e.g. military aviation Japan on it's own, was close to leading the world in 1930's with their Mitsubishi A6M Zero being the best carrierbased fighter in the world, or the legendary land based fighter Nakajima Ki-43 Hayabusa designed by Hideo Itokawa. 61 Il Luce USA 's reason for, in silent cooperation with Stalin, supporting China in the war against Japan was the most complex and surprisingly multi-facetted. It is elementary that the US, like other industrialised nations at the time, was attracted by the huge future potential of the Chinese market for American products, as well as the final objective of US Pacific expansion was China and Japan being the biggest obstacle. By a closer look however, that's not all. The picture gets clearer if we understand who the main architect and public opinion creator of US policy in Asia was; namely Henry R. Luce founder and owner of Time magazine (launched 1923) and later Fortune magazine (1930) and Life magazine (1936). Henry Luce, born in Penglai, Shandong province, China to Presbyterian Christian missionary parents, went to China Inland Mission Chefoo School and naturally viewed China the rest of his life, from the vantage point of the Christian missionary compound. China was America's ward. Step by step China would enter a new age of Christianity and Westernisation where the American big brother would bring the American Dream to 450 million grateful and happy Chinese drinking Coca Cola, singing Jingle Bells every Christmas. He was a convinced American fascist, running his magazines nicknamed Il Luce, responsible for favourable articles and interviews in his influential Time magazine with Hitler (chosen Man of the Year 1938) and Mussolini (five appearances on Time cover from 1923) and became chief engineer of selling Mr and Mrs Chiang Kai-shek (Man and Wife of the year 1937) to the American public and influential industrialists as the future of an AmericanChina. He believed in The American crusade in Asia and like all Christian missionaries in Asia, basically anti- monarchist, he retained a strong dislike of Japan due to the hopelessness of Christianity and western domination there, his Time magazine referring to the Japanese as the Jap rather then Japs denying them the merest semblance of pluralism. Luce, who remained editor-in-chief of all his publications until 1964, was influential in the Republican Party with anti-communist sentiments, and major 62 figure behind the China Lobby, steering American foreign policy and public sentiment in favour of Chiang Kai-shek with his wife Soong Mei-ling and against Japan. The Chiang's appeared on the cover of Time magazine eleven times between 1927 and 1955. Luce had ambitions to become secretary of state and wrote his famous article in Life magazine, The American Century (1941) defining Americas role in the rest of the 20th century and beyond. Luce became an extremist opponent of Fidel Castro and funded the Alpha 66 attack on Cuba (1962 and 1963), as well as he used his media empire against John F. Kennedy. Upon Kennedy's assassination Life Magazine purchased the Zapruder film and Marina Oswald's story, never to appear in print, and the film never to be screened in its entirety. The article Henry Luce's Empire of Fascism in EIR (June 25, 2004) is educational reading. The American neutrality acts of the1930's was the reason that neither China or Japan officially declared war until 1941 and called the battles between them until then incidents. The Neutrality Acts were laws passed by the US Congress due to the tensions 63 and conflicts in Europe and Asia, and the rapidly growing isolationism following the costly US involvement in WW I, and was meant to ensure US noninvolvement in foreign conflicts. The Neye committee hearings between 1934 and 1936 reported that the US between 1915 and 1917 loaned Germany 27 million dollars and UK and its allies 2.3 billion dollars (85 times more) concluding that America entered W.W.I to make sure that UK did not lose. Many books and articles argued that arms manufacturers tricked America into entering the war. The 1935 act, imposed a general embargo on arms and war materials to all parties in a war. Roosevelt wanted the possibility of selective sanctions, but was rejected by Congress.This act was invoked after Italy's invasion of Ethiopia. The Neutrality Act of 1936 also forbade all loans or credit to belligerents. General Franco of Spain, found a loophole since the war in Spain(1936-1939) was a civil war not covered by the act, so US companies such as Texaco, Standart Oil, Ford, GM and Studebaker could supply him with a total of 100 million dollar credit. The Neutrality Act of 1937 outlawed arms trade with Spain and was extended to cover civil wars, but Roosevelt managed the provision cash and carry, which allowed the sale of materials and supplies to belligerents in Europe if they paid cash and arranged transport themselves. Obviously cash and carry was meant to aid France and Great Britain in case of war with Germany since they controlled the Atlantic shipping lanes. In the battle for China, Roosevelt supported Chiang Kai-shek, and did not invoke the Neutrality Act since nobody had formally declared war and only Japan would have been able to take advantage of cash and carry. Not invoking the act made it possible to support KMT-China with arms, supplies and finance. This outraged the isolationist Congress, so Roosevelt had to forbid American ships to carry arms, but allowing British ships to transport American arms to China. His Quarantine Speech in October 1937, officially marked the end of American neutrality. The Neutrality Act of 1939 was passed November 4th allowing arms trade with France and UK on a cash and carry bases and was followed by the LendLease Act in March 1941 allowing the US to sell, lend or give war materials to allied nations. 64 Chapter 11 BATTLES OF SHANGHAI AND NANKING China Strength: 600,000 troops 200 airplanes Casualties: 250,000 Japan 300,000 troops 500 airplanes, 300 tanks and 130 naval ships 70,000 His wife Mei-ling, born and educated in America turned out to be the best press-secretary and PR manager in the world, handling media-control as if it was a part of the defence ministry. A very prominent example of how severely a single photo, given world wide distribution could influence and define world public opinion is the Shanghai railway station baby photo by ChineseAmerican photographer H.S. Wong. One of the most celebrated photos of the cen(20) Shanghai baby tury, 136 million people were said to have seen it. Real or arranged, it is a fact that Wong at the time was an employee of William R. Hearst, the father of yellow journalism, whose motto was: How effectively Chiang led the war against Japan in now a matter of historical record. One military disaster followed the other until almost all of eastern China was under Japanese domination. The first, bloodiest and biggest battle out of 22 major engagements of the war was the battle of Shanghai. In August 1937 600.000 of the best trained and equipped (by Germany) troops prepared to defend Shanghai at all costs, Chiang wanting to demonstrate to the world, that China would not surrender, Shanghai being an international cosmopolitan city, with large Western and Japanese investments and hundreds of correspondents and a huge expatriate community. Both China and Japan was aware that the whole world was watching and instructed the troops accordingly, especially Chiang Kai-shek prepared to make astonishing sacrifices to steer US media and public opinion in his favour. You provide the photographs, I'll provide the war. He mastered all aspects of his craft, including scare headlines, faked or arranged photos, inventing stories, dramatic sympathy with the underdog, scandalmongering, sensationalism quoting non-existent 66 Hearst correspondents in London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Venice, all to sell more newspapers. A typical Hearst front page yellow journalism was showing male Cuban customs officials searching a naked American female tourist during the Spanish American war. The fighting in and around Shanghai lasted over three months, a Stalingrad-like house to house, hand to hand combat and with over 200.000 (21) Cuban customs officials Chinese casualties insearching a naked American fecluding most of the elite male tourist Wampoa-trained officers. Chiang was defeated, and would never recover his military strength later resulting in the ultimate victory of Mao. Chiang was however victorious diplomatically as he and Mai-ling skilfully secured Western military aid for China, to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars cash, various supplies and armament shipments. The Japanese plan to conquer China in three month proved a grave miscalculation and from the battle of 67 Shanghai on, the international diplomatic and economic isolation of Japan grew exponentially especially after the next Japanese victory and the fall of Nanking in December, a few days after Chiang evacuated the capital to Wuhan. Battle of Nanking and the Katyn of Asia China Strength: Casualties: 70,000 - 100,000 50,000 killed Japan 240,000 6,000 killed Built with German help, the defence of Nanking was based on the Chinese Hindenburg Line and with the objective of a defence in depth, two lines, the Wufu Line and the Xicheng line were built to protect Nanking in case Shanghai should fall. The battle for Nanking and its aftermath have been one of the most written about, talked about and controversial events of The Pacific 80 Years War with two extreme basic views facing each other, namely the Nanking rapists believers (official Kuomintang-China view) and the Nanking rape deniers (official Japanese view); unfortunately the populistic horror version, orchestrated mainly by Taipei and American-Chinese is often accepted by western public opinion and the Hollywood entertainment industry as well as some publishers and to some degree scholars. One very successful prototype of the Nanking story written by I. Chang (The Rape of Nanking: The Forgotten Holocaust of World War ll.) published in 1997, was 68 on the US bestseller list for 10 weeks, and resurrected the world wide interest also among scholars in what actually happened. The book is full of mistakes and facts based on rumours and hearsay, as well as the almost infantile demonization of the Japanese. It actually had the opposite effect of her intention and triggered an array of new serious historical analyses of the events. Critical revision of especially the photographic evidence as well as analyses of facts and numbers previously accepted by the general public has resulted in an emerging suspicion about the whole Nanking story. Even a new statue of Chang in Nanking as well as a Hollywood film based on her book does not settle the controversy since historians are forced to take sincere standpoints about the matter. Call it Rape of Nanking, Nanking Jiken or Chiang's Nanking Betrayal we shall not know the whole truth until the secret files of the National Security Bureau, Taiwan's KGB will become available to historians. Immediately after the fall of Nanking, two American correspondents broke the news blackout, A. Steele of the Chicago Daily on radio on board the U.S.S. Oahu and Tillman Durdin of the New York Times, reaching Shanghai three days after the incident in Nanking. Judging from the records, documents and witnessreports from other sources, it seems that despite some errors and sensationalism, these two American journalists told the essential details of the Nanking disaster. Strangely, historians and writers, journalists having written countless books and articles about Nanking have largely ignored these two eyewitnesses coverage of the incident. Recently there have even been efforts, by using the term Holocaust, to establish some parallel between the Holocaust of European Jewry and Nanking, branding it as an Asian counterpart of the Nazi Holocaust, which of course is entirely misleading. If Nanking is comparable to anything, it is the Katyn massacre. The Katyn massacre, also known as the Katyn Forest massacre (Polish: zbrodnia katyńska, literally 'Katyń crime'), was a mass execution of Polish citizens ordered by Soviet authorities in 1940. Estimates of the number of executed persons ranges from 15.000 to 21.768). Polish POWs and prisoners were murdered in Katyn forest, Kalinin (Tver) and Kharkiv prisons and elsewhere. About 8.000 of the victims were officers taken prisoner during the 1939 invasion of Poland, the rest being Polish citizens who had been arrested for allegedly being intelligence agents, gendarmes, spies, saboteurs, landowners, factory owners, lawyers, priests and officials. Since Poland's conscription system required every unexempted univer69 sity graduate to become a reserve officer, the Soviets were thus able to round up much of the Polish intelligentsia, as well as the Jewish, Ukrainian, Georgian and Belarusian intelligentsia of Polish citizenship. The Katyn Massacre was beneficial to Nazi Germany, which used it to discredit the Soviet Union. The Germans assembled and brought in a European commission consisting of twelve forensic experts and their staffs. With the exception of a Swiss from the University of Geneva, all were from lands then occupied by Germany. After the war, all of the experts, save for a Bulgarian and a Czech, reaffirmed their 1943 finding of Soviet guilt. The Soviet government immediately denied the German charges and claimed that the Polish prisoners of war had been engaged in construction work west of Smolensk and consequently were captured and executed by invading German units in August 1941. The Soviet response on April 15 to the German initial broadcast of April 13, prepared by the Soviet Information Bureau stated that Polish prisoners-of-war who in 1941 were engaged in country construction work west of Smolensk and who fell into the hands of the GermanFascist hangmen. The Western Allies had an implicit, if unwilling, hand in the cover-up in their endeavour not to antagonise a then- ally, the Soviet Union. On April 24, 1943 Churchill assured the Soviets: We shall certainly oppose vigorously any 'investigation' by the International Red Cross or any other body in any territory under German authority. In 1943 the Katyn Manifesto blaming the Soviet Union was published in London (in English) by the eccentric poet Count Geoffrey Potocki de Montalk, who was arrested by the Special Branch and imprisoned. In the United States, a similar line was taken, notwithstanding that two official intelligence reports into the Katyn massacre were produced that contradicted the official position. In 1944 Roosevelt assigned Navy Lieutenant Commander George Earle, his special emissary to the Balkans, to compile information on Katyn, which he did using contacts in Bulgaria and Romania. He concluded that the Soviet Union had committed the massacre. After consulting with Elmer Davis, the director of the Office of War Information, Roosevelt rejected that conclusion, saying that he was convinced of Nazi Germany's responsibility, and ordered Earle's report suppressed. When Earle formally requested permission to publish his findings, the President gave him a written order to desist. Earle was reassigned and spent the rest of the war in American Samoa. From December 29, 1945 to January 5, 1946, ten officers of the German Wehrmacht – Karl Hermann Strüffling, Heinrich Remmlinger, Ernst Böhm, Eduard Sonnenfeld, 70 Herbard Janike, Erwin Skotki, Ernst Geherer, Erich Paul Vogel, Franz Wiese, and Arno Dürer – were tried by a Soviet military court in Leningrad. In what is now widely considered a show trial, they were falsely charged for an alleged role in the Katyn massacre. The first seven officers were sentenced to death and executed by public hanging on the same day. The other three were sentenced to hard labor, Vogel and Wiese to 20 year terms each and Dürer to 15 years. Dürer is said to have pleaded guilty at the trial and to have returned to Germany later, the fate of the others sentenced to hard labor remains unknown. In 1946, the chief Soviet prosecutor at the Nuremberg Trials, Roman A. Rudenko, tried to indict Germanfor the Katyn killings but dropped the matter after the United States and United Kingdom refused to support it. On April 13, 1990, the forty-seventh anniversary of the discovery of the mass graves, the USSR formally expressed profound regret and admitted Soviet secret police responsibility. That day is also an International Day of Katyn Victims Memorial. Naturally the debate about the Nanking massacre is also a debate about the legitimacy of the postwar military tribunals: The Nanjing Trials and The Tokyo trials. The New York Times: December 18, 1937: Capital's Fall Laid to Poor Tactics of Chiang Kai-shek and Leaders' Flight By F. Tillman Durdin The capture of Nanking was the most overwhelming defeat suffered by the Chinese and one of the most tragic military debacles in the history of modern warfare.Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek was responsible to a great degree because against the unanimous counsel of his German military advisers and the opinions of his chief of staff, General Pai Chung-hsi, he permitted the futile defense of the city. Hsiakwan. Others ran into alleys to transform themselves into civilians. Some soldiers disrobed completely and then robbed civilians of their garments. Hordes surrounded the safety zone headquarters, turning in their guns, and even throwing them over the gate of the compound in their haste to shed military arms. The foreign committeemen at the safety zone accepted their surrender and interned them in buildings in the zone. He further reports that civilian casualties are several thousands and that japanese executions of Chinese soldiers caught in civilian clothes are taking place and that Chungshan Road was a long avenue of discarded uniforms, rifles, pistols, machine guns, fieldpieces, knifes and knapsacks with all the suburbs burned by the Chinese, while the Japanese avoided wrecking good buildings. The scarcity of air bombardments in the capture indicated their intention to avoid the destruction of buildings.The Japanese even avoided bombing Chinese troop concentrations in built-up areas, apparently to preserve the buildings. Durdin, back in Shanghai writes December 22 that the battle of Nanking was the most tragic event in modern military history, that the wholesale Chinese burning of villages and populous areas miles around 71 The report in New York Times further blames Chinese General Tang and his division commanders for deserting their troops causing panic and despair. After the Japanese had surrounded the city the fall of Nanking was predictable and by December 9, the Japanese reaching the city wall, the 50.000 Chinese troops caught inside soon began throwing away their rifles and donning civilian clothes. Durdin: Driving through the city Sunday evening, I witnessed wholesale undressing of an army that was almost comic. Many men shed their uniforms as they marched in formation toward the metropolis and the Japanese wiping out at least about two-third of the Chinese army (33.000 Men) being trapped inside the city walls was in the final analysis the responsibility of Chang Kai-shek' generals and the KMT leadership since no retreat was contemplated concluding that: The Nanking safety zone did save some 100.000 civilian lives since the Japanese never subjected the zone to shelling in spite of that the full demilitarisation of the area was never achieved and thousands of Chinese soldiers streamed through the area. The safety zones worked very well in Shanghai and not in Nanking. Why? The Jacquinot Safe Zone in Shanghai, established and run by a French Jesuit Robert Jacquinot de Besange almost singlehandedly, was a neutral zone in the historic quarter, respected by both the Japanese and the Chinese, that for almost two years provided safety for over 200.000 civilians. In Nanking a similar safety zone was established by Siemens China Rep and Nazi John Rabe, with strong pro-KMT ties and a committed Germany-Sino alliance advocate. According to some historians his admitting thousands of Chinese soldiers, on the run, in civilian clothes, as well as the presence of hundreds of armed plainclothes KMT-agents and operatives in the safety zone, was one of the reasons for the deterioration of the post battle situation in Nanking at 72 In losing Nanking the Chinese lost more than the capital of their country. Their army lost invaluable morale and thousands of men. Chinese forces who had fought a frontal battle against Japanese from Shanghai up through the lower Yangtze Valley were shattered, and it is doubtful if they can be rallied again for effective mass resistance against the Japanese military machine. Chang's General Tang Sheng-chi made his getaway 20:00 Sunday evening December 12 without informing the officers of his general staff, who by midnight learned about his disappearing and then tried themselves to escape in civilian clothes leaving rank and file troops leaderless. Thousands of these troops appeared all over the foreign safety zone, shedding uniforms begging for civilian clothes, others drowning in the panic on the riverbanks. large, with the fall of Nanking in December 1937. Internationally the Anti-Comintern Pact was signed November 25, 1936 between Japan and Germany and the Sino-Soviet Pact signed August 21, 1937, with the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact taking effect August 1939 making the who is with who in case of conflicts mildly put very unpredictable. 73 Battle of Xuzhou China Strength: Casualties: Japan ian life, for military tactical gains however, largely contributed to the unpopularity of Chiang's army among Chinas peasants, some of whom later, even preferred Japanese occupation instead of KMT rule. 600,000 240,000 100,000 30,000 Ignoring the non-expansionist policy of the government in Tokyo, the northern Japanese army advanced south establishing connection between Beijing and Nanking, with the Chinese army, rejecting Chiang Kai-shek's orders, retreating and the Japanese occupying Qingdao and Jinan, the defence line along the Yellow river thus torn apart, and by June 1938 the Japanese Imperial Army taking control of the entire Northern China. The situation was grim, and Chiang ordered withdrawal and preparation of the defence of Wuhan. To gain time and slow the Japanese advance he ordered the demolition of the Yellow river dikes, resulting in the 1938 Yellow River Flood (June 9). To achieve full surprise of the Japanese, Chiang decided not to inform the public before destroying the dykes; the flood, submerging millions of homes,covered 54.000 sq. km, taking 500.000 civilian lives. Partly successful, the flood did delay the japanese attack and the fall of Wuhan. The total disregard of the loss of civil74 Chapter 12 BATTLES OF WUHAN AND NOMONHAN Battle of Wuhan, June 11 - October 27, 1938 ers headed by Vasily Chuikov, the future hero of Stalingrad.These Soviet troops fought at Nanking, Wuhan, Nanchang and Chongging. In reality, from December 1937, the United States, The United Kingdom, and France were all providing loan assistance and war supplies to Republic of China and on top of that, Australia (UK) was preventing Japanese iron ore imports ignoring already signed contracts. From Japan the horizon looked threateningly dark. In the meantime, thousands of kilometres to the west, events in Europe 1939, were accelerating towards war, with the League of Nations collapsing, Germany and Italy signing the Pact of Steel (May 22) and the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact signed August 23, dividing Europe between Hitler and Stalin; German battleships opened fire on the Polish military base at Danzig September 1. 4:40 AM as the Wehrmacht crossed the Polish border. Norway, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain and Ireland declared neutrality September 2, while UK, France, New Zealand and Australia declared war on Germany September 3, followed by Nepal's, South Africa's and Canada's war-declaration September 6 and neutrality declaration in the war by USA September 5. 76 China Strength: Casualties: 1,100,000 soldiers 200 airplanes 30 ships Japan 350,000 soldiers 500 airplanes 120 ships Wuhan, with a population of two million, and a major traffic centre, was, after the fall of Nanking, the most important political, industrial and military city and the capital of China. On April 29 a major air battle over Wuhan (4.29 Air battle) had resulted in 21 japanese air planes shot down against a loss of 12 planes. By this time it was not only Russian but also American pilots flying the Chinese fighters. Already in June 1937, Soong May-ling or Madam Chiang hired Claire Chennault a retired US Army Air Corps officer as Air defence advisor, with a salary of $1.000 per month, to run the Chinese Air Force, creating the, later called, Flying Tigers with the shark painted P 40 fighters. Also the Sino-Soviet NonAggression Pact was signed in September 1937 starting Operation Zet, a Soviet volunteer air force with Soviet supplied bombers, fighters and other supplies (total value $250 million) and 3.665 pilots and advis- The Battle of Khalkhyn Gol (Nomonhan Incident) May 11-Sept 16, 1939 organised supply fleet of 2.600 trucks, while the Japanese suffered severe supply problems. By the end of August, Zhukov had amassed three rifle divisions, two tank divisions, two more tank brigades, a total of 498 tanks and two motorised infantry divisions with an air wing of 250 fighters and bombers and two Mongolian cavalry divisions.The Kwantung Army was totally outgunned and outnumbered mustering only two lightly armed divisions, and their intelligence failing to detect the scale of the Soviet buildup or the scope of the attack Zhukov was planning. 50.000 Soviet and Mongolian troops attacked the elite Japanese forces across the river, trapping the Japanese 23rd division in a pincer; their attempt on August 27 to brake out of the encirclement failed. When the surrounded Japanese forces refused to surrender, Zhukov wiped them out with artillery fire and air attacks, the battle ending August 31 and a ceasefire signed September 16. This Soviet strategy and Zuhkovs battle-hardened Siberian troops were later put to good use when the German Wehrmacht was dealt a crushing defeat at the gates of Moscow in December 1941. Soviet Union Strength: Casualties: 57,000 7,974 dead 15,000 wounded Japan 38,000 8,440 dead 8,466 wounded Following the battle of Lake Khasan (July 29-August 11) on the Soviet-Korean border, this four month battle was a major clash between Japan's Kwantung Army and the well prepared Soviet General Zuhkov's armoured divisions. The battle started as a minor skirmish between Mongolian and Manchu cavalry, whereupon Soviet-Mongolian forces surrounded and destroyed Lt Col Azuma's reconnaissance regiment of the 23rd Division. Both sides began building up forces and soon 30.000 Japanese were facing Gen. Zuhkov's motorised and armoured Divisions. On June 27 the Kwantung Army, without informing Army H.Q. in Tokyo, ordered an air attack on the Soviet air base in Mongolia, soon to be followed by a major Soviet counterattack on the ground with some 450 tanks and armoured vehicles. The two armies continued fighting for two weeks, Zuhkov with a well 77 The final epilog to the Khalkhin-Gol incident was at the International Military Tribunal for the Far East in 1946 when Kenji Doihara, Kiichiro Hiranuma and Seishiro Itagaki were convicted for initiating war of aggression against the Mongolian Peoples Republic and the USSR resulting in General Doihara's and General Itagaki's execution December 23, 1948 in Tokyo, adding another conviction that revealed the questionability of the integrity of the Tokyo Tribunals. 78 The Tientsin Incident June 14- August 20, 1939 Simultaneously with the Soviet-Japanese border war, the Tientsin incident almost started an AngloJapanese war in June 1939, demonstrating the extreme, unpredictable, complex, fragile and lawless situation in a China torn apart by an array of foreign interests, domestic chaos, warlordism and Kuomintang's clandestine activities. On April 9, 1939 the manager of the Japanese F. R. Bank of China was gunned down by Chinese terrorists.The Japanese accused six men, living in the British concession of the assassination. British police arrested four of the six and handed them over to the Japanese with the promise that they would not be tortured and be returned to the British within five days. Under torture two confessed and although the confessions were obtained by torture, British police accepted that the accused were involved in the assassination. Once the men were returned to British custody, the wife of Chiang Kai-shek, May-ling admitted to the British the the assassins were Kuomintang operatives and tried to prevent the accused being returned to the Japanese and executed.The British consul had not informed London of the details of the case, and 79 that he had promised to return the assassins to the Japanese, so Lord Halifax, foreign secretary in London refused to return the men to Japanese custody. General Tomoyuki Yamashita, advocating a termination of Western concessions in China, convinced Tokyo to order a blockade of the British concession, thus the Japanese army surrounding the area on April 9, 1939, body-checking anyone leaving or entering. The standoff was rapidly deteriorating towards open war, especially when the British press reported that British women were forced to strip at bayonetpoint by Japanese soldiers, leading to a yellow peril outcry in the British media, and the Admiral of the Fleet calling it a declaration of war. In the meantime both the French and the Americans refused to risk war with Japan because of 1500 British subjects in Tientsin, so Chamberlain ordered the British Ambassador in Tokyo to find a way out of the crises with not too obvious loss of British prestige. On August 20, 1939, the Chinese assassins were turned over to the Japanese, and later executed. The Tientsin Incident demonstrated the contradiction of Japanese government foreign policy and the policy of the Japanese Army, as well as the military weakness in Asia of the U.K. without the support of the USA. Towards the end of 1939 many countries were at war with small and big battles raging all over the world, and those countries not yet at war were rapidly preparing for military confrontations. On September 22 the Wehrmacht and the Red Army held a joint victory parade in Brest-Litovsk, Poland and on the other side of the Atlantic, October 11, US President F.D. Roosevelt was presented a letter by Albert Einstein urging the United States as soon as possible to develop the atomic bomb. Meanwhile a super-top-secret meeting between Adolf Hitler and Josef Stalin took place on October 17, in Lvov, Poland, both signing a new secret pact, replacing the outdated Molotov- Ribbentrop agreement. Non of the two divine dictators, destined to save the world, wanted to leave any trace of their meeting so the only evidence is the following letter signed by FBI's Edgar Hoover: held a meeting in Lvov on October 17, 1939, signing a new secret treaty replacing the old pact. Sincerely J.Edgar Hoover It must have been fascinating to observe the meeting of the two dictators, so similar and so different; Hitler, destined to save Europe from Asiatic Bolshevism establishing a 1000 years German empire with the motto Gott mit uns, and Stalin the marxist Zar-Pope of a Holy Communist Global Empire, both swearing eternal friendship to each other, while both desperately speculating how and when to liquidate the other. On November 30, Soviet Union attacked Finland starting the Winter War, with 500.000- 900.000 Russian troops, 2.500-6.500 tanks and 3.880 aircraft, planning for a two weeks war until Finland's defeat. Surprisingly, in spite of overwhelming firepower of the Soviet forces, the war lasted until March 13, resulting in 200.000 dead and 300.000 wounded or missing Soviet soldiers as well as the destruction of 3.543 tanks and 515 aircraft. Despite the impressive Finnish victory, due to lack of French, English and US support, the Finns had to ac- July 19, 1940 Att. Excellency Adolf A. Berle Assistant Secretary of State. Strictly confidential. We received information from reliable sources that after the German-Soviet division of Poland, Hitler and Stalin secretly 80 cept the Moscow peace treaty on March 12, 1940, ceasing 10% of Finish territory including the second largest city, Viipuri to Soviet Union, with 422.000 Karelian Finns losing their home. Some historians claim that the crushing Soviet defeat was a brilliant deception by Stalin to pretend Soviet weakness and fool Hitler into underestimate its military forces. The truth is that the architect of the Finnish victory Field Marshall Friherre Carl Gustav Mannerheim was a military genius applying the motti (kettle) tactics, thus the vastly outnumbered Finnish forces being able to annihilate much larger Soviet units. This encirclement tactics, trapping large enemy forces, cutting their supply lines deep behind them, was later applied by both the Germans and the Russians on a grand scale. Additionally Mannerheim, had spent many years in the Imperial Russian army, so he knew the Russians very well and was promoted to Colonel for his bravery in the Battle of Mukden in 1905. He spoke not only fluent Russian but also Swedish (his mother tongue), Finnish, French, German, English, Polish and some Mandarin Chinese having trav81 elled extensively including crossing Asia from St. Petersburg to Beijing; his journey over Samarkand, Turkestan, Khotan, Kashgar, Urumchi, Turpan, Dunhuang, Xi'an also took him to Wutai Shan, where he met the Dalai Lama whom he gave his pistol for protection against the Chinese. Arriving in Beijing over Hohhot in July 1908 he wrote his military intelligence report and returned to St. Petersburg via Japan with the Trans-Siberian Express. Events in Indochina By the beginning of 1940 it was obvious that the developments in the Atlantic war and the Pacific War mutually influenced each other, so that strategic and diplomatic decisions by all parties in the Pacific War had to include observing military developments in Europe. Similarly, especially the Soviet Union and U.K. had to include events in China into the calculations and decisions. On March 5, 1940 the Katyn massacre ordered by Stalin was executed by Beria, on April 12 British troops occupied the Faroe Islands important for the battle of the Atlantic, May 10 marks the beginning of the battle for France and Churchill becoming prime minister. Britain invaded Iceland and on May 20, German forces under General E. Rommel reached the English Channel and the British barely evacuated 300.000 troops from Dunkirk. On June 10 Italy declared war on France, Canada declared war on Italy, and Norway surrendered to German forces. US President Roosevelt signed the Naval Expansion Act June 14 increasing the US Navy by 10%, the Soviet Army entered the Baltic states, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia incorporating them into the Soviet Union and the British Navy sank or seized the ships of the 82 French Navy on July 3, resulting in Vichy France breaking off diplomatic relations with Britain. Public debate in America heated up, with Gen. John Pershing demanding all-out aid to Britain, while American hero Charles Lindbergh, leading the isolationists, recommended a neutrality pact with Hitler and on September 16. the first peace time draft in US history is signed into law by Franklin D. Roosevelt, starting the draft registration of 16 million men October 16. With the Chinese, importing fuel, arms and 10.000 tons of US supplies through the Haipong- Yunnan railway line, Japan decided to put pressure on France and take control of events in French Indochina. On September 22 Japan and France signed an agreement granting transit rights and bases for 6000-25.000 Japanese troops in Indochina. Some fighting broke out, when Lt. Gen. Nakamura's 5th division moved on the railhead at Lang Son, but by the evening September 26 the fighting ended with the Japanese in possession of Gia Lam airfield and Lao Cai on the Yunnan border. With 900 troops in Haiphong and 600 more in Hanoi, the complete blockade of China, except for the Burma road, came into effect. US President Roosevelt was furious and imposed the first total embargo on all scrap metal shipments to Japan September 26, and unfortunately for Japan he becomes the first and only third-term United States President on November 5, winning the election with the motto: world peace. Accordingly, the Governments of Japan, Germany and Italy have agreed as follows: ARTICLE 1. Japan recognizes and respects the leadership of Germany and Italy in the establishment of a new order in Europe. ARTICLE 2. Germany and Italy recognize and respect the leadership of Japan in the establishment of a new order in Greater East Asia. ARTICLE 3. Japan, Germany, and Italy agree to cooperate in their efforts on aforesaid lines. They further undertake to assist one another with all political, economic and military means if one of the Contracting Powers is attacked by a Power at present not involved in the European War or in the Japanese-Chinese conflict. You don't change horses in midstream. On September 27, 1940 The Tripartite Pact is signed by Japan, Germany and Italy and was immediately named by the Italian press Roberto from the first syllables of Rome, Berlin and Tokyo. The Governments of Japan, Germany and Italy consider it the prerequisite of a lasting peace that every nation in the world shall receive the space to which it is entitled. They have, therefore, decided to stand by and cooperate with one another in their efforts in the regions of Europe and Greater East Asia respectively. In doing this it is their prime purpose to establish and maintain a new order of things, calculated to promote the mutual prosperity and welfare of the peoples concerned. It is, furthermore, the desire of the three Governments to extend cooperation to nations in other spheres of the world that are inclined to direct their efforts along lines similar to their own for the purpose of realizing their ultimate object, 83 ARTICLE 4. With a view to implementing the present pact, joint technical commissions, to be appointed by the respective Governments of Japan, Germany and Italy, will meet without delay. ARTICLE 5. Japan, Germany and Italy affirm that the above agreement affects in no way the political status existing at present between each of the three Contracting Powers and Soviet Russia. ARTICLE 6. The present pact shall become valid immediately upon signature and shall remain in force ten years from the date on which it becomes effective. In due time, before the expiration of said term, the High Contracting Parties shall, at the request of any one of them, enter into negotiations for its renewal. December 17 Roosevelt outlined his plan to send aid to Britain later known as Lend -Lease and on January 20, 1941 Chief Justice C.E. Hughes swore in US President Franklin D. Roosevelt (also called FDR) for his 84 third term becoming from this moment, a major player in the Pacific War. Chapter 13 THE FDR GAMBIT According to some historians, Roosevelt flirted with the idea of freezing Japanese assets already in July 1937, but of various reasons kept a lid on his Japan punishing with a variety of sanctions. We do not know what went on in his mind, but it is safe to assume that almost all of FDR's decisions in US foreign policy had roots in the US domestic situation after and during the Great Depression October 1929, with 25% unemployment and industrial production less than half of capacity. Looking at the statistics FDR was right, preparation for war, the Lend-Lease supplying weapons, trucks, planes, ships on credit did get Americas industrial wheels rolling and people back in jobs. The beginning of 1941 marked a turning point, with the US starting a full-blooded financial warfare against Japan. Nevertheless, the US oil embargo in the summer of 1941 was not sufficient to provoke Japan into war since Japanese companies already had licences for 7.1 million barrels of gasoline, 21.9 million barrels of crude oil and 33.000 barrels of lubricants, all together worth $50 million and enough supplies until end of 1943. Therefore the tool to immediately stop all supplies to Japan was FDR's executive order on July 25, 1941 to freeze all Japanese assets in the United States. If this would not bring Japan to 86 (22) US industrial production war, (23) GDP per American in constant year 2000 dollars nothing would; it was no coincidence that FDR had brought back hardliner Dean Acheson as assistant secretary of state and chief architect of the USBritish-Dutch oil embargo. Acheson subjected all transactions with Japan to licensing, giving his tree man committee (FFCC) a dual-track control granting licences but, if needed denying releasing funds. A powerful country with abundant resources, strangulating and pauperising a have not nation fighting for its very existence. (24) US Unemployment It seems that Roosevelt wanted all along to prod Japan into action, more than than his diplomatic and naval advisers wished, and that Acheson just was carrying out the unspoken and unwritten wishes of the commander in chief. Studies by the US ECA (May 1, 1941) reveals the extent of understanding Japanese vulnerabilities, and the fact that US petroleum supplies were irreplaceable. The aim of the export control bureaucracy became a total embargo of all Japanese commerce with the US, the British Empire, and the Dutch East Indies leaving no doubt that Acheson knew it could produce war. (25) The depression in international relativity 87 The financial freeze was by any standard, a lethal threat and an assault on Japan's very existence, justi- fying war as self-defence against the USA. The German invasion of the Soviet Union, in violation of the tripartite agreement, terminated all trade with Europe via the Trans- Siberian railway, making the US dollar Japan's only medium of international exchange. Evidence of FDR's guilt in provoking Japan and thus making it possible for the US to enter the Pacific War with blazing guns and the support of all Americans is only circumstantial at best and historians may never find hard evidence. It remains a fact however, that a majority of the American public, still in January 1941, was against war with Hitler's Germany and with opinion-leaders like aviator Charles Lindbergh recommending a US neutrality pact with Adolf Hitler before the US Congress (January 23, 1941), made it clear that much of the American Public, found Hitlers white arian supremacy ideology attractive, leaving the only option for war entry, an armed conflict with Japan. Due to this, as we shall see later, many circumstances around Pearl Harbour remain unexplained. 88 The Year of Pearl Harbour US Ambassador to Japan Joseph C. Grew informs Washington on January 27, about a rumor of a planned surprise attack on Pearl Harbour, overheard at a diplomatic reception. The US House of Representatives passes the Lend-Lease Act on February 8, starting the program of America supplying the UK, Soviet Union, China and other friendly nations with huge amounts of weapons and war material ending the pretence of US neutrality. A total of $50.1 billion (approximately 730 billion in year 2008 dollars) worth of supplies were shipped between 1941 and 1945. 31.4 billion dollars to Britain, 11.3 billion dollars to Soviet Union, 3.2 billion dollars to France and 1.6 billion dollars to China. Some of it was calculated against UK providing military bases in Newfoundland and British West Indies, while the rest was to be used until return or destruction. It was actually sold to Britain at a discount for 1 billion pounds worth of long term loans with the UK settling its debt to the USA in 2006. Canada operated a similar program to Britain and Soviet Union worth $4.7 billion. On February 14, 1941 Admiral K. Nomura begins his duties as Japanese ambassador to United States, indicating that Tokyo was fully aware of the grave deterioration of Japan-US relations, and was trying to defuse the mounting crises by appointing a diplomat of Nomura's stature and experience to Washington. Out of semi-retirement at 64, Nomura had been Naval attache in the USA, delegate at the Paris Peace Conference and the Washington Naval Conference, promoted to full Admiral in 1933 he was foreign minister of Japan in the Nobuyuki Abe cabinet (1939-1940). He attempted relentlessly through most of 1941 to negotiate a settlement with US Secretary of State Corden Hull, preventing war between Japan and the USA. On March. 27th Japanese Naval Intelligence officer Takeo Yoshikawa, arrived in Honolulu, Hawaii and being an expert in the US Navy, his assignment was to study the American fleet at Pearl Harbour. An elite,1933 graduate of The Imperial Naval Academy at Etajima, he rented an apartment overlooking the harbour taking notes of fleet movements, charters small planes for flying over naval installations and even dived under the harbour gathering information. His reports were transmitted to the foreign ministry and the Japanese Imperial Navy in purple 89 code, which had been broken by American code barkers so all messages to and from Tokyo were intercepted and decrypted, but was considered low priority information and sometimes not translated for several weeks. In March 1941, Japanese foreign minister Yosuke Matsuoka travelled to Europe, meeting A. Hitler March 27, trying to ease US pressure on Japan by strengthening ties with Germany and possibly establish a quadripartite pact with the Soviet Union. It was too little too late since Germany already was preparing to attack the Soviet Union, and both Churchill and Roosevelt welcomed secret reports that war between Hitler and Stalin may soon erupt, rendering it unnecessary to reach any compromise or agreement with Japan. Nevertheless Churchill did secretly contact Matsuoka in Rome, trying to convince him of the drawbacks of diplomatic cooperation between Japan and Germany and proposed Matsuoka to visit the USA and meet Roosevelt since FDR had submitted a draft Japan-United States understanding on April 14th. April 13th the Japanese-Soviet Nonaggression Pact was signed staying in effect until 1945, and on April 15th, the US began shipping Lend-Lease aid to 90 China, while the battle of the Atlantic reached climax, when German battleship Bismarck sank the pride of the Royal Navy, HMS Hood, hitting her magazines with a single 15 inch shell. Causing a huge explosion, killing all but 3 crewman on board it split the huge ship in two sending her to the button, all within three minutes. Admiral Holland and 1.415 crewmen went down with the ship and the three survivors were picked up by the destroyer Electra. Churchill's furious reaction was: Sink the Bismarck. Executed on May 27, the crippled Bismarck was sunk with her captain Ernst Lindemann and 2.300 crew on board leaving 116 survivors. On June 14 all German and Italian assets in the US are frozen, and the Atlantic War takes a major turn when Germany launches Operation Barbarossa June 22, without informing Japan thus braking the Tripartite Pact. From this moment on, Japanese leadership should have realised that Roosevelt and Churchill in alliance with the Soviet Union and China, no longer needed any reconciliation with Japan; in fact the US diplomatic attitude towards Japan from this day, becomes arrogant, totally rigid and inflexible. The German surprise attack on the Soviet Union is still historically controversial today, just like Pearl Harbour in the Pacific war. Planning of operation Barbarossa started on December 18 1940, and Hitler secretly moved 3.5 million German troops and their equipment to the Soviet border in the following four months, preparing the biggest military operation in human history in terms of manpower and casualties. Stalin was well informed already in March 1941 about the plan, when the Soviet military intelligence put the whole Barbarossa plan on his desk, as well as many of the Komintern spies in Berlin as well as Richard Sorge in Tokyo even predicted the exact date of the attack (June 20, 1941); but Stalin only believed in common sense. Launching an attack on the Soviet Union mid June while still at war with Britain would be a reckless adventure and exhaust the German economy. Besides, Soviet intelligence was keeping a close watch on the European sheepskin market. If Hitler planned to attack late summer, his army must prepare to fight in the Russian winter, purchasing millions of sheepskin-coats, causing a fall in sheep meat prices and a steep rise in sheepskin prices. Since no such 91 price fluctuation was reported, Stalin concluded that an attack so soon was most unlikely. The fact is that Hitler attacked anyway, since he was running out of time with the Soviet Union winning the industrial armament race deploying 15.000 tanks against 4000 German tanks and 11.000 planes against 4.500 German airplanes. Soviet armoured vehicle production: 1940 Light armoured Medium armoured e.g. T 34 Heavy armoured e.g. KV 1 2,255 127 243 1941 1,907 2,800 1,353 1942 9,579 12,578 2,635 1943 5,391 17,192 1,458 1944 7,155 16,242 4,762 1945 3,562 13,485 3,030 Total 30,079 62,424 13,831 Total German production of all armoured vehicles: Pre-war 3,503 1939 370 1940 1,788 1941 3,623 1942 4,136 1943 13,657 1944 18,956 1945 4,406 Wartime 46,936 Total 50,439 Considering the US Lend-Lease supply and British help on top, only a Blitzkrieg victory over the Soviet Union could save Hitler's Germany. So on June 22 Germany attacked with 98 divisions (3.5 million men), 4.200 tanks and 3.400 aircraft on a 1.200 Km front between the Baltic Sea and the Carpathian Mountains with Italy and Romania declaring war on Soviet Union the same day, followed by Hungary and Slovakia on June 23. Roosevelt, whose aim had been to prevent GermanSoviet-Japanese reconciliation, had become alarmed of a possible quadripartite pact conceived by Matsuoka, but now with the full scale GermanSoviet war, he could relax as Japanese-US peaceful understanding became totally unnecessary. Now the aim was to aggressively keep Japan busy and prevent a Japanese attack on the Soviet Far East, something that Hitler was secretly praying for. Still hoping for improving relations with the US, Konoe delivered a message through Matsuoka on July 8th, that 92 The Japanese Government wishes to state, that it has not so far considered joining the hostilities against the Soviet Union. Roosevelt was able to secure a guarantee that Japan would not invade the Soviet Union; nevertheless contrary to what was expected by Japan, US demands grew considerably. Roosevelt, during the July 24 meeting with Ambassador Nomura demanded total Japanese withdrawal from French Indochina, and neutralisation of Thailand, Japan's closest ally with historically very close relations between the two monarchies and the only Asiatic countries that had escaped colonialism. What Roosevelt really intended with this new demand of Thai neutrality was, that even if Japan withdrew totally from Indochina, the problem would not be solved. With the exception of a few individuals, nobody in the bureaucratic Japanese foreign ministry and in the even less diplomatically sophisticated military leadership realised that the Hull-hook swallowed, would be impossible to spit (26) The Atlantic Charter world map 93 out. The FDR- gambit was now a check-mate. The Atlantic summit between Roosevelt and Churchill was concluded on August 12, 1941 confirming the colonial status quo in the future. Roosevelt arrived back in Washington on the morning of August 17 and despite being Sunday, he called Nomura for a meeting and expressed his desire for peace in the Pacific handing Nomura the following written statement: Still, upon the freezing of Japanese assets July 26 and an oil embargo August 1, PM Konoe tried to brake the deadlock by proposing a Japan-US summit. Secretary of State Hull swept the idea aside brusquely, but when Nomura took the proposal to Roosevelt, who had already heard about it from Hull, the President reacted extremely positively and suggested Juneau in Alaska for the summit sometime in October. It was FDR-Hull good cop-bad cop game with poor Nomura san. On September 29 the Moscow conference began, with USA's A. Harriman and Britain's Lord Beaverbrook meeting Molotov and Stalin, arranging urgent military assistance for Soviet Union. Agreement was reached October 1, finalising the Soviet Union joining the Allies, and guaranteeing that it would not collapse under the German onslaught or surrender in the foreseeable future. There was now no need to deal with the Japanese illusion of a Japan-US summit, so the next day, October 2, Hull met with Nomura, and declined the Japanese summit-proposal with some cooked up accusation. With this October 2, 1941 memorandum, the USA, in reality, terminated its relations with Japan. It is worthwhile here to note, that the US Secretary of 94 This government now finds it necessary to say to the Government of Japan that if the Japanese Government takes any further steps in pursuance of a policy or program of military domination by force or threat of force of neighbouring countries, the Government of the United States will be compelled to take immediately any and all steps which it may deem necessary toward safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of the United States and American nationals and toward insuring the safety and security of the United States. This was not speaking softly and insinuated that the United States border now, was somewhere in Indochina. State Cordell Hull of Tennessee, had the manners of an Appalachian lumberjack and spoke redneck like: We's been speekin' Redneck of s'long's I can member. My mammy and pappy spoke it, and they learned it frum deer mammy and pappy, making it real hard to understand what he was saying. If FDR wanted to insult Japanese diplomats and make sure that negotiations didn't go anywhere he sure had picked the right Secretary of State in Cordell Hull. Nominated by FDR, Hull was for some mysterious reason, awarded the Nobel Peace Price in 1945. I suspect that the Norwegian Nobel committee didn't dare to say no. American Ambassador in Tokyo (1932-1941) Joseph Grew, was kept in the dark about FDR's real strategy, and tried to prevent war to the last, sending desperate warnings to Washington that the uncompromising US policy would drive Japan to national suicide. On September 29 he sent the following report to Hull: The basis on which Japan had joined the Tripartite Alliance had thus been completely upset and this country is now endeavouring to get out of a very 95 dangerous position ... The situation has now come I believe for a complete readjustment of the relations between our two countries ... The prime minister is prepared to nullify Japan's membership in the Axis at the proposed meeting ... Secretary of State Hull simply ignored Grew's advice and his efforts. Robert Fearey, Ambassador Grew's secretary in Tokyo wrote in a recent article: Until the day he died, Ambassador Joseph C. Grew, our Ambassador to Japan 1932-41 and the nation's most experienced and distinguished diplomat of that era, believed that Washington's handling of the U.S.-Japan negotiations preceding the Pearl Harbour attack was unimaginative and inflexible. Grew thought that Washington gave short shrift to the Embassy's carefully considered reports, analyses, and recommendations, centering on Japanese Prime Minister Fumimaro Konoye's proposal that he and President Roosevelt meet faceto-face in Honolulu in a direct effort to achieve a settlement of all outstanding issues. If the meeting had been allowed to take place, he believed, the Pacific War might have been avoided. Obviously Grew was kept in the dark of FDR real plans in the Pacific and naively wrote a report during his two month internment after Pearl Harbour, which he presented to Hull upon his return to America. Since August he had been working very hard to avoid war informing Washington that P.M. Konoe's proposal of a personal meeting with FDR in Hawaii to find a peaceful settlement had the backing of Showa Tenno as well as all the top Japanese military. Initially Washington showed interest but suggested meeting in Alaska for some strange reason FDR claiming time pressure. As for Konoe, he was ready to go and meet anywhere to avoid war and immediately arranged a steamed up destroyer ready in Yokohama for the trip to Alaska. On September 3 at a meeting with Nomura, FDR suddenly produced a document with preconditions for the meeting, including the necessity of discussing the matter fully with the British, Chinese and Dutch. By now it should have become clear to both Nomura and Grew as well as Konoe, that FDR and Hull were dancing backwards having absolutely no intention of any meeting in Alaska or for that matter anywhere else. Konoe's honesty and straightforward manner in the Spring, explaining Ambassador Grew and he to Washington why it was necessary to meet FDR outside Japan now backfired. Washington now took advantage of, that Konoe only could agree to the tough American- Chinese proposals, if he avoided the usual Japanese diplomatic channels, fearing betrayal by pro Axis Foreign Minister Matsuoka, who according to Konoe - would immediately leak everything to Germany and Italy with both countries eager to sabotage any Japan-US reconciliation. P.M. Konoe explained to Ambasador Grew, that if the delicate negotiations on China were leaked by Foregn Minister Matsuoka, strong Axis supporter, he (Konoe) would be assassinated. Additionally hostile leaks may originate from the Japanese codebrakers of the US Embassy-State Department communication codes which Konoe thought had been broken. Furthermore Konoe explained that Matsuoka, when forced to resign because of the German Attack on USSR, had left supporters behind in the foreign office, who would also leak any progress made by Konoe to reach a peaceful agreement with the US on the China problem. 96 Therefore, Konoe argued, a personal meeting between himself, accompanied by senior Japanese Army and Navy officers, and President Roosevelt was the best way to reach an effective US/Japan agreement on China and peace in the Pacific. Grew supported Konoe's strategy and assured Whashington that most Japanese from the Showa Tenno down supported and sincerely wanted some face-saving gradual pull out of the China quagmire, except for Manchuria where Japan had invested heavily and modernised its economy and infrastructure drastically. But Konoe said the Fate of Manchuria could be worked out later bilaterally with China. Grew, not being informed about FDR real intentions, being finalised, after the German attack on Soviet Union, warned that the time was running out since the US embargo and freezing of Japanese assets was strengthening the extremist political circles in Tokyo. These circles were demanding that the military took action, even if it meant a suicidal war with the American- British-Chinese-Dutch (ABCD) alliance. Not knowing that that was exactly what some hawkinsh people in Washington hoped for, Grew grimly warned that in case the Konoye Government failed in its peace effort, it would be re97 placed and Japan would descend towards a desperate survival war. Time was running out and Grew urged Washington to accept the meeting between Konoe and FDR but Stanley Hombak, having a love China-hate Japan mind sabotaged all Grew's efforts and ridiculed the mere possibility that Japan would dare waging war. He also argued that Grew had been in Japan too long, soft on the Japanese, and that all one had to do was to stand up to the Japs and they would tuck their tail between the legs. Special adviser to the Secretary of State C. Hull, Stanley Hornbeck, arrogant and haughty of Japanese capability to challenge the US, dismissed fears among Foreign Service officers that Japan might initiate war out of desperation; the day after the Hull note on November 26, he wrote: In the opinion of the undersigned, the Japanese Government does not desire or intend or expect to have forthwith armed conflict with the United States ... Were it a matter of placing bets, the undersigned would give odds of five to one that Japan and the United States will not be at "war" on or before March 1 (a date more than 90 days from now, and after the period during which it has been estimated by our strategists that it would be to our advantage for us to have "time" for further preparation and disposals. Still Konoe struggled to urgently bring about a summit conference between Japan and the US, FDR pretending to be interested, Hull and Hornbeck dismissing any possibility that Japan would dare to soon wage war on the US and a German-Nazi fifth column in Japan trying to prevent any US-Japan reconciliation. Previously the following Outline of Execution of National Policy had been adopted at the Imperial conference September 6th: In order to insure her selfsufficiency and self-defence, Japan shall complete her preparations for war by the latter part of October 1941, with the determination not to decline war with the United States, Britain and the Netherlands. On October 16 Konoe, tired of pleading and waiting or maybe just realising that FDR had other plans that a peaceful solution with Japan, resigned and was replaced by General Hideki Tojo. This marked Showa Tenno's last effort to diffuse the explosive situation General Tojo being the only authority strong enough to make the Imperial Army's young turks accept an unconditional retreat from China. Grew still pretended that a peaceful solution was possible but admitted privately the dice had been cast. He sent cable after cable to Washington warning of a sudden desperate attack but his warnings were swept aside by Hombecks reports and ridiculed by the US military responsible for defence in the Pacific, exactly what both Hull and FDR wanted to hear. On October 18, General Hideki Tojo becomes the 40th Prime Minister of Japan, FDR approves US $ 1 billion Lend-Lease to Soviet Union, the Soviet government moves to Kubyshev October 16, but Stalin remains, leading the battle of Moscow beginning November 12; Churchill in a speech November 10, promises British declaration of war on Japan within the hour of a Japan-US armed conflict erupting. In a desperate last ditch effort to diffuse the explosive situation, senior Japanese diplomat Saburo Kurusu arrives in the US to assist Ambassador No98 mura while Joseph Grew, US Ambassador to Japan cables Washington (November 17), warning of an imminent sudden Japanese attack. Actually the Tojo cabinet was appointed because Japan tried to avoid war to the last, in accordance with the desires of the Emperor, since only General Tojo had the authority in the military, to make Japan's armed forces accept the humiliating US conditions for peace, being: Immediate and total Japanese withdrawal from Indochina and all of China, but not mentioning Taiwan and Manchuria where Japan had invested heavily. Not referring to Manchuria and Taiwan, where hundreds of thousands of Japanese civilians were living, obviously left open this possibility of pressuring Japan further, for later in case Japan would have accepted initial conditions, exiting China. The two versions of a final Japanese peace proposal (A and B) was actually sent to the Japanese Embassy in Washington as early as November 4, with the deadline of the negotiations as November 25th. All messages were intercepted and decoded, so Roosevelt read them even before the were officially offered, including knowing the deadline set by Tokyo. Secretary of War Henry Stimson (since 1940) in 99 charge of directing US army expansion to 10 million soldiers, and later the Manhattan Project, entered the following sentence in his diary on November 27: How we should manoeuvre the Japanese into the position to fire the first shot, without allowing too much danger to ourself. The day before, Stimson had called FDR about the dispatch of a Japanese expeditionary force to Indochina, triggering the Presidents famous feigned furious anger, leading to the Hull note. Yes, an excellent FDR performance, as he himself later quipped to his friend Orson Welles, that they were the two best actors in the world. FDR and later Truman followed all of Stimson's advice about the nuclear bomb which was very lucky for the old Japanese capital Kyoto, since Stimson had spent his honeymoon there, and therefore ordered the military to take Kyoto off the bomb-target list, but more about that later. The famous Hull note ultimatum (with absolutely no modus vivendi) is delivered to Japan by the United States on November 26, and on the same day a fleet of 6 aircraft carriers, commanded by Vice Admiral Nagumo leaves Hitokapu bay on Etorofu Ja- pan; on November 27 all US military forces in Asia and the Pacific are placed on war alert. Keeping up appearances, Franklin D. Roosevelt makes a personal peace appeal to the Emperor of Japan on December 6, while in the freezing winter in front of Moscow, the German Wehrmacht is dealt a crushing defeat by Stalin's Siberian ski-divisions ending Hitlers blitzkrieg. The Japanese Navy launches full scale attack on the United States Pacific fleet at Pearl Harbour December 7th (December 8th Japan time), simultaneously (thirty minutes before the attack as Admiral Yamamoto had demanded) Japan officially declaring war on the United States in this way upholding the conventions of war as well as achieving surprise. Of course the US code breakers had intercepted and deciphered the war- declaration hours before the Japanese embassy was scheduled to deliver it. Hull kept ambassador Nomura and special envoy Kurusu waiting in the lobby, until he was receiving news of Pearl Harbour. The two Japanese diplomats not able to deliver the declaration and not knowing the attack was taking place, were shocked when Hull, fi100 nally granting audience called them scoundrels and piss- ants. The book Day of Deceit: The Truth about FDR and Pearl Harbour by Robert Stinnett, published in 1999 is based on secret records of the deciphered and translated Japanese Imperial Navy coded communication at the time and only recently accessible due to the freedom of information act. He concludes beyond any doubt, that the details of the pending Japanese attack was on FDR's desk several days before December 7, 1941. Then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt, along with many other key people, conspired to deprive the US military commanders in Oahu (Admiral Husband E. Kimmel, commanding the Pacific Fleet, together with Lieut. General Walter C. Short, commanding the Army ground and air forces in the Hawaiian Islands) of highly specific warnings regarding the Japanese Kido Butai or First Air Fleet and its approach to Hawaii. Specifically, he contends that the Japanese transmitted a number of messages which were intercepted and decrypted by various agencies, who on presidential orders buried the information. He identifies at least eight senior naval officers (most of whom went on to distinguish them- selves in World War II) as having betrayed their nation and service in this fashion. Yet even having found what he calls the terrible truth, Stinnett is still inclined to forgive. action. Americans were told of US cryptographers' success in cracking pre-Pearl Harbor Japanese diplomatic codes, but not a word has been officially uttered about their success in cracking Japanese military codes. During the 60 years, the truthful answers were in secret bomb-proof vaults, withheld from two congressional Pearl Harbor investigations and from the public. As recently as 1995, the Joint Congressional Investigation conducted by Sen. Strom Thurmond and Rep. Floyd Spence, was denied access to a naval storage vault in Crane, Indiana, containing documents that could settle the questions. I sympathize with the agonizing dilemma faced by President Roosevelt. He writes. He was forced to find circuitous means to persuade an isolationist America to join in a fight for freedom. It is easier to take a critical view of this policy a half century removed than to understand fully what went on in Roosevelt's mind in the year prior to Pearl Harbor. He says Pearl Harbor was not an accident, a mere failure of American intelligence, or a brilliant Japanese military coup. It was the result of a carefully orchestrated, design, initiated at the highest levels of the US government. He cites a key memorandum to highlight eight steps that were taken to make sure we would enter the war by this means. He writes that Pearl Harbor was the only way, leading officials felt, to galvanize the reluctant American public into 101 In the mid-1980s I learned that none of the hundreds of thousands of Japanese military messages obtained by the U.S. monitor stations prior to Pearl Harbor were introduced or discussed during the congressional investigation of 194546. Determined to penetrate the secrets of Pearl Harbor, I filed Freedom of Information (FOIA) requests with the US Navy. Navy officials in Washington released a few pre-Pearl Harbor documents to me in 1985. Not satisfied by the minuscule release, I continued filing FOIAs. Finally in 1993, the U.S. Naval Security Group Command, the custodian of the Crane Files, agreed to transfer the records to National Archives in Washington, D.C. In the winter of 1993-94 the files were transported by truck convoy to a new government facility built on the College Park campus of the University of Maryland inside the Washington Beltway, named Archives II. Mr. Clarence Lyons, then head of the Military Reference Branch, released the first batch of Crane Files to me in the Steny Hoyer Research Center at Archives II in January 1995. Apparently, the pre-Pearl Harbor records had not been seen or reviewed since 1941. Though refiled in pH-safe archival boxes by Lyons' staff, some of the Crane documents were covered with dust, tightly bunched together in the boxes and tied with unusual waxed twine. Lyons confirmed the records were received from the U.S. Navy in that condition. It took me a year to evaluate the records. The information revealed in the files was astonishing. It disclosed a Pearl Harbour story hidden from the public. I believed the story should be told to the American people. The editors of Simon & Schuster/The Free Press published Day of Deceit: The Truth About FDR and Pearl Harbour on December 7, 1999. This great question of Pearl Harbour - what did we know and when did we know it - has been argued for years, he writes. At first, a panel created by FDR concluded that we had no advance warning and should blame only the local commanders for lack of preparedness. More recently, historians such as John Toland and Edward Beach have concluded that some intelligence was intercepted. Finally, just months ago, the Senate voted to exonerate Hawaii commanders Admiral Kimmel and Lieutenant General Short, after the Pentagon officially declared that blame should be "broadly shared". But no investigator has ever been able to prove that foreknowledge of the attack existed at the highest levels. Until now. Whereas previous investigators have claimed that the government did not crack Japan's military codes before December 7, 1941, Stinnett offers cable after cable of decryptions. He proves that a Japanese spy on the island transmitted information including a map of bombing targets - beginning on 102 August 21, and that government intelligence knew all about it. He reveals that Admiral Kimmel was prevented from conducting a routine training exercise at the eleventh hour that would have uncovered the location of the oncoming Japanese fleet. And contrary to previous claims, he shows that the Japanese fleet did not maintain radio silence as it approached Hawaii. Its many coded cables were intercepted and decoded by American cryptographers in Stations on Hawaii and in Seattle. The evidence is overwhelming. At the highest levels on FDR's desk - America had ample warning of the pending attack. At those same levels, it was understood that the isolationist American public would not support a declaration of war unless attacked first. The result was a plan to anger Japan, to keep the loyal officers responsible for Pearl Harbor in the dark, and thus to drag America into the greatest war of her existence. Two questions about the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor have ignited a controversy lasting for 60 years: • Did US naval cryptographers crack the Japanese naval codes before the attack? • Did Japanese warships and their commanding admirals break radio silence at sea before the attack? If the answer to both is no, then Pearl Harbor was indeed a surprise attack described by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as a Day of Infamy. The integrity of the US government regarding Pearl Harbor remains solid. But if the answer is yes, then hundreds of books, articles, movies, and TV documentaries based on the no answer-and the integrity of the federal governmentgo down the drain. If the Japanese naval codes were intercepted, decoded, and translated into English by US naval cryptographers prior to Pearl Harbor, then the Japanese naval attacks on American Pacific military bases were known in advance among the highest levels of the American government. The declaration of war was printed on the front page of Japan's newspapers in the evening edition December 8, 1941: Imperial Rescript By the grace of Heaven, Emperor of Japan (Emperor Showa) seated on the throne occupied by the same dynasty from time immemorial, enjoin upon ye, Our loyal and brave 103 subjects: We hereby declare War on the United States of America and the British Empire. The men and officers of Our Army and Navy shall do their utmost in prosecuting the war. Our public servants of various departments shall perform faithfully and diligently their respective duties; the entire nation with a united will shall mobilize their total strength so that nothing will miscarry in the attainment of Our war aims. To insure the stability of East Asia and to contribute to world peace is the far-sighted policy which was formulated by Our Great Illustrious Imperial Grandsire (Emperor Meiji) and Our Great Imperial Sire succeeding Him (Emperor Taisho) and which We lay constantly to heart. To cultivate friendship among nations and to enjoy prosperity in common with all nations, has always been the guiding principle of Our Empire's foreign policy. It has been truly unavoidable and far from Our wishes that Our Empire has been brought to cross swords with America and Britain. More than four years have passed since China, failing to comprehend the true intentions of Our Empire, and recklessly courting trouble, disturbed the peace of East Asia and compelled Our Empire to take up arms. Although there has been reestablished the National Government of China, with which Japan had effected neighborly intercourse and cooperation,the regime which has survived in Chungking, relying upon American and British protection, still continues its fratricidal opposition. Eager for the realization of their inordinate ambition to dominate the Orient, both America and Britain, giving support to the Chungking regime, have aggravated the disturbances in East Asia. Moreover these two Powers, inducing other countries to follow suit, increased military preparations on all sides of Our Empire to challenge Us. They have obstructed by every means Our peaceful commerce and finally resorted to a direct severance of economic relations, menacing gravely the existence of Our Empire. Patiently have We waited and long have We endured, in the hope that Our government might retrieve the situation in peace. But Our adversaries, showing not the least spirit of conciliation, have unduly delayed a settlement; and in the meantime they have intensified the economic and political pressure to compel thereby Our Empire to submission. This trend of affairs, would, if left unchecked, not only nul- 104 lify Our Empire's efforts of many years for the sake of the stabilization of East Asia, but also endanger the very existence of Our nation. The situation being such as it is, Our Empire, for its existence and self- defense has no other recourse but to appeal to arms and to crush every obstacle in its path. The hallowed spirits of Our Imperial Ancestors guarding Us from above, We rely upon the loyalty and courage of Our subjects in Our confident expectation that the task bequeathed by Our forefathers will be carried forward and that the sources of evil will be speedily eradicated and an enduring peace immutably established in East Asia, preserving thereby the glory of Our Empire. In witness whereof, we have hereunto set our hand and caused the Grand Seal of the Empire to be affixed at the Imperial Palace, Tokyo, this seventh day of the 12th month of the 15th year of Showa, corresponding to the 2.652nd year from the accession to the throne of Emperor Jimmu. (Released by the Board of Information, December 8, 1941. Japan Times & Advertiser) On December 8, 1941 the United States officially declares war on Japan followed by war declarations 105 from United Kingdom (including India, South Africa, and Canada by default), China, The Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, Haiti, Dominica, Honduras, El Salvador on the same day. Robert Fearey remembers: And so war came. It was Sunday in the U.S. but Monday morning, December 8, when the news reached us in Tokyo. At about eight I walked over from my apartment to the Embassy chancery, a distance of about 40 feet. Chip Bohlen came down the stairs. Had I heard the news? The Japanese had attacked Pearl Harbor and other points around the Western Pacific and the Imperial Headquarters had announced that a state of war existed between Japan and the U.S. and its Allies. As I absorbed this intelligence other Embassy officers arrived, most having heard the news from their drivers. I went down to the compound's front gate, which was closed tight with Japanese police standing all about. Outside up the street I heard a newsboy calling Gogai, Gogai, meaning Extra, Extra, and waving copies of the English language official Japanese Government newspaper, The Japan Times and Advertiser, on which I could see the gigantic headline, WAR IS ON. It occurred to me that the paper would probably not only be informative on what had happened but would make a great souvenir. So I walked as inconspicuously as I could back along the 8-foot wall surrounding the compound to a corner where some small pine trees provided a little cover. There I scrambled over the wall, bought two copies of the paper, one to give to Grew and one to keep, and scrambled back. My copy hangs framed at home. Below the WAR IS ON headline is the English version of the Imperial Rescript to the Japanese people on the outbreak of war. Probably drafted and translated by the Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal, fluent in English, it is a masterful piece of prose. Returning to Tokyo in early October 1945, I was able to obtain a copy of the August 15, 1945 surrender issue of the same paper, which during the war had been renamed the Nippon Times. The surrender headlines are understandably smaller than the outbreak of war ones, reading, His Majesty Issues Rescript to Restore Peace. But as in 1941, the Rescript is a prose masterpiece. 106 Chapter 14 NIITAKAYAMA NOBORE Niitakayama nobore was the secret Japanese final code to launch the attack on Pearl Harbour with the objective to eliminate the US Pacific fleet with one concentrated lightning stroke. Mount Niitaka (Yushan in Chinese) was at 3.952 meters the highest mountain in Japan, located in Taiwan, being 176 meters higher then Mount Fuji. (It was named by anthropologists R. Torii and U. Mori climbing it in 1900.) In spite of the fact that the US Pacific fleet in Hawaii and the Philippines was on war alert since November 27, and that all key US top government people knew about the imminent attack in advance, the Japanese Niitakayama nobore on Pearl Harbour turned out to become a severe humiliation of the USA. Shocking the American top brass and government by its surgically precise execution, coordinated efficiency, organisational power and scale and by the total unpreparedness of US Naval defence due to American superiority complex; Roosevelt's fury now was genuine. Because on that day, December 7th, 1941- a date which will live in infamy, the 18-19th century belief in white-christian-anglo (WASP) global cultural and military supremacy was put to rest forever. The only good news was, that, as luck would have it none of the three American carriers of the Pacific Fleet, USS Enterprise, USS Lexington and USS Saratoga were home in Pearl Harbour on that day. They had been ordered by the supreme commander (FDR) on some mission away from Hawaii in good time. Ninety minutes after it began, the attack, in two waves, was over with a total of 2.402 Americans killed, including 55 civilians mostly killed by unexploded American anti-aircraft shells landing in civilian areas. Half of the total fatalities were due to the explosion of Arizona. USA 8 battleships 8 cruisers 30 destroyers 4 submarines 49 other ships 390 aircraft Ford Island Air base Hickam Air Force Base Japan mobile unit 6 aircraft carriers 2 battleships 1 light cruiser 9 destroyers 8 tankers 28 submarines 414 aircraft Strength: 4 battleships sunk 4 battleships damaged 4 midget submarines 2 destroyers sunk, sunk 1 damaged 1 run aground 3 cruisers damaged, Casualties 27 aircraft destroyed and losses: 1 sunk 55 airman 188 aircraft destroyed 9 submariners killed 155 damaged 1 submariners captured 2 347 military killed and 1 247 wounded 108 (27) Track of carrier task force for Pearl Harbor attack Minoru Genda, chief architect and executer of the attack urged Admiral Nagumo to carry on the attack with a third strike, to destroy the fuel and torpedo storages, maintenance- dry docks, submarine and intelligence facilities, which would have crippled American operations in the Pacific for over an extra year. Nagumo however, decided to withdraw. Admiral Yamamoto, initially supported the withdrawal, but later admitted that it was a big mistake. 109 Battle for the Philippines The Japanese did not rest on their laurels, launching invasions in Hong Kong, Malaya, Manila and Singapore on December 8. General Homma comanding the 14th IJA of 43.000 man landed on Batan island and on northern Luzon, Vigan, Aparri, Gonzanga two days later. Masaharu Homma, also known as the poet general since he wrote and painted in his spare time, had spent eight years as military attache in UK, and had instructed his men to treat the filipinos friendly and respect their customs and religion. On December 12, the Japanese landed 2.500 men in Legazpi and while the Americans withdrew most of the US Asiatic fleet from the Philippines the main attack began on December 22, with the Japanese advancing rapidly towards Manilla both from north and south. USA- Philippines Strength: 151,000 Japan 130,000 9,000 killed 13,200 wounded 500 missing 10,000 disease stricken 25,000 killed 21,000 wounded Casualties: 100,000 captured (mostly in sick condition) (28) Battle of Philippine 110 Filipino-American resistance lasted only for three month although they outnumbered the Japanese, and after the battles of Bataan and Corregidor on May 6, General Wainwright (MacArthur had left for Australia March 11) asked General Homma for the terms of surrender. Homma insisted that surrender include all allied forces in the Philippines, resulting in the largest surrender in American military history.` By some twisted logic General Homma became the scapegoat of this humiliation of the US forces and MacArthur's vindictive nature, so on explicit, express order of MacArthur, Homma, retired from the military since 1943 was arrested by the US military police in 1945. Extradited to the Philippines to face American military tribunal and executed by firing squad April 3, 1946, he was innocent of any war crime. Homma's defence council, John Sceen stated that Either we conduct such a trial as this in the noble spirit and atmosphere of our Constitution or we abandon all pretence to justice, let the ages slip away and descend to the level of revengeful blood purges. Homma's wife appealed to MacArthur to spare his life, but in vain. It was a highly irregular trial, conducted in an atmosphere that left no doubt as to what the ultimate outcome would be. Justice Frank Murphy of the US Supreme Court also protested the verdict: 111 POW Treatment The truth is, that just like the German surrender at Stalingrad, the American surrender at Bataan of 76.000 diseased, starving, malaria-ridden soldiers, was irresponsible by the cynical commander not securing minimal supplies of his troops. (Paulus in Stalingrad and MacArthur in Bataan.) Already in January 1942, McArthur ordered his forces to be fed one-half daily rations because the USAFFE food-stocks on Bataan were insufficient for a long siege. Still, without adequate food, medicine, ranks ravaged by malaria, dysentery, malnutrition and Japanese attacks, the battling bastards of Bataan held out for over four month looking more like living corpses of Bataan when Major General Edward King surrendered on April 9, 1942, transferring the responsibility for his dying troops to the Japanese. Of the 70.000 POW's 54.000 arrived at Camp O'Donnel, about 10.000 died on the way, the rest 6.000 escaping into the jungle. From September through December 1942, the Japanese gradually released Philippino soldiers to their families and home towns. In comparison, of the 91.000, German POW at Stalingrad only about 5.000 survived. US General Eisenhower in Europe was the most creative when it came to dealing with large numbers of 112 POW's. He simply redefined them to be DEF (disarmed enemy forces) instead of POW's which meant the the Geneva convention did not apply. One of the guards, Martin Bech of such a DEF-camp remembers: In Andernach about 50.000 prisoners of all ages were held in an open field surrounded by barbed wire. The women were kept in a separate enclosure I did not see until later. The men I guarded had no shelter and no blankets; many had no coats. They slept in the mud, wet and cold, with inadequate slit trenches for excrement. It was a cold, wet spring and their misery from exposure alone was evident. Even more shocking was to see the prisoners throwing grass and weeds into a tin can containing a thin soup. They told me they did this to help ease their hunger pains. Quickly, they grew emaciated. Dysentery raged, and soon they were sleeping in their own excrement, too weak and crowded to reach the slit trenches. Many were begging for food, sickening and dying before our eyes. We had ample food and supplies, but did nothing to help them, including no medical assistance. Outraged, I protested to my officers and was met with hostility or bland indifference. When pressed, they explained they were under strict orders from "higher up". No officer would dare do this to 50.000 men if he felt that it was "out of line", leaving him open to charges. Realizing my protests were useless, I asked a friend working in the kitchen if he could slip me some extra food for the prisoners. He too said they were under strict orders to severely ration the prisoners' food and that these orders came from "higher up". But he said they had more food than they knew what to do with and would sneak me some. When I threw this food over the barbed wire to the prisoners, I was caught and threatened with imprisonment. I repeated the "offense", and one officer angrily threatened to shoot me. I assumed this was a bluff until I encountered a captain on a hill above the Rhine shooting down at a group of German civilian women with his.45 caliber pistol. When I asked, Why?, he mumbled, "Target practice", and fired until his pistol was empty. I saw the women running for cover, but, at that distance, couldn't tell if any had been hit. This is when I realized I was dealing with cold-blooded killers filled with moralistic hatred. They considered the Germans subhuman and worthy of extermination; another expression of the downward spiral of racism. Articles in the G.I. newspaper, Stars and Stripes, played up the German concentration camps, complete with photos of emaciated bodies; this amplified our self-righteous cruelty and made it easier to imitate behavior we were supposed to oppose. Also, I think, soldiers not exposed to combat were trying to prove how tough they were by taking it out on the prisoners and civilians. These prisoners, I found out, were mostly farmers and workingmen, as simple and ignorant as many of our own troops. As time went on, more of them lapsed into a zombie-like state of listlessness, while others tried to escape in a demented or suicidal fashion, running through open fields in broad daylight towards the Rhine to quench their thirst. They were mowed down. Some prisoners were as eager for cigarettes as for food, saying they took the edge off their hunger. Accordingly, enterprising G.I. "Yankee traders" were acquiring hordes of watches and rings in exchange for handfuls of cigarettes or less. When I began throwing cartons of cigarettes to the prisoners to ruin this trade, I was threatened by rank-and-file G.I.s too. The DEF-camps 113 The Allied powers had decided at the highest level (Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin) to repudiate the Geneva Conventions, especially after the extinction of a German government able to negotiate with the Red Cross. (The Soviet Union, of course, had never signed the Geneva Conventions in the first place.) (1) Detention after the end of war: Under the Geneva Conventions, PoWs are to be sent home within months of the end of the war. The Allies instead decided to hold many PoWs (redesignated "disarmed enemy forces") as slave laborers, providing "labor reparations" to rebuild the damage inflicted by Nazi aggression. In the West, the demands of France were considered especially compelling -- the Germans had held millions of French PoWs as slave laborers, besides stripping France to the bone. After screening the PoWs, releasing the old men and boys of the "Volkssturm", and detaining Nazis for prosecution, the USA transferred 740.000 of the remainder (including some of those shipped back to Europe from the USA) to France. 1.000.000 German Pows remained in US camps in Ger- many at the beginning of 1946, but only 38.000 were still left at the beginning of 1947. The Western nations sent their last German PoWs home in 1948 (often under US pressure), while the Soviets kept theirs as late as 1956. In the spring of 1945, when the US held 3.4 million German PoWs, Britain held 2.150.000. Many were shipped as slave laborers to Britain, where 400.000 still remained at the end of 1946. As a general rule, the ones in Britain were treated decently, in contrast to many in France. (Parenthetical note: The French PoWs held by the Germans 1940-45 were treated reasonably decently, having an annual death rate comparable to British and American PoWs. In the early years of the war, their welfare helped guarantee economic cooperation by France's Vichy government; by the time Vichy's cooperation no longer mattered (1944), impending German defeat would have made mistreatment of French PoWs highly imprudent.) (2) Reduced rations: Under the Geneva Conventions, German PoWs should get the same ration as their Allied captors. Instead, designated as "disarmed enemy forces", they got no more rations than Ger- 114 man civilians. Especially in April through July 1945, this meant starvation rations, though generally enough food came through to prevent mass deaths from starvation. Hundreds of thousands of PoWs were kept for many weeks out in the open, with no shelter apart from what they might dig in the ground, and nothing to sit or lie on (above the mud and puddles) apart from their own helmets and greatcoats. This was during the spring and summer, when there was no danger of freezing; nevertheless, given Germany's cooler, wetter climate, these open barbed-wire "cages" were much more of a hardship than similar temporary expedients in North Africa and Italy. The worst US temporary enclosures were the 16 "Rheinwiesenlager" ("Rhine meadow camps"). 557.000 PoWs were held from April to July 1945 in the six worst of these: Bad Kreuznach-Bretzenheim, Remagen-Sinzig, Rheinberg, Heidesheim, Wickrathberg, and Büderich. The Maschke Commission would later tabulate 4.537 parish-registered deaths in these 6 worst RWLs, 774 from the others. They thought the actual death toll might be twice this, but were skeptical of an eywitness claim of 32.000 deaths. 115 Myths about POW treatment in Malaysia - The POW's were herded into a prison. - Wrong. They were sent to British Army barracks located in rubber plantations with no barbed wire, and when later barbed wire was introduced the POW's could go outside regularly, almost nightly with no problem. Only attempted escape from Singapore island was punishable. The Japanese guards turned a blind eye to POW's leaving the camp for errands or black market visits. Some sold the clothes they were waring for beef or other food and items smuggled into the camp were not confiscated. - The POW's were often beaten. - Not by the Japanese. According to reliable reports from people who were there, the Sikh guards, recruited by the Japanese, did do some beating and terrorising, but the abuses of power was stopped by the Japanese quickly. - The POW's were deliberately starved. - Wrong. The prisoners were placed on Japanese military ration scales consisting of mainly rice, unfamiliar and unwelcome, especially to the Australians who were used to meat rations that was twice of what even the British Army got. As the war progressed, and resupply from outside Malaya/Singapore became more difficult due to the British, Australian and US navy activities, ration scales were reduced even for the Japanese. Some Japanese front line troops were actually starving at the time in New Guinea, due to zero resupply by the sea. It could not be expected that the Japanese feed the prisoners better than their own troops. Many creative prisoners cut down the rubber plantations and grew their own vegetables, potatoes and cabbage. - The POW's were worked to death. - Not true. Boredom was the biggest problem so construction work parties were sent out to keep them occupied, but the prisoners suffered from poor nourishment and not hard labour. 116 - The Japanese did not distribute Red Cross parcels. - Wrong. There were no Red Cross parcels. - The POW's had to live in overcrowded conditions. - Yes by Australian standards, and no by Asian standards. In 1970's Australian troops in Malaysia bunked 8 man to one room, the British 16 to the same room and the Malaysian 20 to a room, and this was not POW's. - The POW's were regularly executed. - Not true. Some executions did take place for escaping attempts, which were few. 117 Chapter 15 CHURCHILL AND MALAY NO TORA Early in the morning December 8, local time, Singapore, the cornerstone of British Asia came under attack by Japanese bombers. The British capital battleships HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse, sent to Singapore as a deterrent to the Japanese, shot back with anti-aircraft fire, neither side sustaining any damage. Around that time news came in about Pearl Harbour, which meant that now the British navy was on it's own in the South China See. Admiral T. Phillips was ordered to send his battleships codenamed Force Z into offensive operations, trying to intercept and destroy Japanese convoys heading for Malaya, while Admiral Yamamoto sent 36 G4M bombers to strengthen the Kanoya Naval Force and Genzan Air Group. Britain Strength: 1 battleship 1 battlecruiser 4 destroyers Japan 88 aircraft including 34 torpedo aircraft Wales, causing extensive flooding, shaft damage, leaving the steering unresponsive. When one bomb fell among the wounded in her hangar, order was given to abandon ship, HMS Express taking off the wounded, the Prince of Wales rolled over and sank at 13:18. The Repulse had dodged 19 torpedos until she was caught in a pincer torpedo attack, and hit by two, possibly 4 torpedos, listing heavily to port before rolling over and sinking at 12:23 with heavy casualties. Losses: 1 battleship sunk 4 aircraft destroyed, 1 battlecruiser sunk 2 scouting aircraft lost 840 killed 18 killed (29) The Mitsubishi G4M bombers Around 11:40 December 10 the Genzan Air Corps attacked sending at least six torpedos into Prince of 119 The next day, Lt Haruki Iki flew over the site of the battle, dropping two wreaths of flowers, one for the fallen Japanese pilots and one for the British sailors who died in the battle. The next morning after the battle Sir Dudlay Pound First Sea Lord telephoned Churchill: Pound: Prime Minister, I have to report to you that the Prince of Wales and the Repulse have both been sunk by the Japanese we think by aircraft. Tom Phillips has drowned. Churchill: Are you sure it's true? Pound: There is no doubt at all. (30) Prince of Whales He later wrote: Churchill hangs up. In all the war, I never received a more direct shock ... As I turned over and twisted in bed the full horror of the news sank in upon me. There were no British or American ships in the Indian Ocean or the Pacific except the American survivors of Pearl Harbour, who were hastening back to California. Over all this vast expanse of waters Japan was supreme, and we everywhere were weak and naked. (30) Prince of Whales The two modern capital ships, while furiously defending themselves, were the first to be sunk solely by air120 power while steaming on the open sea, demonstrating the importance of air superiority in naval warfare. British survivors later told that at the beginning of the attack, they ridiculed the Japanese pilots trying to hit the mighty battleships, telling each other that from up there they could not even hit a football field. It turned out that they could even hit a tennis court. On December 23, the Japanese take Wake Island, defeat the British and Canadian forces at Hong Kong, capture Manilla January 2, 1942 and on January 11, declare war on the Netherlands and invade Dutch East Indies and Burma (January19) as January 23 marks the beginning of the battle of Rabaul. This battle on the island of New Britain, formally called German New Guinea, January- February 1942, was a significant defeat of the allied forces by Japan, turning the port of Rabaul into a major Japanese base and key to advance into New Guinea with Port Moresby and towards Australia. Australia Strength: 1400 Japan 5,000 Kaga, Akagi In January 1942 Japanese carrier based aircraft attacked Rabaul destroying the Australian coastal artillery forcing infantry withdrawal from Rabaul and the Japanese landing on New Ireland formally called Neumecklenburg. On January 22, 2:45 am, they landed on New Britain unopposed whereupon, after some stiff resistance, the Australians spread into small groups retreating into the jungle, most of them captured or surrendering in the following weeks. (32) Bismarck Archipelago 121 The battle of Malaya Britain Strength: 140,000 158 aircraft 5,500 killed 5,000 wounded 40,000 POW Japan 70,000 568 aircraft 200 light tanks 1,793 killed 3,378 wounded Casualties: The battle of Malaya began on December 8, 1941 with the Japanese amphibious assault at Kota Bharu and the first ever air raid on Singapore by Imperial Navy bombers out of Saigon. The Japanese battle hardened forces quickly advanced into northern Malaya having the advantage of close air support, light armour and bicycle infantry, easily defeating elite Indian Army and British Army battalions, at Jitra, Penang and Kuala Lumpur by January 11, 1942 only 300 Km from Singapore. The 11th Indian Army at Kampar, delayed the Japanese advance for a few days while the British retreated to prepared positions at Slim River. 122 The battle of Slim River, January 6-8, 1942 Britain Casualties: 500 killed 3,200 POW Japan 17 killed 60 wounded The defence was led by Brigadier A. Paris and the 11th Indian Army, including a Gurkha Brigade and the elite Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, while Colonel Ando's battle group, including Major Shimada's tank unit leading the Japanese assault, undertook the attack. Shimada came up with the plan of his tanks spearheading a night attack by the infantry, a highly risky, brave and unusual tactic. It nevertheless proved very efficient and ended the battle with Japanese victory and the annihilation of two Indian brigades, forcing Parcival to replace the 11th Indian Army with the 8th Australian Division. By midJanuary the Japanese had reached Johore encountering the stubborn Australians on January 14th, resulting in one of the bloodiest battles of the Malay campaign on January 15, near the Muar River. With the 45th Indian Brigade destroyed, its commander Brigadier Duncan and three battalion commanders killed, 600 Japanese casualties and Australian anti tank gunners destroying 9 japanese tanks, the Gemensah Bridge was demolished but repaired in just six hours after the battle. 123 Repairing bridges in unbelievably short time was one of the most successful strategies of the Japanese core of engineers. The other was Shimada's tank unit's lightning attacks, at Slim River led by Lt Watanabe, personally cutting demolition wires with his sword, moments before the bridge was to blow up. Even the British who suffered so badly due to Watanabe's Blitzkrieg night attacks were impressed. Lt. Col A. Harrison nearly killed in the battle remarked later: Heedless of danger and of their isolation they had shattered the division: they had captured the Slim Bridge by their reckless and gallant determination. On January 27, 1942 Percival received permission from the commander of the American- BritishDutch-Australian Command, General A. Wavell to retreat across the Johore Strait to the island of Singapore. The battle of Singapore, Malay no Tora Tomoyuki Yamashita: My attack on Singapore was a bluff- a bluff that worked. I had 30.000 men and was outnumbered more than three to one. I knew that if i had to fight for long for Singapore, I would be beaten. That is why the surrender had to be at once. I was very frightened all the time that the British would discover our numerical weakness and lack of supplies and force me into disastrous street fighting. Britain 120,000 1,000 guns of various types 250 armoured cars 100 fighter planes 130 bombers 2 battleships 7 destroyers 5 submarines 60,000 400 guns and mortars 120 tanks and armoured cars 459 army planes 158 navy planes 1 cruiser 10 destroyers 5 submarines 1,713 killed 2,772 wounded Japan Singapore was the Gibraltar of the East, and the major British base, controlling the sea lanes between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea / Pacific. It was Protected by the famous large calibre coastal batteries, one with three 15 inch guns and one with two 15 inch guns capable of firing shells 360 degrees. They were only supplied with armour-piercing shells for battleship armour penetration, since nobody had prepared for an overland attack through 1200 Km of dense Malayan jungle. British planners were confident that any attack would start from the see, but General T. Yamashita, nicknamed Malay no Tora for his fearless, lightning tactics, commanding the Japanese, battle hardened, 25th army lead by the elite Imperial Guard Division, had other plans for Singapore and Malaysia. On December 8, the Japanese divisions landed in Singora, Patani and Kota Bahru starting the blitz of the Malay Peninsula, the bicycle infantry moving with lightning speed on dirt roads, through the plantations and jungle, and the engineering units repairing blown up bridges at unbelievable pace. This new application of bicycles for jungle warfare and supply-transport (80 Kg/cycle) was successfully adapted later in the Pacific war, by Vietnamese Gen124 Strength: 2,000 killed Casualties: 5,000 wounded 50,000 captured eral Giap on the Ho Chi Min Trail. Capturing Penang December 17, Ipoh December 26, Kampar December 29, Kuantan December 30, the Japanese took Kuala Lumpur without resistance on Jan 11, 1942. It took Yamashita's army only 55 days to overrun the entire Malay Peninsula by January 31, 1942 and to cross the Johor strait on February 7 for the final attack on Singapore. British and US military planners had predicted that such an operation would last more than a year. Contradicting all expectations since their landing in Singora, the Japanese made an overland dash of eleven hundred kilometres, fighting ninety-five large and small engagements and repaired more than two hundred and fifty bridges. Thus the troops, on average, fighting two battles, repairing four or five bridges and advancing twenty kilometres every day reached their objective; now the final goal, Singapore lay in front of their eyes. On the evening of February 10, P.M. Winston Churchill cabled General Wavell in Singapore: of the Imperial General Staff, General Alan Brook] that Percival has over 100.000 men, of whom 33.000 are British and 17.000 Australian. It is doubtful whether the Japanese have as many in the whole Malay Peninsula ... In these circumstances the defenders must greatly outnumber Japanese forces who have crossed the straits, and in a well-contested battle they should destroy them. There must at this stage be no thought of saving the troops or sparing the population. The battle must be fought to the bitter end at all costs. The 18th Division has a chance to make its name in history. Commanders and senior officers should die with their troops. The honour of the British Empire and of the British Army is at stake. I rely on you to show no mercy to weakness in any form. With the Russians fighting as they are and the Americans so stubborn at Luzon, the whole reputation of our country and our race is involved. It is expected that every unit will be brought into close contact with the enemy and fight it out. Wavell ordered Percival to fight to the end, and said that any surrender was out of question. I think you ought to realise the way we view the situation in Singapore. It was reported to Cabinet by the C.I.G.S. [Chief 125 The Japanese, having already won the battle for Malaya, now prepared for the assault on Singapore, a 640 sq. km island a bit larger than Yakushima, with an inviting coastline of 100 km and a not so inviting defence of 100.000 military personell from Britain, Australia, India, Malaya and Singapore Dalforce (Chinese communist volunteers). General Parcival had divided the defence into three combat zones, north, west and south with a reserve in the middle of the island, but the foxy Japanese attack started midnight February 7, 1942 with a landing unopposed on Pulau Ubin faking a major attack from there. The real gravity of the attack became clear on February 8, with a major air and artillery assault on the north-west coast with the first amphibious landings at 9:30 that night at Sarimbun, by the Imperial Guards undeterred by heavy losses from Australian machine-gun fire; the Tengah airfield was captured and landings at Kranji executed Feb 9th. For Yamashita, now in solid control of the north, the next goal was Bukit Timah which was captured by February 11th, whereupon Yamashita called upon Percival to surrender. He declined, so further battles continued for Pasir Panjang, Bukit Chandu with the British falling back to the city perimeter, critically low on water, food, fuel and ammunition. At the Ford Motor factory in Bukit Timah on the 15th of February 1942 at 18:10 that evening the official surrender was signed. It was a magnificent victory for Japan signalling the end of British military power in the Far East forever. Percival's cable to the supreme command of the American-British-Dutch-Australian forces read: All ranks have done their best. The liberation or occupation (depending on point of view) of Shonan/ Singapore, was now a fact and the Japanese military administration began a painstakingly thorough de(33) British surrender colonisation of Malayan hearts and minds, institutions, legal and illegal organisations, as well as the general public at large. The recruiting of Indian soldiers for a new pro-Japanese Indian National Army was highly successful, resulting in approximately 45.000 Indian soldiers fighting the British in Burma from 1942 until 1945. On October 21, 1943, the Provisional Government of Free India established its first headquarters in Singa126 pore, and the Kempeitai (military police) imposed harsh measures especially on ethnic Chinese many of whom had been supporting both Chiang Kaishek's Koumuntang against Japan and the British colonial system, being Singapore's privileged elite and wealthy business class. Of course many British and Australian secret operatives went underground and began organising sabotage-commando units, mainly against the harbour and Japanese shipping and supplies, such as Operation Jaywick, -Gustavus, -Sruggle and -Rimau, resulting in a number of executions of arrested commandoes considered terrorists by the Kempeitai. 127 The Burma campaign The Japanese strategy in South East Asia included taking control of Burma, its raw materials, oil fields and rubber-plantations as well as closing the important Burma road completed in 1938, thus stopping US/UK military supply of Chiang Kai-Shek in Yunnan. In mid January 1942 the Japanese 15th army under the command of Lt. Gen. Shojiro Iida attacked Burma forcing their way through steep jungle covered hills, taking the airfields at Tavoy and Mergui January 18. Rangoon, defended by Indian divisions, The Burmese Rifles, volunteer US pilots (The Flying Tigers) and a British Armoured Brigade Under General Alexander and Field Marshal Archibald Wavell was evacuated March 7, 1942 after a scorched earth policy was implemented. The British hoped to stop the Japanese advance in central Burma with the help of the Chinese Expeditionary Force defending Mandalay but instead of slowing down, the Japanese attack gained momentum. Bringing in two divisions from Singapore and Java, using captured British trucks to supply their forces they captured Yanangyaung and the important Yunnan-Burma road closing down the last overland US supply route of Chiang Kai-Shek. 128 (34) Japanese Conquest of Burma The British Burma government fell back to Myitkyina while the Burma Corpse retreated to India, disorganised stragglers and refugees filling the roads and the Chinese troops cut of from China. The Chinese entering India were put under the command of US General Stilwell, retrained and re-equipped while many of the Chinese soldiers trying to reach Yunnan died on the way ending the largest British lead retreat in military history. General Alexander gave the order to withdraw all men to India April 26, a 1000 mile retreat with the rear guard of British-, Indiantroops and Ghurkhas entering India end of May, totally exhausted, ragged and pitiful riddled with malaria and dysentery. The five month Burma campaign had cost more than 10.000 British and 3700 Burmese casualties as well as among other material losses 116 RAF planes lost. 129 FDR's executive order of February 2, 1942 At the same time on the other side of the Pacific FDR's executive order of February 2 1942 was being implemented. This was a Presidential decree directing the internment of 120.000 Japanese Americans to so called War Relocation Camps, a dressed up version of basic concentration camps. All Japanese Americans on the US West Coast were interned while in Hawaii, where one third of the population, or 150.000 souls were Japanese Americans only 1800 were interned. Of the total internees 62% were US citizens. Also in a little-known secret program from December 1941 to February 1948, the US government orchestrated and financed the mass abduction, forcible deportation and internment of 2.264 men, women and children of Japanese ancestry from 13 Latin American countries. Stripped of their passports en route, they were, on arrival in USA, declared and accused as illegal aliens and jailed. There was further unprecedented action towards Japanese in Latin America, where there were a considerable population of first and second generation Japanese immigrants holding Cuban, Brazilian, Chil- ean, Bolivian, etc citizenships. In Brazil with the largest Japanese immigrant community of 250.000 next only to Manchuria, only 1000 families, perceived dangerous, were forcibly relocated to Paranagua, the rest, although Brazil was a close ally of the US, were left in place, considered valuable and productive citizens of the Brazilian economy. In central America and the Caribbean lesser Japanese communities suffered different degrees of dislocation and trauma. In Cuba the entire Japanese population was interned on the prison island, Isle of Pines, and the very isolated Japanese colony in La Colmena, Paraguay was left intact. Bolivia cooperated closely with the US government arresting and sending a large number of its Japanese-Bolivian citizens to the USA, where they were arrested by the FBI for illegal immigration. Run by the Special War Problems Division of the State Department the arrests and illegal deportations were top secret and the 2.264 Japanese Latin American citizens, forcibly brought to the USA were interned in camps run by the Immigration and Naturalization Service. 130 Although they were civilians, the internees and their families were treated as POW's in the hope that they could be useful for exchanges of American POW's in Japan, inventing a completely new version of human trafficking. Over 800 were included in two prisoner exchanges. This blatant abuse of the most basic human rights and international conventions upgrading kidnapping and hostage-taking to US government policy was widely reported in the Japanese press. It was now clear that in this war, for the first time since the bloody Thirty Years War, no prisoners would be taken and the targeting civilians was an important part of American military strategy, convincing even committed Japanese pacifists, that there was no alternative to fighting the US until death. (35) Japanese Peruvians on their way to US internment. Panama canal zone April 2, 1942. 131 Chapter 16 BIG BATTLES FOR SMALL ISLANDS Battle of the Java Sea February 27, 1942 USA-UK-HollandAustralia Strength: Casualties: 2 heavy cruisers 3 light cruisers 9 destroyers 2 cruisers sunk 3 destroyers sunk Japan 2 heavy cruisers 2 light cruisers 14 destroyers 10 transports 1 destroyer damaged 2,300 killed ers Yudachi, Samidare, Murasame, Harusame, Minegumo, Asagumo, Yukikaze, Tokitsukaze, Amatsukaze, Hatsukaze, Yamakaze, Kawakaze, Sazanami and Ushio gathered to strike at Java. On February 27 - the ABDA naval force including cruisers HMS Exeter, USS Houston, HNLMS De Ruyter and HNLMS Java, HMAS Perth, destroyers HMS Electra, HMS Encounter, HMS Jupiter, HNLMS Kortenaer, HNLMS Witte de With, USS Alden, USS John D. Edwards, USS John D. Ford and USS Paul Jones engaged the Japanese in the Java sea at about 16:00, the battle raging until midnight with heavy losses inflicted on the American-British-DutchAustralian fleet. Exeter was critically damaged, Kortenaer sunk, Elactra crippled and abandoned, Jupiter sunk and De Ruyter and Java sunk by one devastating long lance (Type 93 torpedo) salvo, with commanding Dutch Admiral Karel Doorman and most of the crew going down with HNLMS De Ruyter. On the Japanese side only Asagumo was retired because of damage and further two American and one Dutch destroyer were sunk as they attempted to escape to Australia, thus the ABDA naval force almost totally destroyed with 10 ships and 2.173 sailors lost, ending Allied naval op- The Japanese invasion of Dutch East Indies, advanced from Palau capturing bases in Sarawak, southern Philippines, Borneo and Celebes with the invasion convoy approaching oil- rich Balikpapan in Borneo through the Makassar Strait. On February 13 - in the battle of Palembang, the combined American-British-Dutch-Australian naval force engaged the Japanese convoy under the command of Rear Admiral Nishimura, but could not prevent the Japanese from capturing the major oil-port of Sumatra. On February 19 - the Japanese First Air Fleet attacked the port at Darwin, stopping ABDA supplies to East Indies as the Japanese convoy escorted by cruisers Nachi, Haguro, Naka, Jintsu and the destroy133 erations in South-East Asia and in the unopposed Japanese invasion of Java February 28, 1942. The Indian Ocean Raids by the Imperial Japanese Navy on April 5th and 9th near Colombo, Ceylon additionally resulted in the sinking of Royal Navy Cruisers HMS Cornwall and HMS Dosetshire and aircraft carrier HMS Hermes and Australian Navy destroyer HMAS Vampire. 134 The Battle of the Coral Sea Allied 2 fleet carriers 9 cruiser 13 destroyers Strength: 2 oilers 1 seaplane tenders 128 carrier aircraft Japan Losses: 2 fleet carriers 1 light carrier 9 cruisers 15 destroyers 5 minesweepers 12 transports 127 carrier aircraft 1 light carrier 1 fleet carrier 1 destroyer 3 small warships 1 destroyer 1 fleet carrier 1 oiler damaged 1 fleet carrier damaged 69 aircraft 92 aircraft 966 killed (36) Coral Sea At the same time Admiral Yamamoto was planning a major operation in June in the central Pacific near Midway Atoll, hoping to trap and destroy the main American carrier force which miraculously had escaped Pearl Harbour, so he detached some of his large carriers and placed Admiral Inoue in charge of the naval part of Mo sakusen. Unfortunately for Yamamoto the US Navy's Office of Naval Communications was able to decipher and read 85% of the Japanese communication signals broadcasted in the Ro code, thus giving the American 135 On May 4-8, 1942 the first battle in naval history where two enemy fleets fought without seeing each others fleets, took place in the Coral Sea between the Imperial Japanese Navy lead by Admiral Shigeyoshi Inoue and the combined American-Australian navies and air forces under the command of Admiral Frank Fletcher. The Japanese objective was to take control of Port Moresby, New Guinea, establishing a base there thus cutting the supply line between Australia and USA the operation called Mo sakusen. Admiral Nimitz, facing superior Japanese Pilot training and Naval Tactics, a big advantage. On May 3 the Japanese took possession of Tulagi and began building a seaplane base, while early on May 5 Fletcher received a message from Pearl Harbour that, according to radio intelligence, the Japanese were planning to land at Port Moresby on May 10 and that their carrier fleet was probably going to be operating close to the invasion convoy. This information made it possible for Fletchers task force to complete refuelling on May 6 and getting ready to do battle on May 7. Early morning both parties sent out scouting planes and search aircraft trying to locate each others main carrier groups first; being able to bomb and torpedo enemy flattops first was the key to success in this new aerial-naval warfare, which the Japanese were mastering superiorly. Thanks to their code-braking ability however it was the American Lexington air group that first struck and sank Shoho with only 203 of 834 crew surviving making May 7 a black day for the Japanese postponing the Port Moresby landing to May 12. The second day of the carrier battle started early May 8, when both parties spotted each others carrier groups and the Japanese carriers launching a combined force of 18 fighters, 33 dive bombers, and 18 136 torpedo planes under the command of Lt. Commander Kakuichi Takahashi at 09:15. The Yorktown group of 6 fighters, 24 dive bombers, 9 torpedo planes got on its way by 09:15 with the Lexington's group committing 9 fighters, 15 dive bombers, 12 torpedo planes at 09:25. (37) The flight officers on Imperial Japanese Navy aircraft carrier Shokaku aboard the ship on December 6, 1941, the day before their attack on Pearl Harbor. Second row, 4th from right is fighter division officer Lieutenant Tadashi Kaneko. To his left is air officer Commander Wada, Captain Koji Shiroshima, and Lieutenant Commander Kakuichi Takahashi, the air group commander. The Yorktown dive bombers attacked Shokaku causing heavy damage to the flight- and hangar decks and the carrier, with 223 of the crew killed or wounded retired from the battle at 12:15 while the Lexington's planes missed Shokaku with 11 of their torpedos. The Japanese attack on the US carriers began 11:30 with the 19 Shokaku dive bombers led by Takahashi lining up on Lexington minutes after the torpedo planes began their run while Zuikaku's flying ace Tamotsu Ema commanded the remaining 14 bombers attacking Yorktown. Lexington was hit with two bombs causing severe fire and later a huge explosion and Yorktown's centre flight deck was penetrated by a 250 Kg armour-piercing bomb exploding four decks below causing severe damage and killing or wounding 66 men. At 12:00 the US and Japanese strike groups were returning to their respective carriers, passing each other, resulting in air to air combats and Takahashi's aircraft shot down killing him. Lexington, burning out of control, the crew began abandoning ship at 17:07 which sank at 19:52, battle damaged Shokaku reaching Kure, Japan on May 17, Zikaku on May 21 and Yorktown reaching Pearl Harbour May 27, ending the first of this new type of naval warfare, where the warships never sighted or fired directly at each other. Instead manned aircraft in carrier-versus-carrier duels, acted as offensive artillery increasing distance and speed, dramatically compressing decision making time and making code- braking and information communication essential. The experienced Japanese carrier air crews were better, and achieved greater results as well as the Japanese attack on May 8 was better coordinated than the US attacks, but the Japanese loss of 90 pilots killed in the battle started the irreplaceable decimation of Japan's veteran carrier air crews in the following months. (38) Tamotsu Ema leader of the Zuikaku bombers The Battle of the Coral Sea was a tactical victory for Japan sinking 42.000 tons versus 19.000 tons sunk by the Americans, but it was a strategic victory for the US/Australia turning back a Japanese invasion force for the first time, averting the fall of Port Moresby, vi137 tal to US- Australian shipping and Naval support. Japanese and US carriers would cross swords again in the battles of Midway, the Eastern Solomons and the Santa Cruz Islands in 1942 and the Philippine Sea in 1944, all significant battles of the Pacific War. From now on it was clear that the control of a land based unsinkable air field near any Pacific naval battle location would make a big difference. 138 The battle of Midway (Pihemanu Kauihelani in Hawaiian) The outcome of the battle of Midway was due to a) The outcome of the battle of the Coral Sea, with 90 veteran Japanese pilots killed and Shokaku and Zikaku damaged not being on their planned posts at Midway. b) US code-breaking assets. c) The unsinkable carrier Midway atoll. d) Japanese battle fatigue within the Kido Butai being in constant battle for the past 6 month. e) A good deal of US luck. By 1942 it had become obvious that victory in naval warfare depended almost entirely on airpower, airand carrier crew excellence and the control of a land based airfield in the vicinity of the battle, almost essential. The Japanese preparation for the battle of Midway, June 4-7, 1942 was, compared to the perfect, precise, disciplined planning and execution of previous naval battles, almost sloppy, as Admiral Nagumo would fight at Midway with only four fleet carriers, namely Kaga, Akagi, Hiryu and Soryu. Additionally there were not enough strike aircraft to replace the losses of previous battles as well as most of the airplanes had been in operation since November 1941, all of which meant that all Japanese carriers had fewer 139 US 3 carriers 25 support ships 360 aircraft (1/3 land based) 1 carrier sunk 1 destroyer sunk 150 aircraft lost 307 killed Japan 4 carriers 2 battleships 15 support cruisers and destroyers 248 carrier aircraft 4 carriers sunk 1 cruiser sunk 248 aircraft lost 2,013 killed Strength: Casualties and losses: (39) The 6.2 sq km Midway atoll than their normal aircraft strength and only a few in reserve. Battle fatigue was also a factor since Japanese carriers had been in constant operations since December 7, 1941 so the strategic scouting in air by Kawanishi flying boats and by submarines was not up to standard, thus the information about the US Navy movements only spotty. On the American side Admiral Nimitz's codebreakers at HYPO in Hawaii had broken the JN- 25 code, and due to a delay in a new Japanese codebook introduction, could confirm the impending Japanese attack on Midway, the date as 4 or 5 June and the complete Japanese order of the battle. The Americans knew when, where and at what strength the Japanese would appear, while the Japanese knew almost nothing about US movements and plans. A good deal of luck and fate rewarded the stubbornness of the commander of a squadron of US divebombers, McClusky, carrying on the search for the Japanese fleet in spite of running low on fuel, spotting destroyer Arashi, by chance arriving in perfect time to attack with armed Japanese aircraft still on the hangar decks, refuelling in progress. At 10:22 the Enterprise air group hit Kaga, and Akagi while Yorktowns aircraft targeted Soryu, leaving all three carriers heavily ablaze within a few minutes and Hiryu the sole Japanese carrier launching a counterattack sinking Yorktown and her protection destroyer Hammann. Later that day, dive bombers from Enterprise attacked Hiryu setting her ablaze in spite of being defended by a dozen Zero fighters, and sinking her with Vice Admiral Yamaguchi choosing to go down with his ship, Japan thus losing one of her best naval commanders. The unsinkable carrier, Midway island, making landing possible for American bombers even when their home-carriers were sunk or damaged, an option not available for the Japanese pilots, made the difference. Having lost four of her six fleet carriers as well as a large number of the best air crews, Japan's defenses were weakened dramatically, since replacement could not be sustained by her industry, unlike the USA whose GDP being five times Japan's, could easily tolerate ten Pearl Harbours. 140 In the book Shattered Sword. The Untold Story of the Battle of Midway by J. Parshall and A. Tully the newest analysis of the battle of Midway is very interesting: The Battle of Midway has rightly remained one of the most important and widely studied engagements in naval history. It is, in the eyes of many, the quintessential contest between Japan and America - the decisive naval battle in the Pacific war. This is understandable, since Midway contains all the timeless elements that define a classic clash of arms - an apparent mismatch in the strength of the combatants, a seesaw battle with the initiative passing back and forth, acts of tremendous heroism on both sides, and an improbable climax. It is a battle that has rightly captured the imagination of subsequent generations seeking to understand both the engagement itself and its effects on the course of the greater conflict of which it was a part. By any measure, June 4, 1942, was a watershed date, after which the Pacific war entered an entirely new phase. For the Japanese, Midway abruptly rang down the curtain on a triumphant first six months of war and largely destroyed Japan’s ability to initiate major new offensives in the Pacific. 141 The destruction of the Imperial Navy’s four finest aircraft carriers - Akagi, Kaga, Hiryu, and Soryu - forever ruined the world- class naval aviation force with which it had opened hostilities. While the imperial fleet remained a force to be reckoned with, it never regained the combination of material and qualitative superiority that made it so feared during the initial phase of the conflict. On August 7, 1942 the US initiated the landing on Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands, a battle lasting until February 9, 1943. Battle of Guadalcanal USA and Australia, eventually intending to capture the major Japanese base at Rabaul. Japan USA Strength: Casualties: 7,100 killed 29 ships lost 615 aircraft lost 60,000 ground forces 35,000 ground forces 31,000 killed 38 ships lost 650 aircraft lost Landing 10.000 marines at Tulagi and Guadalcanal against 2.200 Japanese defenders, the attacking marines landing on Tulagi had to overcome fierce resistance by the Imperial Japanese Navy personnel fighting to the last man the Americans suffering 122 killed. The 11.000 marines landing on Guadalcanal island met much less resistance securing the airport, being under construction, by 16:00 August 8, capturing the Japanese construction equipment. Japanese naval aircraft based on Rabaul under the command of Sadayoshi Yamada attacked the landing forces several times sinking US transport Elliot and the destroyer USS Jarvis. Near Savo island that night, allied warships under the command of British Rear Admiral Crutchley were surprised and defeated by Japanese cruisers, commanded by Vice Admiral Gunichi Mikawa, based in Rabaul. (40) Solomon Islands The US marines outnumbered and overwhelmed the Japanese defenders and landed on the islands of Guadalcanal, Tulagi and Nggela, capturing an airfield with the objective of securing the sea lanes between 142 One Australian and three American heavy cruisers were sunk (Canberra, Astoria, Quincy and Vincennes), two destroyers and one cruiser badly damaged but Mikawa, worried about daylight, failed to follow up and did not attack the allied transport ships while the opportunity was there, thus making a big mistake. In an astonishing effort the marines finished the airport by August 18 naming it Henderson Field after marine aviator Lofton Henderson killed in the battle of Midway. Still not aware of the Japanese deathdefying spirit of fighting, the Marines dispatched reconnaissance patrols to find and capture Japanese willing to surrender, resulting in patrols coming under fierce Japanese attacks, some completely annihilated and only a few Korean workers surrendering. Underestimating the allied forces, the Japanese high command ordered to retake Guadalcanal but the Ichiki regiment, attacking frontally with only about 1000 men, were defeated with just 128 soldiers escaping the battle of Tenaru. On August 24 in the battle of Eastern Solomons, the Japanese light carrier Ryujo is sunk and the US carrier Enterprise is damaged as well as a few days later, the American carrier Saratoga is torpedoed 143 near San Christobal. On the night of September 12 the Kawaguchi battalion attacked the US marines between Lunga River and Lunga ridge but failed to rout and annihilate the enemy in the vicinity of the Guadalcanal Island airfield, suffering 850 killed in prolonged hand to hand combat, finally retreating and reporting defeat to their commander Hyakutake on Rabaul. This triggered an emergency session at the supreme HQ in Tokyo, the Japanese finally realising that the battle of Guadalcanal was developing into a major battle of the war, with decisive strategic importance. Several engagements and local naval- and ground battles later, with US carrier Wasp sunk and North Carolina torpedoed September 15, heavy cruisers Furutaka and Fubuki sunk October 11-12, and battleships Kongo and Haruna shelling the US positions, the battle for the Henderson Airfield commenced October 24 followed by the battle of Santa Cruz and the sinking of US carrier Hornet October 26. In the following Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, November 12-15, Japan loses battleships Hiei and Kirishima, heavy cruiser Kinugasa and three destroyers while the Americans lose Atlanta, San Francisco, Juneau plus seven destroyers while heavy cruisers Suzuya and Maya bombard Henderson Field on November 13. Finally upon additional naval and ground engagements, Japan evacuates Guadalcanal February 1-7, 1943 admiral Nagumo stating that Kiska, Admiral Hosogaya, although enjoying superior firepower, flailed to completely annihilate all the American warships and retreated too soon, fearing US airpower, ending Japanese attempts to surface runs to the the Aleutians and resulting in American invasion of Attu. The battle was a tactical win but a shattering strategical loss for Japan. With the excellent carrier aircrews decimated and no quick replacement possible and no hope to mach the American Industrial output in material and manpower Japanese decisive victory became elusive and her offensive capabilities limited while the Americans were rapidly replacing and even increasing their forces. Thousands of kilometres to the west the German defeat February 2, 1943 ended Operation Barbarossa, signalling the beginning of German/Italian defeat and obviously strengthening the US/British/Soviet position in the Pacific. On March 26 in the battle of Komandorsky Islands, in an effort to resupply the Japanese garrison at 144 Battle of Attu and Kiska USA Strength: Casualties: 144,000 1,481 killed 3,400 wounded 225 aircraft destroyed 8,500 Japan high ground resulting in over 4000 American casualties in hand to hand combat lasting until May 29 when Colonel Yamazaki led a large banzai charge, shocking the US and Canadian forces. After a brutal close-quarter combat the Japanese force was killed almost to the last man with only 28 prisoners taken. The invasion of Kiska island by 34.400 US-Canadian combined forces found the island abandoned since the Japanese had managed to successfully remove the troops under fog-cover on July 28, the American Air force having bombed the abandoned positions for three weeks. At the same time in the Solomon Islands on July 6 a Japanese Kolombangara reenforcement group of 10 destroyers, loaded with 2.600 combat troops, led by Admiral Teruo Akiyama's flagship Niizuki engaged US light cruisers Helena, Honolulu and St Louis in the brief Battle of Kula Gulf, the Americans sinking Niizuki, killing Admiral Akiyama. On August 4 the 36.000 tons USS Intrepid is launched further strengthening the US Pacific Navy, and on August 6 the Americans, having learned their lessons well, launching their torpedoes, before firing their guns and giving away their position, defeat a Japanese convoy off Kolombangara. With 36 torpedoes in 145 4,350 killed 7 warships sunk (41) Attu Island, Kiska island The American recapture of Attu began on May 11, 1943 and became very bloody since the Japanese led by Colonel Yasuyo Yamazaki, had dug defences on the water in 63 seconds they sink three destroyers with no losses to themselves; over 1.000 Japanese soldiers and sailors were lost mostly by drowning. No longer being able to supply their garrison on Kolombangara the Japanese soon abandoned the island. Incidentally future US president Kennedy's boat PT-109 was rammed and sunk by the destroyer Amagiri, but Kennedy had the luck of being saved by natives in a canoe. On November 20, the United States Marines land on Tarawa starting a second offensive in the central Pacific after Guadalcanal; it was the first time the Americans were going to face a strong Japanese opposition to an amphibious landing, and as it turned out, the Japanese intended fighting to the last man, the marines taking heavy losses. 146 Battle of Tarawa USA Strength: 35,000 Losses: 1,000 killed 2,300 wounded Japan 3,000 and 2,000 labourers all but 146 of 5,000 killed well defended so the Japanese garrison on Tarawa Atoll had to be taken first. The Japanese were very well aware of the strategic importance of the Gilberts Islands and Tarawa, investing thoroughly in fortifications and stationed a force of 2.600 elite navy unit led by Commander Takeo Sugai. His defence included tanks, coastal defence guns in concrete bunkers, 500 pillboxes, forty artillery pieces around the island and trenches connecting most points of the defence system. The garrison commander, Kaigun Shosho Keiji Shibasaki, boasted that it would take one million men a hundred years to conquer Tarawa. The US invasion force was not one million but the largest yet assembled with 17 aircraft carriers, 12 battleships, 12 cruisers, 66 destroyers, 36 transports and 35.000 soldiers and marines with the naval guns opening fire November 20, 1943 shelling over one and a half hours, only interrupted by carrier based dive bomber attacks. The marines starting their attack on the lagoon, were convinced that the bombardment had eliminated the defenders on the tiny island, but the Japanese quickly 147 (42) Tarawa Island The Tarawa invasion was a part of the American island hopping plan with the objective to take the Mariannas Islands from where land-based US bombing raids against mainland Japan could eventually be launched.The Mariannas were heavily fortified and emerged from their bunkers and manned their gun positions, shelling the American boats on the reef, knocking out half the amphibious vessels, effectively stopping the first assault. On the second day the marines managed to cut the Japanese defence into two, calling in offshore naval fire slowly progressing, taking out machine guns and defences, the entire western part of the island in US control by the end of the day on November 21 and the atoll commander Shibazaki killed. On the third day, November 22, the Americans consolidated their positions with tanks and heavy equipment gaining the upper hand by nightfall. The expected Japanese counter assault, next day at 04:00 left 200 attackers dead in front of the US lines. Only one Japanese officer, 16 enlisted men and 129 Koreans were alive at the end of the battle. Total Japanese casualties were 4700 dead and 1.000 US marines killed with 2.300 wounded and an additional 700 US Navy personnel dead; a surprising outcome of the battle considering that the US forces were seven times larger than the Japanese defenders. This triggered a storm of protests in the US and demands of explanation of the high losses of taking such a small island in the middle of nowhere. Some US generals later admitted the Tarawa was not worth it. Both sides would later apply the lessons of Tarawa in the Battle of Iwo Jima. In the meantime the Cairo Conference of November 22-26 attended by FDR, Churchill and Chiang KaiShek with his wife, supposed to address the future of Asia after an unconditional surrender of Japan, did not work well because Stalin refused to participate since Chiang was attending, thus the Teheran meeting two days later with Stalin was arranged. The Cairo declaration, signed on November 27, 1943 turned out to be meaningless, stating that the allies would continue military force until Japan's unconditional surrender, stripping Japan of all Pacific islands including Okinawa and awarding China with Manchuria, Formosa, Pescadores and promising Korean independence in due course. FDR even offered the Ryuku's to Chiang but he said no thank you. 148 Battle of Kwajalein stroying almost all beach defence ahead of the Americans landing amphibious trucks, tanks, armoured vehicles and bulldozers. Japan USA Strength: Losses: 53,000 372 killed 1,600 wounded about 8,300 8,122 killed 100 captured The Americans had two objectives; taking the islands of Roi-Namur in the north and Kwajalein in the south. Having decrypted Japanese communications, they knew the defence structures/locations, and air superiority was ensured by bombing the airfield on Roi-Namur destroying almost all Japanese planes in the Marshalls on January 29; the 7th infantry division captured the small island Carlson, establishing overwhelming artillery base there, carpeting the 4Km long and 800m wide Kwajalein Island's surface with a devastating combination of B- 24 bombers, naval heavy shelling, and artillery fire. It looked like the whole island had been picked up 20.000 feet and then dropped an eyewitness wrote. (43) Kwajalein, Marshall Islands An awesome armada left Pearl Harbour on January 22, 1944. A total of 375 ships with 700 carrier planes headed for Kwajalein, initiating Operation Flintlock January 31, firing 7.000 12 cm shells and 29.000 artillery rounds, covering every sq. m of the islands, de149 Nevertheless there was still resistance, the Americans estimating that 1500 of the 5000 Japanese were still alive. The airfield on Roi was captured on February 1, and Namur fell the next day with only 51 of the original Japanese defenders surviving. The capture of Kwajalein demonstrated that the new US overkill tactics and new amphibious strategy rendered conventional beach defences useless. The overwhelming naval and air bombardment demanded a deep, fortified, tunnel defence strategy. 150 Battle of Eniwetok USA Strength: Losses: 10,000 200 airplanes 350 killed and missing Japan 2,800 500 airplanes, 300 tanks and 130 naval ships all killed only 16 captured Upon the large naval bombardment of Eniwetok February 17, the marines landed on Engebi the next day only opposed by little resistance soon securing the island, but on Eniwetok, after only a short bombardment, the Americans were stopped and it took until February 21 to take the tiny island. This mistake was not to be repeated again and during the rest of their island hopping campaign the Americans made sure that every sq. m. before landings were shelled and bombarded, e.g. 900 tons of explosives were dropped on Parry Island by USS Tennessee and USS Pennsylvania. By February 23 the whole atoll was in American hands. (44) Eniwetok Atoll 151 Battle of Admiralty Islands USA/Australia Strength: Losses: 35,000 330 killed 1,200 wounded Japan 4,000 3,300 killed 75 captured mark archipelago, renamed New Britain when occupied by and awarded to Australia by the Leage of Nations. Given Australian racism and record of Aborigine treatment the Australian administration of New Guinies was not attractive from the Papuans point of view. On February 29, 1944 an American force landed on Los Negros, rather easily to begin with, but soon a furious battle started for the control of the Admiralty Achipelago. The Japanese defended Seeadler Harbour, Hauwei Island and Manus in bloody counter attacks, but as they gradually ran out of food and ammunition, the fighting became unequal and a last stand by fifty Japanese in the Papitalai Hills on March 24 ended organised resistance on Los Negros and Manus. A diary found on a fallen Japanese soldier describes the condition the Japanese defenders had endured: (45) Manus Island This battle was a part of the New Guinea campaign, the islands held by Japan, having established a strong base at Rabaul early on. A bit smaller than Kyushu and bigger than Taiwan the island originally was a part of German New Guinea called the the Bis152 28 March Last night's duty was rather quiet except for the occasional mortar and rifle fire that could be heard. According to the conference of the various unit leaders, it has been decided to abandon the present position and withdraw. The preparation for this has been made. However, it seems as though this has been cancelled and we will firmly hold this position. Ah! This is honorable defeat and I suppose we must be proud of the way we have handled ourselves. Only our names will remain, and this is something I don't altogether like. Yes, the lives of those remaining, 300 of us, are now limited to a few days. 30 March This is the eighth day since we began the withdrawal. We have been wandering around and around the mountain roads because of the enemy. We have not yet arrived at our destination but we have completely exhausted our rations. Our bodies are becoming weaker and weaker, and this hunger is getting unbearable. 31 March Although we are completely out of rations, the march continues. When will we reach Lorengau? Or will this unit be annihilated in the mountains? As we go along, we throw away our equipment and weapons one by one. 1 April Arrived at native shack. According to a communication, friendly troops in Lorengau cannot help but withdraw. Hereafter there is no choice but to live as the natives do. There were still Japanese forces on the outlying islands but air superiority and command of the sea allowed the Allies to end the battle officially May 18, 1944, starting the construction of a major air and naval base becoming important for further campaigns in the Pacific. 153 The Bougainville Campaign naval base at Buin. In November 1943 US marines attacked Bougainville at Torokina, established a beachhead and began constructing three air fields, but with Japanese well camouflaged artillery on high ground in the hills along Torokina River, heavy losses was inficted on the Americans, and fierce combat for Hellzapoppin Ridge lasted most of December not being captured by the Marines before Christmas Day. It took US infantry and Australian troops bloody fighting until April 18, 1944 when the last of the Japanese defenders were killed or withdrew. The Japanese withdrawing to the interior, cut off from supplies, tried to survive by farming and suffered 8.200 killed and 17.000 dead of disease and malnutrition, the rest, 23.000 surrendering on August 21, 1945. USA/Australia/ New Zealand Strength: 126,000 troops 700 aircraft Japan 60,000 troops (including labor personnel) 150 aircraft (46) Bougainville Island In April 1942 the Japanese had landed on Bougainville and constructed a number of airfields across the island, the main ones at Buka and Kahili, and a 154 Battle of Saipan USA Strength: 71,000 31,000 Japan rines landing on June 15 from 300 Landing Vehicles on the west coast. The Japanese defence, was well organised, so artillery and machine gun emplacements destroyed 20 amphibious tanks, but their counterattack at night was repulsed by the marines and the Americans took the Aslito airfield on June 18. Due to the Imperial Navy losses in the battle of the Philippine Sea, resupply of the garrison on Saipan had become hopeless and the Japanese had nowhere to retreat, so their commander, General Yoshitsugu Saito organised defence in the hills of central Saipan around Mount Tapotchau. The fighting was bloody and intense with the American nicknames, such as Purple Heart Ridge, Hell's Pocket, Death Valley going down in history, the Japanese hiding in well camouflaged caves, executing hit and run night attacks, the Americans using flamethrowers to clear the bunkers. The combat chaos deteriorated to a point when there was no distinction any longer between civilians and troops and General Saito planned and ordered a final suicidal banzai charge by his remaining 3000 men followed by barely armed wounded and civilians with bamboo spears, the attack becoming the biggest Banzai charge of the Pacific war leaving 650 Americans 155 Losses: 3,000 killed 24,000 killed 5,000 suicides 921 POW's 22,000 civilians dead 10 000 wounded (47) Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands The Invasion of Saipan began on June 13, 1944 with fifteen battleships firing 165.000 shells and 8.000 Ma- dead and wounded and 4.300 Japanese killed. On July 9, 1944 16:15 Admiral Turner declared Saipan secure, with 3.000 Americans dead, the entire Japanese garrison of 30.000 and 22.000 civilians killed and 10.000 Americans wounded. General Saito committed seppuku in a cave on July 10 his final order being: I am addressing the officers and men of the Imperial Army on Saipan. For more than twenty days since the American Devils attacked, the officers, men, and civilian employees of the Imperial Army and Navy on this island have fought well and bravely. Everywhere they have demonstrated the honor and glory of the Imperial Forces. I expected that every man would do his duty. Heaven has not given us an opportunity. We have not been able to utilize fully the terrain. We have fought in unison up to the present time, but now we have no materials with which to fight and our artillery for attack has been completely destroyed. Our comrades have fallen one after another. Despite the bitterness of defeat, we pledge "Seven lives to repay our country". 156 The barbarous attack of the enemy is being continued. Even though the enemy has occupied only a corner of Saipan we are dying without avail under the violent shelling and bombing. Whether we attack or whether we stay where we are, there is only death. However, in death there is life. We must utilized this opportunity to exalt true Japanese manhood. I will advance with those who remain to deliver still another blow to the American Devils, and leave my bones on Saipan as a bulwark of the Pacific. As it says in the "Senjinkun" (Battle Ethics), "I will never suffer the disgrace of being taken alive," and "I will offer up the courage of my soul and calmly rejoice in living by the eternal principle." Here I pray with you for the eternal life of the Emperor and the welfare of the country and I advance to seek out the enemy. Follow me!! One Japanese officer, JIA Captain Sakae Oba kept on conducting an organised guerilla war, hiding during the day and fighting in the night holding out in the jungle until December 1, 1945. search-chain of the island, but could not find Captain Oba, who kept fighting for 16 months, until his commanding officer was brought in from Tokyo, ordering Oba to surrender using a megaphone. Only then did Captain Oba and his 46 men lay down their arms, and march out of the jungle singing. (48) Captain Oba and his men The Americans tried to defeat him and his men, even conducting a 10.000 man strong fingertip to fingertip 157 Battle of Angaur from USS Wasp the island defended by 1.400 Japanese troops under the command of overall Palau commander General Sadae Inoue. Japan 1,400 1,340 killed 60 captured USA Strength: Losses: 15,000 260 killed 2,400 wounded September 17, six days later the US 81st infantry division landed on the northern and southern coasts but as they advanced Japanese resistance hardened. The fighting got bloody as the Americans advanced on a hill near lake Salome where the Japanese defenders were making their last stand, this time not making banzai charges but committed to selling their life as dearly as possible. From September 20 they repulsed repeated US attacks with artillery, mortar and machine gun fire, but after the Japanese ran out of water and food, the fighting finally ended September 30, after the Americans used bulldozers to seal the entrances of the caves killing everybody inside. The 81st division moved directly to the battle of Peleliu where the US 1st marine division was in extremely difficult fighting. (49) Angaur Island The bombardment of Angaur a small volcanic island 5 Km long and located 10 Km from Pelelui began September 11, 1944 by USS Tennessee and dive-bombers 158 Battle of Pelelui, Palau USA Strength: Losses: 28,000 1,800 killed 8,000 wounded Japan 11,000 10,700 killed 200 captured the airfield, establishing fortified bunkers, underground positions taking full advantage of the existing 500 limestone caves, connecting them by tunnels installing heavy steel sliding doors for flame-thrower and napalm protection and with multiple openings for both artillery and machine guns. Additionally the Japanese blasted positions into Umurbogol for 81 mm and 150 mm mortars as well as 20 mm machine cannons, connecting the whole vast system with tunnels allowing evacuation and reoccupation of defence positions as needed. Also thousands of mines and explosive devices were laid on the beaches and coral reefs especially on The Point which was strengthened with a sealed 47 mm gun position and six 20 mm machine cannons. This was a radical change of Japanese tactics, proving to be very efficient when confronted with overwhelming enemy artillery and air power superiority. The American Navy began pre-invasion bombardment on September 12, with the battleships Pennsylvania, Maryland, Mississippi, Tennessee, Idaho, heavy cruisers Colombus, Indianapolis, Louisville, Minneapolis and Portland, light cruisers Cleveland, Denver, and Honolulu as well as three carriers and five light carriers surrounding the small island dropping 14" shells, 16" rounds, 500 pound bombs and 159 (50) Pelelui and Palau Islands There were a total of about 30.000 Japanese troops on Palau, of which 11.000 men defended Pelelui, the organisation of the defence led by Colonel Kunio Nakagawa. He concentrated on an inland defence, anchored around and in Pelelui's highest point, Mount Umurbogol overlooking most of the island including 80.000 50 caliber bullets on the island, the 1st Marines landing 8:30 September 15, convinced that all japanese positions were destroyed. Opening the steel doors the Japanese opened fire with heavy artillery, 47 mm and 20 mm machine guns wiping out 60 landing crafts. Casualties were horrific as the occupants of the knocked out LVT's had to wade ashore in machine-gun fire, many loosing rifles and other equipment. At the end of the day the marines held on to a 3 km stretch of beach and nothing else, at a cost of 200 killed and 900 wounded, but US General Rupertus was still not aware of the radical change of Japanese island-defence tactics. Capturing the airfield, the American Corsair planes began landing September 26, starting dive bombing missions across Pelelui rocketing cave openings and napalm- attacks against the occupants. The Point was captured after bloody hand to hand combat, the attacking US company reduced to 18 men suffering 157 casualties in the battle for The Point. Next, a particularly bloody battle took place on what the Americans christened Bloody Nose Ridge suffering over 70% casualties. The Japanese eventually inflicted a total of 60% casualties on the 1st Marines, who lost 1750 out of 3000 men, with the 5th and 6th marines attacking Umurbrogol suffering similar casualties los160 ing half their men by mid October. By the third week of October all the remaining marines had to be evacuated from the battle and the US army troops took over, fighting it out for another month, before securing the island. Finally, Colonel Nakagawa announcing Our sword is broken and we have run out of spears burned the regimental colours and committed seppuku and was posthumously promoted to Lieutenant General. Still Japanese lieutenant Ei Yamaguchi with a group of 26 infantry soldiers and some navy personnel, held out in the caves until April 22, 1947, only surrendering when a Japanese Admiral was flown in, commanding them to surrender. The fighting around Umurbrogol turned out to be among the bloodiest in US military history and the Peleliu invasion a far cry from General William Rupertus prediction of just a three day battle. Finally the US military realised that even island hopping with vastly superior forces was not going to be a Sunday picnic and decided to apply material overkill with no distinction between troops and civilians, man, women, children, announcing that all japanese are proper military targets. The reaction to this in the Japanese public and media was of course furious and resulted in that the consideration of any form of surrender to America became despicable. 161 The Battle of Iwo Jima knowing that the city was soon to be bombed by the US. Japan USA Strength: Losses: 110,000 6,800 killed 20,000 wounded 22,000 20,000 killed 200 captured Upon a rare audience with Showa Tenno, General Tadamichi Kuribayashi, a former military attache in Washington and a highly gifted military strategist out of a traditionally loyal Nagano Samurai family was assigned to command the defence of Iwo Jima, a volcanic island 7 km long and 4 km wide located 1.200 km south of Tokyo but with a Tokyo address. Wasting no time he took on to perfect the new defence strategy of underground three- dimensional tunnel systems making overwhelming air- and artillery superiority impotent, forcing lethal, infantry ground combat unavoidable for the enemy. He knew that the only remote possibility to force Washington into reasonable peace talks, was to force US commanders to send as many official condolence letters back to American parents as possible. He forbade his troops dying, unless they killed ten Americans, thus trying to get the American public to demand an end to the conflict. He organised a special defence system around Mount Suribachi, with an extensive system of tunnels connecting pillboxes and combat points both horizontally and vertically all over Iwo Jima; running 162 (51) Iwo Jima Island This battle has been publicised recently by Hollywood in the Clint Eastwood production Letters from Iwo Jima, basing the film on the letters of General Kuribayashi, worrying about his family in Tokyo, out of time, he was not able to finish his defence system completely. The American attack plan was simple and sledgehammer, starting with 74 days of B-24 Liberator bombings, followed by pre-landing bombardment by the battleships Arkansas, New York, Texas, Nevada, Idaho, Tennessee and the cruisers Pensacola, Salt Lake City, Chester, Tuscaloosa, Vicksburg and numerous destroyers. February 19, 1945 the 16-inch guns of battleships North Carolina, Washington and West Virginia opened up, signalling the start of the invasion with all the US Navy firing every gun, cannon, rocket and anti aircraft artillery at its disposal, while 100 bombers dropped every ordnance they could on the 21 sq km island. At 9:00 February 19 the first 30.000 marines landed, only meeting deadly silence since General Kuribayashi had ordered holding fire until the beaches were packed with marines and equipment; letting the landing take place, the Japanese artillery opened the steel doors on Suribachi inflicting devastating losses on the US attackers. In fierce combat, taking heavy casualties, the marines did advance cutting Suribachi off from the rest of the island, supported by an addi163 tional reinforcements of 40.000 marines landing on Iwo. The famous flag on Suribachi Popular legend has been attached to the flag raising but actually, the Japanese defenders, let the the flagraisers go ahead making the US troops feel victorious so as to lure them into bloody ambushes. Consequently there also developed a rather comical distribution of several genuine Suribachi Stars and Stripes flags to several political and military persons, well described 60 years later in the book The Flags of Our Fathers by William Broyles, allegedly the descendant of one of the US flag (52) The flag on Suribaraisers. chi The fighting was actually just starting and became extremely fierce as the Americans tried to advance, and the defenders ambushing them from their caves and in bloody night attacks, with the only effective weapon against the Japanese positions being the new Zippo flame- thrower Sherman tanks. Additionally close American air support from the carriers, and efficient ground communications, including walkietalkies and Navajo code talkers helped the US ad164 vance. Running out of water, food and supplies few options was left for the Japanese troops, except fighting until death. In his last radio message to Tokyo, General Kuribayashi stated: We have not eaten or drunk for five days, but our fighting spirit is still running high. We are going to fight bravely to the last. It is said that he led the final silent attack, his troops penetrating the American lines, inflicting heavy losses before being killed to the last man. Of the 22.000 Japanese defending the Island only 216 were captured mostly wounded. It is from this moment that the Japanese introduced a new aspect of warfare, totally unknown to Western officers and Generals. Namely the concept of the commanders dying with their troops, thus motivating them to give everything they had and to fight until death. Western Christian propaganda labeled their conduct fanatic and savage, ignoring that their leadership was exactly what Zen is all about. In contrast, western commanders including General Paulus, General Mc Arthur, General de Gaulle, General Jany, General Wainwright, Lt. Gen. Percival, Marshal Voroshilov, Marshal Timoshenko, General Cheng and many others not only survived the sloughter of their troops, but returned home as celebrated heroes. More than sixty years later, honor is due to the many Japanese commanders who choose to fight and die with their soldiers. Here are a few of the many: The Americans suffered 26.000 casualties with 7.000 killed in action, thus Iwo Jima being the only battle where US casualties exceeded the Japanese. There were also an estimated 3.000 Japanese soldiers still hiding in caves, many committing seppuku or blowing them selfs up with their last hand grande. The last surrender, by Lieutenant Toshihiko Ohno's men took place January 6, 1949. Given the appalling number of casualties, many American military leaders criticised the US invasion of Iwo Jima as a mistake and not necessary at all. Little did they know that the need to take Iwo Jima was critical in planning the delivery of the atomic bomb, the island designated in mid 1944, as the only emergency landing point for the B-29 carrying the device destined for Japan. Logically the reason for taking Iwo Jima no matter the costs, contradicts the legend, that the US only dropped the nuclear bomb to save lives. (53) General Hideyoshi Obata, Colonel Kunio Nakagawa, General Mitsuru Ushijima, General Yoshitsugu Saito, General Tadamichi Kuribayashi 165 Conventional Firebombing of Japan (55) Tokyo 1945 bombing defence having almost no underground shelters. Aircrews at the tail end of the B-29 bomber stream reported that the stench of burned human flesh permeated the aircraft over the target. Fusako Sasaki: (54) Mariana Islands - Tinian The new US airfields on Saipan and Tinian meant that the B-29's were able to reach Japan and a massive incendiary bombing of cities could commence. The night-raid on sleeping Tokyo, March 9-10 by 335 B-29's dropping 1.700 tons of napalm created a firestorm destroying 41 sq. km of the densely populated city with 1.5 million people living in the burned out area, killing an estimated 100.000 and injuring 125.000 civilians, destroying over one million homes. Japanese cities were totally unprepared for air raid/ 166 Stacked up corpses were being hauled away on lorries. Everywhere there was the stench of the dead and of smoke. I saw the places on the pavement where people had been roasted to death. At last I comprehended first-hand what an air-raid meant. I turned back, sick and scared. Later I learned that 40% of Tokyo was burned that night, that there had been 100.000 casualties and 375.000 left homeless.” “A month after the March raid, while I was on a visit to Honjo on a particularly beautiful cherry-blossom day, I saw bloated and charred corpses surfacing in the Sumida River. I felt nauseated and even more scared than before. We ourselves were burned out in the fire raid of May 25th 1945. As I ran I kept my eyes on the sky. It was like a fireworks display as the incendiaries exploded. People were aflame, rolling and writhing in agony, screaming piteously for help, but beyond all mortal assistance. The seven month firebombing of 67 Japanese cities from January to August 1945, resulted in unprecedented destruction, a total of more than 500.000 civilians killed, an unknown number burned or wounded and about 5 million made homeless. More than 70% destroyed Hitachi Kofu Kuwana Fukuyama Tokushima Fukui Toyama Tokyo Yokohama Tsuruga Nagaoka Hitachi Kumagaya Hamamatsu Maebashi Mito Toyohashi Ichinomiya Nara Tsu Kochi Shizuoka Gifu Akashi Takamatsu Isesaki Hachoji Matsuyama Imabari Okayama Wakayama Kobe 50-70% destroyed Nagoya Osaka Shimonoseki Kure Omuta Kawasaki Sasebo Saga Sakai Kumamoto Aomori Okazaki Hiratsuka Tokuyama Yokkaichi Ujiyamada Ogaki Himeji Shimizu Omura Chiba Numazu Choshi Utsunomiya 30-50% destroyed Nishinomiya Yahata Amagasaki Moji Miyakonojo Nobeoka Miyazaki Ube Oita Fukuoka Sendai Less than 30% destroyed (56) The air offensive against Japan. Survey of destruction wrought in Japan's major cities 167 Battle of Okinawa arcane- alcohol for torpedos and engines. In late March 1945, the USA assembled a giant armada around Okinawa consisting of 1.300 ships, including more than 40 aircraft carriers, 18 battleships, 200 destroyers hundreds of various support ships including 365 amphibious vessels. The capital, Naha had already been totally destroyed on October 10, 1944 by Admiral Halsey's planes with 200 bombers devastating Okinawa's main population centers. In seven days leading up to L-Day a massive amount of ordnance was fired including 37.000 rounds 5" shells, 33.000 rounds of 4.5" shells, 22.000 4" rockets from 117 rocket gunboats as well as 3.100 air strikes conducted on beach and in shore targets in what generally became known as tetsu no bofu or, typhoon of steel. Few sq. meters of Okinawa ground escaped shelling, bombing, napalming, finally turning most villages and the the lush tropical vegetation into mud, decay, human remains, animal cadavers, maggots and lead, with possible escape and survival only in caves or deep underground shelters. The first American attacking force, commanded by General S.B. Buckner consisted of 183.000 troops, supported by tremendous Navy and Airforce fire, while 168 USA-UK Some 1,300 ships including 40 carriers, Strength: 1,500 aircraft 183,000 troops landing the first day, later reaching a total of 550,000 men 72,000 casualties of which 12,500 killed 33,000 non combat losses due to nervous breakdown or combat Losses: stress 79 ships sunk or scraped 150 vessels damaged 770 aircraft destroyed Japan 75,000 plus 35,000 Okinawan combatants 1,465 kamikaze 66,000 combatants and about 150,000 civilians killed, 10,000 women raped, a common practice by US troops resulting in mass suicides 3,100 aircraft destroyed At 1200 sq. km Okinawa is smaller than Kauai in Hawaii, and had a population of perhaps 500.000, no industry and no surplus food production or any other capability or activity to support the Japanese war effort except for a small production of commercial sug- the defence was undertaken by the Japanese 32nd Army, with 66.000 men supported by 20.000 Okinawa Boeitai with supreme command on the island in the hands of General Mitsuru Ushijima. The Americans landed unopposed, since the Japanese main defence was the strongly fortified NahaShuri-Yonabaru line; the Americans moved inland quickly capturing Kadena and Yomitan airfields and cutting the island and the Japanese forces in half two days later. By April 7, US marines reached the Nago-Taira line coming up against Col. Udo's 44th infantry, entrenched on top of Yae-Dake, the highest point of Motobu Peninsula. On April 14, the US marines launched an all out assault on Yae-Dake with devastating Naval and Air support fire, finally capturing it on April 18, in bitter, bloody combat, leaving 2.500 Japanese dead and 46 captured as well as 236 US marines killed and 1.061 wounded. The next objective was to capture Ie Jima with its large airfield west of Motobu, defended by the Ikawa Unit (under the command of Major Tadashi Ikawa), entrenched in a well organised, heavily fortified web of tunnels, gunnests, pillboxes and caves, centred around Ie town, Bloody Ridge and Iegusugu hill. The Japanese resisted for six days with the last three days of the fighting the bitterest ever witnessed by Maj. Gen. A Bruce, and Ie Jima falling on 21 April with 4.700 Japanese soldiers and 1.500 Okinawan civilians killed and 172 US troops dead and 900 (57) Okinawa 169 wounded. April 6, 400 Japanese attack planes left Chiran on Kyushu, launching Tokkotai attacks on the US invasion armada inflicting heavy losses, while the remnants of the once invincible Japanese Navy steamed out of Kyushu to meet the US flotilla, but were intercepted on April 7 by American planes sinking the Battleship Yamato, the Cruiser Yahagi and three destroyers. The Shuri line was the main Japanese defence, with well camouflaged caves, tunnels, blockhouses, reverse-faced gun-nests, connected strongpoints, fortifications and pillboxes, artillery- and mortar positions well integrated into the hills and terrain. Between 6-9 April the US infantry took Mashiki, Minami-Uebaru, and Ouki only after fierce Japanese resistance, but encountering the strong Kakazu defence they were repulsed by superbly camouflaged artillery and mortar firing positions for four days. The next two weeks turned into ruthless hand to hand fighting even more brutal and intense than the combat on Tarawa, Pelelui and Iwo Jima. Only after a map with all the defence positions was found on a 170 dead Japanese artillery officer, translated and distributed to the US forces, who then could pinpoint and destroy the hidden Japanese positions with artillery and napalm, could the US forces advance. Japanese counterattacks on April 13 and 14 were stopped with almost total losses of lives and on April 19 three US divisions attacked the Machinato-Mura line after bombarding the entrenched defenders with 19.000 shells, but in vain since the Americans were stopped in their drive towards Shuri suffering 720 casualties. In several other bloody battles the Japanese, yielding no ground and fighting to the death, inflicted heavy losses on the attackers, and place-names like Twin Pinnacles and Urasoe- Mura went down in history as some of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific conflict. During the night of April 24 the Japanese withdrew from the outer Shuri line under cover of fog, and took up the defence of Shuri and Naha. On May 6 the Americans attacked the Asa-DakeshiGaja line with tanks and infantry meeting fierce resistance every meter, hill by hill, cave by cave, only able to advance after directing flame-throwers, napalmgasoline fire, demolition charges into caves and pill- boxes. Gen. Buckner ordered an all out assault on May 11, but the next 18 days fighting was bitter and costly with slow progress against key defence positions, such as Conical Hill, Sugar Loaf Hill, Chocolate Drop Hill, Dakeshi Ridge, Wana Ridge and finally Ishimi Ridge falling by May 21. From May 22 The Japanese Airforce launched its greatest offensive sending almost 900 raids of Tokkotai against the US Navy inflicting great damage in spite of an overwhelming concentration of American anti aircraft fire. The Tokkotai or Kamikaze strategy conceived by Vice Admiral Takashiro Ohnishi, commander of the First Air Fleet in the Philippines, was the most effective way to inflict damage upon American warships. It was decided then that pilots would purposely crash their planes - with 500 Kg of explosives - into American warships. The call for volunteer Tokkotai pilots drew a staggering response. Three times as many applied as the number of planes available. Experienced pilots were turned down. They were needed to train the young Tokkotai who died at a very young age. Over 90% of the Navy's kamikaze pilots were between 18 and 24 years of age. Almost all Army Tokkotai pilots during the Okinawan campaign were between 17 and 22, many former students from Japan's elite universities. In October 1943, military draft deferment ended for students in liberal arts and law, although the deferment continued for students in such fields as engineering and natural sciences. Many of these former students entered Navy or Army pilot training programs, and they later joined special attack force units to carry out Tokkotai attacks. An estimated one thousand student soldiers died as kamikaze pilots. The Tokkotai motto was: Choosing the cause, place and time of death is a rare privilege bestowed on exeptional men. April 6th, 1945, proved to be most efficient use of Tokkotai in the battle for Okinawa. More than 350 aircraft at a time dove at the Allied fleet driving some American sailors literally insane. From October 25, 1944, to January 25, 1945, Kamikazes managed to sink two escort carriers and three destroyers. They also damaged 23 carriers, five battleships, nine cruisers, 23 destroyers and 27 other ships. 171 American casualties amounted to 738 killed and another 1.300 wounded as the result of those attacks. The psychological effect of the Tokkotai on the US Navy was such, that Chief of Naval Operations went to Washington and demanded an immediate end to the conflict, which the Supreme Commander in the White House declined. By May 29 US forces captured Naha and Yonabaru surrounding Shuri, where General Ushijima decided to withdraw, instead of making a final stand, thus rather prolonging the battle inflicting further losses on the Americans. The Japanese HQ in Shuri was abandoned secretly, leaving small rear guard units, that kept the Americans at bay until the fall of Shuri on May 31. The US troops found it completely levelled and in ruins after 200.000 rounds of Naval and artillery gunfire, aerial bombings, the Japanese defence decimated with over 70.000 killed in action and only 9 POW's all wounded or unconscious. There was only one kind of Japanese casualty ... the dead. Unofficially, even American officers admitted that the defenders displayed heroism and bravery of epic proportions, including the 222 15-18 years old Himeyuri schoolgirls nursing the wounded and dying, even performing surgery and other gruesome duties enduring terrible circumstances in caves and overcrowded underground shelters, described later more like morgues filled with living corpses; until June 18, 1945 only 19 of them had been killed, but the next morning the US attack on the Ibara surgery centre killed 80% of them, whereupon many of the surviving girls committed suicide, throwing themselves off cliffs or with hand grenades to avoid systematic rape by US soldiers; only a handful of the high school girls survived to tell the three month long Himeyuri ordeal. On June 4, US marines landed on Oroku taking Naha Airfield after a savage and brutal combat wiping out the well armed and committed defending troops led by Admiral Minoru Ota, who finally committed seppuku letting the marines further advance towards Itoman. (58) The Himeyuri memorial build April 1946 172 In the final stand General Ushijima, as he was running out of supplies and equipment and suffering mounting casualties, ordered his troops to hold their positions to the death, resulting in the US attackers facing murderous Japanese fire, suffering heavy losses, pinned down for days until supporting flamethrower-tanks, air-, naval- and ground artillery destroyed Japanese defence positions one by one. Among numerous other defence strongholds, Yuza and Kunishi was only defeated after 5 days of the bloodiest remorseless fighting, inflicting the highest US casualties in the Okinawa campaign. The Japanese were bombarded ceaselessly by naval guns and surrender leaflets as well as General Buckner sent a message to General Ushijima: plies, but they faithfully followed Ushijima's last order: The battlefield is now in such chaos that all communications have ceased. It is impossible for me to command you. Every man in these fortifications will follow his superior officer's order and fight to the end for the sake of the motherland. This is my final order. Farewell. Thousands of Japanese kept on defending Makabe area from caves, forcing the US marines to fight on, until June 21, when the last resistance was wiped out. On June 23 General Mitsuru Ushijima (after getting a haircut and a sip of whiskey) and his staff committed seppuku upon reporting the end of the battle to Tokyo HQ , oddly enough surviving his American adversary with a few days; Gen. Simon Bolivar Buckner was killed on June 18 by a Japanese shell, making him the highest ranking American killed by enemy fire. Gen. Ushijima's chief-of-staff, Colonel, Hiromichi Yahara, one of the best strategists, was ordered to survive the battle, although he asked for permission to commit seppuku, which Ushijima denied because as he said: 173 The forces under your command have fought bravely and well. Your infantry tactics have merited the respect of your opponents in the battle of Okinawa. You know no reinforcements can reach you ... destruction of all Japanese resistance on the island is merely a matter of days. It is said that Gen. Ushijima just smiled discarding any consideration of surrender; by June 17, the Japanese were down to their last ammunition and sup- If you die there will be no one left who knows the truth about the battle of Okinawa. Bear the temporary shame but endure it. This is an order from your army commander. Later, Colonel Yahara wrote a book, Okinawa Kessen, published in 1973, confirming that people who have been millimeters, milligrams, minutes from certain death ... tend to tell the truth, and that in the battle of Okinawa, Japanese bravery and heroism was far more contagious than cowardice. Having fulfilled Ushijima's command Colonel Yahara died in 1981. (59) Japanese Commanders on Okinawa 174 Chapter 17 HIROSHIMA AND NAGASAKI Some historians believe that the appalling US casualties (kept secret to the US public) in the battle of Okinawa led to the Nuclear bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki to save American lives. Nothing can be further from the truth. The decision to nuke Japan, getting a bang for the buck (the Manhattan Project having cost minimum 22 billion in todays dollars) was made long before the Okinawa bloodbath took place, and the testing of the new wunderwaffe on non-Christian civilian cities would have taken place no matter what. The US top brass could not let such an opportunity pass by, since by then, any consideration of civilian Japanese lives, bombing limitations and restraints to military targets was totally irrelevant to Japanbombing target selections in Washington. In the aftermath, the US-CIA manipulation of the fate of the Nagasaki Bombed Madonna reveals what hypocritical emotions and motives were in process 176 rearranging the location of the Madonna away from the Nagasaki Peace memorial. The Nagasaki sister city since 1955, St Paul, Minnesota, somehow arranged that the mayor of Nagasaki forgot the existence of the scorched-black Madonna, thus saving USA's Christian face spiriting the Atomic Madonna away for decades only to be rediscovered recently but still not a (61) Bombed Madonna part of the Nagasaki Peace Memorial but discreetly exhibited inside the rebuilt Urakami cathedral. It is here proper also to put to rest the legend about the Japan- German alliance. This alleged alliance was actually non existent. First of all the German racial Blond-Aryan-Ubermensch ideology was just as alien to the oriental Japanese mind as the American Anglo-Saxon- Christian White Warrior supremacy world, or the Australian government's repulsive Aborigine- children concentration camp program. (60) After the nuclear attack The only real economic and strategic German engagement in Asia and the Pacific was the GermanKuomintang alliance supplying German weapons and hardware to Nationalist China in exchange for Chinese raw materials for the German arms industry. Japan's only ally in the Pacific War was Thailand and some local militia in Indonesia, Philippines and volunteer Indian troops. There was some German cooperation with Japan in the final days of Hitler, when Japan purchased a dismantled Me-262 jet fighter, some V-2 missile components and 550 Kg uranium oxide all secretly loaded on U-234 embarking from Kristiansand April 15, 1945 with several German experts and two Japanese officers on board, destination Tokyo. The voyage proceeded smoothly until May 4, when U234 received order from Admiral Karl Doenitz to surface and surrender which, after some discussion between the crew and the passengers, was accepted by U-234's commanding officer Johann Fehler deciding to surrender to the Americans surfacing on May 10, 1945. For the Japanese on board, Lieutenant Commander Hideo Tomonaga submarine designer and Lieutenant Commander Genzo Shoji aircraft expert, surrender 177 was not an option. After distributing numerous gifts, Fehler receiving a katana, which he later threw overboard, and a large amount of Swiss Francs, the Japanese retired to their bunks where they took Luminol, not wanting to bloody the submarine by committing sepukku. Dying 36 hours later, they left a letter of thanks to Fehler and a request of sending a signal to Japan, which the German Captain did not do. Commander H. Tomonaga and Commander Shoji were buried at sea May 11, 1945. The actual surrender of U-234 took place May 14 and was big news in America, but the uranium cargo was hushed up and its confiscation personally supervised by Oppenheimer, head of the Manhattan Project. According to some unlikely rumor/legend, for the American nuclear bombs; the whole story was later told by Joseph Scalia in his book Germany's Last Mission to Japan: The sinister voyage of U-234. On August 6, 1945 an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima killing about 160.000 people, including 90% of the doctors and the nurses, and in the blink of an eye turning the whole city into radioactive rubble, the USA completing the new LFX gigantic weaponstest by dropping a second bomb on Nagasaki 3 days later, killing over 100.000 civilians. Let us recall what international law says about bombing civilians: 1. The intentional bombing of civilian populations is illegal. 2. Objectives aimed at from the air must be military objectives and must be identifiable. 3. Any attack on legitimate military objectives must be carried out in such a way that civilian populations in the neighbourhood are not bombed through negligence. On September 1, 1939, FDR had issued the following statement: dressing this urgent appeal to every government which may be engaged in hostilities publicly to affirm its determination that its armed forces shall in no event, and under no circumstances, undertake the bombardment from the air of civilian populations or of unfortified cities. I request an immediate reply. Franklin D. Roosevelt By the second meeting of the Target Committee in Los Alamos, May 10-11, 1945, the American President and military was blowing an entirely different tune and targeted cities were ranked and selected according to maximum civilian casualties. Of course the chimney effect of the nuclear blast was taken into consideration, so cities surrounded by mountains and the size of more than 6 km in diameter topped the target list to achieve optimal leathal-efficiency. The targets were ranked: 1) Kyoto - Classified as an AA target. This target is an urban industrial area with a population of 1.000.000. It is the former capital of Japan and many people and industries are now being moved 178 The President of the United States to the Governments of France, Germany, Italy, Poland and Britain: The ruthless bombing from the air of civilians in unfortified centres of population during the course of the hostilities which have raged in various quarters to the earth during the past few years, which has resulted in the maiming and in the death of thousand of defenceless men, woman, and children, has sickened the harts of every civilised men and woman, and has profoundly shocked the conscience of humanity. I am therefore ad- there as other areas are being destroyed. From the psychological point of view there is the advantage that Kyoto is an intellectual centre for Japan and the people there are more apt to appreciate the significance of such a weapon as the gadget (atomic bomb). 2) Hiroshima - Classified as an AA target. This is an important army depot and port of embarkation in the middle of an urban industrial area. It is a good radar target and it is such a size that a large part of the city could be extensively damaged. There are adjacent hills which are likely to produce a focusing effect which would considerably increase the blast damage. Due to its rivers it is not a good incendiary (conventional bombing) target. 3) Yokohama - Classified as an A target. This target is an important urban industrial area which has so far been untouched. Industrial activities include aircraft manufacture, machine tools, docks, electrical equipment and oil refineries. As the damage to Tokyo has increased additional industries have moved to Yokohama. It has the disadvantage of the most important target areas being separated by a large body of water and of being in the heaviest antiaircraft concentration in Japan. It has the advantage as an alternate target in case of bad weather being rather far from other targets considered. 4) Kokura Arsenal - Classified as an A target. This is one of the largest arsenals in Japan and is surrounded by urban industrial structures. The arsenal is important for light ordnance, anti-aircraft and beach head defence materials. The dimensions are such that if the bomb were properly placed full advantage could be taken of the higher pressures underneath the bomb for destroying the more solid structures and at the same time considerable blast damage could be done to more feeble structures further away. 5) Niigata - Classified as a B target. This is a port of embarkation on the N.W. coast of Honshu. Its importance is increasing as other ports are damaged. Machine tool industries are located there and it is the potential centre for industrial dispersion. It has oil refineries and storage. 6) Emperor's palace The possibility of bombing the Emperor's palace was also discussed. It was agreed that we should obtain information from which we could determine the 179 effectiveness of our weapon against this target. Contrary to popular belief and fortunately for Japan and the world, it was not due to some US scholastic Japanophile effort or Professor E. Reischauer's influence, but simply Secretary of War Henry Stimson, responsible for final selection of targets, that removed Kyoto from the atomic bomb target list. His reason was very private; he had spent his honeymoon there in 1926, and maybe understood a bit of the cultural value of the city or simply just nostalgic about the youthful, virile time he had spent there. Truman bragged when he wrote in his diary: It seems Truman did not know that there was nothing left to bomb in Tokyo since the 335 B- 29's bombing on the night of March 9, dropping 1.700 tons of napalm, killing 100.000 civilians and the firestorm making over a million residents homeless, made any suggestions of additional bombings ridiculous. The relentless efforts of convincing the world that the conventional fire-bombings and the nuclear bombings of Japan was an effort to save lives, is of course just as burlesque, as the US claiming during the battle for Indochina twenty years later, that: The marines had to destroy the Vietnamese village in order to save it from Communism. One thing is sure: war is about death and dying and in every war in the final analysis, death defeats all belligerents since humans started waging war with the stone axe. The Pacific 80 years War was unique in the sence that it was the first major conflict between Christianity and Zen Buddhism and it became obvious, that when it comes to facing death bravely and sincerely Zen is superior. I have told the Secretary of War, Mr Henry Stimson to use it (the bomb) so that military objectives and soldiers and sailors are the target and not women and children. Even if the Japs are savages, ruthless, merciless and fanatic, we as the leader of the world for the common welfare cannot drop this terrible bomb on the old Capital (Kyoto) or the new (Tokyo).The target will be a purely military one and we will issue a warning statement asking the Japs to surrender and save lives. I'm sure they will not do that, but we will have given them the chance. 180 War is the Act of a Nation, Not of Individuals, and Thus, Not a Murder to be Convicted. A rather pathetic chapter of the Pacific conflict was the Tokyo Trials, oficcially The International Military Tribunal for the Far East (IMTFE), degrading International Law to medieval witch-hunt (Philippine Prosecutor P. Lopez acting and looking like a Manilla pimp). The whole trial was sharply condemned by Indian High Court Judge R. Pal and American Defence Lawyer Ben Blakeney. Both called the Tokyo War Crimes Trials unjust due to the predominance of judges from the victor nations. A Harvard graduate American lawyer, Blakeney took the stand to defend one of his clients; his confidence in the knowledge and razor-sharp understanding of international law was apparent. His voice pierced sharply through the atmosphere of the court demanding faces of the judges were unmistakably evident when they heard his argument. As he continued to engage in the case, simultaneous translation for the Japanese defendants was abruptly disrupted, so they would not understand the contents of his deliberation. To ask someone for the responsibility of a war, which is the action of the state, is not included in today’s legal system. So any murder in war cannot be tried by law. This court is about to commit an unpardonable mistake; that is to try actions that cannot be considered a crime. If murders committed by war were sin, shouldn’t we try those who are responsible for dropping atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki and murdered many people? I know the name of the Joint Chief of Staff and the name of the head of state who had granted the permission to do drop the bombs. If it’s necessary, shall I recite those names? Blakeney stood by the faithful and intelligent interpretation of law and dared to bring up the subject of the legality of the nuclear bombings. that some people in the court and in Washington should sit side by side of the accused. Without hesitation, in order to claim his client’s innocence, he brought up the subject of the American use of nuclear weapons as a violation of international law (Hague Convention). The disturbed, panicky 181 Regrettably, no matter how impressive his argument and the extraordinary bravery he showed, his contributions of the trials were cencored or ommitted and are hardly known to Americans, or to the world. In November of 1948, Blakeney wrote to Truman: The following year, Blakeney took a position to teach law at Tokyo University. In 1963, Blakeney’s life abruptly ended after his personal plane crashed in the mountain of Izu Peninsula, Japan, according to some rumors, with the help of some clandestine activists. Although Blakeney was not Japanese, but Jewish American, he voiced his argument against the use of US nuclear weapons, as a world citizen, as much as and maybe more than most Japanese have, by being true to his profession and his beliefs in justice. Americans in time to come are unlikely to be proud of this verdict ... He concluded his letter with the following statement: This Tribunal, and its verdict - like SCAP itself, under the aegis of which it came into being - however international in fact, is identified in the eyes of the world at large with the United States. Inevitably, it is to the United States that will inure, in great measure, the credit or discredit which history will attach to the proceeding of the International Military Tribunal for the Far East - and not history only, but contemporary opinion. That this verdict would stand, without the effort’s begin made to correct its glaring inequities, would constitute but poor tribute to our statesmanship, out attachment to justice and, in the end, our service to peace. 182 Chapter 18 BEARING THE UNBEARABLE It is not an exaggeration that Showa Tenno made the decision to exit the Pacific War single- handedly, a decision which he considered already month before the nuclear bombings. Hiroshima and Nagasaki only confirmed that there was no way that the US and Britain would compromise on an absolute and total humiliation and submission of the Japanese Nation or the US tolerating any significant naval presence, besides the British in the Pacific Ocean, which in the future was supposed to become an American pond. Additionally the merciless conventional fire bombings of civilian targets, with the purposes of breaking the moral-spirit of the Japanese people would go on until every sq. meter of populated areas had been bombed as planned by General LeMay. LeMay complained that he was not allowed to firebomb Hiroshima, Nagasaki and other not yet bombed Japanese cities, not knowing that those cities were reserved for nuclear bombings, yet an other fact contradicting the legend about the saving lives effort after the bloody Okinawa battle postulated in many history books. According to US Army publications: The entire population of Japan is a proper Military Target ... THERE ARE NO CIVILIANS IN JAPAN. We intend to seek out and destroy the enemy wherever he or she is, in the greatest possible numbers, in the shortest possible time. Naturally this policy only resulted in exponentially hardening the fighting spirit of the Japanese at large and made any consideration of surrender to the barbarian Americans out of the question. Only the Emperor himself could command authority to take any decision alternative to fighting till death. If we compere Showa Tenno to other contemporary leaders, statesmen, sovereigns, dictators and politicians nobody rivals his wise and sincere conduct and unselfish consideration of the fate of his subjects in those critical days. With the Japanese Imperial Army totally intact, well armed, and highly motivated (as the fighting on Iwo Jima and Okinawa had demonstrated), would a Hitler, a Stalin a Truman or a Churchill, Chiang Kai184 shek, Roosevelt, De Gaulle or Ho Chi Min have thrown in the towel to save the people from further suffering? It's hard to imagine, isn't it? Especially if we consider the alternative, with the huge underground bomb-proof government facility (Shozanchikagou) under the Nagano mountains ready, the geography of Japan being excellent for a prolonged guerilla warfare, and with the writing on the wall, that USA and the Soviet Union were shortly going to be on a collision course over the spoils upon allied victory in Europe. Also the top secret Japanese aircraft carrying submarine project "Sen Toku I-400" conceived by Admiral Yamamoto in (62) Sen Toku I-400 1941 entered into service in mid 1945, making air attack on the Panama Canal and other dificult strategic targets possible. Being the largest submarines in the world until the construction of ballistic missile submarines in the 1960s, each submarine had an astonishing range of 70.000 Km at 35 km/h, capable of reaching any point on the globe, launching its three 185 M6A1 Serian sea-planes very fast and retrieving them by crane upon finishing the attack. Upon strict order from Imperial HQ they surfaced on August 22 1945 and after destroying their torpedoes and sea-planes they let the Americans aboard, who were astonished by the size of these early forerunners of missile(63) The Serian sea-plane submarines. Upon thorough inspection in Sasebo Bay the word came of urgent Soviet demand to access the super submarine carriers, so the Americans blew them up to deny the Soviet I-400 inspection. Already the US-Soviet emerging and growing hostility was a fact. In case of a separate peace with Mao, in exchange for transferring Manchuria, by far the most industrialised and rich part of China to his control, and a prolonged Japanese resistance to US invasion soon to be supported by Mao and Stalin, it is not unlikely that the Pacific War would have ended around 1955, and not in 1975 in Saigon but likely in Kagoshima or Yoko- hama. However Showa Tenno compassionately and wisely choose to accept the painful and degrading Potsdam Declaration to save lives. As it turned out, he could only save Japanese lives, since the Pacific War went on after Japan's exit, bloodier than ever, claiming millions of Chinese, Korean, Taiwanese, Indonesian, Vietnamese, laotian, and Cambodian lives, all in the name of the American/Christian version of Freedom and Democracy. Previously there were several Japanese peace feelers, all ignored by Washington. Already at the end of 1944 some prominent Japanese contacted the Apostolic delegate in Tokyo requesting the Vatican to mediate a peace and in April 1945 the Swedish government was requested to help, again with no result. The most interesting diplomatic effort took place in Lisbon on May 7, 1945 when M. Inoue of the Japanese Embassy in Portugal contacted US representatives saying that Japan was ready to cease hostilities. He warned, that unless US-Japanese common interest against the USSR were found, all of China and most of Asia would become communist. He stressed however, that unconditional surrender was not acceptable but that apart, the actual peace terms were un186 important. Roosevelt, so sick that he hardly knew what was happening around him in Yalta, had died April 12, so the completely unknown and unexperienced, domestic, grocery-clerk looking Truman took over, potentially making a negotiated peace process possible. Truman however, being very two-dimensional, had only Japs in his mental hunting-scope crosshair. On his first day in office he was informed that the Soviets were not observing the Yalta agreement, and Truman wrote: It is certainly a good thing for the world that Hitler's crowd or Stalin's did not discover this atomic bomb. In his radio speech August 9, 1945 window-dressing the Hiroshima bombing he said: The world will note that the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, a military base. That was because we wished in this first attack to avoid, insofar as possible, the killing of civilians. But the attack is only a warning of things to come. If Japan does not surrender, bombs will have to be dropped on her war industries and, unfortunately, thousands of civil- ian lives will be lost. I urge Japanese civilians to leave industrial cities immediately, and save themselves from destruction. Good advice, except Truman forgot to tell Japanese civilians where to go. Also one wonders where they would have dropped the bomb in case they really wanted to kill civilians. t is revealing, that Japan's accepting the Potsdam Declaration, with the Japanese army, (5.400.000 soldiers and 1.800.000 sailors) undefeated and intact, took the American government, Truman and the US military by complete surprise. Totally unprepared for this turn of events, it lead to disaster, not only in the power- and administration vacuums left in Manchuria, Korea and Taiwan but in Indochina, Malaysia, Burma and China proper as well. The American leadership and Army/Navy top brass was only preparing for Operation Downfall (invasion of Japan) with 500.000 Purple Heart medals (awarded to those killed in action) manufactured in anticipation of the invasion, indicating Washington's estimate of US casualties. There have been many theories over the years about how many casualties it would have taken and what would have happened if Japan had kept on fighting. I believe that the US would have made unconditional peace with Japan a few days after August 29, 1949, the birthday of Stalin's nuclear bomb. Showa Tenno's First Public Speech, 15 August 1945: To our good and loyal subjects. After pondering deeply the general trends of the world and the actual conditions obtaining in our empire today, we have decided to effect a settlement of the present situation by resorting to an extraordinary measure. We have ordered our Government to communicate to the Governments of the United States, Great Britain, China, and the Soviet Union that our empire accepts the provisions of their joint declaration. To strive for the common prosperity and happiness of all nations as well as the security and well-being of our subjects is the solemn obligation which has been handed down by our imperial ancestors and which we lay close to the heart. Indeed, we declared war on America and Britain out of our sincere desire to insure Japan's self-preservation and the stabilization of East Asia, it being far from our thought either to 187 infringe upon the sovereignty of other nations or to embark upon territorial aggrandizement. But now the war has lasted for nearly four years. Despite the best that has been done by everyone - the gallant fighting of our military and naval forces, the diligence and assiduity of out servants of the State and the devoted service of our 100.000.000 people - the war situation has developed not necessarily to Japan's advantage, while the general trends of the world have all turned against her interest. Moreover, the enemy has begun to employ a new and most cruel bomb, the power of which to do damage is, indeed, incalculable, taking the toll of many innocent lives. Should we continue to fight, it would not only result in an ultimate collapse and obliteration of the Japanese nation, but also it would lead to the total extinction of human civilization. Such being the case, how are we to save the millions of our subjects, nor to atone ourselves before the hallowed spirits of our imperial ancestors? This is the reason why we have ordered the acceptance of the provisions of the joint declaration of the powers. We cannot but express the deepest sense of regret to our allied nations of East Asia, who have consistently cooperated with the Empire toward the emancipation of East Asia. The thought of those officers and men as well as others who have fallen in the fields of battle, those who died at their posts of duty, or those who met death and all their bereaved families, pains our heart night and day. The welfare of the wounded and the war sufferers and of those who lost their homes and livelihood is the object of our profound solicitude. The hardships and sufferings to which our nation is to be subjected hereafter will be certainly great. We are keenly aware of the inmost feelings of all of you, our subjects. However, it is according to the dictates of time and fate that we have resolved to pave the way for a grand peace for all the generations to come by enduring the unavoidable and suffering what is un-sufferable. Having been able to save and maintain the structure of the Imperial State, we are always with you, our good and loyal subjects, relying upon your sincerity and integrity. Beware most strictly of any outbursts of emotion that may engender needless complications, of any fraternal contention and 188 strife that may create confusion, lead you astray, and cause you to lose the confidence of the world. Let the entire nation continue as one family from generation to generation, ever firm in its faith of the imperishableness of its divine land, and mindful of its heavy burden of responsibilities, and the long road before it. Unite your total strength to be devoted to the construction for the future. Cultivate the ways of rectitude, nobility of spirit, and work with resolution so that you may enhance the innate glory of the Imperial State and keep pace with the progress of the world. The State Department in Washington, and not MacArthur made the decision by 1944, to retain the Japanese Imperial institution according to some rumours with some advice from the Danish Royal Family the most respected, oldest constitutional monarchy in Europe; the correct wartime assumption that the Emperor was essential for American plans for postwar Japan, proved successful already in the first days of the occupation. Showa Tenno moved rapidly to ensure surrender by all army units, demobilzing his soldiers, his police keeping law and order, facilitating the American Oc189 cupation. The Americans did not control Japan directly, but kept the Imperial government in place, not giving orders, but making suggestions, which the Japanese quickly accepted. The descendant of Amaterasu and the Gaijin Shogun from Little Rock got along well. The American nervousness, obvious during McArthur's first 25 km drive to Yokohama Grand Hotel, the road lined with thousands of armed Japanese policemen in attention, facing away from the road, a security measure only customary for the Japanese Imperial Family, was gone in a few days. One of the few disagreements occurred when the Japanese government told newspapers not to publish the humiliating photograph of MacArthur standing besides the Emperor. MacArthur intervened and the photo was published, the government resigned and a new government took over cooperating smoothly with SCAP. Of course the occupation replaced the wartime Japanese censorship with their own version, forbidding criticism of the United States or other allied nations, political activities deemed subversive by the American government and suppressing news of rape and murder by allied occupation forces. According to historian Peter Schriivers, an estimated 10.000 Japanese women were raped by American troops during the Okinawa campaign and reported cases of US rapes in the first 10 days of the occupation in Kanagawa prefecture alone are 1.336, so it seems that rape was a general practice against Japanese women. The mention of censorship itself was forbidden so the Allied occupation censorship was more intense and strict than the Japanese military censorship had been, because even traces of censorship had to be concealed which meant that articles had to be rewritten in full, rather then submitting XX's for the offending phrases. In the wake of an emerging American occupation of the Japanese Empire came the inevitable looting, pillaging and robbing of Japanese property on a grand scale. (64) The Japanese Empire 190 Chapter 19 BATTLE FOR MANCHURIA Soviet Union Strength: 1,700,000 men 28,000 artillery 5,500 tanks 5,400 aircraft Japan 1,200,000 men 5,300 arttilery 1,100 tanks 1,800 aircraft three months after German surrender, and between the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, on August 6, and Nagasaki on August 9 these events playing a major role in the timing of the Soviet attack. At 11 PM Trans-Baikal time August 8, 1945, Molotov declared war on Japan, and one minute past midnight the Soviets commenced their invasion of Manchuria with overwhelming firepower. The outgunned and outnumbered, battle hardened Kwangtung army put up fierce resistance, but could only delay the fast moving Soviet armoured divisions, attacking deep into Manchuria in a tank/ parachute pincer with both parties ignoring the Emperors Gyokuon-hoso August 15 and the Soviets avoiding pockets of resistance, reaching Mukden, Changchun and Qiqihar by August 20. The Emperor of Manchuria, PuYi was captured by the Soviets and by August 18 several Soviet amphibious landings had been executed in northern Korea, Sakhalin and the Kurils establishing Soviet authority. By the time cease-fire order reached the Kwangtung Army, the Soviet's had reached most of their objectives but their ambition to take the whole Korean peninsula was hindered by US forces landing at Incheon on September 8. (65) Manchuria At Yalta Stalin agreed to Allied pleas to enter the Pacific war within three months upon German defeat in Europe. The invasion began August 9, 1945 precisely 192 Nonetheless it was Stalin who was in total control of Manchuria, the size of Western Europe (1.550.000 sq. km) and the crown jewel of Pacific Asia, by far the most developed and richest part of China. The population of Manchukuo estimated to be 30.000.000 plus in 1934 had grown to 43 million by 1940 and 50 million by 1945, including over 1.5 million Japanese and Koreans and 0,5 million other nationalities. (Some Japanese officials, e.g. K. Inuzuka, even planning (Fugu plan) to settle Jewish refugees that had obtained Japanese visas issued by the Japanese consul in Lithuania C. Sugihara, in Manchurian cities.) Chiang in south China desperately begged the US to transport his troops to Manchurian cities, while Mao's peasant army was taking over the country side and the Russians undertaking a 24 hour, seven days a week, dismantling and giant looting of all Manchurian industries and cities. This state orchestrated super plunder can only be grasped, if the scale of the Japanese investments in Manchuria since 1930 is understood. The Japanese government constructed 6.500 Km roads, founded a local airline in 1931, Manchukuo National Airways, linking Dairen, Mukden, Harbin and other places with a hub in Hsinking. The Japanese expanded principal railways to 12.000 Km and the 193 (66) Soviets commenced their invasion of Manchuria South Manchurian Railway Company had invested in coal-mining (Fushum), iron&steel (Anshan), ports (Dairen and Ryoujun), hotels and spas, merchant and fishing vessels, power plants, schools, research insti- tutes, geology-mining, medical-public services. Steel production in Manchuria surpassed Japan's by mid 1930's, and an efficient public educational system was developed with 12.000 primary schools, 200 middle schools, 140 teachers schools, 50 technical schools, 1600 private schools with a total of 600.000 pupils and 25.000 teachers, making Manchuria by far the best educated country, next to Japan and Korea in Asia. By 1945 the total Japanese investments was estimated at a staggering 11.000.000.000 Yen (5.5000.000.000 US Dollars) and the value of the Soviet shipments to Siberia of Manchurian property being 2 billion US Dollars included 3 million US Dollars in gold bullion from Mukden banks. The rape, looting and robbery by individual Red Army soldiers and Chinese mobs, a daily matter of course, as reported by American observers of the OSS Cardinal Team (e.g. Corporal Hal Leith in Mukden), all paled into insignificance in comparison to the systematical deindustrialization of Manchuria by the Soviet authorities. Working around the clock the Soviets dismantled entire factories, power plants, sending them north to Siberia on endless trains of flatcars. Six month later only twenty of 972 factories in Mukden had sufficient machinery to continue func194 tioning, waterworks, sewage plants, and coal mines were inoperable due to lack of machinery and power. They had taken everything that could be taken recalled US marine Robert Seck. The only thing they left was a memorial to themselves with a tank on top in the centre of the city. New York Times correspondent Hallett Abend reported that even the giant locomotive and railwaycar building plants at Dairen were taken north of the Amur river, and economists concluded: The damage which Manchurian industry has sustained since V-J Day, has set back China's industrial progress for a generation. In addition to the hardware, the Soviet's took 640.000 Japanese POW's to various Siberian hard labour camps where 60.000 died during the first winter, the rest being released gradually between 1948-49 and the last 1025 souls in December 1956. In August 1945, the Japanese army was largely intact, there were six and a half million Japanese soldiers and civilians in the western Pacific and mainland Asia, including 1.200.000 in Manchuria, 750.000 in Ko- rea, 1.500.000 in China proper. The policy of disarming and repatriating the Japanese, was provided in the hastily drafted document August 10 by Pentagon, stating that Japanese forces in China, Taiwan and northern Indochina should surrender to Chiang Kaishek and those in Manchuria and northern Korea to the Soviet commander. Unfortunately the Kuomintang was over 1.5 thousand kilometres from Manchuria and the large northern cities of Beijing, Tsingtao, Hankou, Shanghai, and Nanking were surrounded by Communist forces. Chiang had to start from the flat of his back in the reoccupation of China and often relied on the Japanese troops to keep law and order until nationalist troops could take over. In the American press Chiang was hailed as a brave, patriotic and dedicated national hero, yet to the people who knew him, he was not inspiring confidence, surrounding himself with corrupt cronies and when mistakes were made always blaming his subordinates, being convinced that he could never be wrong. There were actually five functioning governments in China in 1945, each having its own currency, legal system, taxes and army. Chiang's, Mao's and the governments in Manchukuo, Beijing and Nanking, of which 195 Chiang Kai-shek's nationalists were the most weary, ill organised, corrupt, ineffective and oppressive. The American support of Chiang proved a big mistake, and his undisciplined nationalist army was not welcome anywhere by the simple Chinese peasants. The poor Chinese often preferring the Japanese occupation were punished by the Nationalist thugs and terrorising officials executing alleged Japancollaborators at the slightest display of insubordination. Nevertheless Washington sent General Wedemeyer to organise, train and equip Chiang's troops, helping them to disarm the Japanese and progressively win back East China and reoccupy all the former Japanese-held areas of China and Taiwan. He was also to make sure that US forces would not become involved in any Chinese fratricidal war. In the North, Mao Tse-tung did not even know of the US engineered Sino-Soviet treaty (August 14, 1945) recognising Chiang as China's President, but he wasted no time, starting to accept surrender of Japanese forces. His radio broadcast declared that the Fascist chieftain, Chiang Kai-shek can not represent the Chinese people. Troops of Mao's Eighth Route Army moved forward to disarm the Japanese, ignoring Chiang's orders to stay put, forcefully disarming those Japanese who waited for the nationalists. At the same time, Mao's troops started accepting weapons and heavy equipment from those Japanese who surren- dered to the Communists as well as recruiting some of the Japanese officers and specialists into the Communist Eighth Route Army. Wedemeyer asked for seven American divisions to be sent to China a.s.a.p., but was told that it was impossible until McArthur's forces have been lifted into Japan and Korea. In the meantime, Chiang and his American allies had to depend on the Japanese and their vassal- armies to hold back the red tide. Most of the Japanese Generals in China disliked both the Nationalists and the Communists and did not at all feel defeated by Chiang or the Communist guerillas. Americans who met Japanese officers to arrange surrender noted that they represent a Japanese Army that has not been defeated their manners just indicating a formality of surrender. For weeks in Beijing and Shanghai, Japanese troops continued to patrol the streets and their officers were still driving around in their staff cars, and as late as September Japanese forces were in full control of Shanghai. From 1945 on, Manchuria served as the base area for Mao's Peoples Liberation Army and staging ground for operations against the Kuomintang with many Manchukuo army, Japanese Kantogun personel and Japanese civilian professionals (e.g. doctors) serving with the Communist troops. Finally the 1.5 million Japanese that had been left in Manchuria were sent back to their homeland in 19461948 by US Navy ships. 196 Chapter 20 BATTLE FOR TAIWAN Death of the Formosans Most of the China specialist's in the State Department were incurably Christian missionary in their approach to Chinese problems and ignored that Formosa under Japanese rule was not Japanized but modernised and that Taiwan had become far more progressive than China, with a living standard and infrastructure surpassing any other part of East Asia. In the mind of these missionary turned China-hands the Chinese could do nothing wrong and the Japanese could do nothing right. The need to preserve the special Taiwanese modernisation progress, resulting from Japanese rule since 1895 was not considered. Already in 1943 a continental policy was adopted, confirming officially at the fateful Cairo Declaration that Taiwan was a part of China. It was useless to explain, that Taiwan never was a part of China and that mainland Chinese considered the Formosan unworthy of being Chinese, exercising an outspoken discrimination of the islanders. The end of Japanese administration and Nationalist Chinese rule was to bring death and destruction to all native Formosans and the end of the rich cultural diversity on the island and doom of their 13 spoken languages. When Roosevelt, Churchill and the Chiang's met in Cairo November 1943, FDR was afraid that Chiang's KMT, having lost all battles with Japan since 1937, was considering a separate peace with Japan thus leaving it to America alone to fight the Japanese. So, 198 (67) Taiwan to Churchill's astonishment, FDR promised to return Taiwan to Chiang Kai-shek, ignoring that Taiwan was a part of Japan according to the China-Japan Peace treaty of 1895. On top of that FDR also hailed China as a great power and Chiang as a great leader. The American delegation to Cairo included former YMCA worker W. R. Peck, born in China, interned in Bangkok January 1942, and now a senior ChinaSpecialist in the State Department. The FDR-Chiang deal in other words was that the more Chinese casualties, the fewer American corpses to be explained to parents and the US public. In the book Formosa Betrayed US Consul in Taiwan at the time George Kerr writes: The Cairo Declaration is as noteworthy for historical inaccuracies within the text as for its rhetorical flourishes. The latter made good propaganda, but the former set a dangerous trap. Some of the damage to American interests will never be repaired. Korea, properly enough, was promised independence "in due time," but the text refers to the Kurile Islands as having been "taken by force". The sentence which lies at the heart of our postwar Formosa Problem reads as follows: All territories Japan has stolen from the Chinese, such as Manchuria, Formosa, and the Pescadores, shall be restored to the Republic of China. (68) Formosan languages 199 Here expediency led the three Heads of State to ignore distasteful facts; treaties again had become "mere scraps of paper". Japan acquired undisputed title to the Kuriles by a treaty carefully and peacefully negotiated with Russia in 1875, (In return Russia received undisputed title to the entire island of Saghalin, only to lose half of it, by treaty, at the close of the Russo-Japanese War in 1905.) The Korean Kingdom had been simply expropriated in 1910, but at the time Great Britain, China, and the United States conceded Japan's sovereignty and gave it full legal recognition. Manchuria undoubtedly had been seized by aggression, but the Liaotung and Shantung Concessions held by Japan had been taken from Russia and Germany, respectively, in 1905 and 1914, and Japan's position in each of them was recognized and unchallenged by London and Washington in the intervening years. It was somewhat late to cry "thief". Peking ceded the Pescadores and Formosa to Japan in 1895 in the Treaty settlement made after China's defeat in the SinoJapanese War. On September 1, 1945 the first liberator allies arrived in Keelung harbour; three young Americans and two 200 Chinese colonels came ashore with a cortege of cooks, body-servants and bodyguards, taking up residence at The Plum Mansion, Formosa's best geisha house. They demanded money for expenses, whereupon the Japanese authorities opened a bank account for them with 3 million Yen (US $200.000). Most of the expenses was withdrawn by Colonel Chang the next day. It was soon obvious that the Americans belonged to Chiang's Gestapo or officially BIS know for their very brief interrogations at gun- and bayonetpoint eliminating Chiang's critics and enemies through terror. There were 170.000 well armed Japanese troops to defend Taiwan, and 330.000 Japanese civilians supporting them, ready to fight to the death, as well as most Taiwanese were suspicious of the mainland Nationalist regime and expected the Americans to replace the Japanese administration. For six weeks nothing happened and nobody knew what to do, except cleaning up the rubble and keep law and order, which the Japanese and Formosan leaders did very well. In Chunkin, Wedemeyer and Chiang was preoccupied with Manchuria considering Taiwan a minor issue. On October 5, a Lt. Gen. Keh King-en flew in with escort and an advisory group of one hundred Americans. Addressing the public, Gen. Keh directed the Japanese to carry on as usual and set the tone for the Chinese occupation by saying that: Formosa is a degraded territory and the Formosans are a degraded people beyond the pale of true Chinese civilisation. The Formosans did not grasp the real meaning of the speech being too happy about the end of the war and optimistic about the bright future of Taiwan believed to be secured by America. When the first Chinese Nationalist soldiers arrived, 12.000 ragtag soldiers on US troopships, they were so scared of the Japanese that they refused to leave the ships. They had to be physically forced to go ashore, with the Formosans watching and laughing at the dirty, scared, undisciplined Chinese troops. Obviously the troops them self did not feel victors and only ventured into Taiwan because the Americans went ahead. The first confrontation between the Formosan and their new Chinese masters occurred when young, pampered Chinese Air Force officers simply seized 201 the best private property around Taipei Airport, and ordered all residents to get out within 48 hours.The Formosans, different from the mainland Chinese illiterate, inarticulate and subdued peasantry, did not humbly tolerate such injustice, protested immediately to General Keh, and the Americans had to intervene to avoid bloodshed. Governor of Taiwan General Rikichi Ando formally surrendered Taiwan to Chinese General Chen Yi on October 25, 1945, in a ceremony at the Civic Auditorium. General Yi was on familiar ground, since he in 1935 in this building, had helped celebrate the fortieth anniversary of Japanese sovereignty over Formosa, congratulating the Formosans on their good fortune of being Japanese subjects. On this second occasion Chen Yi's address hailed China's triumph in defeating the Japanese and recovering Formosa, not mentioning at all the American role in this process. General Ando was later charged with war crimes (no details of the accusation provided) by the Chinese and committed suicide in a Shanghai prison. A majority of his officers in Taiwan accepted the Imperial decision of 15 August 1945, only a few committed suicide. Then the looting of Formosa began on a massive scale and on three levels. From September thousands of scavengers in nationalist uniforms looted, robed, stole everything and anything moveable in every city and village unfortunate enough to be near Kuomintang barracks. Additionally hundreds of petty thieves, criminals, ragged mainlanders mainly from Shanghai, poured in every day arriving on junks, boats or bribing their way on US navy ships or airforce planes. The word of the Taiwan bonanza was spreading all over coastal China. The 30.000 filthy, illiterate National troops shipped to Taiwan, were not paid and were actually expected to live of the land which they did well since the pickings were good compared to the mainland. Soon all over Formosa the saying went that: officials shipping out the stockpiles of military and civilian supplies. By the end of 1945 the looting by well organised officer-led Kuomintang military units reached huge proportions, including everything from foodstuffs to textiles and dismantled railway tracks. They were using confiscated Japanese military trucks with the only limitation on the looting being the lack of conscripts able to drive a truck. Most of them didn't even know how to ride a bicycle, carrying away stolen bicycles on their backs, let alone drive a vehicle. Even Taipei's garbage trucks were ordered to transport loot to the harbour, leaving the garbage piled high in the streets. The looting of the homes of the 300.000 Japanese residents went on in broad daylight by armed mainlander gangs, and by December many Japanese, left in legal limbo, had been evicted from their homes, but denied repatriation to Japan by McArthur, while their homes were striped of everything moveable. The liberation of property was not limited to Japanese houses but soon spread to include Formosan homes, so blatantly that fights erupted between rival gangs over the targeted loot, while the owners were watching helplessly with nowhere to turn for protec- At least the Japanese protected and respected private property. During the next month on Taiwan it became obvious why Kuomintang was loosing the battle with Mao's Communist Liberation Army. This low level looting would soon pale in comparison to the next stage of the giant, organised looting by senior military men officers and the new government 202 tion. Roaming bands in uniform cut down copper wire, dug up piping, dismantled plumbing, removed doors, windows, metal fixtures and railway signals and switches leaving buildings, hospitals, schools, temples liberated by KMT troops mere shells. All this seemed petty theft compared to the plunder shipped out by senior officers and Chen Yi's government lieutenants mainly of the huge food, medical, clothing, and equipment stockpiles and other supplies accumulated by the Japanese army for the vast Pacific-Asian war front, Taiwan being the main distribution centre with a total value of the liberated supplies, estimated at 2 billion US dollars. Officially, since the Americans may be watching, the shipments were for the heroic troops on the mainland fighting the Communists, but in reality most of it disappeared along the way with the American's closing their eyes, soon resulting in a food crises on the island since civilian rice stockpiles were liberated too in the process. When public demand for an end to Chen's robbing the island erupted in riots, Chen accused the Formosans of lack of patriotism and launched a rice collection program making local 203 Formosans appear responsible for the food shortages and threatening famine, never before known in the island's history under the Japanese. On top of the growing lawless misery, Chiang Kaishek's Blue Shirt gangsters began moving in from Shanghai raiding private warehouses, breaking up buildings organising the spiriting away among other stocks, an estimated 600.000 tons raw sugar to private warehouses in Hong Kong supervised by madame Chiang's brother, T.V. Soong. Of course the sugar production on Taiwan having been developed by the Japanese to 1.400.000 tons in 1937, fell to 30.000 tons in 1947 under KMT management. Japanese records of the surrendered stockpiles show that everything disappeared in similar fashion, and enormous profits were made on coal shipped to Shanghai as well as salt, liquor, narcotics, camphor (400.000 tons) and matches (3.5 million cases). As for the liberated medical narcotics stockpile of 4000 tons coca leaves and 600 tons of crude morphine on Japanese record, Chen Yi announced only 4000 kg of raw opium shipped to hospitals on the mainland, thus Taiwan becoming a major centre for illegal narcotics refining and trafficking for many years to come. The illegal, corrupt and criminal undertakings by the Chen Yi administration and Chiang Kai- shek cronies of this magnitude had to be camouflaged and window dressed to the American government and public which was done smartly by announcing the new Taiwan government table of organisation. Looking good on paper, consisting almost exclusively of Christian missionary school or US educated Commissioners, all speaking excellent english, and very well versed in showing the American guests a happy Taiwan during their short visits, guaranteeing a proAmerican China-province. In return these Commissioners were allowed to hire relatives, friends and concubines by the dozen on government payroll holding titles as specialists and technical advisers. Thus the administration, for which the Japanese had employed 18.000 people, ballooned to 43.000 under Chen Yi by 1946, with only a fraction of the Japanese productivity and efficiency and almost no Formosan employees above messengers, doormen and janitors with all important and lucrative positions going to mainland Chinese. The Formosans now had to experience and tolerate what real colonialism meant from their Kuomintang liberators. Originally in October 1945 all Japanese on Taiwan were dismissed from industry and government, but 204 were immediately hired as part time advisors forced to sign petitions to allowed to work for the new Taiwanese administration and to stay on the island. Actually 50.000 Japanese were lifelong residents of Formosa considering the island their home, but after a few weeks under KMT rule most of them preferred to abandon everything and repatriate to war torn, bombed out Japan with only 2.000 Japanese remaining on Formosa by 1946. In december 1945 The Kuomintang announced the Provincial Training Corps Program for the Japanbrainwashed backward Formosans to replace Japanese engineers and technicians. The course was a three month training in Sun Yat-sen, Chinese literature, geography, history, economy, some accounting and meteorology and above all about the words and deeds of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek. While the Formosans were trained all the positions left by the Japanese were filled by mainland immigrants mostly unqualified and the three Sun Yat-sen principles, San Min-Chui advertised, became a farce and non of the first class Formosans finishing the course were actually employed. For the purposes of reeducating the Formosan youth, the Kuomintang Youth Corps was organised modelled on a mixture of Hitler Jugend and Komsomol, based on the principle that the government should serve and finance the party and that there was no Kuomintang without Chiang Kai-shek just as no Nazy Party without Hitler. In all monarchies from Denmark to Thailand, the tradition of placing a portrait of the reigning monarch or emperor in all the schools was adapted by Kuomintang placing portraits of the National Leader Chiang Kai-shek everywhere, ordering weekly ceremonies to the national flag, party and leader everybody bowing three times and singing the Party Song. The time honoured close cooperation between Kuomintang and the Shanghai crime syndicate was revitalised when party organisers began using various strong arm methods all over Taiwan. Confiscating real estate, taking over businesses, liquidating critics, blackmailing well to do Formosans by sending them to rehabilitation centres if they did not pay protection money, accusing the local press of being Japan hirelings and traitors if they dared to raise their voice. Organising the shipments of stockpiles, dividing up the loot and managing the confiscated property became a huge task in itself even for the experienced Shanghai gangsters and KMT party cad- res. Various types of wealth changed hands. First there were the government properties of the Tokyo government and Taiwan G. General including public land, buildings, railway and transport companies, radio stations and port facilities, various state run production factories, power plants and Bank of Taiwan. Then there was self owned institutions and properties such as schools, hospitals, forestries, farms, research centres, postal savings and insurance agencies. Private property to be transferred included subsidiaries of Japanese corporations and Taiwanese joint ventures, production companies of timber, chemicals, minerals, and all the small holdings of the 300.000 Japanese who's lifetime work had been accumulated in shops, clinics, restaurants, small industries and services of all sorts. They were repatriated allowed only to take with them what they could hold in their hands. Those Formosans who had joint businesses with Japanese lost everything being guilty of collaboration with the enemy. According to the most conservative estimates the total value of non military property transferred was two billion 1940 US dollars. By some twisted bur205 lesque window-dressing the whole Taiwan looting, destruction and robbery was called restoration of stolen property to the original owners by the Christian-missionary turned China-specialists in Washington. 206 The 228 Massacre On February 27, 1947, Chinese agents from the Tobacco Monopoly, confiscated contraband cigarettes, for their own black market racketeering, from a 40 year old widow named Lin Jiang- Mai. They robbed her life savings along with the cigarettes, cracking her skull with a pistol, angering the Taiwanese crowd watching. Running away from the scene the agents fired into the furious crowd killing a bystander further escalating the confrontation; the Taiwanese, already fed up with KMT rule, protested to the police and gendarmes to no avail. Violence spread the next morning, with security forces firing machine-guns into the demonstrators that were calling for the arrest of the agents responsible for the previous day's shooting. Formosans took over the town and military bases on March 4 and cautioned against violence on the radio, with martial law declared and curfew enforced by evening. Fresh KMT troops from China arrived on March 7 engaging in three days of indiscriminate killing and looting. New York Times reported that everybody seen on the streets were shot at, homes broken into, occupants killed and women raped, some streets littered with dead some beheaded. Nevertheless the Taiwanese held control of large part of Taiwan for several weeks after the February 28 incident and within a few days order and calm was restored by improvised police recruited from high school students and volunteers. Local leaders formed a committee listing 32 demands for reform, including autonomy, free elections, surrender of ROC Army and an end to government corruption. Some Formosan groups demanded proper international representation and independence but were fi(69) Civilian executed by ROC nally settling for army greater autonomy. Pretending to negotiate, the ROC authorities stalled for time, with Chen Yi assembling a large military force on the mainland, launching an indiscriminately bloody crack down upon their arrival on March 8. His troops reportedly executed over 4.000 civilians throughout Taiwan and by the end of March Chen had jailed or killed all the Taiwanese leaders, students and intellectuals he could catch. To the staunchly pro Chiang Kai-shek Time magazine, April 7, 1947 he said: 207 It took the Japs 51 years to dominate this island. I expect to take five years to re- educate the people so they will be happier with Chinese administration. In the course of Chen Yi's re-education many of the killings were random, but the elimination of the Taiwanese elite, local leaders, home rule groups, intellectuals, middle and high school students, not to mention anybody nostalgic for the civilised Japanese law and order was systematic, thorough and complete. The purges was followed by repression and terror, a white terror that lasted until the end of martial law in 1987. How many thousand Chinese, Taiwanese, Hakka and Formosan were imprisoned, tortured and killed during the KMT one party rule we shall not know until the Taiwan secret police files, if not already shredded, will become public. Today only the victims deep seated bitterness toward the KMT Chinese forty years of terror and their US sponsors is left. 208 Chapter 21 BATTLE FOR CHINA 1945-1949 As we have seen, the United States ordered Japanese troops to surrender to KMT and not the Communists everywhere in China, except for Manchuria. There they were expected to surrender to the Soviets, so Chiang Kai-Shek asked the Japanese to remain armed at their post until Kuomintang troops arrived. He also made a deal with the Soviets to delay their withdrawal until he had moved some of his best troops, being airlifted by the US into the large cities in Northern China. The Russians happily obliged, giving them time to systematically dismantle and transport the large Manchurian industrial base, according to some estimates worth about 2.5 billion US dollars, to Siberia. The peace negotiations between Chiang and Mao beginning October in Chongqing, did not produce any peace and battles between the two sides continued, escalating into a full scale war by June 1946, between CPC and KMT, a three years long battle for mainland China which the Communist historians and the majority of the province peasantry called the War of Liberation. The United States supported the Kuomintang and Chiang with hundreds of millions of dollars, military hardware, generous loans as well as advisors 210 and air-power-transport. Like everybody else Truman tried to use the Japanese, in his case against Mao and his peasant army because as he wrote: If we told the Japanese to lay down their arms immediately and march to the seaboard, the entire country would be taken over by the Communists. We therefore had to take the unusual step of using the enemy as a garrison until we could airlift Chinese National troops and send marines to guard the seaports. More than 50.000 marines were sent to strategic points in China. The US policy mess in China and efforts to make a truce between CPC and KMT had been entrusted to a colourful American heavy drinker, rags to riches General, Oklahoma born Patrick Hurley, new US ambassador to China. Chosen by FDR, he had come to bring unity to China arriving first time on November 7, 1944 on the weekly US plane to Dixie Mission at the Communist headquarters in Yan'an. As Mao, Zhou and Zhu De came from their car to greet him, Hurly yelled his favourite greeting, the American Indian war cry of Yahoo!. On the way to China, Hurley had called on Moscow, where Soviet foreign minister Molotov had assured him that Mao and his associates were not real communists and the Soviets had nothing to do with them. Hurley believed this and the illusion, that Chiang Kai-Shek could be convinced to introduce democracy in China, in return for the US recalling General Stilwell whom Chiang hated for his incorruptibility and outspokenness. US policy toward China was mainly left to Hurley, since Washington was busy getting ready for victory in Europe, which needless to say was unfortunate since he was as far out of his depth as can be. He considered bringing the two chinks, Chiang and Mao, together over a few whiskeys easily within his ability to work miracles. He knew absolutely nothing about China, pronounced Mao Zedong's name as Moose Dong and called Chiang 'Mr Shek'. The Dixie Mission chief, Colonel Barrett, a fluent Chinese speaker, had difficulty in translating due to the saltiness of the Generals remarks on top of which his discourse was not following any logical pattern of thought, as well as his toasting of some Chinese women as my tall, blonde goddess was ... embarrass211 ing. That night, Hurley attended a huge banquet celebrating the Russian revolution, disrupting the ceremony with loud cries of Yahoo!. Needless to say, Chiang and his Dragon Lady played Hurley like a fish, letting him swallow the hook deeper and deeper. The main Communist base around Yan'an of 350.000 sq. km was run totally independent of KMT, and its two armies of 500.000 men would double in size by Spring, additionally being supported by the Commu(70) Patrick Hurley at centre nist militia, 2 million (bow tie) with Communist leadstrong. For them the ership in Yan'an Kuomintang, fascist in every way, except for efficiency, was, if possible, more of an enemy then the Japanese. Eager to make a good impression on the American guests, Mao, smoking Camel cigarettes, declared he was ready to accept Chiang as President if reasonable agreement could be reached. There were parties, dances and long nights with lots of Johnny Walker flown in by the Americans. In talks with political officer John P. Davis, Mao, having an 'organic dislike' of the Soviet Union, undertook to collaborate fully, if US forces landed in eastern China and brought the Communists supplies. Davis predicted that Mao's progressive ways and Chiang's feudal China would never coexist. Most American missionary turned politicians in Washington, ignored or missed this fact and kept on championing Chiang. It is interesting here to contemplate on the American political establishments commitment to an obviously corrupt and suppressive dictator like Chiang KaiShek. To understand this, we have to go back to examine the beginning globalisation of America in 1897. The National Board of Trade observed at the time: Admiral J. G. Walker also recommended Nicaragua and the failed French Panama venture, the French price tag being $109 million, stressing US Naval expansion and consolidation in the Pacific, acquiring naval bases and lucrative trading opportunities in Asia, even by war if needed. By the end of the nineteenth century, US politics focused on wealth and materialism, transforming the political process into masculine Darwinism, being led by those accumulating wealth, elevating military action against Native Americans, the Spanish, Filipinos, Chinese, Panamanians, Haitians, and Mexicans into natural free trade competition. One main catalyst of this process was Christian religion and revivalist missionary expansion in mainland China, e.g. sending 5000 marines against the Boxers, so that the American missionaries and Columbus's dream of exploiting Asia would not die. The US multinationals made immense profits in South America by simultaneously controlling local export prices and US market prices, often differing 2030 times the production costs, leaving the country of origin in permanent poverty. The growing commerce of the United States with the west coast of South America, the islands of the Pacific and Asia, as well as with Alaska and our own Pacific States and the development of China with its four hundred million people would seem to demand the construction of the Nicaraguan Canal by the United States Government. 212 It was the vision of a similar China-US traderelationship that dictated US policy in Asia and the single-minded support of all the US-periphery politician-failures over the decades. (Chiang KaiShek, Marcos, Syngman Rhee, Pinochet, Noriega, Diem and Thieu.) General Marshall was called in to sort out the mess in China and find some form of compromise, and although the Soviets did not support Mao, the Communists inherited large amounts of weapons abandoned by the Japanese. The hardware included heavy armour and artillery and when large numbers of KMT troops surrendered and joined Mao's army the Communists got the upper hand in the power balance. Their land reform, benefitting the exploited landless peasantry, made an unlimited supply of manpower available, mobilising 5.500.000 peasants against KMT forces during the Huaihai Campaign alone. According to a secret agreement in Yalta the Soviets were promised the same concessions in China, that Imperial Russia had lost to Japan in 1905. By March 1946 it was clear to Stalin, that Chiang's Kuomintang had no future in China and ordered General Malinovsky in Manchuria to let Mao's troops move in as the Red Army was withdrawing, leaving northern 213 China under Mao's firm control. KMT did achieve a symbolic victory at Yen'an in March 1947, but by 1948 Mao's peasant army captured Shenyang and Changchun where the best KMT army had to surrender providing the Communist troops with tanks and heavy weapons. Luoyang fell April 1948 and Shandong province on September 24, 1948. During the Pingjin Campaign lasting 64 days, November 1948- January 1949, the Peoples Liberation Army, in spite of heavy losses secured Zhangjiakou, Tianjin, Dagu and Beijing, killing, wounding or capturing 520.000 KMT troops. On April 21, the Communists crossed the Yangtze Kiang, capturing the KMT capital Nanjing, forcing Chiang to retreat successively to Guangzhou (October 15), Chongqing (November 25), and Chengdu before the final KMT retreat to Taipei December 10, 1949. The Maoist's victory was due to their social awareness and self reliance, both of which was totally alien to Kuomintang. Also essential was the decade long, continued Japanese victories over Chiang's armies and Chairman Mao's and Zhou's pragmatic attitude towards mutual understanding and secret agreements with both the Japanese high command and various anti-Chiang, Japanese-supported forces. Addi- tionally over 150.000 Japanese soldiers and officers went into service with the Chinese Red Army not wishing to return to a Japan under USA, making an important difference in the power balance between Mao and Chiang. Apart from the immense civilian casualties in the 4 years' Liberation war, from July 1946 to June 1950, the PLA eliminated over 10 million KMT forces and bandits including 6.3 million captured, defected and surrendered, while the PLA suffered more than 260.000 killed and 1.040.000 wounded. On October 1, 1949, Mao Zedong proclaimed the Peoples Republic of China with its capital in Beijing, while Chiang Kai-Shek and 2 million Kuomintang invaded the island of Taiwan, establishing Taipei as temporary capital of the Republic of China. A group of approx. 12.000 KMT soldiers under General Li Mi escaped to Burma and paid by the ROC government and supported by the CIA, they continued guerilla attacks into south China and undertook drug trafficking for finances. By 1949 it was common knowledge, that Chiang's leadership was corrupt, his secret police merciless, his administration feudal, his promises lies and KMT's daily diet the blood and tears of the people of China. Everybody expected Chiang's government to fall, if faced with a Communist invasion of Taiwan and even the US government was ready to abandon him in his last stand. As luck would have it, the onset of the next large battle of the Pacific 80 Years War, in Korea, and the birth of Stalin's nuclear bomb August 29, 1949 changed things radically. So Truman ordered the United States Seventh Fleet into the Taiwan straits, saving Chiang and the Kuomintang. In Taipei Chiang could continue to assert his government as the sole legitimate authority in China, keeping his permanent seat in the UN Security Council, declaring a closure of all mainland China ports, intercepting shipping by government sponsored pirate activity, causing severe hardship for mainland China's food distribution and fishery industry. 214 Battle for Korea, 1945-1950 South Korea Strength: Casualties: North Korea 1,200,000 include 1,200,000 include 500,000 US troops 900,000 Chinese troops 780,000 1,500,000 (estimated) like the State Department, two US army planners, Colonel Bonesteel and Colonel Dean Rusk were able to locate Korea on the map. They suggested to divide the peninsula at the 38 parallel with the South containing two- thirds of the population, Seoul the capital and several excellent ports, constructed by Japan, on the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan. The 38th parallel was first suggested as a dividing line for Korea in 1896, when Russia wanted to annex Korea, while Japan had just secured its rights in Korea from China and Britain. In 1945 Stalin accepted the proposal since the Soviet objective was that Total of civilians killed, missing and wounded: 2.500.000. At the Cairo conference FDR, Churchill and the Chiang's agreed to being mindful of the enslavement of the Korean people and that Korea should become free and independent in due course. This sounded good to intellectual and Christian Korean ears, except for the in due course part. No one in Washington knew what it meant and apart from a handful of fundamentalist Christian missionaries many did not even know the location of Korea, so Secretary of state Edward Stettinius had trouble finding it on the map. It was clear that the Soviets in Manchuria would get there first, and that a Soviet Korea instead of Japanese Korea was a psychosis scenario non grata. Un215 Japan must be forever excluded from Korea since Korea under Japanese rule would be a constant threat to the Far East of the USSR. Japan might be permitted to trade with Korea but should be excluded from investing, industry or mining. By the early afternoon August 15, 1945, Koreans everywhere were singing, shouting, waving flags, congratulating each other, beating drums pots and pans in celebration of what they thought was the end of the war. Nobody, from Pyongyang to Pusan, in their wildest nightmare could have imagined that the years ahead, following Japanese administration, would bring endless tears, blood, deprivation, destruction and suffering. That the future would mean two Korean puppet states, powerless pawns forced at each others throat by foreign interests, without any Koreans participating in the talks concerning the future of the peninsula between USA and USSR, let alone the Korean people being asked about their opinion. Additionally the saying goes that: cated, Christian-nationalist dictator Syngman Rhee August 15, 1948, and the Peoples Republic of North Korea led by USSR trained Kim Il-sung. Oddly Kim was born a Christian too, but apart from that, the only thing the two had in common was their claim to whole of Korea, outlawing each other, and Syngman Rhee purging leftists who then headed for the hills preparing for guerilla war. The partition of Korea led to demonstrations, especially by organised labour in the South, leading to the arrest of 2.500 socialist unionists, and a bloody demonstration on Jeju Island on April 3, 1948 when 100 policemen and civilians were killed; escalating into a regular rebellion the furious Jeju population attacked police stations burned down polling stations, and issued an appeal to fight the American occupation and the partition of Korea. The South Korean government sent 3.000 soldiers and several hundred paramilitary NYA anti- communists to reinforce the police, but the soldiers mutinied turning over their weapons to the rebels, while the NYA's engaged in systematic killing, rape and terror of Jeju residents. Lt. General Kim Ik Ruhl, commander on Jeju, tried to end the uprising peacefully by meeting rebel leader Kim Dalsam, who demanded disarmament of the police, dismissal of all govern216 If two Englishmen meet, they make a club, if two Frenchmen meet they make a restaurant, and if two Koreans meet they make three political parties. In December 1945, Korea was governed by the USUSSR commission; on paper. In reality on the ground, it totally relied on the intact Japanese administration and police force, leading to bloody strikes and clashes, several policemen killed and martial law, totally discrediting the US Free Korea declarations. The chaos led to the establishment of the Republic of South Korea, led by the Harvard edu- ment officials, prohibition of the NYA and reunification of Korea. When General Kim Ik Ruhl refused order from US military Governor General William F. Dean to end the rebellion by force, he was recalled and his replacement mounted a major offensive against Jeju. The rebels created mountain strongholds with over 4.000 combatants by October 1948, poorly armed, but supported by many peasant villagers, while the government forces and NYA held the coastal towns. Officially on the sideline, the US military in Korea was deeply involved in the following bloody attack on the rebels by four South Korean battalions and NYA units by spring 1949, finishing off the massacre of Jeju insurgent movement on August 17, 1949. During the next fifty years, it was a crime even to mention the Jeju uprising, and the following coverup of the killing of an estimated 30.000 people, 20.000 jailed suspected of taking part in or sympathising with the rebellion and the burning of 230 villages with 40.000 houses. On June 25, 1950 North Korean troops crossed the 38 parallel in force to oust bandit traitor Syngman Rhee, 217 ignoring the following US sponsored UN resolution. The well equipped North Korean Army launched the Fatherland Liberation War with 230.000 soldiers, 274 T-34 tanks, some 150 Yak fighters and 110 attack bombers totally outgunning the South Korean weak, untrained and disloyal, demotivated 80.000 troops, retreating South or defecting en masse to the Communist North. Truman ordered MacArthur to transfer material to the ROK army but by August the KPA had advanced to Pusan city vicinity on the Southern tip of the peninsula, the US Eighth Army desperately holding the Pusan Perimeter. The USAF flew 40 daily bombing sorties, destroying KPA logistics, bridges, roads and rail junctions, while the Pusan Perimeter was reinforced with 500 tanks and 180.000 soldiers soon counterattacking. Simultaneously McArthur launched the amphibious assault on Incheon destroying most of the city, retaking Seoul, rapidly defeating KPA troops of whom only about 30.000 survived the bloody retreat to the North. On September 30, 1950 Defence Secretary Marshall instructed McArthur to feel unhampered tactically and strategically to proceed north of the 38th parallel, and on October 1 the ROK army crossed into North Korea, capturing Pyongyang together with The Eighth US Army on October 19, 1950, by then holding 135.000 North Korean POW's. In spite of Stalin's hesitation, Mao Zedong ordered the Chinese People's Volunteer Army, to resist US occupation of all of Korea and by march and bivouac discipline the PVA could enter Korea undetected by US air reconnaissance, the three divisions marching dark to dark (19:00- 03:00 hrs) 460 Km from Manchuria to their Korean combat zone in 19 days. Differences and disagreements between Moscow's red Pope, Stalin and the Chinese peasant Luther, Mao became a major factor in Asian politics and would from this moment on shape developments in the Pacific war, a fact ignored by the Christian missionary turned politicians in Washington. They still maintained, that all Communists were inches of the same yard, adding a new nail into the coffin of US policy in Korea and Indochina. They were turning a blind eye to the dynamics of Mao Zedong and Ho Chi Minh's peasant/village power policy, being essentially different from the Soviet industrial/proletarian 218 Marxist idealism. Previously, McArthur had told President Truman, that there was little risk of Chinese intervention since they would be slaughtered by US air superiority, but Mao's troops had learned their lessons well fighting the Japanese. So on November 1, 1950 deep inside Korea thousands of PVA soldiers encircled and attacked US units, scattering them and overran defensive positions at Unsan, defeating South Korean divisions and forcing the US Eighth Army into the longest retreat in US Army history. The only successful, but very costly, delay of the Chinese offensive, was at Kunuri by the Turkish brigade, slowing the attack for 4 days. The Chinese had adopted the hachi shiki tactics, a Japanese combat formation name for 八 (eight), skilfully implemented by Mao's troops, allowing the enemy to move into the /\ formation, then closing the opening trapping the forces inside, splitting and liquidating them at will. The decisive battle of the Chosin Reservoir was a brutal seventeen day battle in freezing weather, between 30.000 US army and marines, encircled by 60.000 Chinese PVA troops under the command of Song Shi-Lun. Eventually the Americans managed to break out and evacuate from the port of Hungnam, marking the total US withdrawal from North Korea. The Chinese suffered 40.000 casualties and the US 15.000 during the battle but the Americans succeeded in evacuating 100.000 soldiers with most of their equipment and 98.000 civilians to Pusan. Prior to escaping the US effected enemy-denial-operations, raising Hungnam to the ground while on December 16, 1950 President Truman declared a national emergency. In January 1951 the PVA and the Korean Peoples Army launched their Third Phase Offensive (Chinese Winter Offensive), conducting night attack tactics, adapted from the Japanese Imperial Army, stealthily encircling superior enemy forces, surprising, overwhelming and disorienting the US troops, who hurriedly retreated to the south some abandoning their weapons and equipment. On January 4, the Chinese conquered Seoul. The state of the demoralised Eighth Army and other setbacks prompted General McArthur to plan a nuclear attack on the Chinese and KPA armies, thus creating a deadly radioactive fallout zone interrupting the Chinese supply chains. US forces retreated to Suwon, Wonju and Samchock, but the new commander M. 219 Ridgeway, restored Eighth Army's esprit de corps. With the Chinese outrunning their logistics, supplies, ammunition and material carried on foot and bicycle from the Yalu river to the battle lines, the US counterattack was successful, recapturing Wonju and breaking the momentum of a renewed Chinese offensive at Chipyong-ni. Revitalised, the Eighth Army expelled the Chinese and North Koreans from Seoul on March 14, 1951, which was the Korean capital's fourth conquest in a year, being in total ruin and leaving its population at a mere 200.000 out of the pre-1945 residents of 1.5 million. The disagreement between Truman and McArthur over the conduct of the war in Korea reached explosive levels by April and at a top secret meeting in Washington at 4 p.m. on April 6, 1951 between Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Gordon E. Dean and President Truman, the transfer of nuclear bombs to the military was discussed. Truman grimly described the situation in the Far East, the expected Chinese spring offensive and the heavy concentration of three Chinese armies, 700.000 men, at the Yalu river. Additionally the Soviet Union had assembled 70 submarines in Vladivostok and another heavy troop concentration in south Sakhalin ready to cut the shipping lanes between Japan and Korea. The Joint Chief of Staff believed that Soviet entry into the battle of Korea would mean global war and they had asked President Truman to transfer nine atomic bombs to the Air Force. Unless Dean objected Truman would authorise the transfer ending civilian control of the nuclear weapons, originally supported by Truman, Dean, the Atomic Commission and the American public. Not even the Berlin crises had changed civilian atomic weapons control. On that April day however, Truman ended exclusive civilian control and transferred a few bombs to the military. To retain some control of developments at the same time, he removed trigger-happy Big Mac terminating his UN Korea command, recalling him to USA, where in return, McArthur called for Truman to be impeached, suggesting that the President was drunk when he fired McArthur, creating an outcry over the relief of the celebrated war hero. Back in the United States McArthur led a campaign against Truman, and when Eisenhower was elected president in 1952 he asked McArthur for advice about 220 Korea. When the General suggested atomic bombings of North Korea and China, Eisenhower rejected the advice, and ended McArthur's military and political career. Not nuking North Korea did not mean that the FEAF (Far Eastern Air Force) had not been busily bombing and today, looking at the numbers, one wonders what was left to bomb in Korea by 1951. During the war FEAF units flew 720.980 sorties and delivered 475.000 tons of ordnance, killing an estimated 150.000 North Korean and Chinese troops, destroying about 1.000 aircraft, 800 bridges, 1.100 tanks, 800 locomotives, 9.000 railroad cars, 70.000 motor vehicles, 80.000 buildings and 20 dams flooding roads, railroad tracks and thousands of hectares of rice paddies. The B-29s had flown 20.448 sorties day and night, dropping 170.000 tons of bombs and napalm. The horrific USAF incendiary attacks with napalm against Japanese and Korean cities received much less attention then the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and did not emerge as a major war criminal issue until and during the Vietnam napalm bombings, producing terrible photos of injured civilians. Yet a lot more napalm was dropped on Korea and with much more devastating effect, the targets being large populous cities and urban indus- trial concentrations. At the end of May 1951 a stalemate emerged, and in spite of continued fighting in the battles of Bloody Ridge, Heartbreak Ridge, White Horse, Triangle Hill and Pork Chop Hill no territory changed hands, the armistice negotiations continuing for two years. Finally a fragile agreement on an Indian sponsored ceasefire was reached on July 27, 1953, with the battle line approximately at the 38th parallel, a ceasefire still in power today with a DMZ separating the two Koreas. By the time the armistice was signed in 1953, North Korea was devastated by three years of bombings with almost no buildings standing and both Koreas had watched the whole peninsula totally ravaged as the expectations of 1945 turned into a nightmare. Kim Il-sung's regime was nearly extinguished having to survive on Chinese help and Soviet handouts, and South Korea lived on the brink of starvation until large Japanese investments in 1960's (total foreign investments in South Korea amounting to 3.6 billion US dollars with Japan accounting for 52%) finally helped it get on its feet. The Battle for Korea, although the Koreans just being innocent pawns, turned out to become one of the bloodiest chapters 221 of the Pacific 80 Years War, with total losses that still today are difficult estimate. The Western (US–UN Command) numbers of Chinese and North Korean casualties are primarily based upon calculated battlefield-casualty reports, POW interrogations, and military intelligence (documents, spies, etc.).The Korean War dead: US: 36.940 killed; PVA: 100.000–1.500.000 killed; most estimate some 400.000 killed; KPA: 214.000– 520.000; most estimate some 500.000. ROK: Civilian: some 245.000–415.000 killed; Total civilians killed some 1.500.000–3.000.000; most estimate some 2.000.000 killed. The PVA and KPA published a joint declaration after the war, reporting that the armies had "eliminated 1.09 million enemy forces, including 390.000 from the United States, 660.000 from South Korean, and 29.000 from other countries". No breakdown was given for the number of dead, wounded, and captured, which Chinese researcher Xu Yan suggests may have aided negotiations for POW repatriation. Xu writes that the PVA "suffered 148.000 deaths altogether, among which 114.000 died in combats, incidents, and winter-kill, 21.000 died after being hospitalized, 13.000 died from diseases; and 380.000 were wounded. There were also 29.000 missing, including 21.400 POWs, of whom 14.000 were sent to Taiwan, 7.110 were repatriated." For the KPA, Xu cites 290.000 casualties, 90.000 POWs, and a "large" number of civilian deaths in the north. The impact and aftermath of the battle of Korea had far reaching consequences beyond the peninsula, especially for the the two Great Power blocs. The strengthening of NATO, being able to mobilize fifty divisions and a strong navy and air force by 1953 rendering Soviet aggression in the West unlikely, and in the east the emergence of Communist China not only as a great Asian power, but a global China with a strong military posture to influence world affairs. An Additional impact was on the acceleration of the development of large thermonuclear devices and their testing in 1952 and 1953 as well as China's first nuclear weapons test in 1964 at Lop Nur, ending possible American and Soviet nuclear blackmail. The USA, realised by 1951, that the support of Nationalist China and Koumintang against Japan had bean a grave mistake and arranged for the San Francisco Treaty with the aim of repairing US-Japan relationships and gaining an ally for obvious emerging battles and conflicts in Pacific Asia. The San Francisco Treaty was signed by over 50 countries lending credi222 bility to new US-Japan relations. Soviet opposition to the treaty was vehement, and only India was signing a special India-Japan treaty, since India considered certain provisions unjust in the treaty, and wished to give Japan the proper position of honour and equality among the community of free nations. Neither Nationalist China or Peoples Republic of China was invited leaving the status of Taiwan, integral part of Japan since 1895, up to discussion to this day in spite of the Treaty of Taipei. The massive transfer of Japanese assets to third parties, including private, industrial, state and public investments and holdings resulted in the transfer of: Japanese overseas assets in 1945 (1945, ¥15 = 1 US $) Country/region Korea Taiwan North East China North China Central South China Others Value (Yen) 7,025,600,000 42,542,000,000 1.46532E+11 55,437,000,000 36,718,000,000 28,014,000,000 Total ¥379,499,000,000 Value (US $) 468,370,000 2,846,100,000 9,768,800,000 3,695,800,000 2,447,900,000 1,867,600,000 $25,300,000,000 Additionally Japan agreed compensation of POW's and prostitutes (mainly the Koreans and Philipinos but not the Japanese) for their work and services and an extra payment for war damages to: Japanese compensation to countries occupied during 1941–45 Country Burma Philippines Indonesia Vietnam Total Amount in Yen Amount in US $ Date of treaty 72,000,000,000 198,000,000,000 80,388,000,000 14,400,000,000 200,000,000 550,000,000 223,080,000 Nov 5, 1955 May 9, 1956 Jan 20, 1958 38,000,000 May 13, 1959 ¥364,348,800,000 $1,012,080,000 The last payment to the Philippines was made on July 22, 1976. Payment to other Asian countries were accepted and executed by Japan under bilateral agreements and the understanding that the money was to be used for individual compensation. In some cases such as South Korea, the compensation was not paid out to individuals by their governments but was used for public and other projects so a large number of individuals received no payment. 223 Chapter 22 BATTLE FOR INDONESIA As luck would have it Indonesia, just like Indochina, happened to have right leaders picking up the pieces in 1945, with the cooperation of Japanese Navy and Army officers declaring independence without waiting for the former colonial masters to reoccupy their old offices. In Indonesia his name was Sukarno. Unlike Burma and the Philippines, Indonesia was not granted formal independence by the Japanese in 1943 as no Indonesian representative was present at the Greater East Asian Conference in Tokyo in November 1943. In September 1944 Japan announced that not only Java but the entire archipelago would become independent. Originally the naval kingdom of Srivijaya and the Buddhist Sailendra and Hindu MataramMajapahit dynasties thrived in Java and over most of Indonesia, and it was not until the 16th century that Islam became the major religion in Java and Sumatra and the Dutch East Indian Company became the dominant power, Indonesia formally becoming a Dutch colony in the early 20th century. The Japanese invasion encouraged the previously suppressed Indonesian independent movement, and Japan's choice of Sukarno, a modern, secular, multilingual and engaged leader of a future non-colonial prosperous Indonesia was an excellent choice. The son of a Javanese aristocrat and a Balinese mother, attending a Dutch school and studying civil engineering at the Technical University in Bandung, he spoke native Sundanese, Balinese, Indonesian and Dutch and was also fluent in German, English, French, Arabic, and Japanese having a photographic memory and a very clear mind. Being intensely progressive both in architecture and politics, his modernity was anti racist, anti imperialist, as well as basically non-capitalist, socialist, secular and western, his hero being K. Ataturk. He became the leader of the pro independence party (PNI) in 1927, and was arrested by the Dutch colonial police in 1929, sentenced to two years in prison. During the 1930's he was arrested several times and was beginning to believe that Indonesian independence could only be achieved together with Dai Nippon (Japan) ... for the first time I saw myself in the mirror of Asia. When the Japanese invaded Indonesia, February 1942, quickly defeating the Dutch forces, the Dutch intended to keep Sukarno a prisoner, being finally forced to setting him free to save themselves. The Japanese knew about Sukarno, and approached him with respect and asked him to help organise indige225 nous forces across Java and Sumatra for the war effort, consequently Sukarno having success in recruiting a considerable Javanese volunteer army, numbering two million by 1945. On November 10, 1943 he was decorated by Showa Tenno and September 7, 1944 Indonesian independence was announced by Tokyo, triggering the US justification of denouncing Sukarno as one of the foremost collaborationist leaders. In March 1945 Sukarno and Hatta began preparation work for an Independent Indonesia with delegates from all over Java and Sumatra, Portuguese Timor, British Borneo and Malay peninsula, establishing the bases of postwar Indonesia Raya, envisioned by Sukarno outlining the guiding principals of the Indonesian nation in his speech June 1, 1945. Sukarno's vision of a unitary, secular state was not popular with the Muslim leaders and their aspirations for Islamic law, but a compromise was reached in the Jakarta Charter, muslims accepting precedence of national independence guided by Pancasila, the five principles being belief in God, humanitarianism, national unity, democracy and social justice. Sukarno, Hatta and Radjiman were flown to Saigon August 11, 1945 where they were summoned by Field 226 Marshall Hisaichi Terauchi, the highly respected Japanese supreme commander, to discuss Indonesia's independence. The draft to the declaration of independence was prepared on the night of August 16, at Rear-Admiral Maeda's house, Miyako-Doori 1, Jakarta, now the Museum of Declaration of Independence, while Maeda was sleeping upstairs. The proclamation was scheduled for August 24, but under pressure from youth organisations with the motto independence or death, Sukarno, on August 17, red the declaration to about a hundred people in front of Maeda's house. They raised the red-and- white flag an sang Indonesia Raya. Sukarno and Hatta signed the declaration and said that the Dutch should be ashamed that the Japanese did more to recognise Indonesian independence than the democratic Dutch. Adam Malik broadcast the declaration over Japanese short-wave radio, while young activists in Maeda's office printed thousands of leaflets and on August 19 the Japanese sponsored PPKI was transformed into the Indonesian National Committee (KNI). The Dutch, having absolutely no intention to recognise an independent Indonesia labelled Sukarno and Hatta Japanese collaborator puppets and the Republic of Indonesia a creation of Japanese fascism, but the Netherlands lacked the resources to reestablish colonial authority, and asked the supreme allied commander in Southeast Asia, Mountbatten to exercise jurisdiction over Indonesia. This was easier said than done, so unabashed he asked the Japanese troops to maintain law and order until British troops could land in Java late September. This they did, but at the same time some Japanese commanders felt no reason to surrender to the British since no Japanese military unit had ever been defeated by the UK. So they simply turned over their weapons to the Indonesian republicans contributing to an important part of strengthening the anti-Dutch resistance. The allies had no policy concerning Indonesian's future and only wanted do disarm the Japanese and liberate the Europeans in the internment camps. Of course most Indonesians suspected their aim to be restoration of Dutch rule, and tried to establish republican power on the ground, which was often difficult given the complex, linguistic, religious, ethnic and social-economic differences in the provinces. In Semarang on October 14 the republicans murdered some 130 Japanese prisoners and Japanese forces killed 2000 Indonesians before the British arrived six days later, arranging a cease-fire November 227 2, but sporadic fighting resumed later. In Surabaya Vice Admiral Shibata gave the Indonesians the Japanese weapons and Muslim leaders declared a holy war for Indonesia, so when 6.000 British Indian troops arrived on October 25 trying to disarm the Indonesians, they were attacked and many Indians, especially muslims, defected and joined the fight against colonialism. The British flew in Sukarno who arranged a cease-fire October 30, lasting for a few hours when Brigadier-General Mallaby was killed. The British forces reacted furiously, killing more than 6.000 Indonesians and the Indonesians in return killed over a thousand Dutch, Europeans and Chinese the fighting becoming a full fledged popular revolution. By the end of 1945 about 8.000 Indonesians were killed in Jakarta and the war of independence took on a new momentum when the Arab League recognised Sukarno's Indonesia marking the beginning of Indonesia's war of independence as well as a social revolution. The Dutch being in a week position tried to negotiate some form of agreement, reaching the Linggajati compromise finally signed May 25, 1947. Non of the parties was happy with the agreement and the Dutch heaving gained time, launched a police action against the republic, driving the republicans out of Sumatra and most of Java. Resulting in a breakaway Islamic state in western Java and communist insurgency in Madiun-East Java, it consequently triggered the USA to pressure the Dutch to accept the republican Indonesian independence. Not giving up, the Dutch started a second police action in December 1948 arresting Sukarno and Hatta exiling them to the island of Bangka, Northern Sumatra. The Dutch iron-fisted policy aroused strong international reaction among Asian nations, such as India, as well as among the UN security council members including the United States. This resulted in the Dutch being pressured to accept Indonesian Independence, with West New Guinea remaining under Dutch control and Indonesia having to pay the Netherlands 4.3 billion Guilders. Independence took formally effect December 27, 1949 with Sukarno as the first President. Due to Indonesian non-aligned policy, The Initiative of Five as well as his affiliation with the Japanese, the Americans never liked Sukarno, and in the 50's and 60's the CIA sponsored several attempts to overthrow him. They finally succeeded with a military coup in 1965, ending Sukarno's fragile guided democ228 racy and upsetting the delicate power balance between the military, political Islam, the Communists and the nationalists, resulting in purges and terrible massacres in Java and Bali with at least a million killed in 1965-1966. Chapter 23 BATTLE FOR INDOCHINA pendent Democratic Republic of Vietnam. He began his declaration with All men are created equal the immortal statement in the American declaration of 1776, went on to quote the French declaration that All men are born free and equal of 1791 and then to accuse the French imperialists of abusing the truths of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, having violated our Fatherland and oppressed our fellow citizens. The Ho declaration went on: (71) Vietnam On September 2, 1945 in Hanoi, a little fragilelooking, Vietnamese, Ho Chi Minh declared an inde230 They have acted contrary to the ideals of humanity and justice. In the field of politics, they have deprived our people of every democratic liberty. They have enforced inhuman laws; they have set up three distinct political regimes in the North, the Center and the South of Vietnam in order to wreck our national unity and prevent our people from being united. They have built more prisons than schools. They have mercilessly slain our patriots- they have drowned our uprisings in rivers of blood. They have fettered public opinion; they have practised obscurantism against our people. To weaken our race they have forced us to use opium and alcohol. In the fields of economics, they have fleeced us to the backbone, impoverished our people, and devastated our land. They have robbed us of our rice fields, our mines, our forests, and our raw materials. They have monopolised the issuing of bank-notes and the export trade. They have invented numerous unjustifiable taxes and reduced our people, especially our peasantry, to a state of extreme poverty. They have hampered the prospering of our national bourgeoisie; they have mercilessly exploited our workers. The declaration concluded: which at Tehran and San Francisco have acknowledged the principles of self-determination and equality of nations, will not refuse to acknowledge the independence of Vietnam. It was straight talk, undeniable facts, and Ho Chi Min meant what he said, but on top of that, unbeknownst to the French and Allied he had prepared thoroughly for practical and pragmatic action on the ground. The USA and European powers did not understand that Chinese and Vietnamese Communism was totally different from the Communism of Russia and Europe, Moscow being a totalitarian Red Vatican. Unlike Europe, Ho's Communism did not replace a bankrupt moral world of Christianity among the exploited industrial proletariat, but on the contrary found a rather symbiotic coexistence with Buddhist-Confucian ethics in the mind of the ancient village dwelling Vietnamese peasant. Ho Chi Min was born in 1890, received French education, and like other Asian young intellectuals at the time, his political horizon was influenced by the Japanese victory over Imperial Russia in 1905, heralding possible independence for Asian colonies, by force if necessary. From 1911 to 1941 he had travelled to France, USA, London, became founding member of Parti Communiste Francais, spending much time in 231 Our people have broken the chains which for nearly a century have fettered them and have won independence for the Fatherland. Our people at the same time have overthrown the monarchic regime that has reigned supreme for dozens of centuries. In its place has been established the present Democratic Republic. For these reasons, we, members of the Provisional Government, representing the whole Vietnamese people, declare that from now on we break off all relations of a colonial character with France; we repeal all the international obligation that France has so far subscribed to on behalf of Vietnam and we abolish all the special rights the French have unlawfully acquired in our Fatherland. The whole Vietnamese people, animated by a common purpose, are determined to fight to the bitter end against any attempt by the French colonialists to reconquer their country. We are convinced that the Allied nations Moscow advising Comintern on Asian matters. From Moscow, upon Lenin's death, after participating in the Fifth Comintern Congress, he arrived in China 1924, where he taught at Whampoa Military Academy but Chiang Kai-shek's anticommunist 1927 coup, triggered his leaving Canton returning to Thailand via Moscow, Brussels, Berlin, Switzerland and Italy. From Thailand he moved to Hong Kong where he was arrested in 1931, but the British did not extradite him to the French, but announced that he had died in prison and released him quietly in 1933. In 1938 he returned to China as adviser for the Chinese Communists and finally ended his wanderings, returning to Vietnam in 1941 becoming the leader of the Viet Minh independence movement. His old friend/disciple Nguyen Giap, whose family had been arrested, tortured and executed by the French, also heaving fled to China, returned to Vietnam in 1944 joining up with Ho. What Ho and Giap did not know was, that at Potsdam, Truman, Churchill and Stalin already had decided on the future of Vietnam, with the north under the control of the Nationalist Chinese and the South under the British. Of course the French had their own plans in Indochina rooted in the century old Christian- French undermining and abolishing of Vietnamese independence and culture, imposing significant changes in the society. Especially the aggressive Christian missionaries, created deep (often violent) resentment. Not so much because of the sexual abuse of young vietnamese by the Catholic priests, but more due to the Christian organised, purposeful and relentless attacks on the traditional Confucian filial piety, being a cornerstone of every Indochinese society, upsetting even the poorest peasants with hate of everything Christian. Even the totalitarian Mongol rulers did not experiment with trying to interfere with the traditional, sacred Vietnamese/Chinese Confucian family values. Already Emperor Minh Mang (1819-1841) tried to protect Vietnam from French-Christian influences, confining missionaries to Hue, to translating french books; having read The Bible he thought it was absurd, and he embarked on a policy of devoted Confucianism. In his decree of 1836 he permitted the killing of missionaries, convinced that the Japanese ban of the Christian religion in 1639, had helped Japan to avoid colonialism. Upon Minh Mang's death in 1841, the Vietnamese Christians supported by France rebelled, and order was not restored until Tu Duc (1847-83), also a pious Confucian, came on the throne. Deeply mistrusting the Europeans, his edicts pun232 ished missionaries with death and dispersed Christian communities, many French priests were executed and thousands of Christians persecuted. A decree in 1855 banned Christian expressions, imposed death penalty on all priests, and offered reward for their capture. The Spanish Bishop Diaz of Tonkin was executed in 1857, and De Montigny (French Consul in Shanghai from 1859) went to Vietnam demanding religious freedom, end of persecution of Catholics and the establishment a consulate in Hue. Vietnam rejected all his demands and the French had found a good reason to dispatch a military force of 3.000 to Vietnam. Capturing Danang September 1, 1858 and by the end of 1861 gaining control of the lower coast of Cochinchina (a third of Vietnam, Saigon being it's centre) marked the beginning of the end of the ancient Vietnamese Monarchy. In June 1862 Emperor Tu Duc had to cede the provinces of Gia Dinh, Dinh Tuong, and Bien Hoato to the French, promise religious freedom but the Mandarins of Cochinchina rebelled. Admiral Bonard bringing in reinforcements suppressed the rebellion appointing french inspectors to the administration. Several rebellions, skirmishes and clashes followed, with Tu Duc accepting French sovereignty over six provinces, a French resident in Hue, and the opening of the ports of Quinonh, Hai Phong, Danang and Ha233 noi to French trade, a consulate at each and to tolerate the Christians. However several rebellions, Buddhist religious uprisings followed, and Christian communities were set on fire as well as bandits and pirates roamed the rivers and provinces making trade difficult and costly. Some Vietnamese went to Europe trying to bring modernisation to Vietnam and some French tried to convince the French to learn Vietnamese instead of millions of Vietnamese having to learn French. In 1878 the French decided that after 1882 the official quoc-ngu roman alphabet would be the only acceptable official writing of Vietnamese, resulting in more rebellions and repressions. In 1880 Tu Duc requested Chinese help and Beijing sent 200.000 men to help their Vietnamese vassal. The French commander Col. Riviere started hanging Chinese and Vietnamese POW's and in response Luu Vinh Phuoc labelled the French petty bandits and foreign beast destroying our country warning that they should go home or they would die. On May 19 Col. Riviere and fifty other Frenchmen were killed in an ambush near Son Tay. In mid 1883 Prime Minister Jules Ferry decided to send a strong military force to finally conquer Indochina. Led by General Bouet and Admiral Courbet capturing Hue river forts by August 18, 1883 forcing the new Emperor Hiep-Hoa to sign a surrender, Vietnam became a protectorate of France. China protested and sent troops but the French treated them as bandits and beheaded POW's, soon driving out the Chinese forces by December, resulting in Beijing declaring war on France in August 1884. The Chinese defeated the French at Lang Son on March 28, 1885, General Negrier's troops panicking, fleeing to the mountains, and leading to the signing of a cease-fire on April 4. Meanwhile turmoil in the succession over the throne in Hue led to numerous armed conflicts and revolts in Tonkin and Annam with various princes supporting or fighting the French, some exiled to Thahiti and Algiers others fleeing to China or Japan. Additionally the Muongs, Thais and Thos supported the French having suffered from discrimination by the Vietnamese. Resistance by the peasants to the French became frequent, with burning of churches, guerilla attacks, insurgency movements and the French retaliating by burning pagodas and razing villages. By 1896 casualties included 40.000 Catholic converts, 18 French missionaries, 40 priests and 9.000 churches burned with the colonial war having cost the French 750 million gold francs. The insurgency sacrifice had little chance of defeating the French but the desperate resistance would inspire later generations fighting for Vietnamese independence. The new Governor-General Doumer raised revenues by monopolising the production and sale of opium, alcohol and salt and used the administrations revenue of 20 million piasters in 1899 for public works, planning roads and railways lines, constructing over 2.000 Km of railroads in twelve years up to 1911. More than 25.000 Vietnamese and Chinese died working on the 500 km Yunnan-Fuo line alone, and the lack of industries and mining did not make the new railways economically viable; actually people suffered tremendously from the higher taxes and forced labour on railroad construction. It was said that Doumer built an opera house in Hanoi instead of sewers for the city. Many young Vietnamese escaped to Japan to get education, study and publish works, books and studies forbidden in Vietnam while others tried to flee to China from the unbearable conditions under the French. There were 80.000 opium addicts, fishermen could not afford to by salt for their fish, French monopoly prohibited traditional alcohol distillation, peasants suffered from unfair taxes and forced labour. Schools and universities modelled on Japanese modern education systems were closed, teachers arrested and jailed, demonstrations suppressed the 234 ringleaders tortured. Agents broke into and searched homes without warrants confiscating literature smuggled in from Japan, and the French even tried to pay the Japanese Government not to tolerate Vietnamese refugees, prompting many Japanese intellectuals and leaders to help anti-colonial activists. By 1913 Vietnam had 175 medical facilities for a population of 25 million with only one doctor per 38.000 people. In 1917 the university of Hanoi was reopened but medical graduates were not doctors but only hygiene officers, and those who wanted to be recognised as doctors still had to go to France. An estimated 140.000 Vietnamese volunteers were shipped to the war in France by recruiting methods more like abductions and kidnapping. In 1919 Prince Cuong De in exile in Japan sent a telegram to President Wilson at the Versailles peace conference demanding an Autonomous Indochina so the French asked Japan to keep Cuong De under surveillance and confined to Tokyo. A few people made fortunes, while the majority in Vietnam merely existed, e.g. in 1929 the rubber companies made 309 million francs and paid only 40 million in salaries, resulting in 24 strikes by 6.000 workers and next year 98 strikes by 31.000 workers, the organisers being hunted by police, jailed and tortured. 235 Following the Yen Bay revolt in 1930, 699 people were executed without trials, over 7.000 exiled to Poulo Condore and torture of suspects was common. By 1931 most of the resistance was crushed, and the French Foreign Legion had orders to kill and interrogate applying torture. Still the illegal unions and Ho Chi Min's communist peasant organisation members grew to 64.000 since, compered to Java, where more than half of the rubber plantations were owned by natives, in Vietnam it was less than five percent. In 1938 France asked for 20.000 Vietnamese troops to be sent to Europe, Prince Cuong De left Tokyo to organise anti-colonial forces and Ho Chi Min returned to China. After the French defeat to Germany, the Vichy government made a treaty with Japan and the Japanese protection of French Indochina, agreeing on the stationing of 25.000 Japanese troops but allowing the French to continue governing Indochina. After an absence of almost ten years Ho established the Viet Minh on May 10, 1944, urging the Vietnamese to prepare for independence. On November 1941 the Japanese took control of all Indochinese enterprises, but allied bombing prevented shipping goods to and from Indochina and the Chinese nationalists, who had arrested Ho and tried to organise a nationalist Vietnamese resistance to the Japanese without him, had to realise that only Ho Chi Min and his Viet Minh was capable of mobilising the Vietnamese. In July 1943 General Iwane Matsui announced in Saigon, that Japan had ended French rule and that Indochina could develop independently, while Charles de Gaulle rejected all alternatives to reclaiming Indochina as a French colony. On March 9, 1945 the Japanese gave French Governor Decoux two hours to surrender increasing Japanese troops in Indochina to 60.000. Most of the French military units were disarmed and Japan announced that Vietnam was independent with Emperor Bao Dai as head of state. Ignoring the Japanese - Vietnamese announcement, the French on March 24, 1945, declared the five states of Cochinchina, Annan, Tonkin, Cambodia and Laos a federal state under a French governor-general. This plan was immediately rejected by all Vietnamese political parties. The day after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, the Vietnamese government of Trang Trong Kim resigned, and one week later the Japanese accepted the Allied terms to transfer control of Cochinchina. The Indochinese Communist Party met in Tonkin on August 13, voted for a general insurrection and tree days later the Peoples Congress led by Ho Chi Min in the village of Tan Trao near Hanoi formed the National Liberation Committee of Vietnam. The same 236 day Viet Minh guerrillas entered Hanoi distributing thousand of leaflets and taking over all the public buildings mostly with Japanese officers cooperating and almost non resisting. The Viet Minh entered Hue and Emperor Bao Dai asked them to form a government marking the victory of the Vietnamese August Revolution. In the meantime The French parachuted into Tonkin and Annam but most of the troops were killed or captured and Viet Minh remaining united and strong in Tonkin and Annan. In the south commissioner Jean Cedile was captured by the Japanese and taken to Saigon, where most political parties yielded to Viet Minh and on August 25 hundreds of thousands took to the Saigon streets celebrating the revolution. On August 29 Ho Chih Min formed a government and declared Vietnamese independence on September 2 before half a million people gathered in Hanoi. Saigon had large demonstrations the same day and two days later Marshal Terauchi was told by the British that Japanese troops were responsible for keeping order until British forces came ashore. The first British arrived on September 6, immediately demanding that all Vietnamese, including the Saigon police surrender their weapons, and bought in 1.800 French troops planning for a French takeover of Sai- gon. The Vietnamese had no intention of disarming and the French acting aggressively, provoked disturbances and confrontations, leading to a general strike on September 17, Vietnamese police arresting French provocateurs. The British suspended all Vietnamese newspapers, ordering the Japanese troops to police the city and finally declared martial law, banning all meetings and demonstrations. On September 22 the British armed more French troops, taking over the police stations, beating up and arresting hundreds of Vietnamese, leading to a Vietnamese general strike and the blockade of Saigon preventing food deliveries for the French. Trying to restore control the British even arrested Marshal Terauchi threatening to hold him as a war criminal if he did not order the Japanese troops to subdue the Vietnamese. Finally General Leclerc marched into Saigon with fresh troops from France and heavily armed columns, braking the blockade and driving the Vietnamese out of Saigon. In the North, as planned in Potsdam, about 50.000 Chinese troops occupied Vietnam keeping the French from crossing the 16th parallel, and living of the land taking whatever they needed. Chinese companies (mostly Chiang Kai-shek cronies) used the inflated 237 Chinese Dollar to by up French mines, factories, and other businesses at low prices. In the mean time Ho Chi Minh's government abolished the poll tax and the monopolies on salt, alcohol, and opium. The genuine reforms included suffrage for all citizens over eighteen, prohibited opium, prostitution, alcohol and gambling, gave land to landless peasants, dikes were repaired, unions could organise and public utilities previously owned by the French were nationalised. A massive literacy campaign was undertaken and the University of Hanoi was reopened. During the summer 1946 General Giap built up the Liberation Army to 60.000 with the help of an estimated 5.000 Japanese officers and specialist's, training and leading the Vietnamese soldiers, among others JIA Colonel Tsuji and Colonel Mukayama. Giap and Ho had started the enlisting of Japanese anticolonial military personnel and former Kempeitai not wanting to return to Japan and war-criminal trials already in 1945. With Giap arranging Vietnamese citizenship and false ID papers, a strategy which turned out to be very valuable for the strengthening the Viet Minh and their fighting capabilities. In fact one of the French demands, during the peace negotiations in 1947, was that the Vietnamese should turn over the Japanese war criminals fighting with and training the Viet Minh army, which Ho Chi Minh flatly refused. He was calling the Japanese allies and friends which he would not betray and walked out of the peace negotiations for seven years of more war. Mukayama and Tsuji became the most important officers of General Giap; both were probably killed in action in Vietnam. Their organisation of the bicyclesupply and transport divisions first applied by the Japanese Army in the Malaysian Jungles and the underground cave-tunnel defence systems against enemy air and artillery-armour superiority first applied in the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, proved essential to the final success of Viet Minh. On December 17, 1946 the French demanded that Viet Minh in Hanoi disarm in three days, which led to sporadic fighting and France declaring martial law marking the beginning of the French-Vietnam battle 1946-1950. This led to Giap's radio broadcast call for the battle of national liberation and Ho Chi Minh's urging the Vietnamese to endure sacrifices and fight to the end. By january 1947 the French had about 115.000 troops in Indochina and launched an offensive by paratroopers against Viet Minh headquarters, but failed to catch Ho. Consequently the Viet Minh changed their defensive tactics to aggressively initiating battles with the French from 1948 onwards. On October 1, 1949, Mao Zedong proclaimed the Peoples Republic of China with its capital at Beijing and 238 on January 18, 1950 China became the first nation to grant diplomatic recognition to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (DRV). Recognised as the only legal government in Vietnam by Mao, Ho secretly visited Moscow, where Stalin, Mao and Ho agreed on an alliance and the Viet Minh was promised USSR aid through China. A happy Ho Chi Minh returned by train with Mao and Zhou Enlai to Beijing and China began sending aid and advisors arming and training 20.000 Vietnamese by the end of the year. The Viet Minh forces reached 160.000, undertaking offensives forcing the French (after loosing 4.000 men), to evacuate the entire region bordering China. The French National Assembly had established the Associated States of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos under France and the USA began military aid to French Indochina in March 1950. Establishing the Military Assistance Advisory Group in Saigon, the French forces, assisted by 65.000 Vietnamese troops and encouraged by the American help, began bold operations against the Vietnamese fighting for independence. In the meantime the conflict had spread to Laos and Cambodia, where Pathet Lao and Khmer Serei was organised after the model of Viet Minh and with the objective of achieving a colonial-free In- dochina. By 1954 the centre of gravity in the Pacific War had moved to Indochina with the Chinese supply of weapons, expertise, food and materials transforming Viet Minh into a formidable regular army and in response, with the USA's arms supply and 1 billion US $ support of the French war effort. In spite of heavy losses in the battles of Lang Son and Hoa Binh General Giap's stubborn willpower and his soldiers motivation and resilience, finally made the difference, paving the road to the humiliating French (and US) defeat at Dien Bien Phu in 1954. 239 Chapter 24 BATTLE OF DIEN BIEN PHU A new concept by Colonell Berteil, called the herrison (hedgehog) had been applied by the French successfully at the battle of Na San, where the Viet Minh was beaten and forced to retreat with heavy losses. General Henry Navarre decided to repeat the hedgehog concept on a much larger scale, hoping to lure Giap into a devastating defeat in the valley of Dien Bien Phu, thus eliminating the Viet Minh threat to Laos. What the french failed to realise was the crucial differences between Na San, where they controlled the high ground and Dien Bien Phu valley where Giap's troops controlled the surrounding hills and the french were at the bottom. Additionally the Viet Minh outnumbered the foreign legionnaires four to one and had adapted the Japanese strategy in Jungle warfare of transporting heavy artillery, anti-aircraft batteries and stockpiling sufficient ammunition even in very difficult terrain. The Viet Minh camouflaged their artillery well, took the effort to set up decoys and to pinpoint the exact location of the French artillery before the battle. French operations began in the morning of November 20, 1953 with dropping 9.000 troops in to the valley at three drop zones:Natasha, Octavie, and Simone, so by the end of November six parachute bat241 talions had consolidated their positions. In December Colonel Castries began transforming the whole valley into a cluster of seven fortresses named after former mistresses of de Castries, which was a legend he created to boast of his virility, since the names simply began with the first letters of the alphabet. Anne- Marie to the Northwest, Beatrice to the Northeast, Claudine to the South, Dominique to the Northeast, Eliane to the South, Gabrielle to the North, Huguette at the air strip (originally constructed by the Japanese) and Isabelle 6 km to the South. By the end of December the French had nearly 16.000 men in the valley consisting of elite paratroopers, battle hardened Foreign Legionnaires many former German SS, and Algerian and Moroccan tirailleurs. General Giap had moved 50.000 troops into the hills including a heavy artillery division and AA guns overlooking the valley surrounding the french hedgehog. The fighting began on March 13, the Viet Minh launching a devastating artillery attack on Beatrice, killing the commander Major Pegot, Colonel Gaucher and about 500 legionnaires at a cost of 600 Viet Minh killed and 1.200 wounded, resulting in the hardening of Vietnamese morale and the suicide of French artillery commander Charles Piroth frustrated by his ar- tillery's impotence against the Viet Minh gunners. Next, the air strip was hit, forcing the French to parachute supplies in but the night attack on Gabrielle, held by an elite Algerian battalion, ended with the French abandoning it, losing around 1.000 men and the Viet Minh about 1.500. Anne-Marie was defended by ethnic T'ai Vietnamese, who demoralised by the fall of Gabrielle, simply left their positions or defected and forced the remaining French to withdraw. Also the arial resupply took heavy losses from Viet Mihn antiaircraft machineguns and by end of March, Giap intensified the attacks of Dominique and Eliane in central Dien Bien Puh. With fierce night fighting the next few days, attacks and counterattacks, various fortifications and defence strong points changing hands several times, both sides were taking heavy casualties. On April 10 the French attempt to retake Eliane 1, the strongpoint essential to the defence of the central valley, gaining control by the next day, defeating desperate Viet Minh counterattacks, Eliane firmly remaining in French control by April 12. The extreme casualties suffered by Viet Minh at this point, 6.000 killed and 8.000 wounded plus 2.500 captured cupeled with the total lack of an effective medical service resulted in a crises among many Viet Minh units. Mutinies and refusing orders occured threatening a collapse which General Giap barely averted by calling in reinforcements from Laos. (72) Dien Bien Puh 242 The Viets are everywhere. The Situation is very grave ... but we will fight to the finish. By evening the French central positions had been captured and the radio operator's last words were: The enemy has overrun us. We are blowing up everything. Vive la France! During the battle there had been secret talks between the French and the Americans in which the possible use of tactical nuclear weapons against Viet Minh were discussed. Called Operation Vulture, it consisted of sending in 60 B-29s supported by 150 fighters from the US Seventh Fleet carriers, including the option of dropping three nuclear bombs on General Giap's positions and the US carriers entering the Tonkin gulf and launch constant reconnaissance flights over Dien Bien Puh. Finally President Eisenhower decided against intervention and Giap handed the French a stunning military defeat, Dien Bien Puh surrendering on May 7, 1954, forcing the French government to granting independence to Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam at the Geneva Conference. (73) Dien Bien Phu, March 1954 On the morning of April 22 the Viet Minh controlled most of the airfield, practically making air supply by parachute dropping impossible and the final attacks against the last exhausted defenders were launched on May 6. On May 7, General Giap ordered an all out attack by 25.000 Viet Minh against some 3000 garrison troops. At 5:00 PM de Castries radioed the French headquarters in Hanoi: 243 Chapter 25 BATTLE FOR SOUTH VIETNAM On May 8, the Viet Minh counted 11.721 prisoners including 4.436 wounded. Only 3.290 were repatriated four month later. At Geneva the Viet Minh victory resulted in the partition of Vietnam at the 17th parallel, into the Northern Democratic Republic of Vietnam and the Southern State of Vietnam, with the agreement that the division would be temporary. It would only last until reunification after free and democratic national elections in 1956. After the French withdrawal from Indochina to face the Algerian war, the United States put Ngo Dinh Diem as head of the South Vietnamese government, opposing the Geneva agreement, having no intention of holding any elections. Diem, born to devote Catholic parents in Hue, was Christened Jean-Babtiste, his elder brother later becoming Vietnams highest ranking priest, and went to Catholic schools, graduating in 1921, joining the civil service. He was promoted to district chief and became highly regarded by the French, helping to suppress peasant revolts, went into politics on an antiVietminh platform. Having little success and Viet Minh having had enough of his activities, sentencing him in 1950 to death in absentia. Since the French refused to protect him he left Vietnam for Rome for the holy year celebration in the Vatican. On the way he visited Japan, tried to get help from McArthur, who ignored him, but Diem had better luck in America where he was introduced to The American Pope and notorious anti- communist Cardinal Francis Spellman, Archbishop of New York and staunch supporter of McCarthy and a pioneer of America's going to war in Vietnam. Already a major American political power broker in 1936 when he manipulated the reelection of Roosevelt, he was a crusader of Christian Indochina spending every Christmas with American troops in Japan, Korea and Europe, becoming one of Diem's most powerful advocates laying down the foundation of the disastrous US involvement in Indochina. In spite of French warnings, who considered Diem to be incompetent and fanatical, the Eisenhower administration appointed Diem Prime Minister of South Vietnam. The US choice of Diem proved unfortunate from the beginning since he would always be a stranger to the Vietnamese peasant, so when he arrived in Saigon airport, June 26, 1954 only a few Catholics were there to great him. The first undertaking of Diem was, together with the US Navy and CIA, Operation Passage to Freedom, moving over one million Catholics from North Vietnam to the South, to help strengthen his rule, using propaganda like 245 Christ has gone South and accusing Ho Chi Minh of rampant persecution of Christians. Still Diems position was weak, his National Army trained and controlled by the French, Cao Dai's private army ruling the Mekong Delta, the Viet Minh controlling a third of the provinces. Saigon was run by the Binh Xuyen crime syndicate army of 40.000, operating a vice empire of brothels, casinos, opium factories, extortion rackets, even with the national police on their payroll for 1.5 million dollars. In reality Diem's power did not extend beyond the doorstep of his palace. He and his brother Ngo Dinh Nhu, an opium addict and admirer of Hitler, did arrange a referendum about the future of Vietnam in October 1955, which turned out to be a farce with Diem getting 98.2% of the vote including 605.025 votes in Saigon, the city having only 450.000 eligible voters. Actually Diem's three brothers, Nhu chief of the secret police, Can in charge of Hue and running opium through Laos, and Thuc archbishop of Hue, amassing urban real-estate, farm land, rubber plantations in the name of the Catholic church, holding 1.500 sq. 246 km (370.000 acres) of tax exempt land. They were running South Vietnam like a Sicilian Mafia family operation. Nuh and his wife amassed a fortune in offshore banks, operating lotteries and currency manipulation while a fourth Diem brother, Ambassador to UK, became a multimillionaire speculating in PiastersPounds using insider government information. As one American put it: Saigon is worse than Chicago was under Al Capone. Additionally tortures and killings of Communist suspects, anti-corruption crusaders and Diem- dynasty critics were committed constantly with an estimated total of 50.000 executions and 75.000 imprisonments. Naturally violent opposition grew and an insurgency began to be organised in 1957, so finally in January 1959 Hanoi's Central Committee authorised the armed struggle in the South, establishing the NLF (National Liberation Front) on December 20, 1960 to fight the Diem government. The two key reasons for the Vietnamese people's hostility towards the Diem/USA South Vietnamese regime, was the unbalanced distribution of land, e.g. 40% of the land in the Mekong Delta was owned by 0.025% of land owners and in total 10% of the population owned 55% of the land. The other reason being the extreme privileged position of the Catholic church and the regimes discrimination of the Buddhist majority estimated to be 80% of the Vietnamese population. All important positions in the government and bureaucracy were held by Catholics, all promotions in the South Vietnamese Army were of Catholics and many ambitious Vietnamese high ranking officers became Catholics as a matter of fact part of becoming successful (Similar to the Christian power-monopoly in South Korea today). Some Catholic priests had private armies doing forced conversions, looting, burning and demolishing pagodas. Some villages converted to Christianity to receive aid, avoid resettlement, and forced labour and in 1959 Diem dedicated Vietnam to the Virgin Mary, flying the Vatican flag at public major events. In 1963 this led to the Buddhist crises, when a Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc set himself on fire in the middle of Saigon on June 11th. The photo of the incident taken by Malcolm Brown resulted in global resentment and became undeniable prove of the fail- ure of the Diem/US government. Several other monks followed Duc's radical protest and when Diem's reaction was to arrest 1.400 monks, demolishing Buddha statues, and beat peasants trying to protect temples and sacred Buddhist (74) Buddhist monk Thich relics, widespread resisQuang Duc set himself on fire tance, boycott, and general disobedience to the Diem government became common. Madame Nhu's official comment that: If the buddhists want to have another barbecue, I will be happy to provide the gasoline, alarmed the world public opinion, USA and it's CIAVietnam hands. The raids on Buddhist pagodas produced a military coup on November 1, 1963, approved by the US, and was followed by the swift execution of Diem and his brothers. Ironically no stable South Vietnamese government was established after the Diem regime, and the Ho Chi Minh prediction of, that American imperialist sponsored governments will all fail, one following 247 the next became reality. By 1964 NLF ranks had grown to 100.000 and the US troops in Vietnam reached 16.500 following the NLF attack on the airbase in Pleiku, leaving eight Americans dead and 128 wounded serving as justification of the launching of bombing attacks against North Vietnam. The bombing campaigns Flaming Dart, Rolling Thunder and Arch Light were supposed to stop Ho Chi Minh supporting the NLF and to destroy North Vietnams air defences, industry- and transport infrastructure, with rolling thunder alone dropping a million tons of various bombs and rockets. The bombings were not restricted to Vietnam but included attacks on Laos and Cambodia and the Ho Chi Minh Trail in general, e.g. a total of 2.757.000 tons dropped on Cambodia alone. All in all the US bombing of all of Indochina reached a staggering 6.727.000 tons compared to a mere 2.700.000 tons totally dropped by the allies in the European theatre. The objective of stopping the supply of Viet Cong from the North was never achieved and only served to further generate support of the NLF. The threat by General Le May, the architect of the fire bombing of Tokyo in 1945, that he would bomb the Vietnamese back to the stone age proved empty 248 words but only a few Americans could see that the conflict was a political/religious one and victory would not be achieved by bombs. On January 31, 1965 the Tactical Fighter Wing was moved from Okinawa to Da Nang AFB and since the South Vietnamese Army was not capable of providing security on the ground, 3500 US marines were dispatched to Vietnam in the global struggle against communism, and Ho Chi Minh warned: If the americans want to make war for twenty years, we shall make war for twenty years. US army deployment reached 200.000 by December following the NLF defeating ARVN(South Vietnamese Army) in Binh Gia and Dong Xoai increasing desertion and plummeting moral among ARVN personnel. General Westmoreland dropped all diplomatic hypocrisy and open- ended US commitment to war on Viet Cong and Ho Chi Minh officially commenced, Westmoreland predicting victory by the end of 1967 and practically admitting that the South Vietnamese Government was an empty shell. The one year US duty rotation turned out to be a mistake, depriving units of experienced combat leadership the Americans not in Vietnam for 10 years but for one year 10 times while the Viet Cong and NVA accumulated battle hardened elite officers. Washington tried to lure allies to contribute troops to Indochina, but the major Nato countries, UK and Canada declined with only Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand and the Philippines sending troops with US footing the bill. In the mean time a totally new front in modern warfare emerged with devastating consequences for those, who were not capable of mastering this new weapon. It is called global direct live-television, already resulting in large demonstrations against the USA in many major cities from Paris to Pentagon. After 1963 the effect on the television of battles,offensives and operations became an important part of Giap's tactics and strategy. The first such offensive, called the Tet Offensive, began on January 31, 1968 striking military and civilian centres with the objective of toppling the Saigon government and ending the war, with 80.000 NLF troops hitting more than 100 towns and cities including the capital. (75) Tet Offensive In conventional military terms, the Tet offensive proved to be a failure, but on the TV-frontline is was 249 a fantastic success. General Westmoreland seemed ridiculous by maintaining that the the attack on Saigon was a mere diversion and it was obvious that he and the whole American leadership was deeply shaken by the scale and organisation of the offensive. In Saigon the offensive had six primary targets; capturing the Tan Son Nhut Air Base, the Independence Palace, the US Embassy, the Long Binh Headquarters and the National Radio Station and holding them for 48 hours. The Radio Station being most important since the NLF brought with them a tape-recording of Ho Chi Minh announcing the liberation of Saigon. The Radio was sized and held for six hours, but technical difficulties hindered the broadcast. The six-floor US Embassy building was attacked by a 19-man commando team and in spite of that their commanding officer had fallen, they held part of the Embassy for six hours leaving five US personnel dead. All over Saigon small teams of Viet Cong in civilian clothes spread out liquidating military-, police officers and government personnel revealing, that many undercover NLF cadres had been living and working in the city as normal citizens. In one famous incident the chief of National Police, Nguyen Ngoc Loan executed the captured Viet Cong 250 officer, Nguyen Van Lem in front of camera men and TV-reporters. The captured images showed in the global media did not explain that suspect Lem, had just taken part in the killing of a police officer and his family. (76) Execution of Nguyen Van Lem During the mopping up operations in and around Saigon during the first phase of the Tet offensive (30 January-8 April) approximately 45.000 Communist soldiers had been killed and an unknown number wounded while the US and South Vietnamese suffered 4.300 killed and 16.000 wounded. The battle of Hue, the historic capital of Vietnam became the bloodiest and longest battles of the conflict when more than 10.000 entrenched NLF guerilla forces and Peoples Army regulars controlling the city were attacked by US marines and South Vietnamese Army battalions. The battle started on January 31, 1968 when a division VC's an NVA's stormed Hue targeting key points with the strategic objective to sweeping NLF into power. Attacking Tay Loc Airfield and the Citadel where a four man North Vietnamese commando unit, dressed in South Vietnamese Army uniforms killed the guards at the Western Gate and opened the gate for the NVA regiments raising the NLF banner over the Citadel tower. At the same time US marines at Phu Bai airfield outside of Hue were attacked, and marine reinforcements entered the city where house to house, hand to hand bitter combat followed for more than three weeks. Finally, upon Skyhawks dropping napalm and bombs, the marines raised the american flag over the Citadel, causing South Vietnamese protests, since the US flag was supposed to be accompanied by the South Vietnamese flag. When a few American Army officers, instructed to take down the US flag appeared, the marines threatened to shoot them. Eventually the marines took down the flag themselves under command of their superior officers. NLF suffered heavy losses in the battle of Hue, estimated at 9.000 killed, as well as civilian losses and executions ran at over 5.000 with 80% of the city destroyed by American heavy firepower. Militarily Hue 251 was a US victory and a NLF defeat upon holding the city for one month, but in world public opinion and TV-media reports Hue was the beginning of the end with Washington considering to find an exit of the conflict beginning the Nixon/ Kissinger doctrine of Vietnamisation. Gradual withdrawal of US troops began soon after the Tet offensive and the Nixon administration embarked on a fresh policy of detente with the Soviets and rapprochement with China, in spite of both keeping up the supply and support of North Vietnam's efforts to reunite the country. Ho Chi Minh died in September 1969 and anti-war movement gained spectacular strength after the revelations of the My Lai Massacre in which a frustrated US Army platoon (77) The My Lai Massacre went on rampage killing and raping civilian villagers including women and children. Also Newsweek revealed that in a US operation, claiming 10.000 Viet Cong killed, perhaps half the casualties were civilians. 252 Chapter 26 FALLLIBERATION OF SAIGION Cambodia gaining independence at the Geneva Conference, led by Prince Sihanouk, made neutrality a cornerstone of Cambodian policy during the 50's and 60's. By the mid-60's the NVA-activity in the eastern provinces and on the Ho Chi Minh Trail triggered a fourteen month long concentrated bombing of Cambodia further contributing to the war spilling over into neutral Cambodia. Prince Sihanouk's policy of keeping out both the NVA/NLF and the USA and everybody else from Cambodia upset the US, labelling him as a North Vietnamese sympathiser. Washington ordered the CIA to dispose of him, chasing him out of his country in 1970, allowing Cambodian air space free for US operations all over Indochina, fermenting the ground of the Khmer Rouge and the Pol Pot regime as well as Pathet Lao victory in Laos. The secret bombing of Cambodia and Laos and South Vietnamese Army/US incursions into neutral Cambodia to cut the Ho Chi Minh Trail was an escalation of the conflict in spite of withdrawal of US troops from Vietnam, and when the secret Pentagon Papers about US involvement were leaked to New York Times, anti war sentiments in USA and elsewhere grew considerably. The moral and discipline among the US troops deteriorated, drug use increased, disobedience and even fragging of officers occurred, resulting in Australia and New Zealand withdrawing their troops from Vietnam in 1971. The Easter Offensive in 1972 by NLF and North Vietnam barely halted by massive American air power (Operation Linebacker) left no doubt that the Vietnamisation was a failure and that South Vietnam could not survive on its own. On April 20 Kissinger secretly met Brezhnev in Moscow trying to talk the USSR into pressure Hanoi to end the offensive, to which Brezhnev agreed wary of Washington's improved relationship with Beijing. Brezhnev arranged a secret meeting in Paris between Kissinger and Hanoi's Le Duc Tho, but the Vietnamese smelling blood and victory were in no mood to bargain and the talks turned out to be brutal and insulting. May 1, 1972 marked the fall of Quang Tri City and 40.000 NVA troops defeating an army of 150.000 South Vietnamese, ending the Paris Peace talks. Nixon was furious promising that the bastards have never been bombed like they are going to be bombed this time commencing operation Pocket Money at precisely 9:00 May 8 when Navy A-7 Corsairs and A- 6 Intruders from the Coral Sea dropped 36 1000 pound mines into Haipong Harbour. 254 Simultaneously Nixon spoke on TV to America saying: August 15, 1973. On 15 January 1973 Nixon announced an end to the offensive against North Vietnam and signed the Paris Peace Accords Ending the War in Vietnam January 27, 1973, calling for the territorial integrity of Vietnam and a general election in the North and South, stipulating a sixty- day period for a total and complete US forces withdrawal from Vietnam. Of course the ceasefire was violated before the ink on the paper was dry and NLF resumed operations in the dry season recapturing significant territory by January 1974. Resulting in 25.000 South Vietnamese casualties and President Thieu announcing that the ceasefire was no longer in effect, he was trying to lure the US back into the Vietnamese quagmire. As luck would have it, Watergate finished off Nixon, and the Congress started to cut financial aid to Thieu, inspiring NLF leaders to undertake larger offensives. Tran Van Tra, commander of the NLF, ordered a limited invasion of Phuoc Long Province from Cambodia to test South Vietnamese resolve and US non-involvement. The attack and fall of the Provincial capital Phuoc Binh January 6, 1975, leaving the South Vietnamese Leadership demoralised and passive and the US just watching the events meant, 255 The only way to stop the killing was to take the weapons of war out of the hands of the international outlaws of North Vietnam, the mines being activated five days later while another 11.000 mines were laid in various harbours blocking all maritime commerce and traffic. The objective was to isolate North Vietnam, stopping a monthly 22.000 tons of Chinese supplies by bombing railroads, bridges, rolling stock, storage facilities, airfields and finally destroying air defence systems. By the end of the month the Americans had destroyed 13 bridges on the railroad to China, between Hanoi and Haipong and several others to the south, as well as oil storage and other facilities were destroyed, with the intensity of the bombing reaching more than 29.000 sorties including 1.000 by B-52's. Delivering precision guided ordnance and additionally bombing Viet Cong in South Vietnam, dropping 57.000 tons napalm in Quang Tri province alone, it did restart the Paris peace negotiation but also resulted in the Case-Church amendment, introduced on January 26, 1973, approved by the Senate on May 13 with a deadline to end all American bombings by that NLF victory was finally within reach and Vietnamese reunification realistic. At the start of 1975 the South Vietnamese had three times as much artillery, twice the tanks and armoured cars as the opposition, as well as 1.400 aircraft and twice the number of combat troops, but they faced a highly disciplined, well organised and ruthlessly determined North Vietnam. On March 10, 1975 General Dung launched an attack in the Central Highlands, with tanks and heavy artillery, targeting Pleiku, resulting in a surprising speedy success and the South Vietnamese defence collapsing on March 11. President Thieu ordered a retreat, which soon turned into chaos, with the bulk of the troops fleeing, abandoning Pleiku and Kontum and only isolated, surrounded South Vietnamese units desperately continued fighting. The retreat became known as the column of tears, civilian refugees mixed with the soldiers, shelled by the North Vietnamese, panic set in with many officers abandoning the troops, in a disastrous scramble for safer ground, the retreat totally annihilated by April 1. Following this recent victory, the Ho Chi Minh campaign was launched calling for final victory and the capture of Saigon by May 1, the North Vietnamese moral boosted and their battle hardened troops rolling on, taking Nha Trang, Cam Ranh and Da Lat. On 256 (78) The final days April 7 they attacked Xuan Loc (60 Km from Saigon) defended by the South Vietnamese 18th division making a last stand in a two weeks long desperate battle, finally surrendering April 21. In Saigon martial law was declared when chaos, panic and lawlessness broke out and South Vietnamese officials, high ranking officers and civilians were trying to leave the city. US helicopters were evacuating certain at risk Vietnamese and most US and foreign nationals from various points in Saigon in Operation Frequent Wind. The operation became the largest helicopter evacuation in history, beginning on April 29 with ugly scenes of desperate Vietnamese fighting for limited seats and helicopters thrown overboard from US carriers to make landing space on the deck. All in front of TV-reporters and cameramen, the evacuation continuing around the clock while North Vietnamese Tanks reached the outskirts of Saigon. On April 30, 1975 NLF overcame all resistance, capturing key points and buildings, tanks entering the presidential palace, raising the NLF flag above it, and the US broadcasting White Christmas signalling the last US marines leaving the roof of the American em- bassy by helicopter. Rather controversially, they left many thousand American-employed Vietnamese to their fate. The (79) Tanks entering the presigoal of toppling the Saidential palace gon regime, ending the Pacific 80 years war, had been reached. In Cambodia after 117 days of hard fighting the Khmer Republic had collapsed just five days after the US mission evacuated Cambodia, the Lon Nol government surrendering on April 17, 1975 and Pathet Lao, supported by North Vietnam, won control of Laos late April. But these victories were at a terrible cost. Over 1.5 million Vietnamese killed, three million wounded, totally two million civilians killed and 4 million victims of Agent Orange dioxin poisoning (US airplanes dropped 45 million liters of the poison over Indochina), and immense material damage in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Estimated Casualties in the battle of Indochina excluding Cambodia and Laos 1958-1975: 257 South Vietnamese military 270,000 killed Chinese military 1,500 killed South Korea military 5,000 killed and 11,000 wounded North Vietnamese military and NLF 1,100,000 killed USA armed forces 58,000 killed and 300,000 wounded Conventional bombing statistics: Total in Europe 1939-1945 Total in Cambodia Total on Indochina Total on Japan 1942-1945 2 700 000 tons 2 800 000 tons 6 800 000 tons 650 000 tons Total civilians killed in North and South: 2.000.000 (80) Bombed sites 258 Chapter 27 THE OUTCOME Who came out victorious of the Pacific War? USA, China, Vietnam or nobody? There is no simple answer. Greater Asia is probably the closest we can get. Militarily speaking the USA won most battles but politically the final victory was Japan's and consequently China's. The clash of the Oldest Monarchy of the World and the New Pacific Christian Empire ended the American Ambition in the Pacific Asia in failure or a stalemate at best. With almost no US military presence on mainland East Asia after 1975, the only reliable US Pacific bases left being South Korea, Okinawa and the Philippines. Even the Okinawa US presence may soon be in the process of gradual relocation to the Mariannas, and South Korean growing resistance to the aggressive US backed Christianization of the population the past forty years and the following discrimination of the Buddhist majority may soon produce reverse, radical change on the peninsula. Additionally the American Industrial might and its Asian market share began declining rapidly with 260 only aviation industry and military products staying competitive and growing. As of 2010, almost no US manufactured hardware consumer products makes it to any markets west of Midway. Upon the long bloody Pacific 80 Years War it became evident that the strongest military alliance in the region, the USA-UK, in spite of limitless resources and relentless commitment could not reach any of its objectives or establish Pacific hegemony let alone keep or reclaim colonial dominions, loosing all political influence in the process. In the words of Napoleon: You can not sit on a throne created of bayonets. Like it or not, Japan led the course of events in the Pacific, reaching her goals of sponsoring and supporting a family of independent Pacific and Asian nations step by step by the end of the century. The 20th century history, fate and development of Pacific Asia was determined by Japan during the last 100 years, and will be dominated by Japan in the 21 century too. Who would have predicted in 1975 that by 2015 the combined expected GDP of China and Japan will become almost equal to the USA as well as the EU, and that Japan's GNI (per capita) would become no. 3 in the world after Switzerland and Luxembourg by 2010. Nobody. After the end of the Pacific War in 1975, a spectacular and speedy development of almost all Asian countries took place, which by the turn of the century catapulted, Taiwan, Korea (partly), China, India and Vietnam into healthy economies with prosperous forecasts, not to mention the financial hub of the dynamic Singapore City state. Indeed Japan lead a successful investment strategy, educating and training her neighbours to coproduce high value added products destined for the world markets. Introducing excellence in QC, product reliability, disciplined work-ethics guaranteeing customer satisfaction and reasonable pricing, making previously expensive products available even in developing economies. Europe and the US on the other hand did not invest long term in its poor neighbours leaving Latin America and Africa uneducated and poverty stricken, with the Christian churches obstructing birth-control in 261 savage competition with Islam and with no hope to limit the overpopulation being the root of the environmental destruction, permanent poverty, unemployment and economic disaster. In the book Imperial Cruise, just published, about the Roosevelt- Taft mission to Hawaii, Tokyo, China, Korea and the Philippines, James Bradly has many interesting points and revelations. He forgets however that the main reason for Japanese expansion into Korea was security concerns, and into Manchuria a result of the racist based limitation on Asian immigration to America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, considered the most attractive destinations by all Asian and European immigrants. Nobody had heard about a rich uncle in Brazil or Argentina so the development of Manchuria, the size of Western Europe but sparsely populated would serve as a substitute Japanese- Korean immigration destination. In the process, Japan also intended to save the Manchu monarchy for the future. The reactionary and anti-educational policy of the ruling classes in China and Korea was the cardinal reason for the poverty and suffering during 19th and 20th century and contrary to Western-Christian be- liefs not racial or culturally based. The Japanese military effort to introduce progressive governments and modern industry to her Asian neighbours was defeated by the US-UK-Soviet allies only temporarily. A few years after 1950 these Japanese efforts took another form and became accepted, adapted and revitalised, producing successful economies and fully developed nations in the whole region after the end of the Pacific War in 1975. Already by 1964 JR introduced the Shinkansen highspead train, going 210 km/h made technically possible by three aerodynamical engineers; Tadanao Miki, Tadashi Matsudaira and Hajime Kawanabe. All three had designed fighters and airplanes during the war and laid the ground of the Shinkansen network of 2176 km at present, having carried a total of over 6 billion passengers the past 40 years. Additionally Japan's Shinkansen technology have been introduced and adopted by Taiwan, China, UK, Brazil, USA, Canada and Vietnam. The outstanding safety record of the technology was dramatically confirmed very recently during the mega earthquake 11 March 2011. Non of the dozens of Shinkansen trains running at the time inflicted harm or was derailed with all automatic quake-security systems working perfectly. A rather illustrious, typical and factual Japanese successful, unplanned and coincidental influence on Asian and Global developments and political actuality is the history of the facsimile machine. Originally developed for the US police and prosecutors to fight organized crime making it possible to instantly send evidence (photos) from coast to coast, the fax technology was authorised for civilian use in 1948 by the US military and standardised by ITT in 1968. Digital commercial fax machines were first developed in Japan coincidently, since it was much faster to handwrite documents than to type them, given the 10.000 kanji ideogram characters, thus Japan becoming a massive fax machine market and an almost monopoly on economic fax machine invention, production and export. The global spread and application of the cheap fax machines, then quickly spearheaded the uncontrollable free, economic, instant globalisation of borderless document multiplication, rendering centralised information control meaningless, digging the grave of general governmental telephone eavesdropping, especially in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. 262 The success of Japanese application engineering, investments, training, cooperation, joint ventures, financing of Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Thailand, India, Indonesia and Philippines is today a matter of historical record and any potential hegemony in the Pacific is but an illusion of the past. In year 10 of the 21st century, Japan, China, India and East Asia are all embarked on an unprecedented renaissance, culturally Buddhist, non monotheistic, socially Confucian, uniquely compassionate, wise, spiritual, practical and pragmatic. After all, the Japanese proverb goes: Serve your neighbour as you would serve yourself. 263 ABOUT THE AUTHOR Gábor Fabricius Education 1963 - 1966 Akademisk Studenterkursus 1966 - 1971 University of Copenhagen 1976 - 1978 Eastasiatic Institute, Japanese studies Work Experience 1972-1976 Scandinavian Pavilion, Sapporo, Manager of Import Responsible for finding Scandinavian companies and importing their products to Japan, establishing a permanent exhibition and wholesale - retail outlet. Product line included Scandinavian design, gold and silver jewery, fur coats and textiles, cross country skiing equipment, etc. 1978-1981 Helpmates International, Tokyo, Consultant Servicing international companies in Japan with executive search and human resources mainly mid-level area. Clients included banks (Bankers Trust, Paribas, Dresdner Bank, Goldman Sachs, etc.), manufacturing companies (Bosch Japan, GE, Tandem Computers, Castrol, etc.) as well as various other international corporations. 1981-1996 cclxv (81) Mainichi Shimbun 1986 1-18 SGM Corporation, Tokyo, President Established own executive search company, rapidly becoming strong in the Tokyo market for human resources and executive recruiting of highly qualified and top-notch Japanese executives for very demanding and competitive multinational corporations. Clients include Volvo, Mercedes Benz, Alfa Romeo, Ford Japan, Pirelli as well as major financial institutions such as Kidder Peabody, Bankers Trust, Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of Montreal, Credito Italiano. 1997-present Japanese Internet Marketing Inc, President Established the major Japanese portal http://naruhodo.com with over 650.000 pw/month, providing efficient and economic advertising platform for companies and services focusing on reaching the Japanese consumer directly. Client-list at http://twwt.com Other projects include: http://job.twwt.com (GCC) http://photo.twwt.com cclxvi Languages Fluent in Danish, English, German, Hungarian, Japanese. Swedish and Norwegian understood well. Some French. Interests/Hobbies International affairs, corporate and national cultures, history and linguistics, nature, environment, gastronomy, art and antics. Sportsman and black belt holder in Shotokan Karate. Mid-level Chess player and rusty Bridge enthusiast. LITERATURE Literature ❖ Georg Feifer, Breaking Open Japan, Smithsonian, 2006 ❖ James Bradley, The Imperial Cruise, Little, Brown and Company, 2009 ❖ Jonathan Fenby, Chiang Kai-Shek, Caroll & Graf, 2004 ❖ Novikov Priboj, Chushima, Caroll & Graf, 2004 ❖ Richard Hough, The Fleet that Had To Die, Ballantine Books, 1960 ❖ Richard Minear, Victorers' Justice,The Tokyo War Trials, Princenton U., 1971 ❖ Ronald H. Spector, In The Ruins Of Empire, Random House, 2007 cclxviii ❖ Ruth Benedict, The Chrysanthemum and The Sword, Meridian, 1972 ❖ Tadao Takemoto, The Alleged Nanking Massacre, Nippon Kaigi, 2000 ❖ Colonel Masanobu Tsuji, Japan's Greatest Victory, Sarpedon, New York, 1993 ❖ M. Bánffy, Huszonöt Év, Puski, Budapest 1993 ❖ Paul Johnson, Intellectuals, Weidenfeld and Nicolson, London, 1988 ❖ E. Radzinszkij, Stalin, Doubleday, New York, 1996 cclxix Internet Literature I realize that my book is far from being as detailed about all aspects, encompassing the 80 years of Pacific/ Asia history, and many readers may want to know more details and facts as they read "Zen in War". I have therefore compiled a list of informative internet sights providing objective, accurate, neutral and factua information. 1895: Treaty of Shimonoseki http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treaty_of_Shimonoseki 1895: Triple Intervention by Russia, France and Germany http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triple_Intervention 1897:  Trans-Siberian Railroad in Vladivostok http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trans-Siberian_Railway 1898:  Spanish-American war (Guam and Philippines annexed by USA) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippine-American_War 1898: Treaty of Paris http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treaty_of_Paris_(1898) 1898: Philippine Declaration of Independence http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippine-American_War 1898:  US annexation of Kingdom of Hawaii http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Hawaii 1899:  German-Spanish Treaty (About 6000 Pacific Islands bought by Germany) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippine-American_War cclxx 1900:  Boxer rebellion and Eight-Nation Alliance http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxer_Rebellion 1902: Anglo-Japanese Treaty http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anglo-Japanese_Alliance 1904: British invasion of Tibet http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Tibet 1904-1905: The Russo-Japanese war http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russo-Japanese_War 1905: Russian revolution http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1905_Russian_Revolution 1905: Secret Taft-Katsura agreement http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taft-Katsura_Agreement 1905: Renewal of Anglo-Japanese treaty http://navalhistory.flixco.info/H/180236/8330/a0.htm 1905: Treaty of Portsmouth http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treaty_of_Portsmouth 1905: Formation of Asiatic Exclusion League in US and Canada http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asiatic_Exclusion_League 1912: Republic of China, end of Imperial China http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qing_Dynasty 1914: Siege of Tsingtao http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siege_of_Tsingtao cclxxi 1914:  Occupation of German Samoa http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Samoa 1915:  Japanese Navy in Singapore http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japan_during_World_War_I 1915: Twenty-One Demands http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twenty-One_Demands 1917: Lansing-Ishii Agreement http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lansing–Ishii_Agreement 1919: May Fourth Movement http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/May_Fourth_Movement 1919: Treaty of Versailles http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treaty_of_Versailles 1922: Nine-Power Treaty http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nine-Power_Treaty 1911-1941: Sino-German alliance http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sino-German_cooperation_(1911–1941) 1919-1927: Kuomintang, Sun-Yatsen, Chiang Kai-Shek and the Canton years http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiang_Kai-shek 1927: Shanghai massacre http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shanghai_massacre_of_1927 1927-1950: Chinese Civil war http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_Civil_War cclxxii 1927-1937: Nanking decade http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nanjing_decade 1928-1938: Mongolian-Soviet republic http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolian_People's_Republic 1929-1939: Great Depression http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Depression 1931: Mukden Incident http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mukden_Incident 1936: Xi'an Incident http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xi'an_Incident 1936: Anti-Comintern pact, Sino-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-Comintern_Pact http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sino-Soviet_Non-Aggression_Pact 1937: Madame Chiang Kai-Shek, recruiting American Pilots http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Volunteer_Group 1937: Sino-Japanese War http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Sino-Japanese_War 1939:  Soviet-Japanese War (Khalkhin Gol) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battles_of_Khalkhin_Gol 1940:  Japanese troops in French Indochina http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_Indochina cclxxiii 1941:  Japan Surrounded by the ABCD pact http://tmh.floonet.net/articles/ph25_2.html 1941: Oil embargo, freezing of Japans assets http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/index.php?pid=16148#axzz1GjySuUaU 1941: Niitakayama Nobore http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attack_on_Pearl_Harbor 1941-1942: Battle of Philippine http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippines_Campaign_(1941–42) 1941:  Battle of Malaya http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malayan_Campaign 1942:  Battle of Slim River http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Slim_River 1942: Battle of Singapore,Malay no Tora http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Singapore http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomoyuki_Yamashita 1942: Battle of the Java Sea http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Java_Sea http://combinedfleet.com/battles/ 1942: Battle of the Coral sea http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Coral_Sea http://combinedfleet.com/battles/ cclxxiv 1942: Battle of Midway http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Midway http://combinedfleet.com/battles/ 1942-1943: Battle of Guadalcanal http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guadalcanal_Campaign 1943: Battle of Komandorsky Islands http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Komandorski_Islands http://combinedfleet.com/battles/Battle_of_the_Komandorski_Islands 1943: Battle of Attu http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Attu 1943: Battle of Tarawa http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Tarawa 1943:  Cairo declaration http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cairo_Declaration 1944:  Battle of China, Ichigo sakusen http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Ichi-Go 1944: Battle of Saipan http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Saipan 1944: Battle of Palau http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Peleliu 1945: Battle of Iwojima http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Iwo_Jima cclxxv 1945: Battle of Okinawa http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Okinawa 1945: Fire-bombing civilian targets http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombing_of_Tokyo 1945: Hiroshima and Nagasaki http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atomic_bombings_of_Hiroshima_and_Nagasaki 1945: Bearing the Unbearable http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gyokuon-hōsō 1945: Battle of Manchuria http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soviet_invasion_of_Manchuria 1945: Battle of Taiwan http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/228_Incident 1945-1950: Battle of Korea http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korean_War 1945-1950: Battle of Indonesia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesian_National_Revolution 1945-1949: Battle of mainland China http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_Civil_War 1946-1954: Battle of Indochina http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Indochina_War 1954: Battle of Dien Bien Phu http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Dien_Bien_Phu cclxxvi 1950: Battle of Cambodia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Cambodia 1959-1975: Battle of Vietnam http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vietnam_War 1970: Battle of Laos http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laotian_Civil_W 1975: Fall of Saigon http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fall_of_Saigon A few other related web sites: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Great_Game http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imperialism_in_Asia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonialism http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity_and_colonialism cclxxvii 20th century Statistics General http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/20centry.htm Monarchy http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/monarchy.htm Literacy http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/literacy.htm Korea http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/korea.htm China http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/chin-rev.htm http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/chin-cw1.htm http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/kmt-chin.htm http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/longmarc.htm http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/chin-cw2.htm British Empire http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/brit-emp.htm French Empire http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/frnc-emp.htm WW II in Europe http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/ww2-eto.htm cclxxviii Losses http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/ww2-loss.htm End of colonialism http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/3d-world.htm Communism http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/communis.htm US forces in the World http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/usaworld.htm 20th century death tolls http://necrometrics.com/20c5m.htm http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/korea.htm http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/chin-rev.htm cclxxix Zen in War The Pacific 80 years War by Gábor Fabricius © Gábor Fabricius All rights reserved ISBN # 978-4-9905783-1-2 Home Page: http://zen.naruhodo.com/zeninwar-book.html cclxxx
i don't know
What is the name of the membership only warehouse club owned and operated by Wal-Mart that ranks second to Costco in sales volume?
Sam's Club | Walmart Wiki | Fandom powered by Wikia Template:Ref improve section The first Sam's Club opened on April 7, 1983 in Midwest City, Oklahoma in the United States . [5] In 1989, Sam's entered New Jersey with a store in Delran in a former Two Guys/Jefferson Ward/Bradlees store. This was Walmart's first foray into the Northeast. The first Walmart discount store in New Jersey opened in 1991 in Turnersville. The company entered the Pennsylvania market in 1990. In 1993, Walmart acquired PACE Membership Warehouse from Kmart and converted many (but not all) PACE locations into Sam's Clubs. The latest flagship store opening Template:As of was in Fayetteville, Arkansas . The largest Sam's Club store is located in Pineville, NC with Template:Convert of retail space that was formerly an Incredible Universe. On September 24, 2006, Sam's Club received a new logo. The new logo has an updated serif font and features a green and blue diamond inside the big blue diamond, found above the word 'Sam's'. Sam's Club's previous slogan was "We Are In Business For Small Business" until 2006, the decision to remove the slogan comes as Sam's Club attempts to remove itself from serving just small businesses and open up to more individual customers. In December 2007. Sam's Club launched a new slogan, "Enjoy the Possibilities". Since then it became an official advertising slogan, mentioned in television and radio advertisements, but it is not mentioned on its website. As of early January 2008 the "Enjoy the Possibilities" slogan was no longer in use. Sam's Club launched their latest slogan "Savings Made Simple" in the fourth quarter of 2009. Starting in April 2007 there was speculation of a possible sale or spinoff of Sam's Club from parent company Walmart. [6] [7] At Walmart's 2007 annual shareholder's meeting in June, management said that Sam's Club is not for sale, although they did not say they are not considering a spinoff. [8] On February 26, 2009, Walmart Canada announced that it would close all six of its Canadian Sam's Club locations. [9] [10] [11] This was part of Walmart Canada's decision to shift focus towards supercentre stores, but some industry observers suggested that the operation was struggling in competition with Costco and the non-membership The Real Canadian Superstore (known as Maxi & Cie in Quebec ), that had a well-established history in the country. Sam's Club also rebranded the two as yet unopened locations as new Wal-Mart Superstores. In January 2010, it was announced that ten stores would be closed, including four in California. At the same time, Sam's will open six new stores at various locations in the United States. [12] On January 24, 2010, it was announced that approximately 11,200 Sam's Club employees would be laid off. The layoffs resulted from the decision to outsource product sampling duties to an outside company (Rogers, Arkansas-based Shopper Events, which already performs in-store product demonstrations for Walmart) and to eliminate New Business Membership Representative positions throughout the chain. Most of the laid-off employees were part-time and represented about 10% of the total Sam's Club workforce. [13] Design File:SamsClubLerdo.jpg Like other warehouse clubs, Sam's Club sells most of its merchandise in bulk and directly off pallets . The clubs are arranged much like warehouses , with merchandise stocked in warehouse-style steel bins. Template:As of there were 602 Sam's Clubs in the United States . [3] Products sold include jewelry, designer goods, sunglasses, crystal and collectibles, electronics, floral, apparel, food and meats. Most locations have Pharmacy, Tire and Battery, Photo, Bakery, Optical, Café and Floral departments. Sam's Club markets items under the private labels Member's Mark, Bakers & Chefs, and Sam's Club — including products by Richelieu Foods , [14] a private label manufacturer of frozen pizza, salad dressing, sauces, marinades, condiments and deli salads. Sam's Club does not sell the Sam's Choice or Great Value brands, that are available in Wal-mart stores. However Sam's Club is now changing some of the Member's Mark items, such as baby wipes to the name Simply Right. The Member's Mark Deli products is also changing names to Artisan Fresh. Another notable feature in most locations is the presence of stands at which Shopper Events employees prepare various food products for members to sample before purchasing. Sam's Club has more than 47 million U.S. members and operates more than 580 clubs nationwide, Template:Citation needed as well as more than 100 international locations in Brazil , China , and Mexico . Template:Citation needed There are also stores in the U.S. commonwealth of Puerto Rico . Template:Citation needed A typical Sam's Club stands between Template:Convert and Template:Convert . The Sam's Club division of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. had total sales revenue of US$ 46.9 billion for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2009. [3] Sam's primary competitor is Costco Wholesale . Sam's Business Center Edit Sam's Club opened their first Business Center in Houston, Texas, in August 2008. Converted from an existing Sam's location, the Business Center is similar in concept to Costco's Business Centers. A fleet of private trucks offers delivery service within a Template:Convert radius on orders of at least $250. The trucks are capable of storing frozen, refrigerated and dry items. The Business Center is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and unlike the Costco Business Centers, that are closed on Sundays, the Sam's Business Center is open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. [15] In January 2010, the company announced it would be closing its Business Center, along with nine other clubs across the United States. [16] Other retail formats In Houston, Sam's Club opened Más Club in August 2009, [17] a club geared towards the Hispanic population. Membership in Más Club is separate from membership in Sam's Club. [18] Membership Edit Membership is required to purchase at Sam's Club (except at the cafe, for prescription drugs where federal law prohibits sales to members only, as well as liquor and gasoline in some states); however, a one-time day pass may be obtained from many Walmart newspaper ads. A 10% surcharge is added (except where forbidden by local laws) to the prices for non-members, except for optical, pharmacy, cafe, or alcohol items where available. All memberships are 100% refundable at any time for any reason, even on the date that it is to be renewed. Renewal of memberships can be done via the internet, through the mail, in-club at the Membership Services desk, any cash register, and also at the new ATM/Membership kiosks (the latter only available in select locations). In the United States, Sam's Club memberships are divided into three categories: Business, Advantage, and Plus. [19] The Plus membership offers discounts and deals for a few services and products within Sam's (similar to free 12-month extended warranty for every extended warranty purchased) and more offered for outside goods and services. [20] As with the Advantage and Business memberships, Plus memberships are 100% refundable. Payment options and store credit products Edit Sam's Club locations accept Sam's Club and Wal-mart Credit Cards, [21] Discover Card , MasterCard , [22] debit cards , Wal-mart and Sam's Club gift cards, cash or checks. [23] Template:As of EBT SNAP benefits are accepted. [24] [25] MasterCard was added as an option on November 9, 2006. Visa credit cards are still not accepted, because of the high processing fees compared with Wal-mart's discounted rates with Mastercard, [26] although in the past it was accepted during testing periods. [27] However Visa debit cards are accepted in most clubs. American Express is not accepted. Their online website, samsclub.com, accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover Card. [28] Sam's Club credit Edit Sam's Club offers store credit lines to individuals and businesses linked to the member's membership card. Sam's Club also offers a Sam's Club Discover Card [29] [30] that can be used at Sam's Club and anywhere Discover Cards are accepted, Advantage and Business Members can receive up to 1% cash rewards from the Sam's Club Discover and Advantage/Business Plus members can receive up to 2% cash rewards. The Sam's Discover card replaces the member's regular membership card. [31]
Sam's Club
Which character in the film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory turned into a giant blueberry?
Sam’s Club Application - Online Job Employment Form You are here: Home / Department Store Job Applications / Sam’s Club Application Sam’s Club Application     Employment at Sam’s Club Sam’s West, Inc. (better known under the name of Sam’s Club) is an extremely cherished and popular membership-only retail warehouse club. The business is owned and operated by Walmart. Starting with the year 2008, Sam’s club has been ranking second in sales volume among warehouse clubs. The difference between it, and the first position retailer (Costco) is 57 billion dollars in sales. Interestingly enough, Sams-e has more retail locations than Costco. At the moment, the company operates roughly 650 membership warehouse clubs, most of which can be found in the United State (example: Bradford, Edelman, Houston) but also in areas such as Puerto Rico, China, Brazil etc. Sam’s Club is a great online shopping hub that provides people a wide range of products belonging to many categories. Sam’s Club is a subsidiary of Walmart that was opened in the year 1983 and since then it has been providing quality products to the people for over 19 years. At Sam’s Club, one can easily find the products of his choice at very affordable rates. From simple household items to modern tech gadgets, everything is available at Sam’s Club and can be ordered online. Like many other warehouse clubs, Sams club also sells its products in bulk, directly under the form of pallets. The reason for the name ‘warehouse’ is because most stores are organized like warehouse-style steel bins. A few examples of products sold include apparel, floral, food, sunglasses, meat and many more. The company also markets several private labels (like Simply Right),’ Sam’sClub’, ‘Bakers and Chefs’ and others. Richelieu Foods is also a private label manufacturer of pizza, sauces, marinades, deli salads, condiments and other merchandise designed for the community. Because it is a membership exclusive retail warehouse, you require membership to purchase from the store (except for cafes, liquor, gasoline and pharmacies, where federal law prohibits the sale of products only to members). It is possible to obtain a one-day pass from Walmart newspaper ads. There are three basic categories for memberships: business, savings and plus. The membership offered by Sam’s Club allows people to gain incredible discounts on various objects and to receive monthly updates about popular deals. Now that you’ve got the gist of the company, let’s take a look at the employment opportunities available. If you want to become a part of a business that has a long and healthy tradition and provides its workers a good environment to work in, then all you need to do is to fill the Sam’s Club online application for employment. Of course, before you do that you should also try to learn more about the company’s history, policies and employment requirements. In the following article we will discuss about several aspects related to job hunting for Sams Club careers. Official site: www.samsclub.com Sam’s Club Job Available Available Sams Club Jobs: cashier, competition associate, vision center manager, store associate, customer service representative, PR, pharmacy technician, ISD expert (income support division), overnight stockers, market human resources manager, pharmacist, market human resources manager, fresh market associate, truck driver, administrative assistant, maintenance technician, loader, planner, development club manager, optician etc. In order to keep providing its amazing services to the customers and to run its large number of stores smoothly, Sam’s Club hires store managers and support staff members all throughout the year. The company is constantly on the lookout for hardworking employees that can work on full-time or hourly basis. To land a job as a manager or any other post at Sam’s Club, you need to fill out the Sam’s Club application, jobs and employment form available at the company’s website. Minimum Employment Age at Sam’s Club How old must you be to be considered for a Sams Club career? If you are above the age of 18 when applying for a job at Sam’s Club, only then are you eligible to fill out the Sam’s Club job application online. Some available positions may require you to be older than 18-years because it involves heavy lifting or education that is impossible to have at that age. More info on www.sams careers.com Sam’s Club Store Hours What are the store’s hours of operation? In order to find out about the store hours of a Sam’s Club, you need to make use of the tab “Find a Sam’s Club” located at the top of the website under the heading “Shopping”. Locate the Sam’s Clubs present in your area and find out about their store timings from their respective websites. In general, Sams Club locations work by the following schedule: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Important Tips to Apply Online with Sam’s Club Here are a few tips for applying to Sams Club careers. In order to meet market demand, the company has established additional warehouses that are constantly in need of staffing. Each warehouse creates hundreds of fantastic job opportunities for applicants. If you wish to become part of a popular retailing company and invest in your retailing career you should definitely submit your Sams Club application as soon as possible.  You can do this by accessing the official page of Sams Club (on www.samsclub com ) (Click the “Careers” link present at the foot of the website under the heading “About Sam’s Club” to know about the current job openings offered by the company. This will redirect you to Walmart’s career page. On the page’s header click on the Sams club logo to filter to relevant results. The link to the Sam’s Club online application can also be found by following this link. You can print out the PDF version of the application, fill it out manually and submit it in person to the nearest store. In order to enhance your chances of being hired by the company, attaching a professional CV that enlists all your academic achievements and credentials along with the Sam’s Club job application form is a very smart move. Therefore, give proper time to develop your resume and make it as detailed and comprehensive as possible.TheentireSamsClubapplicationprocessshouldn’ttake more than an hour. Make sure you can allocate the appropriate amount of time to ensure that you receive consideration for Samsclub careers. Visiting the store where you have submitted your online application and meeting the store manager there in person when he has time, is a very good way of increasing your chances of being hired. It creates a positive impression on the manager and he remembers you when making the choice of hiring an employee. In order to fill out and submit the online application for Sams Club jobs you must first create your account. Login with your details and cater your search according to your skills, location and position preferences. After you hit the search button you will be presented with all the job openings available with the company. Clicking on a job will bring out more information about its requirements, compensation and type. If you are prepared to apply for it you can simply click on “Apply”. A new browser will be open and loaded in the hosted form of BrassRing.com. Now that the basics are out of the way, let’s take a look at several tips that will help you create the best Sams Club job application possible: You can’t simply fill out the Sams Club application, without knowledge about the company or jobs. It is strongly recommended to thoroughly read job descriptions in order to gauge whether you are suitable for a position or not. Although the online Sams Club job application process makes the process easier, you will still have to print out the appropriate papers for the interview process. Make sure you have a copy of your CV and application. Also take your cover letter and reference list, if available. Check and re-check your Sams club application to see if there are any grammar or spelling mistakes in it. A slip up like this might cost you the job. Despite the fact that there are thousands of entry-level careers available for job hopefuls in the casino, park, food, retail or store departments, there are also several administrative positions that require applicants to possess superb skills. If you are applying for an advanced position make sure you highlight skills that are relevant to the position. For example, if you are submitting your Sams Club job application for a management position, talk about your leadership and organizational skills. If you are not 100% satisfied with your application, wait 24 hours before submitting it. This will give you more time to look over mistakes. If you are still not contempt, ask a friend to give you some advice. You will have to fill out different forms and applications for every job that you apply for, to increase chances of being hired. Sams Club Job Application Status The best way to secure a position with the company is by following up with hiring managers regularly. Of course, you should avoid being too pushy. In general, eligible candidates receive a follow-up call within a few days or weeks from requesting employment. In the event of a longer wait you should consider calling the hiring manager or paying a visit to the store. It is very often that hiring personnel conducts on-the-spot interviews for applicants that show genuine interested in a Sams club career. In the event of such an interview you should wear a business or business casual attire. Most Common Positions at Sam’s Club & Income Information Because of the constant need of hardworking and efficient managers and support staff members to run the affairs of its wide network of stores present in over 47 states, Sam’s Club offers management positions regularly. The salary and remunerations packages provided by Sam’s Club are above the industry standards. In addition to the high salaries, the workers of Sam’s Club also get the chance to enhance their professional capabilities through the various training programs offered by the company from time to time. Thus, the Sam’s Club job application is a stepping-stone for you to a successful and respectable future. The massive retail chain requires constant workforce. Available jobs can be found in entry-level as well as management careers. There are also seasonal opportunities for part-time job-seekers. In general, the company is looking to hire individuals with positive attitude, cooperativeness and high regard for providing excellent customer service. Let’s take a look at the most popular entry-level, retailing and management positions within the company: Sams Club Employment Opportunities for Cashiers: This is undoubtedly the most popular, and easy to obtain Sams Club job. A Sams club cashier is expected to complete customer transactions. Job description and duties include handling registers, checking prices, ringing out purchases (for credit card and cash), helping customers with their purchases, maintaining store cleanliness etc. To be considered for this job you must have well-rounded knowledge of stores and products, as well as the ability to help customers with their inquiries. Most cashiers start with a minimum wage salary (8.00$ per hour). Salary and compensation may increase with tenure. Sams Club Careers forCustomer Server Associates: Customer Server associates work at the front desk of the store. Their goal is to help customers with their memberships and any other questions they might have. You must also take their photo for membership cards. The manager might ask you to help with item returns and store cleanliness. Server associates start with a pay anywhere from 8.00 dollars to 12.00 dollars per hour. (more info on samsclub com ) Sams Club Employment Opportunities for Meat Cutters: The responsibilities for this job are pretty clear. A meat cutter must prepare meat to be displayed by cutting it into larger or smaller pieces. If a customer requests your help, you must prepare appropriate amounts of meat and package them. The average salary for a meat cutter starts at 12.00$ per hour and may vary with tenure. If you think that this job is suitable for your skills, you should submit a Sams Club application to your nearest store. (for more info access samsclubcareers com ) Sams Club Careers for Overnight Stockers: As we already mentioned, the company distributes and orders huge amounts of products. In order to stock warehouses and maintain optimal merchandise levels, the company requires many overnight stockers. These associates are responsible for receiving and unloading products. They must also organize the merchandise, put prices on items and stock shelves. You will be required to lift between 30 and 40 lbs. at a time, stand long hours, and work in a team. You will also gain access to the Sams warehouse. Only applicants who can work flexible schedules are considered for this position. If you can work in the weekends or at night you should definitely consider submitting your Sams club job application for this position. The average salary for overnight stockers is around 11.00$ per hour. Sams Club Careers in Management Although the company prefers promoting managers from within, it will not overlook eligible candidates who have a proven track-record of their retailing knowledge. If you have what it takes to become a manager for one of the warehouses, you shouldn’t hesitate. Sams Club employment opportunities for managers are available for various capacities. The store offers administrative positions with titles such as club manager, team leader, assistant manager, or general manager. As a manager you will have to create budgets, control inventory levels, organize schedules and tasks, oversee operations, ensure storewide customer satisfaction and come up with strategies that will increase sales. You will only be considered for Sams Club Employment in the management department if you have a college degree and previous supervisory experience in a retail setting. Communicational, organizational and leadership skills are a must-have for candidates. The average assistant manager earns between 12.00 and 14.00 dollars at the beginning of his career. General Managers salaries can vary between 80.000 and 100.000 dollars per year. Of course, besides lucrative salaries, managers (and long-term workers) benefit from non-wage packages that include health & life insurance, POD and 401 (K) retirement plans. Official site: www.samsclub.com.mx Sam’s Club Benefits The Sam’s Club application can earn you a very high paying job at one of the most respected shopping store chains in the world – Walmart. Not only will you be able to work in an amazing environment with supportive and encouraging team members, you will also be able to bolster your management capabilities too while working here thanks to the management training programs offered by the company. Similarly to other retailing companies, Sam club also offers great benefits for its employees. Let’s take a look at the most important non-wage benefits available for long-term employees. 401 (K) retirement plans Long or short term disability insurance Travel and entertainment discounts Free Sams Club membership card& membership on Sams Club online Careers and personal development perks Comprehensive health insurance coverage
i don't know
In what sport (also in the Olympics) do the participants use a foil or a sabre?
Road to Rio: How to Qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games - Fencing.Net : Fencing.Net You are here: Home / News / Road to Rio: How to Qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games Road to Rio: How to Qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games Posted by Craig Harkins on April 19, 2015 · Leave a Comment   With the 2015 Pan American Fencing Championships in full swing starting on April 17, 2015 the Olympic Qualification season has begun. Fencers from around the world are competing from April 2015 through April 4th, 2016 for the right to compete for Olympic glory at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. For the fencing events, a total of 212 athletes will compete across 10 events. Due to limitations on the size of the events by the IOC, nations are not guaranteed an athlete in each sport – nations and athletes have to compete against not only their countrymen, but others in their region or continent for an Olympic slot. Since the introduction of Women’s Sabre to the Olympic program in 1996, the International Fencing Federation (FIE) has lobbied the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for an additional two medal events to be able to accommodate every fencing discipline. The IOC, however, does not want to add more medals for fencing, so the FIE is left with the choice of which fencing events will not have competitions in the Olympics. The FIE has chosen to rotate which fencing disciplines will not have the team event and for 2012 the disciplines to feature the individual competition but no team competition are Men’s Sabre and Women’s Foil. This leaves 10 total events for the Olympic competition: 2016 Olympic Fencing Men’s Olympic Fencing Events at the 2016 Games: Men’s Individual Epee Women’s Team Epee Women’s Team Sabre Overall, a total of 102 men and 102 women will qualify for the Olympic Fencing competitions with 8 athlete slots held open for the host country (Brazil) to enter athletes. How do athletes qualify to fence at the 2016 Olympics? Because there are some weapons that are hosting a team event in addition to the individual event and some with only the individual event, there are slightly different qualification paths. For Men’s Sabre and Women’s Foil, only individual results matter and no more than 2 fencers from a country can qualify. For the other events, the primary qualification is through the FIE Team standings with some additional slots held open for individuals to qualify. The qualification period is tournaments fenced between April 3rd 2015 and April 4, 2016. Team Qualification Teams fencing at the 2016 Rio Olympic fencing competition are composed of 3 fencers. 8 teams will qualify in each team event with Brazil being able to choose to enter a team. (The alternate is not actually an Olympic participant unless they are subbed in.) Countries qualify their teams for the 2016 Olympics with the following formula (8 total slots): The top 4 teams in the FIE World Rankings as of April 4, 2016 (slots 1-4) The highest ranking team from each Olympic zone (Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe). The teams MUST be ranked in the top 16 of the world rankings. IF a zone does not have a team in the top 16, then the zone loses it’s slot and that slot goes to the next highest team regardless of the zone. IF a country qualifies but declines to send a team, then the next highest ranking team in their zone is awarded the bid (provided those teams are in the top 16) Example: If we looked at the Men’s Foil team rankings as of April 19th, 2015 and used that for Olympic qualification these teams would qualify: France (#1 World Rank) United States (#4 World Rank) China (Asia Region – #5 World Rank) Germany (Europe Region – #7 World Rank) Egypt (Africa Region – #8 World Rank) Brazil (Americas Region – #12 World Rank) In this example, Korea would not qualify a team for the Olympics despite having the 6th ranked team in the world. This is why the Zonal championships in are a crucial step in securing qualification, as they provide a way to earn points directly against competition within the country’s own zonal division. Zonal Championship Dates: Americas: Pan American Fencing Championships (Santiago, Chile) : April 17 – April 26, 2015 Europe: Fencing Euro 2015  (Montreux, Switzerland): June 6 – June 11, 2015 Africa: African Fencing Championships (Cairo, Egypt): June 11 – June 16, 2015 Asia: Asian Fencing Championships (Singapore): Jun 25 – June 30, 2015 Fencing.Net will be monitoring team rankings after each FIE team and individual tournament to update the qualification standings. Individual Qualification This goes into two parts, there is one qualification path for the events with team events and a separate path for women’s saber and men’s epee. We’ll look at the Individual + Team events first. In these events, 35 individuals will compete. The first 24 are made up of the 3 fencers (the starters) from the 8 qualifying teams. Next are the top 7 fencers in the FIE individual rankings by Olympic Zone. (2 from Europe, 2 from Asia, 2 from Americas, 1 from Africa.) Only one fencer from a country can qualify in this fashion. No fencers with teams already entered may qualify from this path. The final 4 spots are reserved for a zonal qualifying competition. At this competition each country that does not have a fencer qualified may send 1 athlete to compete. The top fencers at the event qualify (1 Europe, 1 Americas, 1 Asia, and 1 African zones.) In no case may there be more than 3 fencers from a single country entered in the individual events. What about Men’s Sabre and Women’s Foil? Because they do not have a team event, the qualification process for these two disciplines differs. Top 14 in the FIE Rankings with a maximum of 2 fencers per country The next 8 are filled out by FIE rankings with only 1 fencer per country allowed and filtered 2 from each Olympic zone. The last 10 qualify from Zonal Qualifying events. Each country that does not have an athlete entered in the discipline can send one fencer. The top 4 from Europe, 3 from Asia, 2 from the Americas, and 1 from Africa qualify. Finally, Brazil has the ability to use 8 total athlete slots as it sees fit to enter athletes in the Team and Individual competitions. (Note: If they use this to enter a Men’s Foil Team AND the 3 individuals in the individual event, that would count as using only 3 of the 8 athlete slots as the top 3 individuals on the team are automatically entered in the individual.)
Fencing
In woodworking joints, what do you insert into your mortise?
Fencing in the Olympics: Who Can Win in Rio 2016? | GamingZion This list shows the top online gambling sites in Brazil . Fencing in the Olympics: Who Can Win in Rio 2016? Written by Bence on 2016-08-02 at 08:58 You can bet on fencing at the Olympics being exciting! Fencing in the Olympics is one of the most prestigious sports, but do you know its rules, its history and its best players? Let us help you find it out! Fencing in the Olympics will kick off soon after the Opening Ceremony on the 6th of August. The first game will start at 2 PM. That will be the women’s individual épée, however the encounters still not have been drawn so online sportsbooks in Brazil are still unsure about the favourite of the golden medal in the Olympic fencing category. But let’s learn some more about the basic rules of fencing. What are the main rules of fencing in the Olympics? Remember what Arya Stark has been taught in Game of Thrones? Rule number one for fencing is “stick’em with the pointy end.” Of course, that’s not enough to know about Olympic fencing rules, but it’s something to begin with. The aim is to score points by sticking the opponent with the pointy ends of their tools. To understand fencing in the Olympics, you must understand how this sport consists of several categories. The Olympic fencing categories are the following: épée, foil and sabre. Each of these can be played individually or in teams and of course women and men compete in different categories. However, in Rio 2016, women’s foil team and men’s sabre team will not be included. The weapons used by the athletes differs based on which category they are competing in. Foil fencing players use a light weapon that cannot be heavier than 500 grams. Hitting arms and legs do not count as points in foil according to Olympic fencing rules, only the torso (and the back), the neck and the groin counts. In the épée fencing category, the weapon is a little bit heavier: it can be heavy up to 775 grams. The entire body counts as target in épée and also only hitting the opponent with the pointy end lets you score. In sabre, the Olympic fencing equipment consists of your weapon, which is once again at most 500 grams, just like in foil. Athletes can score with the entire blade and the entire upper-body part is the target except for the hand holding the weapon. Who are the greatest Olympic fencing legends? Online betting news in Brazil accept the fact that this sport is rather popular in many countries, however the 2016 Olympic Games’ hosting country is not one of the best fencing nations. Fencing is quite a big thing in several European countries, including Italy, France or Germany and the UK, but it’s rather important in Eastern European countries such as Hungary, Romania and Russia as well. Géza Imre would be very épée to win (Photo: Index) In fact, we can find several Olympic fencing legends from Hungary, starting with six-time Olympic champion Pál Kovács and 2-time Olympic champions Tíme Nagy, Bence Szabó, Ildikó Újlaky-Rejtő and Ilona Elek. Another important Olympic fencing legend is Valentina Vezzali from Italy, who has 15 World Championship gold medals apart from her 6 Olympic wins which is an outstanding achievement. Which Olympic fencing athletes could be the best in Rio 2016? This year, a total of 247 fencing players will compete each other in hopes of collecting as many Olympic fencing medals as possible. The oldest one of them is Hungary’s 41-year-old Géza Imre, who has been Olympic champion twice and has a total of 4 Olympic medals. He might still be favourites as he is the reigning world champion in épée. The youngest one of the competitors is Egypt’s 15-year old Mohamed Hamza, who will not be regarded as one of the favourites to win Olympic gold according to online sportsbooks , but this year when Leicester becomes Premier League winner in football…anything can happen in the Olympics as well. And the young, despite not being experienced enough, always come with incredible energy. Fencing betting odds are not yet available so it’s not the best time to bet on who is going to be the best fencing player in the world yet, but collecting information is always necessary. Read through our other articles in connection with the Olympic Games in Rio 2016 and place the best bets at online sportsbooks to make the most out of your Olympic betting! To learn more about gambling in Brazil, check out the country home page . For more Brazilian gambling and betting news, click here . To read other latest news please check online gambling news page.
i don't know
What famed and Nobel prize winning economist, born on July 31, 1912, wrote books such as Money Mischief: Episodes in Monetary History and The Tyranny of the Status Quo, and a series of Newsweek articles entitled “There’s No Such Thing as a Free Lunch”?
Untitled Document Elijah Award Dr. Milton and Rose Friedman The recipients of the 2006 Quaqua Elijah Award are Rose Friedman and her late husband, Dr. Milton Friedman. The Friedmans are honored for their profound pioneering contribution to the world-wide intellectual, economic, and political movement seeking educational choice and alternative education. Dr. Milton Friedman was born July 31, 1912, in Brooklyn, N.Y., the fourth and last child and first son of Sarah Eszter (Landau) and Jeno Saul Friedman. Dr. Friedman�s parents were Jewish immigrants born in Carpatho-Ruthenia (a province of Austria-Hungary that later became part of inter-war Czechoslovakia and then the Soviet Union) who both entered the United States during their teens and then met in New York City. The young Milton was raised in Rahway, N.J, where his mother ran a small retail dry goods store and his father pursued mostly unsuccessful jobbing ventures. The Friedman family was poor and in a constant state of financial crisis, but the family atmosphere was warm and supportive. Like his older sisters, Milton attended public elementary and secondary schools. He graduated from Rahway High School in 1928, just before his 16th birthday. Despite his father�s death when Milton was only fifteen years old, Milton gained admission and a competitive academic scholarship to Rutgers University. Through a combination of scholarships, summer jobs, waiting tables, and clerking in a retail store, Milton supported himself until age twenty, when he graduated from Rutgers in 1932 with the equivalent of a double major in mathematics and economics. Two faculty members in the Rutgers Economics Department, Arthur Burns and Homer Jones, became life-long mentors to Milton Friedman and successfully recommended him for a graduate scholarship at the University of Chicago Economics Department for the 1932-33 year. There Milton Friedman met a fellow economics student, Rose Director, and they were married six years later. Milton Friedman completed an M.A. in 1933 from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. in 1946 from Columbia University. During his life he would receive honorary degrees from eighteen different colleges and universities. Milton Friedman went to Washington, D.C., to work with the National Resources Committee in 1935 and help design a large consumer budget study. His subsequent job was at the National Bureau of Economic Research, where he assisted with a study of professional income and co-authored a book about the monopolistic effects of professional licensing schemes (medical doctors, but many of the ideas also apply to government licensing of schools and school teachers). His affiliation with the Bureau would continue until 1981. From 1940-41 he was visiting professor at the University of Wisconsin (in later years he would also be a visiting professor at Columbia University, U.C.L.A., and the University of Hawaii). From 1941 to 1943 he worked as Principal Economist at the Division of Tax Research, U.S. Treasury Department, on wartime tax policy and began to think about the informational role of price mechanisms. From 1943-45 he was Associate Director, Statistical Research Group in the Division of War Research at Columbia University, working as a mathematical statistician focused on problems of weapon design, military tactics, and metallurgical experiments. In their very early careers both Milton and Rose embraced aspects of the New Deal and Keynesian economics. Milton Friedman helped implement such measures as the payroll withholding tax to help support an economic machine shaped by war-time imperatives and central planning. Experience and further study, however, quickly led to a dramatic shift in the Friedmans� philosophical direction. The Friedmans found themselves particularly persuaded by conservative Austrian economist Friedrich Hayek, an outspoken opponent of all socialist policies, who in 1944 wrote the influential book Road to Serfdom. Dr. Friedman associated himself with Heyek�s efforts and played a key role in the formation of Hayek's influential Mont Pelerin Society, which first met in 1947. In 1945, Milton Friedman worked for one year at the University of Minnesota, and in 1946 he took a faculty position at the University of Chicago to teach economic theory. Friedman and the University of Chicago began a long-term intellectual and professional relationship that would impact not only the economics program but also the University�s graduate business school and law school. Dr. Friedman began to study the role of money in the business cycle and founded the "Workshop in Money and Banking" ("Chicago Workshop"). He is now widely regarded as the leader of the Chicago School of monetary economics, which stresses the importance of the quantity of money as an instrument of government policy and as a determinant of business cycles and inflation. In 1950, Dr. Friedman spent an academic quarter in Paris serving as a consultant in connection with the Marshall Plan and the effort to rebuild the European economy. By 1951 Friedman had won the prestigious John Bates Clark Medal from the American Economic Association, which honors economists under age forty for outstanding achievement. From 1953-54, he was a Fulbright Visiting Fellow at Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge University. From 1957-58 he was a Fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences at Stanford. For her part, Rose Director Friedman is believed to have been born to a prominent Jewish family during the last week of December 1911, in Staryi Chortoryisk, White Russia (her birth records have been lost). She attended Reed College and then transferred to the University of Chicago where she received a Bachelor of Philosophy degree. She continued her training in economics at the University of Chicago, completing all work for a doctorate in economics except for writing a dissertation. In her youth she co-authored articles espousing the Keynesian theory of consumption, but like Milton subsequently changed her philosophy. Rose was on the staff of the National Resources Committee (Washington, D.C.), working on a nationwide study of consumer purchases, and continued work on that study at the Bureau of Home Economics. She then joined the staff of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, where she worked until she married and moved to New York. In New York she was on the staff of the National Bureau of Economic Research until the Friedmans briefly moved to Wisconsin in 1940. Since then, she has continued economic research on her own, publishing a pamphlet entitled Poverty -- Definition and Perspective (American Enterprise Institute, 1965), and a series of twelve articles entitled "Milton Friedman -- Husband and Colleague" in the Oriental Economist (May 1976 to August 1977)(which was also published as a book in Japanese). She also received an honorary LL.D. in December 1986 from Pepperdine University. Milton and Rose had two children, a son and a daughter. During the course of his seventy-four year career, Milton Friedman proved to be a prolific author and editor who turned out multiple articles on an annual basis. It is not possible to list or discuss all of his writing here, but the following works constitute his most important career contributions to the field of economics: Income from Independent Professional Practice (with Simon Kuznets 1945, reissued 1954); �The Utility Analysis of Choices Involving Risk,� The Journal of Political Economy, 56(4):279�304 (with L.J. Savage, Aug. 1948); "The Marshallian Demand Curve," 57 Journal of Political Economy 463-95 (Dec. 1949); �The Expected Utility Hypothesis and the Measurability of Utility,� 60(6) The Journal of Political Economy 463�474 (Dec. 1952); "On the Methodology of Positive Economics" in Essays in Positive Economics 1-43 (1953, reissued 2000) ; Studies in the Quantity Theory of Money (as editor, 1956); A Theory of the Consumption Function, The Optimum Quantity of Money and Other Essays (with A. J. Schwartz, 1957); The Demand for Money: Some Theoretical and Empirical Results (1959); Price Theory: A Provisional Text (1962); A Monetary History of the United States, 1867-1960 (with Anna J. Schwartz, 1963) ; �The Relative Stability of Monetary Velocity and the Investment Multiplier in the United States, 1897�1958,� in Stabilization Policies 165 (E. Cary Brown et al., ed.)(with David Meiselman, 1963); Money and Business Cycles (with Anna J. Schwartz, 1963); �A Theoretical Framework for Monetary Analysis,� in Milton Friedman's Monetary Framework: A Debate with His Critics 1-62 (Robert J. Gordon, ed.,1974); �The Role of Monetary Policy,� 58(1) The American Economic Review 1�17 (Mar. 1968); The Optimum Quantity of Money and Other Essays (1969); Monetary vs. Fiscal Policy (with Walter W. Heller 1969); Monetary Statistics of the United States: Estimates, Sources, Methods (with Anna J. Schwartz, 1970); "A Theoretical Framework for Monetary Analysis," Journal of Public Economics (1970) ; An Economist's Protest: Columns on Political Economy (1972); There's No Such Thing As A Free Lunch (1975); Monetary Trends in the United States and the United Kingdom, Their Relation to Income, Prices, and Interest Rates, 1867�1975 (with Anna J. Schwartz, 1981) ; Milton Friedman�s Monetary Framework: A Debate With His Critics (1981); Monetarist Economics (1991); Money Mischief: Episodes in Monetary History (1992). A discussion of all of the unique contributions made to the field of economics by Dr. Friedman during his career would (and did) require volumes of exposition. We will hazard only a very brief overview here. Dr. Friedman's most prominent contribution was to create an influential modern formulation of the quantity theory of money, including the short and long-term relationships between money supply, consumption, output, price levels, and inflation. As an outgrowth of his theory, he asserted that the Great Depression was largely caused by government mismanagement instead of any failure of the free-enterprise system. His ideas about currency markets and exchange rates, although eventually superseded, helped stimulate debate and creative new macroeconomic ideas within the economist intellectual community. Dr. Friedman also provided an important critique of the Phillips curve and championed the concept of the natural rate of unemployment. Dr. Friedman considered the permanent income hypothesis to be his best scientific work. His theory says that the key determinant of consumption is an individual's real wealth, including �permanent� income from physical assets (real and personal property) and human intellectual capital (education and experience), not transitory current income fluctuations. Consumers estimate long-term �permanent� lifetime income and then establish their consumption patterns based upon some proportion of that expected income. Low income earners have an above-average propensity to consume, while high income earners have a higher transitory element to their income and a lower than average propensity to consume. Virtually every introductory college economics course includes Dr. Friedman�s ideas regarding economic epistemology and methodology. He argued that the value of any economic theory should be judged by its ability to accurately predict outcomes from any given set of observational input variables. In the world of economics, therefore, descriptive realism (e.g. the precise biological processes by which a particular species of tree orients its leaves to the sun) is secondary to accurate predictive final outcomes (e.g. the fact that tree behavior serves to orient leaves to obtain maximum surface exposure to sunlight). Moreover, according to Dr. Friedman, economics should be treated as a science and should not cede objectivity to the inclusion of subjective value judgments. These epistemological ideas are of particular importance to alternative educators, because alternative educators emphasize that the value of their economic activity is objectively measured by the benefits conferred upon student and family consumers. For example, home education is best assessed by the above-average student performance actually produced in hard data instead of by inferior student performance incorrectly predicted by government educators on the basis of subjective ideological bias. As other examples, if actual scientific studies fail to reveal any correlation between class size and student performance, or any correlation between school budget and student performance, or any deficiency in home education student performance compared to government school student performance, there is no credible basis for public policy makers to assume that revenues taxed from home educators in order to support larger budgets and smaller class sizes for government schools will result in better student performance for anyone. During the 1950s and early 1960s, the Friedmans first began to champion the cause of educational freedom and educational choice. They wrote a book called Capitalism and Freedom (1962) (reissued in 1982) that advocated minimizing governmental interference in the free market in order to enhance political and social freedom. Among other things, the book advocated school choice and suggested the concept of vouchers. "What is needed in America is a voucher of substantial size available to all students, and free of excessive regulations." But even after taking this position, the Friedmans� views had not fully evolved. Dr. Friedman later explained: �I used to argue that I could justify compulsory schooling on the ground of external effects. But then I discovered from work that E.G. West and others did, that before compulsory schooling something over 90 percent of people got schooled. . . . In Capitalism and Freedom we [the Friedmans] came out on the side of favoring compulsory schooling and in Free to Choose we came out against it.� One of the Friedmans� contributions to the educational debate during this period was, in effect, to reintroduce, systematize, and popularize ideas increasingly similar to those advocated by the Founders of the United States such as Thomas Jefferson , Benjamin Franklin , and Thomas Paine . In Dr. Friedman�s The Role of Government in Education (1955), the Friedmans concluded that government financing of primary and secondary schooling is entirely consistent with private administration of schooling, and that such a combination is both more equitable and more efficient than the existing linkage of financing with administration. In order to ameliorate the existing system of perverse financial incentives in government education, the Friedmans suggested in Capitalism and Freedom that one way to separate financing and administration is to give parents who choose to send their children to private schools "a sum equal to the estimated cost of educating a child in a government school, provided that at least this sum was spent on education in an approved school....The interjection of competition would do much to promote a healthy variety of schools. It would do much, also, to introduce flexibility into school systems. Not least of its benefits would be to make the salaries of school teachers responsive to market forces." Beginning in the early 1960s, the Friedmans� interests were drawn to the public arena. Consequently, the Friedmans� public policy ideas emphasized the preservation and extension of individual freedom. Dr. Friedman became a Director for Aldine Publishing Company from 1961-76. He served as a 1964 economic adviser to Senator Goldwater�s presidential campaign and as a 1968 economic adviser for Richard Nixon's presidential campaign. From September 1966 to June 1984, Dr. Friedman wrote a triweekly column on current affairs for Newsweek magazine and worked at times as a Contributing Editor. Many of his columns are reprinted in Bright Promises, Dismal Performance: An Economist�s Protest (1983). Throughout their long and distinguished public careers, the Friedmans were steadfastly unassuming, approachable, open-minded, dignified, candid, congenial, principled, analytically rigorous, and intellectually honest. This set of traits that allowed them to be a persuasive catalyst for transcendent, profound, long-term, international societal change. Dr. Friedman considered his most important policy achievement to be the end of military conscription, which the United States abandoned in favor of a voluntary professional military in 1973. Dr. Friedman pushed for the change while serving from 1969-70 on the Advisory Commission on an All-Volunteer Force (�Gates Commission�) and as a Member of the President�s Commission on White House Fellows from 1971-73. He believed that the military should normally be constituted of professionals who voluntarily joined because career opportunities and personal fulfillment associated with military service. When General William Westmoreland complained that he did not want to command an "army of mercenaries," Friedman famously responded, "General, would you rather command an army of slaves?" The Friedmans have also consistently opposed the related concept of �service learning� , a more recent �civilian� form of conscription based upon the notion that the governmental can invoke the military draft or compulsory school attendance laws to force students into involuntary servitude associated with government-sponsored "mandatory community service" projects purportedly designed to further the public good. Dr. Milton Friedman was named a Member of the Advisory Committed on Monetary Statistics, Federal Reserve System, in 1974. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Friedman was honored with the 1976 Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, "for his achievements in the fields of consumption analysis, monetary history and theory and for his demonstration of the complexity of stabilization policy." During the course of his career, Dr. Friedman served as president of the American Economic Association and the Western Economic Association. In addition to the National Academy of Sciences and the American Philosophical Society, Dr. Friedman would become a member of five professional economics societies and eight elected academic societies. Besides the awards explicitly mentioned herein, Dr. Friedman has also received seventeen other major awards and honors from organizations all over the word. Dr. Friedman also served as an adviser, director, or trustee for numerous private and non-profit organizations. In 1977, Dr. Friedman retired from active teaching at the University of Chicago, but retained a research relationship with the institution. He was a Visiting Scholar with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco from January to March of 1977. He continued to work, research, and write at the Friedman home in Vermont, near Dartmouth College, and spend winter as a Senior Research Fellow at the Hoover Institute of Stanford University with a nearby home in San Francisco. Eventually the Friedmans settled year-round in San Francisco, and Dr. Friedman continued to research, write, and lecture with the Hoover Institute until 2006. The Friedmans then participated in the creation of Free to Choose , a series of ten one-hour PBS programs that first appeared on PBS (Public Broadcasting System) in January 1980. Among other things, Dr. Friedman advocated educational choice and parental empowerment: The experts mean well, but a centralized [government school] system cannot possibly have that degree of personal concern for each individual child that we have as parents. The centralization produces deadening uniformity, it destroys the experimentation that is a fundamental source of progress. What we need to do is to enable parents, by vouchers or other means, to have more say about the school which their child goes to, a public school or a private school, whichever meets the need of the child best. That will inevitably give them also more say about what their children are taught and how they are taught. Market competition is the surest way to improve the quality and promote innovation in education as in every other field. . . . [Under the current system] [a]nybody who wants to send his child to a non-public school has to pay twice: once in the form of taxes and once in the form of tuition. Transcripts of the final documentaries were converted into the best-selling non-fiction book of 1980, entitled Free to Choose: A Personal Statement. Free to Choose would ultimately be translated into fourteen different languages. Rose later wrote that the experience "seems like something of a fairy tale.� �Who,� she reflected, �would have dreamed that after retiring from teaching, Milton would be able to preach the doctrine of human freedom to many millions of people in countries around the globe through television, millions more through our book based on the television program, and countless others through videocassettes." Dr. Friedman served as an unofficial adviser to presidential candidate Ronald Reagan in 1980 and as a member of President Reagan's Economic Policy Advisory Board from 1981-88. Among other things, he has championed the concept of a balanced budget amendment and the spending cap to constrain government spending, the Dutch auction procedure for selling government securities, elimination of wage�price controls, and elimination of government monopolies. Dr. Friedman believed that the �fundamental threat to human freedom� is excessive �government intervention� that derives �from some individuals within the community trying to take advantage of the concentrated power of the government to benefit themselves and provide themselves with special privileges and monopolies.� One of his most famous maxims was that "A society that puts equality before freedom will get neither. A society that puts freedom before equality will get a high degree of both." The Friedmans also participated in a three-part PBS television series called Tyranny of the Status Quo and published a complementary book with the same title in 1984. The Japanese government awarded Dr. Friedman the Grand Cordon of the First Class Order of the Sacred Treasure in 1986. In 1988, Dr. Friedman was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Medal of Science. Especially during the mid-1970s through the 1990s, the Friedmans took their message of economic and educational freedom to the entire world through visits, lectures, and television. They reached out not only to intellectuals, business leaders, and policy makers, but to ordinary citizens. Some of the nations included Australia, Canada, Chile, China, Eastern Europe, Estonia, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. Dr. Friedman worked with Michael Walker of the Fraser Institute to host a series of conferences from 1986 to 1994. This eventually resulted in a methodology and annual report providing measurements and data concerning Economic Freedom in the World. The annual report provides data for peer-reviewed studies and influences policy in various nations. Dr. Friedman did not believe that the government should be viewed as a font of moral authority or moral education. In a Wall Street Journal editorial dated September 7, 1989, he rebuked William Bennett: William Bennett [asserts that the Founders of the United States] . . . believed "that government has a responsibility to ... help educate citizens about right and wrong." To me, that is a totalitarian view opening the road to thought control and would have been utterly unacceptable to the Founders. I do not believe, and neither did they, that it is the responsibility of government to tell free citizens what is right and wrong. That is something for them to decide for themselves. Government is a means to enable each of us to pursue our own vision in our own way so long as we do not interfere with the right of others to do the same. In the words of the Declaration of Independence, "all Men are ... endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights. That among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these Rights Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the Governed." In my view, Justice Louis Brandeis was a "true friend of freedom" when he wrote, "Experience should teach us to be most on our guard to protect liberty when the government's purposes are beneficial. Men born to freedom are naturally alert to repel invasions of their liberty by evil-minded rulers. The greater dangers to liberty lurk in insidious encroachment by men of zeal, well meaning but without understanding." Anyone familiar with the history of government education--and the history of alternative education--is hard-pressed to dismiss Friedman�s observation. Dr. Friedman authored numerous books and articles relevant to educational choice, intellectual freedom, school reform, and other concepts of importance to alternative educators. Aside from the works discussed separately herein, the most important writings of this kind include the following: "A Free Market in Education," 3 Public Interest 107 (1966); "The Freedom to Listen," 29(28) Human Events 12 (1969); "The market v. the bureaucrat," 22(19) National Review 507 (1970); "Social responsibility: A subversive doctrine," 17(34) National Review 721 (1965); "The Fragility of Freedom," 16(4) Brigham Young University Studies 561 (1976); "An Interview with Milton Friedman," 38(46) Human Events 14 (1978); Milton Friedman speaks (1980); Tyranny of the status quo (with Rose Friedman 1984); Politics and tyranny : lessons in the pursuit of freedom (with David J. Theroux 1984); Politics and Tyranny: lessons in the pursuit of freedom (1985); "School Vouchers and the Textbook Controversy," 46(40) Human Events 10 (1986); "Free Markets and Free Speech," 10(1) Harvard Journal of Law and Public Policy 1 (1987); "Service, Citizenship, and Democracy: Civic Duty as an Entailment of Civil Right: Comment," in W. M. Evers, National service: Pro and con 44-48 (1990); "Vouchers No threat to Church State Split," Wall Street Journal (Dec 31, 1991), at A7; Why government is the problem (1993); �Public Schools: Make Them Private,� Cato Institute Paper No. 23 (June 23, 1995) ; "Public Schools: Make Them Private," 5(3) Education Economics 341-44 (1997); "Arizona's new schools: Hard lesson learned," Wall Street Journal (Jan 24, 1997), at A15; "Our backward schooling," 36(6) Across the Board 10 (with Rose Freidman) (1999); and "Why America Needs School Vouchers," Wall Street Journal (September 28, 2000), at A22. In 1996, the Friedmans established the Milton and Rose D. Friedman Foundation , which is based in Indianapolis and devoted to promoting parental choice in education. The Foundation publicly vows to achieve �improvement in the quality of the education available to children of all income and social classes in this nation, whether that education is provided in government or private schools or at home.� As Dr. Friedman once explained, �I think the performance of our school systems is disgraceful. I think roughly a quarter of the population never graduates high school. We have a lower level of literacy today than we had a hundred years ago. That's not despite, but because of the poor schools, particularly in low-income areas.� On another occasion he observed: �Any institution will tend to express its own values and its own ideas. Our public education system is a socialist institution . A socialist institution will teach socialist values, not the principles of private enterprise.� Support and opposition for school vouchers cuts across party and ideological lines, but the Friedmans' act of raising provocative questions about the causes of America's educational woes has been at least as beneficial as their effort to offer specific proposals for a remedy. Particularly from the standpoint of alternative educators, the increased public awareness generated by the Friedmans has conferred an independent tangible benefit by softening opposition to alternative education. Adaptations of the Friedmans� school choice concept were enacted in Milwaukee in 1990 and Cleveland in 1995. (Variations of the school choice or voucher concept also exist in Chile, Hong Kong, Ireland, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and some other European nations.) Other locales, such as California with Tim Draper�s Proposition 38 in November 2000, considered but voted down school choice. The choice movement eventually led to a legal showdown before the United States Supreme Court. Opponents of a Cleveland school choice program alleged that the program violated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment of the United States Constitution because ninety-six percent of parents chose to use the opportunity scholarships (a form of tax-funded voucher) to help their children attend private religious schools. In a landmark decision, Zelman v. Simmons-Harris, 536 U.S. 639 (2002) , the Supreme Court upheld the program as constitutional. However, in Bush v. Holmes, 919 So.2d 392 (Fla. 2006) , the Florida Supreme Court struck down a state Opportunity Scholarship Program on the ground that the school choice scheme violated "uniformity" clause of Florida's Constitution (article IX, section 1(a)): "Adequate provision shall be made by law for a uniform, efficient, safe, secure, and high quality system of free public schools." In 2006, a large federal government voucher program was created for evacuees from Hurricane Katrina and proved to be a popular option. In 2007, Utah became the first state where a state legislature voted for a universal-access school choice program, but the legislation was defeated by referendum. In what was a footnote to Dr. Milton Friedman�s life, but a major event for the Quaqua Society, Quaqua founder Daniel E. Witte had the opportunity to communicate with Dr. Friedman during Witte�s stay in Palo Alto, California. Dr. Friedman graciously reviewed a draft written plan for Quaqua and opined that it was a �splendid idea.� Dr. Friedman offered various insights about how to best ramp up the foundation which were, of course, carefully implemented. Witte also had an opportunity for lively discussion with Dr. Friedman about the home-education movement from an economic point of view. As an open-minded intellectual provocateur who thrived on congenial debate, Dr. Friedman quite naturally chose to write to Witte that �There is no . . . major area in our lives in which we rely on do-it-yourself rather than the commercial division of labor.� Witte countered that home education was, in the venacular of Free to Choose, an "other means" by which parents could leverage "market competition" to achieve more control over "what their children are taught and how they are taught." Legal barriers to entry were also a consideration; experience had shown that many jurisdictions not currently receptive to vouchers from a political standpoint were willing to acknowledge the legally-protected status of home education. During the interchange that ensued, an eventual consensus seemed to emerge. Home education is a type of �self-made� service product. Economic theory predicts that �self-produced� products will occupy a niche feature in a modern economy that permits and favors the benefits of exchange derived from economic specialization. Thus, although home education continues to thrive and grow, economic theory predicts that home education is unlikely to supplant all (or perhaps even a majority share) of private schooling or government schooling economic activity. However, because home education is extremely versatile and can serve as a substitute good characterized by relatively low entry barriers (other than artificial penalties imposed by any retrogressive laws that might apply), home education exerts a disproportionate impact upon the educational marketplace by strengthening the bargaining power that family consumers enjoy vis-�-vis educational institutions. Since home education makes it possible for family consumers to leave a government school at any time, the power of government schools to monopolistically impose curriculum or conditions offensive to local cultural morays and market preferences is greatly diminished even if the substitute option is rarely invoked. This "backstop" or "pressure valve" effect is present for the demographic majority and the demographic minorities at the same time, so that market forces provide an economic incentive for different groups to accommodate each other on a voluntary cost-benefit basis. Home education therefore benefits institutional student consumers by compelling government schools (and private schools) to be more responsive to local market preferences. Indeed, the home education pedagogical model actually allows some forms of private school to provide competition to public education through distance learning in places where a �brick-and-mortar� private institution could not exist because of sparse population or other impediments. From the standpoint of economic theory, the aforementioned effects explain why home education often attracts such fierce opposition and persecution from government schools and government monopolies. Direct loss of enrolled students to home education, though sometimes significant, is actually an effect of secondary concern to education monopolists. In addition, since home education creates a market demand for certain goods and services, alternative education will likely continue to manifest a pronounced growth trend towards �outsourcing� of certain educational tasks and �hybrid� educational arrangements. (Dr. Friedman and Witte initially debated the extent to which (in Friedman�s words) �a proper competitive educational system . . . would reduce[] the size of the home schooling industry� or, conversely, support and reinforce the home education industry through innovative new support services and �hybrid� educational structures.) It seems likely that as knowledge accrues, expertise is refined, economies of scale are attained, and the market matures, alternative education will likely continue to attain greater efficiency, creativity, and effectiveness. Alternative education will also continue to function as a cauldron of independent economic innovation, pedagogical refinement, and objective performance measurement. In many respects, establishment educators have already been compelled to adopt some of the pedagogical and technological innovations first championed by alternative educators, such as curriculum customization, distance learning techniques, expanded (although not sufficient) student attendence choices, and more focus on practical ability instead of "seat time." On November 16, 2006, Dr. Milton Friedman passed away at the age of 94 in San Francisco. But the intellectual, political, and cultural contribution that the Friedmans have made to alternative education and educational choice is profound and long-lasting. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger subsequently declared January 29, 2007 to be Milton Friedman Day. According to The Economist, Friedman "was the most influential economist of the second half of the 20th century . . . possibly of all of it." Alan Greenspan stated "There are very few people over the generations who have ideas that are sufficiently original to materially alter the direction of civilization. Milton is one of those very few people." The Friedmans� 1998 book, entitled Two Lucky People: Memoirs, is a wonderful summary of their outstanding joint career. But the Friedmans� success was not mere luck. Instead, they demonstrated the hard work, preparation, and boundless creativity needed to take full advantage of opportunities that eventually came their way. Both of them were immigrants who overcame poverty, intellectual orthodoxy, and occasional discrimination in order to achieve their goals. Although the Friedmans had many accomplishments, causes, and views, the Quaqua Society Elijah Award is specifically focused on lauding their efforts to champion efforts against conscription and �service learning� in education, identify economic arguments against compulsory attendance and government school monopolies, and spur an intellectual and political debate about the best way to put educational choice in the hands of parents and family consumers. The Quaqua Society is delighted to honor the Friedmans and help alternative educators around the world appreciate the Friedmans� vital historic contribution to our movement. The Quaqua Society�s biographical sketch was developed with assistance from the Milton and Rose D. Friedman Foundation . This assistance includes some information drawn from the Foundation�s own biographical sketches for Dr. Milton Friedman and Rose Friedman , from Dr. Milton Friedman�s autobiographical sketch , and from other biographical sketches based upon information shared by the Friedmans. 2005 Caroline Cook Ball and Joseph Gordon Skelly The Quaqua Society is honoring Caroline Cook Ball and her late husband, William Bentley Ball, Esq., along with Joseph G. Skelly, for their respective roles in helping to litigate the landmark case Wisconsin v. Yoder, 406 U.S. 205 (1972), and to otherwise advance the interests of the alternative education community. Yoder changed the legal landscape for alternative education and enabled the subsequent modern home education movement to prosper in the United States. In addition, Caroline Ball, Joe Skelly, and Joe's wife, Sheila Petulla Skelly, all continue to make ongoing contributions through service to their community, as described below. William Bentley Ball, Esq. and Caroline Cook Ball From a legal standpoint, the modern era of home education and alternative education began with the landmark United States Supreme Court decision Wisconsin v. Yoder , 406 U.S. 205 (1972). William Ball was the lead litigator who successfully defended Jonas Yoder's family and thereby turned the legal tide that ran at the time against home education. For over three decades, Ball was a preeminent litigator in the fight for parental liberty, alternative education, and free religious exercise. On Christmas Eve of 1968, William Ball fielded an urgent call from Dr. William C. Lindholm, a pastor with the Evangelical Lutheran Churches of America. Government officials in Wisconsin had threatened the Old Order Amish family of Jonas Yoder with criminal prosecution because of religiously-motivated participation in Mennonite-based home education and alternative education. Lindholm was trying to find a way to help the Mennonites in general and the Yoders in particular. Wisconsin's persecution of the Yoders was part of a larger multi-state campaign of cultural genocide designed to exterminate the Mennonite communities all across the Midwest, especially in Ohio, Kansas, Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, Arkansas, and Wisconsin. (Various Mennonite and Amish sects are part of an interrelated family of denominations who share a common historical heritage and doctrinal lineage. For convenience and brevity only, all Mennonite and Amish sects are collectively referred to herein as "Mennonites.") Mennonites had been subject to fines, imprisonment, forcible removal of children from their parents, seizure of farms and farm equipment, and other measures designed to force the Mennonite children into government schools. The ultimate aim was to coerce the Mennonite population into the economic arrangements preferred by the surrounding non-Mennonite populations. For about ten years just prior to the Yoder case, many Mennonites had been fleeing to open space in Wisconsin as virtual refugees in order to escape persecution in Iowa and other states only to encounter similar harassment by Wisconsin officials. William Ball responded to Lindholm's Christmas-Eve entreaty and agreed to take the case. At the time, the legal prospects for the Yoders were bleak. Ever since the State v. Hoyt, 146 A. 170 (N.H. 1929) case, state courts had ignored the constitutional principles set forth in Meyer v. State of Nebraska, 262 U.S. 390 (1923), and Pierce v. Society of Sisters, 268 U.S. 510 (1925). The United States Supreme Court had turned a blind eye to the resultant pattern of state-sponsored atrocities against alternative educators of all backgrounds. The Mennonites themselves had recently lost important state court cases very similar to Yoder in Ohio, Nebraska, Kansas, and other jurisdictions, and the United States Supreme Court had refused certiorari. Moreover, the Mennonite plight had simply not garnered the sympathies of the upper crust social circles in New York and Washington, D.C., who tended to favor the educational establishment. At the same time, the local Midwest press had virulently ridiculed the Mennonites and intensified the climate of bigotry. Notwithstanding the tremendous obstacles, William Ball obtained a landmark decision in favor of the Mennonites and thereby initiated a long, grueling, gradual legal battle to restore the parental liberty, religious liberty, and choice in education originally intended by the Framers of the United States Constitution. Additional details about Mennonite history and the Yoder case can be found here . Ball's varied experience, keen intellect, and personal traits uniquely prepared him for the daunting litigation challenge in Yoder. He was born in Rochester, New York, on October 16, 1916. Later he graduated from Western Reserve University in 1940. While a college student, he served in a 107th Cavalry Unit of the Ohio National Guard and performed his duties on horseback. Ball then served in combat with the U.S. Navy during World War II and eventually retired as a lieutenant commander in the Naval Reserve. After World War II, Ball obtained his law degree from Notre Dame in 1948. During his studies he was Editor-in-Chief for the law review. Ball then practiced corporate law in New York until 1955, first as an in-house attorney for W.R. Grace & Company and then subsequently in a similar capacity for Pfizer, Inc. In 1955, Ball decided to devote his career to constitutional issues. He joined the faculty of the new Villanova University School of Law as a professor of constitutional law, where he met a law student named Joseph Skelly. In 1960 Ball became general counsel and executive director for the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference of bishops. By 1968 he had founded his own law firm, Ball & Skelly (later to become known as Ball, Skelly, Murren & Connell) in Harrisburg Pennsylvania--to concentrate in litigation for religious freedom. From 1967-68 onward, Bill Ball left an indelible influence upon constitutional jurisprudence in the United States. He was the Lead Counsel for numerous landmark cases, including: Lemon v. Kurtzman I, 403 U.S. 602 (1971); Lemon v. Kurtzman II, 411 U.S. 192 (1971); Sloan v. Lemon, 413 U.S. 825 (1973); Wisconsin v. Yoder, 406 U.S. 205 (1972); Meek v. Pittenger, 421 U.S. 346 (1975); California v. Grace Brethren Church, 457 U.S. 393 (1982); Bob Jones University v. United States, 461 U.S. 574 (1983); Ohio Civil Rights Comm'n v. Dayton Schools, 477 U.S. 619 (1986); and Zobrest v. Catalina Foothills School District, 509 U.S. 1 (1993). He was also co-counsel for Board of Education v. Allen, 392 U.S. 236 (1968), and filed amicus curiae briefs for such cases as Loving v. Virginia, 388 U.S. 1 (1967); St. Martin Evangelical Lutheran Church v. South Dakota, 451 U.S. 772 (1981); Harris v. McRae, 448 U.S. 297 (1980); United States v. Lee, 455 U.S. 252 (1982); Webster v. Reproductive Health Services, 492 U.S. 490 (1990); Wheeler v. Barrera, 417 U.S. 402 (1974); and Wallace v. Jaffree, 472 U.S. 38 (1985). Although his manner was always gentlemanly, courteous, measured, and prudent, Bill Ball never lacked the courage to stand up for his beliefs in the face of prominent opposition. He fought vigorously against Justice Harry Blackman in order to challenge various controversial constitutional doctrines such as the Lemon test and the Roe v. Wade approach to abortion, but even his fiercest opponents respected him personally. For his part, Justice Blackmun told a group of law students who had just observed Ball present an oral argument that they were "privileged to see one of the finest oralists this court has ever had, Mr. Ball of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania." Nor was Ball afraid to counter perceived excesses emanating from any other portion of the political spectrum. As Judge Robert Bork and Justice Antonin Scalia mounted an ongoing effort to scuttle strict scrutiny protection for religious liberty and entirely eliminate any meaningful constitutional protection for parental liberty and educational choice, Ball spoke out vigorously in defense of Meyer v. State of Nebraska, 262 U.S. 390 (1923), Pierce v. Society of Sisters, 268 U.S. 510 (1925), and Wisconsin v. Yoder, 406 U.S. 205 (1972). Despite the concerted attempt of Judge Bork and Justice Scalia to directly overturn these precedents, all three cases still remain good law. And although Justice Scalia worked with Justice Stevens to subsequently strike down the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, a statute enacted by Congress to restore the strict scrutiny test after Employment Division v. Smith, 494 U.S. 872 (1990), the efforts of Ball and many others resulted in a combination of federal and state provisions that now cumulatively operate to ensure strict scrutiny protection for religious liberty for most fact situations in most legal jurisdictions. Bill Ball had an ability to work across cultural, political, racial, religious, and geographic boundaries in order to ensure sound law and policy. Although he was a staunch Roman Catholic and held many positions of responsibility within that community, Ball also spoke out in defense of Evangelical Christians, Orthodox Jews, Mennonites, Native Americans, and many others. He worked with diverse individuals in a very effective, practical way. Ball litigated dozens of federal and state cases in jurisdictions all across the country, fought for 1986 legislation in Pennsylvania to loosen compulsory education requirements so as to respect religious rights, advocated federal measures designed to protect religious liberty, testified before numerous congressional committees, and spoke out in favor of vouchers, educational choice, and alternative education. His efforts elicited both meaningful results and widespread respect. Ball disliked elitism and the oppression of ordinary people. At the same time, he worked hard and expected excellence from both himself and his contemporaries. Ball criticized what he saw as a trend by Catholic educational institutions toward the lowering of standards, the acceptance of mediocrity, and the elimination of Catholic distinctiveness in order to pander for outside funding, prestige, and social acceptance. On one occasion Bill Ball was asked to chair a legal advisory board for the Catholic League. When told that other attorneys contacted for possible involvement had all reported they were too busy to help, Ball said, "Fine, I'll do it myself." Despite all of his other considerable professional commitments, Ball's example did the talking as he successfully served as a one-man committee. Bill Ball was also a noted author of two books, numerous law review articles, scholarly papers, academic lectures, and popular articles. His focus on scholarly writing became most pronounced between 1993 and 1999. Of particular relevance to alternative educators is his Mere Creatures of the State?: Education, Religion, and the Courts (1994), a must-read book discussing the connection between anti-Catholicism, the history of American law, and religious liberty, and an earlier book entitled Freedom & Education: The Pierce Case Reconsidered (1978). In addition to the items set forth above, Ball was at various time also a Knight Commander of the Order of St. Gregory the Great, a papal knighthood; a member of the publication committee for Crisis magazine; a participant in the Pennsylvania Equal Rights Council, the Christian Legal Society, and the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights; a Director and Vice President for the Harrisburg Symphony Association; a Life Member of American Law Institute; a Vice Chairman of the National Committee for Amish Religious Freedom; a member of the Judicial Nominating Committee for Pennsylvania; a member of the Westbury (NY) Board of Zoning Appeals; a member of the National Committee for Year of the Bible; a member of the Advisory Board for the Center for Judicial Studies; a member of the Advisory Board for the Thomas J. White Foundation; a member of the Advisory Board for the Religious Freedom Reporter; and a member of the Advisory Board for the Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy. He received numerous honorary degrees and academic accolades. To the very end of his life, Bill Ball remained an energetic and inquisitive participant in civil and scholarly life. Caroline Ball was born Caroline Cook in Norfolk, Virginia. Her father was a physician with the United States Navy. As a result, Caroline's "growing up years" were spent living with her family in various cities throughout the United States, and also for a period of time in Haiti. She attended many different schools along the way. Caroline graduated from the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, where she majored in sociology. Soon after college, she met Bill Ball, then a young naval officer, in Norfolk, Virginia. They were subsequently married in 1943. The rest of the war years were spent, as Caroline describes it, "following the ship." The Navy background was one factor that helped Bill and Caroline effectively understand and work with people of many different backgrounds. After the war, Bill and Caroline moved to Indiana where Bill entered law school at the University of Notre Dame. During this same time, Bill had a fellowship teaching German in the undergraduate school, and Caroline worked as a receptionist in the Administration Offices at Notre Dame. After living in the New York City and Philadelphia areas where Bill held various positions with W.R. Grace & Co, Pfizer, and Villanova Law School, Bill and Caroline settled in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with their daughter, Ginny. Caroline became very involved in community activities and charitable endeavors, serving such capacities as the President of the Dauphin County Lawyers' Wives Association. She also played a very active role in helping Vietnamese refugees settle into their new way of life when they came to Harrisburg. Of course, she also provided essential support for Bill Ball's endeavors on behalf of alternative education, parental liberty, and religious liberty. Caroline and Bill had, in Caroline words, "56 wonderful years of married life" before Bill's death on January 10, 1999, at the age of 82. She continues to reside in the Harrisburg area as does their daughter, Ginny Duncan, who holds two masters degrees and works with the deaf. The Quaqua Society is pleased to honor Caroline Ball and her late husband William with the 2005 Quaqua Elijah Award, to recognize their profound contribution to the body of legal litigation, scholarship, legislation, and leadership needed for the preservation of parental liberty and alternative education. The Quaqua Society also wishes to express appreciate to Joseph G. Skelly, Esq., for providing the biographical materials from which this tribute is derived. Joseph Gordon Skelly and Sheila Petulla Skelly After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, Joe began his pursuit of a career in law by enrolling at the Villanova University School of Law, Villanova, Pennsylvania. It was there that he first met the man who would eventually become his mentor and law partner, William Bentley Ball. Mr. Ball was Joe's constitutional law professor during his second year of classes. Soon thereafter, Mr. Ball left Villanova to move to Harrisburg, the capitol of Pennsylvania, to take the position of General Counsel and Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference ("PCC"), an organization then composed of the eight Roman Catholic Dioceses of Pennsylvania. Mr. Ball represented the PCC in civil issues of statewide significance to the Church. Upon graduation from Villanova Law School, Joe returned to his native Oil City, Pennsylvania, where he was born and raised, to commence the private practice of law as an associate in a small firm. Joe became the typical small-town young general practitioner, engaging in a wide variety of civil and criminal cases for the next two and a half years. Mr. Ball then invited Joe to join Ball at the PCC as Assistant Counsel. While with the PCC, Joe was involved, to a great extent, in educational matters. Approximately a year and a half after joining PCC, due to an expansion and reorganization of the Conference, Bill Ball and Joe Skelly left the employment of Conference to form their own private practice law firm, Ball & Skelly, where they continued to represent PCC's legal interests as well as a growing number of other private clients. Due to Mr. Ball's reputation, the firm rapidly became known nationally as one having expertise in educational and constitutional matters, and much of the firm's work consisted of cases involving the constitutionality of various educational issues. During the beginning years of the firm, Joe worked very closely with Mr. Ball on these cases, one of the most notable of which was the landmark case of Wisconsin v. Yoder wherein the United States Supreme Court ruled that the religious liberty and parental liberty of the Amish took precedence over the compulsory education laws of the State of Wisconsin. Joe's name appears on the brief in that case and he was seated at counsel table with Mr. Ball when Mr. Ball presented oral argument to the justices. As the firm's practice grew, so did the firm. In addition to constitutional law cases, the firm was also building a practice in general civil matters. Two associates of the firm, Philip J. Murren and Richard C. Connell, were added as partners and the firm changed its name to Ball, Skelly, Murren & Connell. At about this time, with other attorneys in the firm available to assist Mr. Ball in the constitutional area, Joe began to concentrate his efforts more in the handling and development of the firm's general civil practice. He was also the managing partner of the firm. In the civil practice of the firm, Joe handled a wide variety of cases, both litigation and transactional, in many substantive areas of the law, including business and commercial, environmental, zoning, professional licensure, profit and nonprofit corporation and health care matters. He served a wide array of clients from individuals to Fortune 500 companies. In 1999, after Mr. Ball's death and out of a desire to seek some new challenges after a number of years in the practice of law, Joe undertook extensive mediation skills training. Having an amicable parting with his partners at Ball, Skelly, Murren & Connell he set up his own practice for alternative dispute resolution, the Skelly Dispute Resolution Center. In this practice Joe now helps parties in dispute to resolve cases outside of the traditional litigation setting, principally through mediation and arbitration, primarily in business and commercial matters as well as divorce and family law matters. In addition, he serves as a mediator for special education disputes involving controversies between parents and school districts relating to special education services to children. In addition, he has served as a hearing officer in special education cases. Joe is a member of the American Bar Association and remains active in the Pennsylvania Bar Association as well as his local bar association, particularly in the areas of ethics and professionalism and alternative dispute resolution. Of particular interest to Joe in the area of ethics and professionalism is the problem, perceived by many both inside and outside of the legal profession, of the breakdown in civility among lawyers. Joe has lectured extensively on the subject including presentations at continuing legal education courses. Joe serves as an Adjunct Professor at the Harrisburg campus of Widener University School of Law where he teaches Alternative Dispute Resolution as well as Law Practice Management. He is also a frequent lecturer on alternative dispute resolution at continuing legal education courses in Pennsylvania. Also of intense interest to Joe, and something that has become somewhat of an avocation for him, is working with lawyers and others suffering various illnesses, such as alcohol and other drug addiction, compulsive gambling, depression and similar impairments to help them get into recovery. Attorney problems of this kind can often be aggravated by the stressful lifestyles and sobering aspects of legal work that many of them experience. Joe was a founding director, and remains a member of the Board of Directors, of Pennsylvania's Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, an outreach organization to lawyers and law students who are experiencing problems in these areas. He has served as a delegate from Pennsylvania to the American Bar Association's Commission on Lawyers Assistance Programs. On a personal note, Joe is the father of three adult children, Mame, a banker, Meghan, a sales representative, and Steve, an industrial designer. His marriage to their mother ended in divorce in 1997. In 2003 he renewed contact with Sheila Straub Petulla, an Oil City native, whom he had dated forty years previously when he was a young lawyer back in Oil City and she was a young nurse. They were married in December of 2004. They now reside in Harrisburg. Sheila was born Sheila Jeanne Straub in Oil City, Pennsylvania where she grew up and attended local schools until her college years. Upon graduation from Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, she moved to Philadelphia where she was an Associate Instructor of Nursing at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. She also cared for patients on week-ends at Lankenau Hospital. Sheila married Louis Petulla and they became the parents of two children, John and William. During these early years the family lived in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, where Sheila practiced as a school nurse. She then accepted a position with the Delaware County Community College, returning to what would become a life-time career of teaching nursing for several years. Following the Philadelphia years, Sheila and her husband returned to the Oil City area where they raised their sons. Sheila was an Instructor of Nursing at Clarion University of Pennsylvania and became involved in various community and church related activities. She held positions on the Board of Directors of the Easter Seals Society, various hospital foundations, National Honor Society for Nursing, Mu Xi Chapter, chaired various committees for the yearly Oil Heritage celebration, and was involved in teaching religious education to elementary school students. Sheila completed her Master of Science degree in Nursing at Edinboro University, Edinboro, Pennsylvania in 1988. As a requirement for this degree she wrote and defended a thesis entitled Family Decision: Nursing Home Placement involving research surrounding the timing and decision making in placing a parent in a nursing home. Care of the elderly is, of course, becoming an increasingly prevalent issue for alternative educators and other families alike as the Baby Boomers take care of their parents while simultaneously approaching their own retirement. After the death of her late husband in 1994, Sheila moved to Pittsburgh and continued her teaching career in nursing. She retired in 2002. Sheila is the grandmother of three small children. Her two sons completed their educations in civil engineering and law and they are now both engaged in their respective professions. Sheila married Joseph Skelly in 2004, after having dated Joe forty years earlier. She continues to volunteer as a board member of a condominium association and as a Pastoral Care Visitor at Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill. The Quaqua Society is pleased to honor Joseph and Sheila Skelly with the 2005 Quaqua Elijah Award, to recognize the profound importance of the Yoder case to the preservation of parental liberty and alternative education. The Quaqua Society also wishes to express appreciate to Joseph G. Skelly, Esq., for providing the biographical materials. 2004 John Taylor Gatto and Janet MacAdam Gatto John Taylor Gatto first burst onto the alternative-education scene on January 31, 1990. On that date, Gatto, who was drawing toward the end of a thirty-year teaching career with the New York City public schools, received the New York State Teacher of the Year Award. He delivered the acceptance speech heard round the world. Gatto's remarks presaged his subsequent contributions to the alternative education community. He candidly lauded home education, noted the crisis in public education, and traced the lineage of compulsory education back to the Know-Nothing era in Massachusetts. He observed that standardized mass instruction was a byproduct of factory-owning tycoons of the industrial revolution, who pressed for an educational culture of conformity and institutional dependence. In the fourteen years since John Gatto's remarkable address, he has fleshed out the themes outlined in 1990. These intellectual contributions are the reason the Gattos were selected to receive the Quaqua Elijah Award. John and Janet Gatto are part of an open secret in the alternative education community -- the fact that many alternative educators are former public-school teachers! Born in the river town of Monongahela, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh, John remembers citizens rowing through the streets during the great flood of 1935. A tough, practical small-town of 3000 steel-mill workers and coal miners, its Saturday-night streets sounding with fist fights and its big green river dotted with coal barges, Monongahela exerted a deep and long-lasting impact upon Gatto. It was there John first developed his preference for candor, his appetite for new ideas, and his exposure to people from many different demographic backgrounds. In order to serve as an alter boy for a local Roman Catholic church, Gatto studied Latin. While working as a sweeper in his grandfather's a printing office ("a tougher taskmaster never existed"), young John had an opportunity to read a "dizzying variety" of text materials. As he grew older he played football, baseball, and basketball, sparred with his sister Joan, and became an avid patron of the town library. John Gatto's college career took him to Cornell and the University of Pittsburgh. He ultimately graduated with a bachelor's degree from Columbia University. Following service with the U.S. Army medical corps at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and Fort Sam Houston, Texas, he did graduate work at Yeshiva, the University of California, and Cornell. His master's degree was obtained from Hunter College, City University of New York. After stints as a scriptwriter for a film company and copyrighter for a large advertising agency, John Gatto sought more professional fulfillment. He became a substitute schoolteacher in Harlem, New York City, and spent the next thirty years serving as a teacher in public junior high schools. There he utilized his "guerrilla curriculum" to great effect. His career was capped by the aforementioned New York State Teacher of the Year Award, awarded by the New York State Senate on January 31, 1990. He received a separate New York City Teacher of the Year Award from a well-known foundation. Once John Gatto caught public attention because of his notable acceptance speech, accolades poured in. He was praised by a Nebraska Senator (Congressional Record No. 135), published in the Wall Street Journal, lauded as by the Princeton Review as "breathtaking, scholarly, and encyclopedic," described as "one of the world's most controversial education reformists" by the Western Australian, and made the subject of a Carnegie Hall show called "An Evening With John Taylor Gatto." Although some may take issue with John Gatto's ideas, most observors seem to agree that he has started an important conversation about education. Now a popular speaker in home-education and alternative-education circles, as well as a frequent television and radio guest, John Gatto has traveled more than two million miles since 1991. He received the Alexis de Tocqueville Award in 1997. He has also authored four books, all available in electronic form on his website for the Odysseus Group : Dumbing Us Down: The Hidden Curriculum of Compulsory Schooling (2002), The Exhausted School: Bending the Bars of Traditional Education (2002), A Different Kind of Teacher: Solving the Crisis of American Schooling, and the Underground History of American Education (2004). A fifth book, The Curriculum of Power, is currently in the works as of 2004. Gatto is also working on a documentary film about the origins and nature of forced schooling, entitled The Fourth Purpose. John Gatto's wife, the former Janet MacAdam, was born in Panama to Scottish immigrants Thomas James MacAdam and his wife, Doris Cuthbertson-Brown of Glasgow. They were in Gamboa, Panama, during World War II to help maintain the Panama Canal; subsequently they moved to Oyster Bay Cove, Long Island. Janet's mother was one of seven intrepid sisters who came to America searching for a better life during the Great Depression. Janet's father died at sea when she was eleven, creating difficult family circumstances during her teenage years. Just out of Oyster Bay High School she became a fur model on Manhattan's Fifth Avenue. At age nineteen, Janet met John at a public swimming pool on East 77th Street. Janet inadvertently dripped water on a poolside chess board while walking past John, who was locked in mental combat with his friends. Although not yet introduced, John threw Janet back into the pool. Later that day, the two chanced upon each other again while attending an evening performance of jazz-man Thelonius Monk, performed at the Five Spot Cafe. They never looked back. John calls his forty-four years of marriage to Janet the "single best thing that ever happened to him" and says Janet is his "best editor, critic, and taskmaster." Janet Gatto is "a Scottish Presbyterian who learned . . . that unredeemed Catholics are . . . well . . . not going to be in need of overcoats in the afterlife. She's been working on my reconstruction ever since." Janet became editor at her college newspaper, ring designer, producer of dramatic audiotapes, Treasurer of School District Three, and an elected member of the local school board. She founded the highly-successful Weekend Market on West 77th, which annually raises about a half-million dollars for neighborhood schools. Janet produced for Lava Mountain Records, operated a mail-order antiques business, and maintained a mail-order library of classical radio shows. An avid cook, she earned three degrees from the Culinary Institute of America. She also participates in regular gardening and bird-feeding. Although Janet has at various times been challenged by Lyme Disease, severe arthritis, and breast cancer, she continues to press forward with the Gattos' latest project: creating "Solitude," a 128-acre retreat for home educators near Ithaca, New York. The Quaqua Society is pleased to honor John and Janet Gatto with the 2004 Quaqua Elijah Award, to recognize their study of the relationship between home education, the history of religious and ethnic discrimination, the Industrial Revolution, the history of Massachusetts, and the pedagogical theories of early government-school advocates. An understanding of these interrelationships is central to an accurate appreciation of the history of education. Some portions of this biographical sketch have been compiled from information courteously provided by John and Janet Gatto. John Gatto's remarks in accepting the Quaqua Elijah Award can be found here . 2003 John W. Whitehead, Esq., and Carol Whitehead John W. Whitehead, founder and president of The Rutherford Institute, is an attorney and author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of constitutional law and human rights. In particular, Mr. Whitehead has acted to provide legal assistance to parents and alternative educators. Born in 1946 in Tennessee, John spent much of his childhood in Peoria, Illinois. It was there that John met, and later married, Carolyn Nichols, his childhood sweetheart. Since their marriage in 1967, Carol has dedicated herself to helping John pursue his dream of founding an organization that would defend people who were persecuted or oppressed for their beliefs without charging them for such services. Carol remains John's sounding board, assistant, editor and best friend. They are the parents of five children. According to John, he wouldn't be where he is today had it not been for Carol's selfless devotion, unconditional love and faithfulness. John earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Arkansas in 1969 and a Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Arkansas School of Law in 1974. He served as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army from 1969 to 1971. He subsequently worked as a private litigator and served as an adjunct professor of law at the O. W. Coburn School of Law, where he taught a special course on First Amendment law. Because John had defended a number of people who could not afford legal help, his concern for the persecuted and oppressed led him in 1982 to establish The Rutherford Institute with $200, his family's entire savings at the time. Since that time, the Institute, a nonprofit, non-partisan civil liberties and human rights organization whose international headquarters are located in Charlottesville, Virginia, has defended thousands of men, women and children whose beliefs have been threatened--all for no charge. In 2003 alone, The Rutherford Institute handled over 10,000 requests for legal assistance. Many such requests were from home educators, parents confronting child-protection agencies, minorities suffering religious persecution, and victims of improper searches and seizures. The Institute maintains a national affiliate network of over 700 voluntary attorneys, who receive training, legal research, case support, and funding for court expenses. The Institute also maintains a media department to educate the public about constitutional liberties. Like the Quaqua Society, The Rutherford Institute depends solely upon donations for the maintenance of its operations. John has authored at least twenty books. One groundbreaking work, Home Education and Constitutional Liberties: The Historical and Constitutional Arguments in Support of Home Instruction (Westchester, IL: Crossway Books, 1984), is a classic must-read for anyone who wishes to understand the historical, legal, and ideological underpinnings of the alternative-education movement. Two subsequent books, Parents' Rights (Westchester, IL: Crossway Books, 1985), and Home Education: Rights and Reasons (Westchester, IL: Crossway Books, 1993), are excellent addendums to his 1984 work. The intellectual contribution made by these books was a major factor leading to Quaqua's selection of the Whiteheads for the Elijah Award. John has also published articles in eleven different law review publications and in such print media as the New York Times, the Washington Post and USA Today. His writing focuses mostly upon First Amendment liberties, especially the application of such rights to education. He directed a seven-part documentary video series, Grasping for the Wind, which focuses on key cultural events of the 20th century and is accompanied by a book and study guide. Grasping won the 1998 and 1999 Silver World Medal in the New York Film Festival. John has also been the subject of numerous newspaper, magazine and television profiles, ranging from Gentleman's Quarterly to CBS' 60 Minutes. He has appeared on such shows as Crossfire, CNN Headline News, Larry King Live, Nightline, Dateline, The Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS Evening News, CBS This Morning, This Week with Sam and Cokie, Rivera Live, Burden of Proof, Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer, FOX News Sunday, Hardball, the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, National Public Radio, BBC Newsnight, BBC Radio, British Sky Tonight and Sunday, TF1 (French TV) and Greek National Television. No profile of the Whiteheads would be complete without a mention of John's most famous professional achievement, his role as co-counsel for the Paula Jones sexual harassment lawsuit against President William J. Clinton. The case culminated in a landmark ruling, Clinton v. Jones, 520 U.S. 681 (1997) , in which the United States Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution affords the President no temporary immunity from civil damages litigation arising out of events occurring before the President took office. Like the proverbial chaos-theory butterfly that caused a thunderstorm in America by flapping its wings in China, the Jones case dramatically affected the course of world history. President Clinton committed perjury during a deposition for the Jones litigation by denying an affair he had with White-House Intern Monica Lewinsky, an action which formed the legal basis for his subsequent impeachment trial. Clinton's impeachment, in turn, created political baggage that almost certainly cost Albert Gore a victory in Gore's razor-close 2000 presidential contest against George W. Bush. President Clinton was eventually forced to settle the Jones case for $850,000.00, pay a $90,000.00 fine for contempt of court, and surrender his law license to avoid disbarment. (Quaqua has no official position regarding the impeachment, the Clinton v. Jones litigation, or the 2000 presidential campaign.) John's aggressive, pioneering approach to civil liberties issues has earned him numerous accolades, including Christian Leader of the Year for 1986 for "outstanding service in religious liberty" at the Christian World Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C. He was also selected for the 1990 Business and Professional Award by the Religious Heritage of America Foundation and was awarded the Hungarian Medal of Freedom in Budapest, Hungary in November 1991 by the President of Hungary. Living in Virginia, a state with a rich tradition of constitutional law, political thought, and alternative education, John's commitment to liberty remains strong. "All freedoms hang together. To defend one constitutional freedom is to defend them all, and to defend one person's constitutional rights is to defend those rights for everyone. No governmental official is above the law. The Rutherford Institute exists to ensure that people are treated fairly in the courts and are free to express themselves without fear." John Whitehead was the first person to champion the civil-rights component of the "modern" home-education movement. He was one of the first to understand that the cause of alternative education is based not only upon free-market principles and pedagogical innovation, but also upon a commitment to ensuring legal protection for the fundamental human liberties of all people. John Whitehead became the first modern "briefcase warrior" for home education, litigating and writing to preserve parental liberty and home education. Many attorneys in other service organizations received their training from The Rutherford Institute. John's innovative legal and institutional paradigm, once the target of great skepticism, now serves as the model for numerous other legal organizations founded after 1982 (both inside and outside of the alternative-education movement). The Quaqua Society is pleased to honor John and Carol Whitehead with the 2003 Quaqua Elijah Award, in recognition of their innovative approach to defending those liberties which are of such crucial importance to all alternative educators. This biographical sketch for the Whiteheads has been drawn from information on the website for The Rutherford Institute , and electronic mail provided by Nisha Mohammed of The Rutherford Institute. 2002 Dr. Raymond Moore and Dorothy Moore (In memoriam 1915 - 2002) Dr. Raymond S. Moore was born in Glendale, California, on September 24, 1915. At age four, Raymond lost his devoted mother, Dorcas, to the devastating 1918 flu epidemic. Dr. Moore attended public and church schools in California. He graduated from Glendale Adventist Academy in 1932, and spent six years at Pacific Union College. His studies were interrupted by a flood that destroyed both his home and his construction business. To persevere through the Great Depression, he worked as a handyman by logging, milking cows, firing boilers, plumbing, and concrete finishing. Dr. Moore's first teaching experience was in 1933, when he taught remedial English at Pacific Union College during his sophomore year. He graduated and married Dorothy Lucille Nelson in June 1938. Dorothy Lucille Nelson Moore was born on a farm in Bruce, South Dakota on October 30, 1915. She was a Methodist and Seventh-day Adventist Christian of Norwegian ancestry. She helped her father at his dairy in California almost until she finished at Long Beach California Junior College and went on to Pacific Union College. Dorothy was California State Spelling Champion and Gregg Shorthand gold medalist. In college she admired Ellen White and became a respected student leader whose first concern was poor or troubled girls. After graduation and marriage, Dr. Moore pursued a masters degree at the University of Southern California. He taught for two years in the public schools of Artesia, California, and was principal in Hermosa Beach, California from 1940 to 1941. On May 7, 1941, he was called to active duty in the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant medical administrative officer with the Ninth Corps Area Headquarters in San Francisco, California. Pearl Harbor resulted in a transfer to San Francisco Port of Embarkation Medical Section, where as a Captain over personnel and intelligence matters he worked in the company of a communications officer named Ronald Reagan. His next assignment was in New Guinea, where he helped build the 47th General Hospital. He subsequently commanded the New Guinea rotation Detachment and Casual Camp, Milne Bay, New Guinea, then was promoted to Major and executive officer in the South Pacific Medical Commander in Lae, New Guinea. He concluded his 58 months of active duty by serving as general staff medical personnel officer for General Douglas MacArthur, the famed home-educated military leader, in Manila, Philippines. After leaving active duty in March, 1946, Dr. Moore became Superintendent of Schools in Artesia, California. There he was invited to teach at University of Southern California on a doctoral fellowship. After doctoral study in college and university administration and early childhood education, he was called to Pacific Union College in 1947 as head of its graduate teacher-education program. He helped Pacific Union College upgrade and obtain state accreditation. Dorothy, meanwhile, distinguished herself in public service in California schools as a remedial reading specialist and as a faculty wife at the University of Southern California. She then became a faculty wife and Sabbath School leader at Pacific Union College. Along with her other responsibilities, she reared and educated seven "chosen" teenagers through college. In 1951 Dorothy moved to Japan with Dr. Moore, only a few years after her husband and brother had fought in the War to defeat Japan. The Moores helped San-Iku Gakuin College achieve status as an accredited, debt-free, senior education institution. The Moores also helped develop an Adventist school system for Japan and Okinawa. They implemented a "work-study-service" plan at the college in which all teachers worked with students, including the family of Senior Prince Takamatsu. In 1956, Dr. Moore went to Philippine Union College. He later went on to serve as President of Southwestern Union College. His program theme continued to be work-study, debt-freedom, academic standards, social standards, and home education. Dr. Moore also worked to achieve integration of African-American into Southwestern Union College. Dr. Moore was subsequently called to the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists as one of a team of five to help pioneer what is now known as Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. In 1960, he went to Loma Linda as corporate vice-president to share leadership in the transition to Loma Linda University. After a years of raising a family in Japan, the Philippines and Washington, D.C., Dorothy became the founding director of the Loma Linda University Cerebral Palsy Clinic in California. In 1964, Dr. Moore accepted the job of graduate programs officer with the U.S. Department of Education, a position which involved the funding and upgrading of master and doctoral programs of American colleges and universities. He helped colleges and universities save billions of dollars. The White House published two of his books. After moving on to a stint with UNESCO, Dr. Moore he was invited to be the founding director of the International Advanced Intercultural Study Center. This consortium at the University of Chicago included member institutions such as Johns Hopkins, Southern Illinois, Stanford, Tulane and Wisconsin. The Center studied indigenous people ranging from Native Americans to tribes in Lesotho. Dr. Moore met the prime minister of Lesotho, along with Ghandi's former secretary and the author of Indonesia's new language. Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore worked about 40 years together as leaders, editors, and authors for their research foundations. They helped form the Cedar Springs Foundation, which was later renamed the Hewitt Research Foundation. Since 1983 the Foundation has operated in Washougal, Washington, near the Columbia River. The Moores focused on early childhood education, school entrance age, and teacher-student work-study programs. Along with Raymond, Dorothy served as a pioneer in the resurgence of the old-fashioned home-education phenomenon. Reflects Dr. Moore, "God, with the likes of Reader's Digest, James Dobson, John Holt, Reed Benson, thousands of media, and all of you, turned home education into a giant movement." The Moores have written numerous books and published articles . Their most famous work, a 1979 Brigham Young University Press book entitled School Can Wait, was written during this period. This book is a classic must-read for scholars of the alternative-education movement. Raymond's authorship credits include thirty-five college texts. Beginning in 1983, Dorothy headed a team of carefully selected educational counselors who fulfilled the dream of helping families educate their own children legally. The Moores set up individualized programs for each child enrolled, creating units of study tailored to the child's interests, aptitudes and abilities. Now known as the Raymond S. and Dorothy N. Moore Foundation in Washougal, Washington, their program works with hundreds of families every year and has formed the basis for a "Malachi Movement" stressing family togetherness and work-study-service balance in schools. The goal of the organization is to make schools, churches and families more creative, efficient and debt-free in health, education, welfare and service to their communities. When Dorothy passed away in 2002, after a lifetime of service, alternative educators around the world lauded her contribution. We knew her voice could never be fully replaced. "I thank God, my Master Teacher," said Dr. Moore, "for giving me a special lady for 64 years who walked at my side during half of those homeschool years through sunshine and storm." In her absence, and with the help of a new wife who "selflessly" assists him, Raymond continues to be a tireless, progressive force in alternative education. His profound reservoir of professional, cultural, religious, educational, and intellectual experience continues to inform and enrich the alternative-education movement. For all of this, and more (no pun intended), the Quaqua Society is very pleased to present the 2002 Quaqua Elijah Award to honor Dr. Raymond and Dorothy N. Moore. Biographical sketches for the Moores were drawn from the Raymond S. and Dorothy N. Moore Foundation memorial page , the Raymond S. and Dorothy N. Moore Foundation biographical sketch of the Moores , and electronic mail provided by Pat Wolfswinkel of the Raymond S. and Dorothy N. Moore Foundation. 2001 Dr. Reed A. Benson and May Hinckley Benson The 2001 Elijah Award was presented to Dr. Reed A. Benson and his wife, May Hinckley Benson. Dr. Reed A. Benson is a professor in the Ancient Scripture Department at Brigham Young University and teaches a thousand students a semester. He has written for a national news magazine, lectured widely, and interviewed with numerous TV and print outlets. A former Air Force Chaplain during the Korean War, he was the President of the Kentucky, Louisville Mission, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served as Branch President in Oxford, England and in the Israel District Presidency. The eldest son of President and Mrs. Ezra Taft Benson, he is the father of nine children and grandfather to twenty-four. Dr. Benson was the author of the first dissertation in the nation on home education, which is still in print. He collaborated with John Holt, Dr. Raymond Moore, Dr. Larry Arnoldson, and other early pioneers of modern alternative education, consistently lending his influence to support home education during its critical embryonic years in the western United States. He helped develop some of the modern conventions of the home education movement, including the very notion of state home-education conventions and "modern" home-education outreach. May Hinckley Benson was honored as Homeschooling Mother of the Year in 2000. She completed studies at the University of Utah, University of Maryland, and Cornell. With a great display of courage, she successfully home-educated her nine adopted children for fifteen years during the early days of the modern home-education movement. She is a popular speaker and a pioneer in the home education movement who has consistently lent her voice of experience and support. Both Reed and May are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The Quaqua Society is both proud and grateful to honor the Bensons for their profound contribution to the home-education community. They have been instrumental in helping Utah to have, at least to this point, one of the most progressive environments for home education to be found anywhere in the nation. Their tireless and uncompensated service has touched thousands of lives. They will never be forgotten. Biographical sketches for the Bensons were drawn from http://www.schoolofabraham.com/speakers.htm. John Holt (In memoriam 1923 - 1985) John Holt passed away on September 14, 1985, before Quaqua was founded. Had Holt lived to reach his 77th birthday, however, he almost certainly would have been the Quaqua Society's first Elijah Award recipient. Holt receives honorary mention on this page because of his profound contribution to the modern alternative-education movement. Photographs and a biographical sketch of Holt can be found by clicking here .  
Milton Friedman
On Aug 3, 1492, who set sail from Palos de la Frontera, Spain, in a carrack and two caravels, on his way to Asia?
Untitled Document Elijah Award Dr. Milton and Rose Friedman The recipients of the 2006 Quaqua Elijah Award are Rose Friedman and her late husband, Dr. Milton Friedman. The Friedmans are honored for their profound pioneering contribution to the world-wide intellectual, economic, and political movement seeking educational choice and alternative education. Dr. Milton Friedman was born July 31, 1912, in Brooklyn, N.Y., the fourth and last child and first son of Sarah Eszter (Landau) and Jeno Saul Friedman. Dr. Friedman�s parents were Jewish immigrants born in Carpatho-Ruthenia (a province of Austria-Hungary that later became part of inter-war Czechoslovakia and then the Soviet Union) who both entered the United States during their teens and then met in New York City. The young Milton was raised in Rahway, N.J, where his mother ran a small retail dry goods store and his father pursued mostly unsuccessful jobbing ventures. The Friedman family was poor and in a constant state of financial crisis, but the family atmosphere was warm and supportive. Like his older sisters, Milton attended public elementary and secondary schools. He graduated from Rahway High School in 1928, just before his 16th birthday. Despite his father�s death when Milton was only fifteen years old, Milton gained admission and a competitive academic scholarship to Rutgers University. Through a combination of scholarships, summer jobs, waiting tables, and clerking in a retail store, Milton supported himself until age twenty, when he graduated from Rutgers in 1932 with the equivalent of a double major in mathematics and economics. Two faculty members in the Rutgers Economics Department, Arthur Burns and Homer Jones, became life-long mentors to Milton Friedman and successfully recommended him for a graduate scholarship at the University of Chicago Economics Department for the 1932-33 year. There Milton Friedman met a fellow economics student, Rose Director, and they were married six years later. Milton Friedman completed an M.A. in 1933 from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. in 1946 from Columbia University. During his life he would receive honorary degrees from eighteen different colleges and universities. Milton Friedman went to Washington, D.C., to work with the National Resources Committee in 1935 and help design a large consumer budget study. His subsequent job was at the National Bureau of Economic Research, where he assisted with a study of professional income and co-authored a book about the monopolistic effects of professional licensing schemes (medical doctors, but many of the ideas also apply to government licensing of schools and school teachers). His affiliation with the Bureau would continue until 1981. From 1940-41 he was visiting professor at the University of Wisconsin (in later years he would also be a visiting professor at Columbia University, U.C.L.A., and the University of Hawaii). From 1941 to 1943 he worked as Principal Economist at the Division of Tax Research, U.S. Treasury Department, on wartime tax policy and began to think about the informational role of price mechanisms. From 1943-45 he was Associate Director, Statistical Research Group in the Division of War Research at Columbia University, working as a mathematical statistician focused on problems of weapon design, military tactics, and metallurgical experiments. In their very early careers both Milton and Rose embraced aspects of the New Deal and Keynesian economics. Milton Friedman helped implement such measures as the payroll withholding tax to help support an economic machine shaped by war-time imperatives and central planning. Experience and further study, however, quickly led to a dramatic shift in the Friedmans� philosophical direction. The Friedmans found themselves particularly persuaded by conservative Austrian economist Friedrich Hayek, an outspoken opponent of all socialist policies, who in 1944 wrote the influential book Road to Serfdom. Dr. Friedman associated himself with Heyek�s efforts and played a key role in the formation of Hayek's influential Mont Pelerin Society, which first met in 1947. In 1945, Milton Friedman worked for one year at the University of Minnesota, and in 1946 he took a faculty position at the University of Chicago to teach economic theory. Friedman and the University of Chicago began a long-term intellectual and professional relationship that would impact not only the economics program but also the University�s graduate business school and law school. Dr. Friedman began to study the role of money in the business cycle and founded the "Workshop in Money and Banking" ("Chicago Workshop"). He is now widely regarded as the leader of the Chicago School of monetary economics, which stresses the importance of the quantity of money as an instrument of government policy and as a determinant of business cycles and inflation. In 1950, Dr. Friedman spent an academic quarter in Paris serving as a consultant in connection with the Marshall Plan and the effort to rebuild the European economy. By 1951 Friedman had won the prestigious John Bates Clark Medal from the American Economic Association, which honors economists under age forty for outstanding achievement. From 1953-54, he was a Fulbright Visiting Fellow at Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge University. From 1957-58 he was a Fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences at Stanford. For her part, Rose Director Friedman is believed to have been born to a prominent Jewish family during the last week of December 1911, in Staryi Chortoryisk, White Russia (her birth records have been lost). She attended Reed College and then transferred to the University of Chicago where she received a Bachelor of Philosophy degree. She continued her training in economics at the University of Chicago, completing all work for a doctorate in economics except for writing a dissertation. In her youth she co-authored articles espousing the Keynesian theory of consumption, but like Milton subsequently changed her philosophy. Rose was on the staff of the National Resources Committee (Washington, D.C.), working on a nationwide study of consumer purchases, and continued work on that study at the Bureau of Home Economics. She then joined the staff of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, where she worked until she married and moved to New York. In New York she was on the staff of the National Bureau of Economic Research until the Friedmans briefly moved to Wisconsin in 1940. Since then, she has continued economic research on her own, publishing a pamphlet entitled Poverty -- Definition and Perspective (American Enterprise Institute, 1965), and a series of twelve articles entitled "Milton Friedman -- Husband and Colleague" in the Oriental Economist (May 1976 to August 1977)(which was also published as a book in Japanese). She also received an honorary LL.D. in December 1986 from Pepperdine University. Milton and Rose had two children, a son and a daughter. During the course of his seventy-four year career, Milton Friedman proved to be a prolific author and editor who turned out multiple articles on an annual basis. It is not possible to list or discuss all of his writing here, but the following works constitute his most important career contributions to the field of economics: Income from Independent Professional Practice (with Simon Kuznets 1945, reissued 1954); �The Utility Analysis of Choices Involving Risk,� The Journal of Political Economy, 56(4):279�304 (with L.J. Savage, Aug. 1948); "The Marshallian Demand Curve," 57 Journal of Political Economy 463-95 (Dec. 1949); �The Expected Utility Hypothesis and the Measurability of Utility,� 60(6) The Journal of Political Economy 463�474 (Dec. 1952); "On the Methodology of Positive Economics" in Essays in Positive Economics 1-43 (1953, reissued 2000) ; Studies in the Quantity Theory of Money (as editor, 1956); A Theory of the Consumption Function, The Optimum Quantity of Money and Other Essays (with A. J. Schwartz, 1957); The Demand for Money: Some Theoretical and Empirical Results (1959); Price Theory: A Provisional Text (1962); A Monetary History of the United States, 1867-1960 (with Anna J. Schwartz, 1963) ; �The Relative Stability of Monetary Velocity and the Investment Multiplier in the United States, 1897�1958,� in Stabilization Policies 165 (E. Cary Brown et al., ed.)(with David Meiselman, 1963); Money and Business Cycles (with Anna J. Schwartz, 1963); �A Theoretical Framework for Monetary Analysis,� in Milton Friedman's Monetary Framework: A Debate with His Critics 1-62 (Robert J. Gordon, ed.,1974); �The Role of Monetary Policy,� 58(1) The American Economic Review 1�17 (Mar. 1968); The Optimum Quantity of Money and Other Essays (1969); Monetary vs. Fiscal Policy (with Walter W. Heller 1969); Monetary Statistics of the United States: Estimates, Sources, Methods (with Anna J. Schwartz, 1970); "A Theoretical Framework for Monetary Analysis," Journal of Public Economics (1970) ; An Economist's Protest: Columns on Political Economy (1972); There's No Such Thing As A Free Lunch (1975); Monetary Trends in the United States and the United Kingdom, Their Relation to Income, Prices, and Interest Rates, 1867�1975 (with Anna J. Schwartz, 1981) ; Milton Friedman�s Monetary Framework: A Debate With His Critics (1981); Monetarist Economics (1991); Money Mischief: Episodes in Monetary History (1992). A discussion of all of the unique contributions made to the field of economics by Dr. Friedman during his career would (and did) require volumes of exposition. We will hazard only a very brief overview here. Dr. Friedman's most prominent contribution was to create an influential modern formulation of the quantity theory of money, including the short and long-term relationships between money supply, consumption, output, price levels, and inflation. As an outgrowth of his theory, he asserted that the Great Depression was largely caused by government mismanagement instead of any failure of the free-enterprise system. His ideas about currency markets and exchange rates, although eventually superseded, helped stimulate debate and creative new macroeconomic ideas within the economist intellectual community. Dr. Friedman also provided an important critique of the Phillips curve and championed the concept of the natural rate of unemployment. Dr. Friedman considered the permanent income hypothesis to be his best scientific work. His theory says that the key determinant of consumption is an individual's real wealth, including �permanent� income from physical assets (real and personal property) and human intellectual capital (education and experience), not transitory current income fluctuations. Consumers estimate long-term �permanent� lifetime income and then establish their consumption patterns based upon some proportion of that expected income. Low income earners have an above-average propensity to consume, while high income earners have a higher transitory element to their income and a lower than average propensity to consume. Virtually every introductory college economics course includes Dr. Friedman�s ideas regarding economic epistemology and methodology. He argued that the value of any economic theory should be judged by its ability to accurately predict outcomes from any given set of observational input variables. In the world of economics, therefore, descriptive realism (e.g. the precise biological processes by which a particular species of tree orients its leaves to the sun) is secondary to accurate predictive final outcomes (e.g. the fact that tree behavior serves to orient leaves to obtain maximum surface exposure to sunlight). Moreover, according to Dr. Friedman, economics should be treated as a science and should not cede objectivity to the inclusion of subjective value judgments. These epistemological ideas are of particular importance to alternative educators, because alternative educators emphasize that the value of their economic activity is objectively measured by the benefits conferred upon student and family consumers. For example, home education is best assessed by the above-average student performance actually produced in hard data instead of by inferior student performance incorrectly predicted by government educators on the basis of subjective ideological bias. As other examples, if actual scientific studies fail to reveal any correlation between class size and student performance, or any correlation between school budget and student performance, or any deficiency in home education student performance compared to government school student performance, there is no credible basis for public policy makers to assume that revenues taxed from home educators in order to support larger budgets and smaller class sizes for government schools will result in better student performance for anyone. During the 1950s and early 1960s, the Friedmans first began to champion the cause of educational freedom and educational choice. They wrote a book called Capitalism and Freedom (1962) (reissued in 1982) that advocated minimizing governmental interference in the free market in order to enhance political and social freedom. Among other things, the book advocated school choice and suggested the concept of vouchers. "What is needed in America is a voucher of substantial size available to all students, and free of excessive regulations." But even after taking this position, the Friedmans� views had not fully evolved. Dr. Friedman later explained: �I used to argue that I could justify compulsory schooling on the ground of external effects. But then I discovered from work that E.G. West and others did, that before compulsory schooling something over 90 percent of people got schooled. . . . In Capitalism and Freedom we [the Friedmans] came out on the side of favoring compulsory schooling and in Free to Choose we came out against it.� One of the Friedmans� contributions to the educational debate during this period was, in effect, to reintroduce, systematize, and popularize ideas increasingly similar to those advocated by the Founders of the United States such as Thomas Jefferson , Benjamin Franklin , and Thomas Paine . In Dr. Friedman�s The Role of Government in Education (1955), the Friedmans concluded that government financing of primary and secondary schooling is entirely consistent with private administration of schooling, and that such a combination is both more equitable and more efficient than the existing linkage of financing with administration. In order to ameliorate the existing system of perverse financial incentives in government education, the Friedmans suggested in Capitalism and Freedom that one way to separate financing and administration is to give parents who choose to send their children to private schools "a sum equal to the estimated cost of educating a child in a government school, provided that at least this sum was spent on education in an approved school....The interjection of competition would do much to promote a healthy variety of schools. It would do much, also, to introduce flexibility into school systems. Not least of its benefits would be to make the salaries of school teachers responsive to market forces." Beginning in the early 1960s, the Friedmans� interests were drawn to the public arena. Consequently, the Friedmans� public policy ideas emphasized the preservation and extension of individual freedom. Dr. Friedman became a Director for Aldine Publishing Company from 1961-76. He served as a 1964 economic adviser to Senator Goldwater�s presidential campaign and as a 1968 economic adviser for Richard Nixon's presidential campaign. From September 1966 to June 1984, Dr. Friedman wrote a triweekly column on current affairs for Newsweek magazine and worked at times as a Contributing Editor. Many of his columns are reprinted in Bright Promises, Dismal Performance: An Economist�s Protest (1983). Throughout their long and distinguished public careers, the Friedmans were steadfastly unassuming, approachable, open-minded, dignified, candid, congenial, principled, analytically rigorous, and intellectually honest. This set of traits that allowed them to be a persuasive catalyst for transcendent, profound, long-term, international societal change. Dr. Friedman considered his most important policy achievement to be the end of military conscription, which the United States abandoned in favor of a voluntary professional military in 1973. Dr. Friedman pushed for the change while serving from 1969-70 on the Advisory Commission on an All-Volunteer Force (�Gates Commission�) and as a Member of the President�s Commission on White House Fellows from 1971-73. He believed that the military should normally be constituted of professionals who voluntarily joined because career opportunities and personal fulfillment associated with military service. When General William Westmoreland complained that he did not want to command an "army of mercenaries," Friedman famously responded, "General, would you rather command an army of slaves?" The Friedmans have also consistently opposed the related concept of �service learning� , a more recent �civilian� form of conscription based upon the notion that the governmental can invoke the military draft or compulsory school attendance laws to force students into involuntary servitude associated with government-sponsored "mandatory community service" projects purportedly designed to further the public good. Dr. Milton Friedman was named a Member of the Advisory Committed on Monetary Statistics, Federal Reserve System, in 1974. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Friedman was honored with the 1976 Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, "for his achievements in the fields of consumption analysis, monetary history and theory and for his demonstration of the complexity of stabilization policy." During the course of his career, Dr. Friedman served as president of the American Economic Association and the Western Economic Association. In addition to the National Academy of Sciences and the American Philosophical Society, Dr. Friedman would become a member of five professional economics societies and eight elected academic societies. Besides the awards explicitly mentioned herein, Dr. Friedman has also received seventeen other major awards and honors from organizations all over the word. Dr. Friedman also served as an adviser, director, or trustee for numerous private and non-profit organizations. In 1977, Dr. Friedman retired from active teaching at the University of Chicago, but retained a research relationship with the institution. He was a Visiting Scholar with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco from January to March of 1977. He continued to work, research, and write at the Friedman home in Vermont, near Dartmouth College, and spend winter as a Senior Research Fellow at the Hoover Institute of Stanford University with a nearby home in San Francisco. Eventually the Friedmans settled year-round in San Francisco, and Dr. Friedman continued to research, write, and lecture with the Hoover Institute until 2006. The Friedmans then participated in the creation of Free to Choose , a series of ten one-hour PBS programs that first appeared on PBS (Public Broadcasting System) in January 1980. Among other things, Dr. Friedman advocated educational choice and parental empowerment: The experts mean well, but a centralized [government school] system cannot possibly have that degree of personal concern for each individual child that we have as parents. The centralization produces deadening uniformity, it destroys the experimentation that is a fundamental source of progress. What we need to do is to enable parents, by vouchers or other means, to have more say about the school which their child goes to, a public school or a private school, whichever meets the need of the child best. That will inevitably give them also more say about what their children are taught and how they are taught. Market competition is the surest way to improve the quality and promote innovation in education as in every other field. . . . [Under the current system] [a]nybody who wants to send his child to a non-public school has to pay twice: once in the form of taxes and once in the form of tuition. Transcripts of the final documentaries were converted into the best-selling non-fiction book of 1980, entitled Free to Choose: A Personal Statement. Free to Choose would ultimately be translated into fourteen different languages. Rose later wrote that the experience "seems like something of a fairy tale.� �Who,� she reflected, �would have dreamed that after retiring from teaching, Milton would be able to preach the doctrine of human freedom to many millions of people in countries around the globe through television, millions more through our book based on the television program, and countless others through videocassettes." Dr. Friedman served as an unofficial adviser to presidential candidate Ronald Reagan in 1980 and as a member of President Reagan's Economic Policy Advisory Board from 1981-88. Among other things, he has championed the concept of a balanced budget amendment and the spending cap to constrain government spending, the Dutch auction procedure for selling government securities, elimination of wage�price controls, and elimination of government monopolies. Dr. Friedman believed that the �fundamental threat to human freedom� is excessive �government intervention� that derives �from some individuals within the community trying to take advantage of the concentrated power of the government to benefit themselves and provide themselves with special privileges and monopolies.� One of his most famous maxims was that "A society that puts equality before freedom will get neither. A society that puts freedom before equality will get a high degree of both." The Friedmans also participated in a three-part PBS television series called Tyranny of the Status Quo and published a complementary book with the same title in 1984. The Japanese government awarded Dr. Friedman the Grand Cordon of the First Class Order of the Sacred Treasure in 1986. In 1988, Dr. Friedman was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Medal of Science. Especially during the mid-1970s through the 1990s, the Friedmans took their message of economic and educational freedom to the entire world through visits, lectures, and television. They reached out not only to intellectuals, business leaders, and policy makers, but to ordinary citizens. Some of the nations included Australia, Canada, Chile, China, Eastern Europe, Estonia, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. Dr. Friedman worked with Michael Walker of the Fraser Institute to host a series of conferences from 1986 to 1994. This eventually resulted in a methodology and annual report providing measurements and data concerning Economic Freedom in the World. The annual report provides data for peer-reviewed studies and influences policy in various nations. Dr. Friedman did not believe that the government should be viewed as a font of moral authority or moral education. In a Wall Street Journal editorial dated September 7, 1989, he rebuked William Bennett: William Bennett [asserts that the Founders of the United States] . . . believed "that government has a responsibility to ... help educate citizens about right and wrong." To me, that is a totalitarian view opening the road to thought control and would have been utterly unacceptable to the Founders. I do not believe, and neither did they, that it is the responsibility of government to tell free citizens what is right and wrong. That is something for them to decide for themselves. Government is a means to enable each of us to pursue our own vision in our own way so long as we do not interfere with the right of others to do the same. In the words of the Declaration of Independence, "all Men are ... endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights. That among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these Rights Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the Governed." In my view, Justice Louis Brandeis was a "true friend of freedom" when he wrote, "Experience should teach us to be most on our guard to protect liberty when the government's purposes are beneficial. Men born to freedom are naturally alert to repel invasions of their liberty by evil-minded rulers. The greater dangers to liberty lurk in insidious encroachment by men of zeal, well meaning but without understanding." Anyone familiar with the history of government education--and the history of alternative education--is hard-pressed to dismiss Friedman�s observation. Dr. Friedman authored numerous books and articles relevant to educational choice, intellectual freedom, school reform, and other concepts of importance to alternative educators. Aside from the works discussed separately herein, the most important writings of this kind include the following: "A Free Market in Education," 3 Public Interest 107 (1966); "The Freedom to Listen," 29(28) Human Events 12 (1969); "The market v. the bureaucrat," 22(19) National Review 507 (1970); "Social responsibility: A subversive doctrine," 17(34) National Review 721 (1965); "The Fragility of Freedom," 16(4) Brigham Young University Studies 561 (1976); "An Interview with Milton Friedman," 38(46) Human Events 14 (1978); Milton Friedman speaks (1980); Tyranny of the status quo (with Rose Friedman 1984); Politics and tyranny : lessons in the pursuit of freedom (with David J. Theroux 1984); Politics and Tyranny: lessons in the pursuit of freedom (1985); "School Vouchers and the Textbook Controversy," 46(40) Human Events 10 (1986); "Free Markets and Free Speech," 10(1) Harvard Journal of Law and Public Policy 1 (1987); "Service, Citizenship, and Democracy: Civic Duty as an Entailment of Civil Right: Comment," in W. M. Evers, National service: Pro and con 44-48 (1990); "Vouchers No threat to Church State Split," Wall Street Journal (Dec 31, 1991), at A7; Why government is the problem (1993); �Public Schools: Make Them Private,� Cato Institute Paper No. 23 (June 23, 1995) ; "Public Schools: Make Them Private," 5(3) Education Economics 341-44 (1997); "Arizona's new schools: Hard lesson learned," Wall Street Journal (Jan 24, 1997), at A15; "Our backward schooling," 36(6) Across the Board 10 (with Rose Freidman) (1999); and "Why America Needs School Vouchers," Wall Street Journal (September 28, 2000), at A22. In 1996, the Friedmans established the Milton and Rose D. Friedman Foundation , which is based in Indianapolis and devoted to promoting parental choice in education. The Foundation publicly vows to achieve �improvement in the quality of the education available to children of all income and social classes in this nation, whether that education is provided in government or private schools or at home.� As Dr. Friedman once explained, �I think the performance of our school systems is disgraceful. I think roughly a quarter of the population never graduates high school. We have a lower level of literacy today than we had a hundred years ago. That's not despite, but because of the poor schools, particularly in low-income areas.� On another occasion he observed: �Any institution will tend to express its own values and its own ideas. Our public education system is a socialist institution . A socialist institution will teach socialist values, not the principles of private enterprise.� Support and opposition for school vouchers cuts across party and ideological lines, but the Friedmans' act of raising provocative questions about the causes of America's educational woes has been at least as beneficial as their effort to offer specific proposals for a remedy. Particularly from the standpoint of alternative educators, the increased public awareness generated by the Friedmans has conferred an independent tangible benefit by softening opposition to alternative education. Adaptations of the Friedmans� school choice concept were enacted in Milwaukee in 1990 and Cleveland in 1995. (Variations of the school choice or voucher concept also exist in Chile, Hong Kong, Ireland, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and some other European nations.) Other locales, such as California with Tim Draper�s Proposition 38 in November 2000, considered but voted down school choice. The choice movement eventually led to a legal showdown before the United States Supreme Court. Opponents of a Cleveland school choice program alleged that the program violated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment of the United States Constitution because ninety-six percent of parents chose to use the opportunity scholarships (a form of tax-funded voucher) to help their children attend private religious schools. In a landmark decision, Zelman v. Simmons-Harris, 536 U.S. 639 (2002) , the Supreme Court upheld the program as constitutional. However, in Bush v. Holmes, 919 So.2d 392 (Fla. 2006) , the Florida Supreme Court struck down a state Opportunity Scholarship Program on the ground that the school choice scheme violated "uniformity" clause of Florida's Constitution (article IX, section 1(a)): "Adequate provision shall be made by law for a uniform, efficient, safe, secure, and high quality system of free public schools." In 2006, a large federal government voucher program was created for evacuees from Hurricane Katrina and proved to be a popular option. In 2007, Utah became the first state where a state legislature voted for a universal-access school choice program, but the legislation was defeated by referendum. In what was a footnote to Dr. Milton Friedman�s life, but a major event for the Quaqua Society, Quaqua founder Daniel E. Witte had the opportunity to communicate with Dr. Friedman during Witte�s stay in Palo Alto, California. Dr. Friedman graciously reviewed a draft written plan for Quaqua and opined that it was a �splendid idea.� Dr. Friedman offered various insights about how to best ramp up the foundation which were, of course, carefully implemented. Witte also had an opportunity for lively discussion with Dr. Friedman about the home-education movement from an economic point of view. As an open-minded intellectual provocateur who thrived on congenial debate, Dr. Friedman quite naturally chose to write to Witte that �There is no . . . major area in our lives in which we rely on do-it-yourself rather than the commercial division of labor.� Witte countered that home education was, in the venacular of Free to Choose, an "other means" by which parents could leverage "market competition" to achieve more control over "what their children are taught and how they are taught." Legal barriers to entry were also a consideration; experience had shown that many jurisdictions not currently receptive to vouchers from a political standpoint were willing to acknowledge the legally-protected status of home education. During the interchange that ensued, an eventual consensus seemed to emerge. Home education is a type of �self-made� service product. Economic theory predicts that �self-produced� products will occupy a niche feature in a modern economy that permits and favors the benefits of exchange derived from economic specialization. Thus, although home education continues to thrive and grow, economic theory predicts that home education is unlikely to supplant all (or perhaps even a majority share) of private schooling or government schooling economic activity. However, because home education is extremely versatile and can serve as a substitute good characterized by relatively low entry barriers (other than artificial penalties imposed by any retrogressive laws that might apply), home education exerts a disproportionate impact upon the educational marketplace by strengthening the bargaining power that family consumers enjoy vis-�-vis educational institutions. Since home education makes it possible for family consumers to leave a government school at any time, the power of government schools to monopolistically impose curriculum or conditions offensive to local cultural morays and market preferences is greatly diminished even if the substitute option is rarely invoked. This "backstop" or "pressure valve" effect is present for the demographic majority and the demographic minorities at the same time, so that market forces provide an economic incentive for different groups to accommodate each other on a voluntary cost-benefit basis. Home education therefore benefits institutional student consumers by compelling government schools (and private schools) to be more responsive to local market preferences. Indeed, the home education pedagogical model actually allows some forms of private school to provide competition to public education through distance learning in places where a �brick-and-mortar� private institution could not exist because of sparse population or other impediments. From the standpoint of economic theory, the aforementioned effects explain why home education often attracts such fierce opposition and persecution from government schools and government monopolies. Direct loss of enrolled students to home education, though sometimes significant, is actually an effect of secondary concern to education monopolists. In addition, since home education creates a market demand for certain goods and services, alternative education will likely continue to manifest a pronounced growth trend towards �outsourcing� of certain educational tasks and �hybrid� educational arrangements. (Dr. Friedman and Witte initially debated the extent to which (in Friedman�s words) �a proper competitive educational system . . . would reduce[] the size of the home schooling industry� or, conversely, support and reinforce the home education industry through innovative new support services and �hybrid� educational structures.) It seems likely that as knowledge accrues, expertise is refined, economies of scale are attained, and the market matures, alternative education will likely continue to attain greater efficiency, creativity, and effectiveness. Alternative education will also continue to function as a cauldron of independent economic innovation, pedagogical refinement, and objective performance measurement. In many respects, establishment educators have already been compelled to adopt some of the pedagogical and technological innovations first championed by alternative educators, such as curriculum customization, distance learning techniques, expanded (although not sufficient) student attendence choices, and more focus on practical ability instead of "seat time." On November 16, 2006, Dr. Milton Friedman passed away at the age of 94 in San Francisco. But the intellectual, political, and cultural contribution that the Friedmans have made to alternative education and educational choice is profound and long-lasting. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger subsequently declared January 29, 2007 to be Milton Friedman Day. According to The Economist, Friedman "was the most influential economist of the second half of the 20th century . . . possibly of all of it." Alan Greenspan stated "There are very few people over the generations who have ideas that are sufficiently original to materially alter the direction of civilization. Milton is one of those very few people." The Friedmans� 1998 book, entitled Two Lucky People: Memoirs, is a wonderful summary of their outstanding joint career. But the Friedmans� success was not mere luck. Instead, they demonstrated the hard work, preparation, and boundless creativity needed to take full advantage of opportunities that eventually came their way. Both of them were immigrants who overcame poverty, intellectual orthodoxy, and occasional discrimination in order to achieve their goals. Although the Friedmans had many accomplishments, causes, and views, the Quaqua Society Elijah Award is specifically focused on lauding their efforts to champion efforts against conscription and �service learning� in education, identify economic arguments against compulsory attendance and government school monopolies, and spur an intellectual and political debate about the best way to put educational choice in the hands of parents and family consumers. The Quaqua Society is delighted to honor the Friedmans and help alternative educators around the world appreciate the Friedmans� vital historic contribution to our movement. The Quaqua Society�s biographical sketch was developed with assistance from the Milton and Rose D. Friedman Foundation . This assistance includes some information drawn from the Foundation�s own biographical sketches for Dr. Milton Friedman and Rose Friedman , from Dr. Milton Friedman�s autobiographical sketch , and from other biographical sketches based upon information shared by the Friedmans. 2005 Caroline Cook Ball and Joseph Gordon Skelly The Quaqua Society is honoring Caroline Cook Ball and her late husband, William Bentley Ball, Esq., along with Joseph G. Skelly, for their respective roles in helping to litigate the landmark case Wisconsin v. Yoder, 406 U.S. 205 (1972), and to otherwise advance the interests of the alternative education community. Yoder changed the legal landscape for alternative education and enabled the subsequent modern home education movement to prosper in the United States. In addition, Caroline Ball, Joe Skelly, and Joe's wife, Sheila Petulla Skelly, all continue to make ongoing contributions through service to their community, as described below. William Bentley Ball, Esq. and Caroline Cook Ball From a legal standpoint, the modern era of home education and alternative education began with the landmark United States Supreme Court decision Wisconsin v. Yoder , 406 U.S. 205 (1972). William Ball was the lead litigator who successfully defended Jonas Yoder's family and thereby turned the legal tide that ran at the time against home education. For over three decades, Ball was a preeminent litigator in the fight for parental liberty, alternative education, and free religious exercise. On Christmas Eve of 1968, William Ball fielded an urgent call from Dr. William C. Lindholm, a pastor with the Evangelical Lutheran Churches of America. Government officials in Wisconsin had threatened the Old Order Amish family of Jonas Yoder with criminal prosecution because of religiously-motivated participation in Mennonite-based home education and alternative education. Lindholm was trying to find a way to help the Mennonites in general and the Yoders in particular. Wisconsin's persecution of the Yoders was part of a larger multi-state campaign of cultural genocide designed to exterminate the Mennonite communities all across the Midwest, especially in Ohio, Kansas, Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, Arkansas, and Wisconsin. (Various Mennonite and Amish sects are part of an interrelated family of denominations who share a common historical heritage and doctrinal lineage. For convenience and brevity only, all Mennonite and Amish sects are collectively referred to herein as "Mennonites.") Mennonites had been subject to fines, imprisonment, forcible removal of children from their parents, seizure of farms and farm equipment, and other measures designed to force the Mennonite children into government schools. The ultimate aim was to coerce the Mennonite population into the economic arrangements preferred by the surrounding non-Mennonite populations. For about ten years just prior to the Yoder case, many Mennonites had been fleeing to open space in Wisconsin as virtual refugees in order to escape persecution in Iowa and other states only to encounter similar harassment by Wisconsin officials. William Ball responded to Lindholm's Christmas-Eve entreaty and agreed to take the case. At the time, the legal prospects for the Yoders were bleak. Ever since the State v. Hoyt, 146 A. 170 (N.H. 1929) case, state courts had ignored the constitutional principles set forth in Meyer v. State of Nebraska, 262 U.S. 390 (1923), and Pierce v. Society of Sisters, 268 U.S. 510 (1925). The United States Supreme Court had turned a blind eye to the resultant pattern of state-sponsored atrocities against alternative educators of all backgrounds. The Mennonites themselves had recently lost important state court cases very similar to Yoder in Ohio, Nebraska, Kansas, and other jurisdictions, and the United States Supreme Court had refused certiorari. Moreover, the Mennonite plight had simply not garnered the sympathies of the upper crust social circles in New York and Washington, D.C., who tended to favor the educational establishment. At the same time, the local Midwest press had virulently ridiculed the Mennonites and intensified the climate of bigotry. Notwithstanding the tremendous obstacles, William Ball obtained a landmark decision in favor of the Mennonites and thereby initiated a long, grueling, gradual legal battle to restore the parental liberty, religious liberty, and choice in education originally intended by the Framers of the United States Constitution. Additional details about Mennonite history and the Yoder case can be found here . Ball's varied experience, keen intellect, and personal traits uniquely prepared him for the daunting litigation challenge in Yoder. He was born in Rochester, New York, on October 16, 1916. Later he graduated from Western Reserve University in 1940. While a college student, he served in a 107th Cavalry Unit of the Ohio National Guard and performed his duties on horseback. Ball then served in combat with the U.S. Navy during World War II and eventually retired as a lieutenant commander in the Naval Reserve. After World War II, Ball obtained his law degree from Notre Dame in 1948. During his studies he was Editor-in-Chief for the law review. Ball then practiced corporate law in New York until 1955, first as an in-house attorney for W.R. Grace & Company and then subsequently in a similar capacity for Pfizer, Inc. In 1955, Ball decided to devote his career to constitutional issues. He joined the faculty of the new Villanova University School of Law as a professor of constitutional law, where he met a law student named Joseph Skelly. In 1960 Ball became general counsel and executive director for the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference of bishops. By 1968 he had founded his own law firm, Ball & Skelly (later to become known as Ball, Skelly, Murren & Connell) in Harrisburg Pennsylvania--to concentrate in litigation for religious freedom. From 1967-68 onward, Bill Ball left an indelible influence upon constitutional jurisprudence in the United States. He was the Lead Counsel for numerous landmark cases, including: Lemon v. Kurtzman I, 403 U.S. 602 (1971); Lemon v. Kurtzman II, 411 U.S. 192 (1971); Sloan v. Lemon, 413 U.S. 825 (1973); Wisconsin v. Yoder, 406 U.S. 205 (1972); Meek v. Pittenger, 421 U.S. 346 (1975); California v. Grace Brethren Church, 457 U.S. 393 (1982); Bob Jones University v. United States, 461 U.S. 574 (1983); Ohio Civil Rights Comm'n v. Dayton Schools, 477 U.S. 619 (1986); and Zobrest v. Catalina Foothills School District, 509 U.S. 1 (1993). He was also co-counsel for Board of Education v. Allen, 392 U.S. 236 (1968), and filed amicus curiae briefs for such cases as Loving v. Virginia, 388 U.S. 1 (1967); St. Martin Evangelical Lutheran Church v. South Dakota, 451 U.S. 772 (1981); Harris v. McRae, 448 U.S. 297 (1980); United States v. Lee, 455 U.S. 252 (1982); Webster v. Reproductive Health Services, 492 U.S. 490 (1990); Wheeler v. Barrera, 417 U.S. 402 (1974); and Wallace v. Jaffree, 472 U.S. 38 (1985). Although his manner was always gentlemanly, courteous, measured, and prudent, Bill Ball never lacked the courage to stand up for his beliefs in the face of prominent opposition. He fought vigorously against Justice Harry Blackman in order to challenge various controversial constitutional doctrines such as the Lemon test and the Roe v. Wade approach to abortion, but even his fiercest opponents respected him personally. For his part, Justice Blackmun told a group of law students who had just observed Ball present an oral argument that they were "privileged to see one of the finest oralists this court has ever had, Mr. Ball of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania." Nor was Ball afraid to counter perceived excesses emanating from any other portion of the political spectrum. As Judge Robert Bork and Justice Antonin Scalia mounted an ongoing effort to scuttle strict scrutiny protection for religious liberty and entirely eliminate any meaningful constitutional protection for parental liberty and educational choice, Ball spoke out vigorously in defense of Meyer v. State of Nebraska, 262 U.S. 390 (1923), Pierce v. Society of Sisters, 268 U.S. 510 (1925), and Wisconsin v. Yoder, 406 U.S. 205 (1972). Despite the concerted attempt of Judge Bork and Justice Scalia to directly overturn these precedents, all three cases still remain good law. And although Justice Scalia worked with Justice Stevens to subsequently strike down the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, a statute enacted by Congress to restore the strict scrutiny test after Employment Division v. Smith, 494 U.S. 872 (1990), the efforts of Ball and many others resulted in a combination of federal and state provisions that now cumulatively operate to ensure strict scrutiny protection for religious liberty for most fact situations in most legal jurisdictions. Bill Ball had an ability to work across cultural, political, racial, religious, and geographic boundaries in order to ensure sound law and policy. Although he was a staunch Roman Catholic and held many positions of responsibility within that community, Ball also spoke out in defense of Evangelical Christians, Orthodox Jews, Mennonites, Native Americans, and many others. He worked with diverse individuals in a very effective, practical way. Ball litigated dozens of federal and state cases in jurisdictions all across the country, fought for 1986 legislation in Pennsylvania to loosen compulsory education requirements so as to respect religious rights, advocated federal measures designed to protect religious liberty, testified before numerous congressional committees, and spoke out in favor of vouchers, educational choice, and alternative education. His efforts elicited both meaningful results and widespread respect. Ball disliked elitism and the oppression of ordinary people. At the same time, he worked hard and expected excellence from both himself and his contemporaries. Ball criticized what he saw as a trend by Catholic educational institutions toward the lowering of standards, the acceptance of mediocrity, and the elimination of Catholic distinctiveness in order to pander for outside funding, prestige, and social acceptance. On one occasion Bill Ball was asked to chair a legal advisory board for the Catholic League. When told that other attorneys contacted for possible involvement had all reported they were too busy to help, Ball said, "Fine, I'll do it myself." Despite all of his other considerable professional commitments, Ball's example did the talking as he successfully served as a one-man committee. Bill Ball was also a noted author of two books, numerous law review articles, scholarly papers, academic lectures, and popular articles. His focus on scholarly writing became most pronounced between 1993 and 1999. Of particular relevance to alternative educators is his Mere Creatures of the State?: Education, Religion, and the Courts (1994), a must-read book discussing the connection between anti-Catholicism, the history of American law, and religious liberty, and an earlier book entitled Freedom & Education: The Pierce Case Reconsidered (1978). In addition to the items set forth above, Ball was at various time also a Knight Commander of the Order of St. Gregory the Great, a papal knighthood; a member of the publication committee for Crisis magazine; a participant in the Pennsylvania Equal Rights Council, the Christian Legal Society, and the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights; a Director and Vice President for the Harrisburg Symphony Association; a Life Member of American Law Institute; a Vice Chairman of the National Committee for Amish Religious Freedom; a member of the Judicial Nominating Committee for Pennsylvania; a member of the Westbury (NY) Board of Zoning Appeals; a member of the National Committee for Year of the Bible; a member of the Advisory Board for the Center for Judicial Studies; a member of the Advisory Board for the Thomas J. White Foundation; a member of the Advisory Board for the Religious Freedom Reporter; and a member of the Advisory Board for the Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy. He received numerous honorary degrees and academic accolades. To the very end of his life, Bill Ball remained an energetic and inquisitive participant in civil and scholarly life. Caroline Ball was born Caroline Cook in Norfolk, Virginia. Her father was a physician with the United States Navy. As a result, Caroline's "growing up years" were spent living with her family in various cities throughout the United States, and also for a period of time in Haiti. She attended many different schools along the way. Caroline graduated from the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, where she majored in sociology. Soon after college, she met Bill Ball, then a young naval officer, in Norfolk, Virginia. They were subsequently married in 1943. The rest of the war years were spent, as Caroline describes it, "following the ship." The Navy background was one factor that helped Bill and Caroline effectively understand and work with people of many different backgrounds. After the war, Bill and Caroline moved to Indiana where Bill entered law school at the University of Notre Dame. During this same time, Bill had a fellowship teaching German in the undergraduate school, and Caroline worked as a receptionist in the Administration Offices at Notre Dame. After living in the New York City and Philadelphia areas where Bill held various positions with W.R. Grace & Co, Pfizer, and Villanova Law School, Bill and Caroline settled in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with their daughter, Ginny. Caroline became very involved in community activities and charitable endeavors, serving such capacities as the President of the Dauphin County Lawyers' Wives Association. She also played a very active role in helping Vietnamese refugees settle into their new way of life when they came to Harrisburg. Of course, she also provided essential support for Bill Ball's endeavors on behalf of alternative education, parental liberty, and religious liberty. Caroline and Bill had, in Caroline words, "56 wonderful years of married life" before Bill's death on January 10, 1999, at the age of 82. She continues to reside in the Harrisburg area as does their daughter, Ginny Duncan, who holds two masters degrees and works with the deaf. The Quaqua Society is pleased to honor Caroline Ball and her late husband William with the 2005 Quaqua Elijah Award, to recognize their profound contribution to the body of legal litigation, scholarship, legislation, and leadership needed for the preservation of parental liberty and alternative education. The Quaqua Society also wishes to express appreciate to Joseph G. Skelly, Esq., for providing the biographical materials from which this tribute is derived. Joseph Gordon Skelly and Sheila Petulla Skelly After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, Joe began his pursuit of a career in law by enrolling at the Villanova University School of Law, Villanova, Pennsylvania. It was there that he first met the man who would eventually become his mentor and law partner, William Bentley Ball. Mr. Ball was Joe's constitutional law professor during his second year of classes. Soon thereafter, Mr. Ball left Villanova to move to Harrisburg, the capitol of Pennsylvania, to take the position of General Counsel and Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference ("PCC"), an organization then composed of the eight Roman Catholic Dioceses of Pennsylvania. Mr. Ball represented the PCC in civil issues of statewide significance to the Church. Upon graduation from Villanova Law School, Joe returned to his native Oil City, Pennsylvania, where he was born and raised, to commence the private practice of law as an associate in a small firm. Joe became the typical small-town young general practitioner, engaging in a wide variety of civil and criminal cases for the next two and a half years. Mr. Ball then invited Joe to join Ball at the PCC as Assistant Counsel. While with the PCC, Joe was involved, to a great extent, in educational matters. Approximately a year and a half after joining PCC, due to an expansion and reorganization of the Conference, Bill Ball and Joe Skelly left the employment of Conference to form their own private practice law firm, Ball & Skelly, where they continued to represent PCC's legal interests as well as a growing number of other private clients. Due to Mr. Ball's reputation, the firm rapidly became known nationally as one having expertise in educational and constitutional matters, and much of the firm's work consisted of cases involving the constitutionality of various educational issues. During the beginning years of the firm, Joe worked very closely with Mr. Ball on these cases, one of the most notable of which was the landmark case of Wisconsin v. Yoder wherein the United States Supreme Court ruled that the religious liberty and parental liberty of the Amish took precedence over the compulsory education laws of the State of Wisconsin. Joe's name appears on the brief in that case and he was seated at counsel table with Mr. Ball when Mr. Ball presented oral argument to the justices. As the firm's practice grew, so did the firm. In addition to constitutional law cases, the firm was also building a practice in general civil matters. Two associates of the firm, Philip J. Murren and Richard C. Connell, were added as partners and the firm changed its name to Ball, Skelly, Murren & Connell. At about this time, with other attorneys in the firm available to assist Mr. Ball in the constitutional area, Joe began to concentrate his efforts more in the handling and development of the firm's general civil practice. He was also the managing partner of the firm. In the civil practice of the firm, Joe handled a wide variety of cases, both litigation and transactional, in many substantive areas of the law, including business and commercial, environmental, zoning, professional licensure, profit and nonprofit corporation and health care matters. He served a wide array of clients from individuals to Fortune 500 companies. In 1999, after Mr. Ball's death and out of a desire to seek some new challenges after a number of years in the practice of law, Joe undertook extensive mediation skills training. Having an amicable parting with his partners at Ball, Skelly, Murren & Connell he set up his own practice for alternative dispute resolution, the Skelly Dispute Resolution Center. In this practice Joe now helps parties in dispute to resolve cases outside of the traditional litigation setting, principally through mediation and arbitration, primarily in business and commercial matters as well as divorce and family law matters. In addition, he serves as a mediator for special education disputes involving controversies between parents and school districts relating to special education services to children. In addition, he has served as a hearing officer in special education cases. Joe is a member of the American Bar Association and remains active in the Pennsylvania Bar Association as well as his local bar association, particularly in the areas of ethics and professionalism and alternative dispute resolution. Of particular interest to Joe in the area of ethics and professionalism is the problem, perceived by many both inside and outside of the legal profession, of the breakdown in civility among lawyers. Joe has lectured extensively on the subject including presentations at continuing legal education courses. Joe serves as an Adjunct Professor at the Harrisburg campus of Widener University School of Law where he teaches Alternative Dispute Resolution as well as Law Practice Management. He is also a frequent lecturer on alternative dispute resolution at continuing legal education courses in Pennsylvania. Also of intense interest to Joe, and something that has become somewhat of an avocation for him, is working with lawyers and others suffering various illnesses, such as alcohol and other drug addiction, compulsive gambling, depression and similar impairments to help them get into recovery. Attorney problems of this kind can often be aggravated by the stressful lifestyles and sobering aspects of legal work that many of them experience. Joe was a founding director, and remains a member of the Board of Directors, of Pennsylvania's Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, an outreach organization to lawyers and law students who are experiencing problems in these areas. He has served as a delegate from Pennsylvania to the American Bar Association's Commission on Lawyers Assistance Programs. On a personal note, Joe is the father of three adult children, Mame, a banker, Meghan, a sales representative, and Steve, an industrial designer. His marriage to their mother ended in divorce in 1997. In 2003 he renewed contact with Sheila Straub Petulla, an Oil City native, whom he had dated forty years previously when he was a young lawyer back in Oil City and she was a young nurse. They were married in December of 2004. They now reside in Harrisburg. Sheila was born Sheila Jeanne Straub in Oil City, Pennsylvania where she grew up and attended local schools until her college years. Upon graduation from Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, she moved to Philadelphia where she was an Associate Instructor of Nursing at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. She also cared for patients on week-ends at Lankenau Hospital. Sheila married Louis Petulla and they became the parents of two children, John and William. During these early years the family lived in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, where Sheila practiced as a school nurse. She then accepted a position with the Delaware County Community College, returning to what would become a life-time career of teaching nursing for several years. Following the Philadelphia years, Sheila and her husband returned to the Oil City area where they raised their sons. Sheila was an Instructor of Nursing at Clarion University of Pennsylvania and became involved in various community and church related activities. She held positions on the Board of Directors of the Easter Seals Society, various hospital foundations, National Honor Society for Nursing, Mu Xi Chapter, chaired various committees for the yearly Oil Heritage celebration, and was involved in teaching religious education to elementary school students. Sheila completed her Master of Science degree in Nursing at Edinboro University, Edinboro, Pennsylvania in 1988. As a requirement for this degree she wrote and defended a thesis entitled Family Decision: Nursing Home Placement involving research surrounding the timing and decision making in placing a parent in a nursing home. Care of the elderly is, of course, becoming an increasingly prevalent issue for alternative educators and other families alike as the Baby Boomers take care of their parents while simultaneously approaching their own retirement. After the death of her late husband in 1994, Sheila moved to Pittsburgh and continued her teaching career in nursing. She retired in 2002. Sheila is the grandmother of three small children. Her two sons completed their educations in civil engineering and law and they are now both engaged in their respective professions. Sheila married Joseph Skelly in 2004, after having dated Joe forty years earlier. She continues to volunteer as a board member of a condominium association and as a Pastoral Care Visitor at Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill. The Quaqua Society is pleased to honor Joseph and Sheila Skelly with the 2005 Quaqua Elijah Award, to recognize the profound importance of the Yoder case to the preservation of parental liberty and alternative education. The Quaqua Society also wishes to express appreciate to Joseph G. Skelly, Esq., for providing the biographical materials. 2004 John Taylor Gatto and Janet MacAdam Gatto John Taylor Gatto first burst onto the alternative-education scene on January 31, 1990. On that date, Gatto, who was drawing toward the end of a thirty-year teaching career with the New York City public schools, received the New York State Teacher of the Year Award. He delivered the acceptance speech heard round the world. Gatto's remarks presaged his subsequent contributions to the alternative education community. He candidly lauded home education, noted the crisis in public education, and traced the lineage of compulsory education back to the Know-Nothing era in Massachusetts. He observed that standardized mass instruction was a byproduct of factory-owning tycoons of the industrial revolution, who pressed for an educational culture of conformity and institutional dependence. In the fourteen years since John Gatto's remarkable address, he has fleshed out the themes outlined in 1990. These intellectual contributions are the reason the Gattos were selected to receive the Quaqua Elijah Award. John and Janet Gatto are part of an open secret in the alternative education community -- the fact that many alternative educators are former public-school teachers! Born in the river town of Monongahela, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh, John remembers citizens rowing through the streets during the great flood of 1935. A tough, practical small-town of 3000 steel-mill workers and coal miners, its Saturday-night streets sounding with fist fights and its big green river dotted with coal barges, Monongahela exerted a deep and long-lasting impact upon Gatto. It was there John first developed his preference for candor, his appetite for new ideas, and his exposure to people from many different demographic backgrounds. In order to serve as an alter boy for a local Roman Catholic church, Gatto studied Latin. While working as a sweeper in his grandfather's a printing office ("a tougher taskmaster never existed"), young John had an opportunity to read a "dizzying variety" of text materials. As he grew older he played football, baseball, and basketball, sparred with his sister Joan, and became an avid patron of the town library. John Gatto's college career took him to Cornell and the University of Pittsburgh. He ultimately graduated with a bachelor's degree from Columbia University. Following service with the U.S. Army medical corps at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and Fort Sam Houston, Texas, he did graduate work at Yeshiva, the University of California, and Cornell. His master's degree was obtained from Hunter College, City University of New York. After stints as a scriptwriter for a film company and copyrighter for a large advertising agency, John Gatto sought more professional fulfillment. He became a substitute schoolteacher in Harlem, New York City, and spent the next thirty years serving as a teacher in public junior high schools. There he utilized his "guerrilla curriculum" to great effect. His career was capped by the aforementioned New York State Teacher of the Year Award, awarded by the New York State Senate on January 31, 1990. He received a separate New York City Teacher of the Year Award from a well-known foundation. Once John Gatto caught public attention because of his notable acceptance speech, accolades poured in. He was praised by a Nebraska Senator (Congressional Record No. 135), published in the Wall Street Journal, lauded as by the Princeton Review as "breathtaking, scholarly, and encyclopedic," described as "one of the world's most controversial education reformists" by the Western Australian, and made the subject of a Carnegie Hall show called "An Evening With John Taylor Gatto." Although some may take issue with John Gatto's ideas, most observors seem to agree that he has started an important conversation about education. Now a popular speaker in home-education and alternative-education circles, as well as a frequent television and radio guest, John Gatto has traveled more than two million miles since 1991. He received the Alexis de Tocqueville Award in 1997. He has also authored four books, all available in electronic form on his website for the Odysseus Group : Dumbing Us Down: The Hidden Curriculum of Compulsory Schooling (2002), The Exhausted School: Bending the Bars of Traditional Education (2002), A Different Kind of Teacher: Solving the Crisis of American Schooling, and the Underground History of American Education (2004). A fifth book, The Curriculum of Power, is currently in the works as of 2004. Gatto is also working on a documentary film about the origins and nature of forced schooling, entitled The Fourth Purpose. John Gatto's wife, the former Janet MacAdam, was born in Panama to Scottish immigrants Thomas James MacAdam and his wife, Doris Cuthbertson-Brown of Glasgow. They were in Gamboa, Panama, during World War II to help maintain the Panama Canal; subsequently they moved to Oyster Bay Cove, Long Island. Janet's mother was one of seven intrepid sisters who came to America searching for a better life during the Great Depression. Janet's father died at sea when she was eleven, creating difficult family circumstances during her teenage years. Just out of Oyster Bay High School she became a fur model on Manhattan's Fifth Avenue. At age nineteen, Janet met John at a public swimming pool on East 77th Street. Janet inadvertently dripped water on a poolside chess board while walking past John, who was locked in mental combat with his friends. Although not yet introduced, John threw Janet back into the pool. Later that day, the two chanced upon each other again while attending an evening performance of jazz-man Thelonius Monk, performed at the Five Spot Cafe. They never looked back. John calls his forty-four years of marriage to Janet the "single best thing that ever happened to him" and says Janet is his "best editor, critic, and taskmaster." Janet Gatto is "a Scottish Presbyterian who learned . . . that unredeemed Catholics are . . . well . . . not going to be in need of overcoats in the afterlife. She's been working on my reconstruction ever since." Janet became editor at her college newspaper, ring designer, producer of dramatic audiotapes, Treasurer of School District Three, and an elected member of the local school board. She founded the highly-successful Weekend Market on West 77th, which annually raises about a half-million dollars for neighborhood schools. Janet produced for Lava Mountain Records, operated a mail-order antiques business, and maintained a mail-order library of classical radio shows. An avid cook, she earned three degrees from the Culinary Institute of America. She also participates in regular gardening and bird-feeding. Although Janet has at various times been challenged by Lyme Disease, severe arthritis, and breast cancer, she continues to press forward with the Gattos' latest project: creating "Solitude," a 128-acre retreat for home educators near Ithaca, New York. The Quaqua Society is pleased to honor John and Janet Gatto with the 2004 Quaqua Elijah Award, to recognize their study of the relationship between home education, the history of religious and ethnic discrimination, the Industrial Revolution, the history of Massachusetts, and the pedagogical theories of early government-school advocates. An understanding of these interrelationships is central to an accurate appreciation of the history of education. Some portions of this biographical sketch have been compiled from information courteously provided by John and Janet Gatto. John Gatto's remarks in accepting the Quaqua Elijah Award can be found here . 2003 John W. Whitehead, Esq., and Carol Whitehead John W. Whitehead, founder and president of The Rutherford Institute, is an attorney and author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of constitutional law and human rights. In particular, Mr. Whitehead has acted to provide legal assistance to parents and alternative educators. Born in 1946 in Tennessee, John spent much of his childhood in Peoria, Illinois. It was there that John met, and later married, Carolyn Nichols, his childhood sweetheart. Since their marriage in 1967, Carol has dedicated herself to helping John pursue his dream of founding an organization that would defend people who were persecuted or oppressed for their beliefs without charging them for such services. Carol remains John's sounding board, assistant, editor and best friend. They are the parents of five children. According to John, he wouldn't be where he is today had it not been for Carol's selfless devotion, unconditional love and faithfulness. John earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Arkansas in 1969 and a Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Arkansas School of Law in 1974. He served as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army from 1969 to 1971. He subsequently worked as a private litigator and served as an adjunct professor of law at the O. W. Coburn School of Law, where he taught a special course on First Amendment law. Because John had defended a number of people who could not afford legal help, his concern for the persecuted and oppressed led him in 1982 to establish The Rutherford Institute with $200, his family's entire savings at the time. Since that time, the Institute, a nonprofit, non-partisan civil liberties and human rights organization whose international headquarters are located in Charlottesville, Virginia, has defended thousands of men, women and children whose beliefs have been threatened--all for no charge. In 2003 alone, The Rutherford Institute handled over 10,000 requests for legal assistance. Many such requests were from home educators, parents confronting child-protection agencies, minorities suffering religious persecution, and victims of improper searches and seizures. The Institute maintains a national affiliate network of over 700 voluntary attorneys, who receive training, legal research, case support, and funding for court expenses. The Institute also maintains a media department to educate the public about constitutional liberties. Like the Quaqua Society, The Rutherford Institute depends solely upon donations for the maintenance of its operations. John has authored at least twenty books. One groundbreaking work, Home Education and Constitutional Liberties: The Historical and Constitutional Arguments in Support of Home Instruction (Westchester, IL: Crossway Books, 1984), is a classic must-read for anyone who wishes to understand the historical, legal, and ideological underpinnings of the alternative-education movement. Two subsequent books, Parents' Rights (Westchester, IL: Crossway Books, 1985), and Home Education: Rights and Reasons (Westchester, IL: Crossway Books, 1993), are excellent addendums to his 1984 work. The intellectual contribution made by these books was a major factor leading to Quaqua's selection of the Whiteheads for the Elijah Award. John has also published articles in eleven different law review publications and in such print media as the New York Times, the Washington Post and USA Today. His writing focuses mostly upon First Amendment liberties, especially the application of such rights to education. He directed a seven-part documentary video series, Grasping for the Wind, which focuses on key cultural events of the 20th century and is accompanied by a book and study guide. Grasping won the 1998 and 1999 Silver World Medal in the New York Film Festival. John has also been the subject of numerous newspaper, magazine and television profiles, ranging from Gentleman's Quarterly to CBS' 60 Minutes. He has appeared on such shows as Crossfire, CNN Headline News, Larry King Live, Nightline, Dateline, The Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS Evening News, CBS This Morning, This Week with Sam and Cokie, Rivera Live, Burden of Proof, Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer, FOX News Sunday, Hardball, the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, National Public Radio, BBC Newsnight, BBC Radio, British Sky Tonight and Sunday, TF1 (French TV) and Greek National Television. No profile of the Whiteheads would be complete without a mention of John's most famous professional achievement, his role as co-counsel for the Paula Jones sexual harassment lawsuit against President William J. Clinton. The case culminated in a landmark ruling, Clinton v. Jones, 520 U.S. 681 (1997) , in which the United States Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution affords the President no temporary immunity from civil damages litigation arising out of events occurring before the President took office. Like the proverbial chaos-theory butterfly that caused a thunderstorm in America by flapping its wings in China, the Jones case dramatically affected the course of world history. President Clinton committed perjury during a deposition for the Jones litigation by denying an affair he had with White-House Intern Monica Lewinsky, an action which formed the legal basis for his subsequent impeachment trial. Clinton's impeachment, in turn, created political baggage that almost certainly cost Albert Gore a victory in Gore's razor-close 2000 presidential contest against George W. Bush. President Clinton was eventually forced to settle the Jones case for $850,000.00, pay a $90,000.00 fine for contempt of court, and surrender his law license to avoid disbarment. (Quaqua has no official position regarding the impeachment, the Clinton v. Jones litigation, or the 2000 presidential campaign.) John's aggressive, pioneering approach to civil liberties issues has earned him numerous accolades, including Christian Leader of the Year for 1986 for "outstanding service in religious liberty" at the Christian World Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C. He was also selected for the 1990 Business and Professional Award by the Religious Heritage of America Foundation and was awarded the Hungarian Medal of Freedom in Budapest, Hungary in November 1991 by the President of Hungary. Living in Virginia, a state with a rich tradition of constitutional law, political thought, and alternative education, John's commitment to liberty remains strong. "All freedoms hang together. To defend one constitutional freedom is to defend them all, and to defend one person's constitutional rights is to defend those rights for everyone. No governmental official is above the law. The Rutherford Institute exists to ensure that people are treated fairly in the courts and are free to express themselves without fear." John Whitehead was the first person to champion the civil-rights component of the "modern" home-education movement. He was one of the first to understand that the cause of alternative education is based not only upon free-market principles and pedagogical innovation, but also upon a commitment to ensuring legal protection for the fundamental human liberties of all people. John Whitehead became the first modern "briefcase warrior" for home education, litigating and writing to preserve parental liberty and home education. Many attorneys in other service organizations received their training from The Rutherford Institute. John's innovative legal and institutional paradigm, once the target of great skepticism, now serves as the model for numerous other legal organizations founded after 1982 (both inside and outside of the alternative-education movement). The Quaqua Society is pleased to honor John and Carol Whitehead with the 2003 Quaqua Elijah Award, in recognition of their innovative approach to defending those liberties which are of such crucial importance to all alternative educators. This biographical sketch for the Whiteheads has been drawn from information on the website for The Rutherford Institute , and electronic mail provided by Nisha Mohammed of The Rutherford Institute. 2002 Dr. Raymond Moore and Dorothy Moore (In memoriam 1915 - 2002) Dr. Raymond S. Moore was born in Glendale, California, on September 24, 1915. At age four, Raymond lost his devoted mother, Dorcas, to the devastating 1918 flu epidemic. Dr. Moore attended public and church schools in California. He graduated from Glendale Adventist Academy in 1932, and spent six years at Pacific Union College. His studies were interrupted by a flood that destroyed both his home and his construction business. To persevere through the Great Depression, he worked as a handyman by logging, milking cows, firing boilers, plumbing, and concrete finishing. Dr. Moore's first teaching experience was in 1933, when he taught remedial English at Pacific Union College during his sophomore year. He graduated and married Dorothy Lucille Nelson in June 1938. Dorothy Lucille Nelson Moore was born on a farm in Bruce, South Dakota on October 30, 1915. She was a Methodist and Seventh-day Adventist Christian of Norwegian ancestry. She helped her father at his dairy in California almost until she finished at Long Beach California Junior College and went on to Pacific Union College. Dorothy was California State Spelling Champion and Gregg Shorthand gold medalist. In college she admired Ellen White and became a respected student leader whose first concern was poor or troubled girls. After graduation and marriage, Dr. Moore pursued a masters degree at the University of Southern California. He taught for two years in the public schools of Artesia, California, and was principal in Hermosa Beach, California from 1940 to 1941. On May 7, 1941, he was called to active duty in the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant medical administrative officer with the Ninth Corps Area Headquarters in San Francisco, California. Pearl Harbor resulted in a transfer to San Francisco Port of Embarkation Medical Section, where as a Captain over personnel and intelligence matters he worked in the company of a communications officer named Ronald Reagan. His next assignment was in New Guinea, where he helped build the 47th General Hospital. He subsequently commanded the New Guinea rotation Detachment and Casual Camp, Milne Bay, New Guinea, then was promoted to Major and executive officer in the South Pacific Medical Commander in Lae, New Guinea. He concluded his 58 months of active duty by serving as general staff medical personnel officer for General Douglas MacArthur, the famed home-educated military leader, in Manila, Philippines. After leaving active duty in March, 1946, Dr. Moore became Superintendent of Schools in Artesia, California. There he was invited to teach at University of Southern California on a doctoral fellowship. After doctoral study in college and university administration and early childhood education, he was called to Pacific Union College in 1947 as head of its graduate teacher-education program. He helped Pacific Union College upgrade and obtain state accreditation. Dorothy, meanwhile, distinguished herself in public service in California schools as a remedial reading specialist and as a faculty wife at the University of Southern California. She then became a faculty wife and Sabbath School leader at Pacific Union College. Along with her other responsibilities, she reared and educated seven "chosen" teenagers through college. In 1951 Dorothy moved to Japan with Dr. Moore, only a few years after her husband and brother had fought in the War to defeat Japan. The Moores helped San-Iku Gakuin College achieve status as an accredited, debt-free, senior education institution. The Moores also helped develop an Adventist school system for Japan and Okinawa. They implemented a "work-study-service" plan at the college in which all teachers worked with students, including the family of Senior Prince Takamatsu. In 1956, Dr. Moore went to Philippine Union College. He later went on to serve as President of Southwestern Union College. His program theme continued to be work-study, debt-freedom, academic standards, social standards, and home education. Dr. Moore also worked to achieve integration of African-American into Southwestern Union College. Dr. Moore was subsequently called to the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists as one of a team of five to help pioneer what is now known as Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. In 1960, he went to Loma Linda as corporate vice-president to share leadership in the transition to Loma Linda University. After a years of raising a family in Japan, the Philippines and Washington, D.C., Dorothy became the founding director of the Loma Linda University Cerebral Palsy Clinic in California. In 1964, Dr. Moore accepted the job of graduate programs officer with the U.S. Department of Education, a position which involved the funding and upgrading of master and doctoral programs of American colleges and universities. He helped colleges and universities save billions of dollars. The White House published two of his books. After moving on to a stint with UNESCO, Dr. Moore he was invited to be the founding director of the International Advanced Intercultural Study Center. This consortium at the University of Chicago included member institutions such as Johns Hopkins, Southern Illinois, Stanford, Tulane and Wisconsin. The Center studied indigenous people ranging from Native Americans to tribes in Lesotho. Dr. Moore met the prime minister of Lesotho, along with Ghandi's former secretary and the author of Indonesia's new language. Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore worked about 40 years together as leaders, editors, and authors for their research foundations. They helped form the Cedar Springs Foundation, which was later renamed the Hewitt Research Foundation. Since 1983 the Foundation has operated in Washougal, Washington, near the Columbia River. The Moores focused on early childhood education, school entrance age, and teacher-student work-study programs. Along with Raymond, Dorothy served as a pioneer in the resurgence of the old-fashioned home-education phenomenon. Reflects Dr. Moore, "God, with the likes of Reader's Digest, James Dobson, John Holt, Reed Benson, thousands of media, and all of you, turned home education into a giant movement." The Moores have written numerous books and published articles . Their most famous work, a 1979 Brigham Young University Press book entitled School Can Wait, was written during this period. This book is a classic must-read for scholars of the alternative-education movement. Raymond's authorship credits include thirty-five college texts. Beginning in 1983, Dorothy headed a team of carefully selected educational counselors who fulfilled the dream of helping families educate their own children legally. The Moores set up individualized programs for each child enrolled, creating units of study tailored to the child's interests, aptitudes and abilities. Now known as the Raymond S. and Dorothy N. Moore Foundation in Washougal, Washington, their program works with hundreds of families every year and has formed the basis for a "Malachi Movement" stressing family togetherness and work-study-service balance in schools. The goal of the organization is to make schools, churches and families more creative, efficient and debt-free in health, education, welfare and service to their communities. When Dorothy passed away in 2002, after a lifetime of service, alternative educators around the world lauded her contribution. We knew her voice could never be fully replaced. "I thank God, my Master Teacher," said Dr. Moore, "for giving me a special lady for 64 years who walked at my side during half of those homeschool years through sunshine and storm." In her absence, and with the help of a new wife who "selflessly" assists him, Raymond continues to be a tireless, progressive force in alternative education. His profound reservoir of professional, cultural, religious, educational, and intellectual experience continues to inform and enrich the alternative-education movement. For all of this, and more (no pun intended), the Quaqua Society is very pleased to present the 2002 Quaqua Elijah Award to honor Dr. Raymond and Dorothy N. Moore. Biographical sketches for the Moores were drawn from the Raymond S. and Dorothy N. Moore Foundation memorial page , the Raymond S. and Dorothy N. Moore Foundation biographical sketch of the Moores , and electronic mail provided by Pat Wolfswinkel of the Raymond S. and Dorothy N. Moore Foundation. 2001 Dr. Reed A. Benson and May Hinckley Benson The 2001 Elijah Award was presented to Dr. Reed A. Benson and his wife, May Hinckley Benson. Dr. Reed A. Benson is a professor in the Ancient Scripture Department at Brigham Young University and teaches a thousand students a semester. He has written for a national news magazine, lectured widely, and interviewed with numerous TV and print outlets. A former Air Force Chaplain during the Korean War, he was the President of the Kentucky, Louisville Mission, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served as Branch President in Oxford, England and in the Israel District Presidency. The eldest son of President and Mrs. Ezra Taft Benson, he is the father of nine children and grandfather to twenty-four. Dr. Benson was the author of the first dissertation in the nation on home education, which is still in print. He collaborated with John Holt, Dr. Raymond Moore, Dr. Larry Arnoldson, and other early pioneers of modern alternative education, consistently lending his influence to support home education during its critical embryonic years in the western United States. He helped develop some of the modern conventions of the home education movement, including the very notion of state home-education conventions and "modern" home-education outreach. May Hinckley Benson was honored as Homeschooling Mother of the Year in 2000. She completed studies at the University of Utah, University of Maryland, and Cornell. With a great display of courage, she successfully home-educated her nine adopted children for fifteen years during the early days of the modern home-education movement. She is a popular speaker and a pioneer in the home education movement who has consistently lent her voice of experience and support. Both Reed and May are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The Quaqua Society is both proud and grateful to honor the Bensons for their profound contribution to the home-education community. They have been instrumental in helping Utah to have, at least to this point, one of the most progressive environments for home education to be found anywhere in the nation. Their tireless and uncompensated service has touched thousands of lives. They will never be forgotten. Biographical sketches for the Bensons were drawn from http://www.schoolofabraham.com/speakers.htm. John Holt (In memoriam 1923 - 1985) John Holt passed away on September 14, 1985, before Quaqua was founded. Had Holt lived to reach his 77th birthday, however, he almost certainly would have been the Quaqua Society's first Elijah Award recipient. Holt receives honorary mention on this page because of his profound contribution to the modern alternative-education movement. Photographs and a biographical sketch of Holt can be found by clicking here .  
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Who has been the “head” elf in the Keebler Cookie Tree since 1970?
History of Keebler's Advertising | eHow History of Keebler's Advertising Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images The Keebler elves are among the most recognizable advertising icons in the food industry. The Keebler company has embraced the elves as its company icon, but the survival of the elves was not always certain. Although they were almost lost to history, the elves have endured the ups and downs of their parent company. The Beginning Keebler began with a single bakery in 1853. Godfrey Keebler opened the bakery that bore his name in Philadelphia. Gradually, Keebler expanded the distribution of his products and formed ties with other bakeries in other locations. In 1927, when his group included 16 businesses, the bakeries came together in the United Biscuit Company of America. The bakeries were under the control of one company. However, each continued to market its individual products under the name of the local bakery. The Keebler Name The United Biscuit Company of America updated its corporate structure throughout the first years of the 1960s. The bakeries adopted one brand name for their products in 1966. The corporation hoped to establish national recognition for its products. The name that it chose for its brand was Keebler. Made by Elves The newly unified company needed an image to promote its products and tie them together. In 1969, Leo Burnett devised Keebler's signature characters -- the elves. J.J. Keebler and Ollie Keebler each had a brief stint as head elf. In 1970, Ernie Keebler became the head Keebler elf. Inside the Hollow Tree in Sylvan Glen, he directs the other elves in baking "uncommonly good" cookies. Different Keebler products and advertising campaigns have given rise to a host of other defined elf characters with their own abilities and personalities. United Biscuit Company The United Biscuit Company, based in the United Kingdom, bought out the United Biscuit company of America in 1974. The new owners redirected the company toward snack production that strayed from its bakery origins. As Keebler moved away from the cookies that it made so well, it lost market share to other companies, most notably Nabisco. The Keebler brand began to lose money. The Keebler Corporation split from the United Biscuit Company in 1996 as a result of a leveraged buyout. Bringing Back the Elves The newly independent company was in need of a corporate image, just as it had been when it first unified. Under the leadership of Sam Reed and David Vermylen, Keebler expanded its product line and adopted icons from its history. Ernie Keebler again became the spokesman for Keebler, supervising the elves inside the Hollow Tree. The tree and the elves became the symbols of the Keebler Corporation. The company was acquired by Kellogg in 2001, but the elves remained an important part of Keebler marketing. In 2003, Keebler employees marked the brand's 150th anniversary with a 150-pound cookie that celebrated the company and its elves.
Ernie
Malt, wine, rice, and distilled are all types of what?
WWWF Grudge Match - Keebler Elves vs. Cookie Monster - More responses Wambuagh: "Has anyone ever tried to help you find more suitable housing." Oscar: "Why would they?" Wambaugh: "You see your honor, they are so downtrodden they don't think they deserve better than living in a small garbage can in a run down neighborhood." Oscar: "Who could possibly deserve better than that. I just wish that stupid bird would move somewhere else." Wambaugh: "Overcrowding too your honor..it's madness." Fielding: (on cross examination) "So have you Mr Grouch ever shoved a small woodland creature into a stove in order to achieve your desire." Oscar: "Never had the chance...too bad..sounds like fun." OF course cookie monster takes the stand several times. Wamabugh eventually has him quite well trained, and throws him a cookie every time he gives the right answer. After 17 years of Litigation the matter is settled. Disney pays roughly 1/100th of what they spent in legal fees to Nabisco. The legal statues change regarding monster rights, Hud comes in and closes Oscars garbage can evicting him in the process, And elmo is placed in charge of the new monster rights project, with Sweetums doing his muscle work. The world is never the same again. ***All characters used herein are used without permission but the writer holds all these characters in the highest esteem, and thinks each one is an honor to their chosen profession, with the exception of Judge Judy, who is obviously an ass-head. - Nez Master "Ah yes, I see young grasshoppah..." (The Old Chinese Wise Guy (TM) turns towards his student, a cocky american teenager) (Also TM) "But see do you? Reach outwards- Get sense of events in dah universe you must..." "But Sensai- I'm so hungry!" OCWG(Old Chinese Wise Guy): Sh! Reach outwards... The power you shall feel... But the cocky american teenager senses only his hunger.. He tries to reach outwards.. and then connects with another hungry soul, currently in battle against many tiny foes... CAT (Cocky american teenager): Sensai! I sense a battle! OCWG: Continue my son! CAT: (With eyes closed) A great blue mass struggles against many small hive like creatures... OCWG: Ah yes... sense it too, I do... Know the blue mass I do... A monster he is.. But judge him do not! CAT: (Gets a headache from his master's dyslexia) Fight them he does... I mean uh... (Pans to a scene that the CAT sees and relays on to the OCWG) Keebler Elves: You giant hairy excuse of a bathmat! We have no cookies! Haven't you seen the damn commercials? Cookie Monster: Coooookkkkiiiiieeeesss!!!! OCWG: Is also why work at car wash you do- Wax on! Wax off! CAT: Wow! I guess so! You must be right Sensai... OCGW: Of course right, I am! Know the blue mass, I do. Eat all my fortune cookies, he did... Kick his ass I was happy to do... And as the two fade into the night, eating extra crab rangoon, more than two muppet's stomachs are full... - John X of the Drive Through speaker clan. "Braah Vooz, cahm egn!" I've driven by the Keebler plant several times now, alongside I-78 in eastern Pennsylvania. I'm assuming that the tree is located there. Right next to this Keebler plant is a Pabst Blue Ribbon brewery. There's bound to be some cookie/beer exchange between the elves and rednecks, so the treehouse is stocked with cases and cases of PBR. This beer is not for recreation, but for home defense. All cookie producing entities, from the Pillsbury Doughboy to the old Pepperidge Farm man, have a contingency plan for CMA (Cookie Monster Assault). Why do you think the elves choose to place all their cookie ovens in a flammable structure? It sucks for baking, but strategically it's Masada with leaves. The first line of defense are the firearms. Rifles, cannons, flamethrowers, uncreative but effective measures. This will turn back a Hamburgler or Cookie Crisp convict. But Cookie Monster is a monster, (a giant one to elves) and as movies have shown, giant monsters are impervious to gunfire. Cookie shrugs off the harmless lead and starts scaling the tree. This is where the Pabst Blue Ribbon comes in. Cases of warm beer sitting by cookie ovens alternately on and off, with the chill that comes when night falls on a tree full of holes. If this beer were any skunkier, it�d be hopping around Paris trying to nail a cat with paint down its back. After a massive firearm discharge, the elves all quickly grab bottles of PBR, guzzle them down, and promptly get nauseous. They stagger to the hole Cookie�s trying to reach, stick their pointy-eared heads over the lip, and let loose. Cookie gets doused with the vomit, hundreds of little stomachs regurgitating voraciously. The tree bark gets slippery (possibly eaten away from the hydrochloric acid in the barf) and Cookie loses his handholds. And don�t you know his blue fur�s going to suck it all up and stink for weeks. It is hoped that Cookie Monster will give up and trudge on back to Sesame Street. The puppeteer certainly will, leaving Cookie as a limp piece of fabric in a funky-smelling patch of ground in Pennsylvania. More PBR consumption and refunding is scheduled in case of a second or third climb. However, it could just make Cookie enraged, a very powerful force in the land of the Grudge Match. Powerful enough to make him detach from his puppeteer and climb solo. The flexible (and vomit-soaked) blue fur can easily work its way through the tree hole, and like the upper torso of Bishop in Aliens, allow Cookie enough mobility so he can drag himself around on his hands. He�ll pull his way into a main hall, and see the balcony above crowd with every living elf in the place. The doors behind him will slam and lock into place. Ernie is standing on the railing, holding a green flag. "Go!" he screams as he waves the flag. Hundreds of elfin bladders are unleashed onto CM, flooding the googly-eyed gargantuan. The hall quickly fills, making blue fur seem green. If his mouth had any sort of hole in it, he�d find it hard to breathe air. After four minutes (brain death occurs after three minutes without oxygen) a network of culverts in the tree funnels most of the urine away from the cookies themselves, and safely back into the Pabst brewery to be bottled again. Sheerly for the sake of argument, let's say that the Elvin Wee-Wee Warfare (EWWW) doesn't repel Cookie. Perhaps he has a rebreather. If he does, and assuming he finds a way to get to the balcony, he�ll now have access to the cookie warehouse. He�ll enter, smelling like the Bronx, and find the surviving elves squatting over the cookies, pants around their ankles. "We didn't want it to come to this," Enrie says, a tear in his eye, "but if Keebler's fine customers can't have these cookies, no one can. Men, release!" Inch-sized gastrointestinal systems, ravaged by a diet of empty calories and cheap alcohol, spew forth their endproducts onto the pristine cookies. The rectal bleats will only be matched by Cookie�s terrified screams. His purpose for life will be killed in front of him, assuring catatonia if not instant death. Moral of the story: if you hear of a monster attack in eastern Pennsylvania, stay away from the Fudge Shoppe cookies. - Kilgore Trout, High Class Humorist
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"Video Killed the Radio Star" by the Buggles, was the first video aired on what cable channel on Aug 1, 1981?
MTV Original Broadcast 8/1/1981 - YouTube MTV Original Broadcast 8/1/1981 Want to watch this again later? Sign in to add this video to a playlist. Need to report the video? Sign in to report inappropriate content. The interactive transcript could not be loaded. Loading... Rating is available when the video has been rented. This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. Uploaded on Jul 29, 2011 I do not own the rights to this video. It is owned by MTV. I am simply posting this for people to see how great MTV was and for you to see how it all started. On August 1, 1981, at 12:01 a.m., MTV launched with the words "Ladies and gentlemen, rock and roll," spoken by John Lack, and played over footage of the launch of Apollo 11. Those words were immediately followed by the original MTV theme song, a crunching classical tune composed by Jonathan Elias and John Petersen, playing over photos of the Apollo 11 moon landing, with the flag featuring MTV's logo changing various colors, textures, and designs. Category
MTV
From the Latin for "to become pale", what element with an atomic number of 4, uses the symbol Be?
The Very First Videos That MTV Aired | The Huffington Post The Very First Videos That MTV Aired 08/01/2013 01:42 pm ET 790 On August 1, 1981, the world was introduced to Music Television. After airing a numerical countdown, MTV began with the words "Ladies and gentleman, rock and roll." In the decades since, MTV has made the transition from music videos to "TRL" to "The Hills" to "Catfish," and it's now more of a home for reality television than for music's latest visuals. In celebration of the launch of MTV, take a trip down memory lane with the first ten videos that MTV aired below. 1. "Video Killed the Radio Star" - The Buggles 2. "You Better Run" - Pat Benatar 3. "She Won't Dance with Me" - Rod Stewart 4. "You Better You Bet" - The Who 5. "Little Suzi's on the Up" - Ph.D. 6. "We Don't Talk Anymore" - Cliff Richard 7. "Brass in Pocket" - The Pretenders 8. "Time Heals" - Todd Rundgren 9."Take It on the Run" by REO Speedwagon 10. "Rockin’ The Paradise" - Styx MTV Stars
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The poker hand known as dead man's hand, as it was supposedly the cards held by Wild West legend Wild Bill Hickok, consists of 2 pairs of what cards?
Wild Bill Hickok - Under Appreciated Rock Vocalists Under Appreciated Rock Vocalists     "Wild Bill" Hickok  (born James Butler Hickok; May 27, 1837 – August 2, 1876) was a folk character of the American Old West.  He told many outlandish tales about his life and was regarded as a liar by many of his contemporaries.  Some contemporary reports of his exploits are known to be fictitious but along with his own stories are the basis for much of his fame and reputation.  James Butler Hickok worked as a stagecoach driver and later as a lawman, in the frontier territories of Kansas and Nebraska.  He fought (and spied) for the Union Army, during the American Civil War and gained publicity after the war as a scout, marksman, actor and professional gambler.  He was involved in several notable shootouts.  In 1876, Hickok was shot from behind and killed while playing poker in a saloon in Deadwood, Dakota Territory (now South Dakota), by an unsuccessful gambler, Jack McCall.  The hand of cards which he supposedly held at the time of his death (black aces and eights) has become known as the dead man's hand.   (More from Wikipedia)     Cris Williamson  grew up in Deadwood, South Dakota as the daughter of a forest ranger; their home had no electricity, so her phonograph was of the wind-up variety.  The Nuttal & Mann's Saloon in Deadwood is the place where Wild Bill Hickok was gunned down during a poker game; the cards he was holding – a pair of aces and a pair of eights – became known as the "dead man's hand" thereafter, particularly (as in this case) when the cards are all in the black suits.  My father and I each had a shot at the saloon many years ago while much of our family was on a Western tour.   
Dead man's hand
According to the World Health Organization, what is the leading mosquito-borne disease in the world?
Old West Pictures Old West Pictures - greeting cards - sweepstakes Business Opportunities and much more..... James Butler Hickok (May 27, 1837 – August 2, 1876) known as "Wild Bill" Hickok—was a folk character of the American Old West. Some of his exploits as reported at the time were fiction, but his skill as a gunfighter and gambler provided the basis for his fame, along with his reputation as a lawman. Hickok was born and raised on a farm in rural Illinois. He went west at age 18 as a fugitive from justice, first working as a stagecoach driver, then as a lawman in the frontier territories of Kansas and Nebraska. He fought (and spied) for the Union Army during the American Civil War and gained publicity after the war as a scout, marksman, actor and professional gambler. Hickok was involved in several notable shootouts. He was shot from behind and killed while playing poker in a saloon in Deadwood, Dakota Territory (now South Dakota) by an unsuccessful gambler, Jack McCall. The card hand which he supposedly held at the time of his death (aces and eights) has come to be known as the "Dead Man's Hand".
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August 6, 1945 saw the US bomber Enola Gay drop the first atomic bomb on what Japanese city?
American bomber drops atomic bomb on Hiroshima - Aug 06, 1945 - HISTORY.com This Day In History: 08/06/1945 - Atomic Bomb Hits Hiroshima President Harry Truman orders the Enola Gay to drop the atom bomb on Hiroshima, Cy Young joined major league baseball, the first woman swims the English Channel, and Jamaican independence is declared in This Day in History video. The date is August 6th. The atom bomb was also dropped on Nagasaki which helped end World War II when Japan surrendered. Lead Story American bomber drops atomic bomb on Hiroshima Share this: American bomber drops atomic bomb on Hiroshima Author American bomber drops atomic bomb on Hiroshima URL Publisher A+E Networks On this day in 1945, at 8:16 a.m. Japanese time, an American B-29 bomber, the Enola Gay, drops the world’s first atom bomb, over the city of Hiroshima. Approximately 80,000 people are killed as a direct result of the blast, and another 35,000 are injured. At least another 60,000 would be dead by the end of the year from the effects of the fallout. U.S. President Harry S. Truman, discouraged by the Japanese response to the Potsdam Conference’s demand for unconditional surrender, made the decision to use the atom bomb to end the war in order to prevent what he predicted would be a much greater loss of life were the United States to invade the Japanese mainland. And so on August 5, while a “conventional” bombing of Japan was underway, “Little Boy,” (the nickname for one of two atom bombs available for use against Japan), was loaded onto Lt. Col. Paul W. Tibbets’ plane on Tinian Island in the Marianas. Tibbets’ B-29, named the Enola Gay after his mother, left the island at 2:45 a.m. on August 6. Five and a half hours later, “Little Boy” was dropped, exploding 1,900 feet over a hospital and unleashing the equivalent of 12,500 tons of TNT. The bomb had several inscriptions scribbled on its shell, one of which read “Greetings to the Emperor from the men of the Indianapolis” (the ship that transported the bomb to the Marianas). There were 90,000 buildings in Hiroshima before the bomb was dropped; only 28,000 remained after the bombing. Of the city’s 200 doctors before the explosion; only 20 were left alive or capable of working. There were 1,780 nurses before-only 150 remained who were able to tend to the sick and dying. According to John Hersey’s classic work Hiroshima, the Hiroshima city government had put hundreds of schoolgirls to work clearing fire lanes in the event of incendiary bomb attacks. They were out in the open when the Enola Gay dropped its load. There were so many spontaneous fires set as a result of the bomb that a crewman of the Enola Gay stopped trying to count them. Another crewman remarked, “It’s pretty terrific. What a relief it worked.” Related Videos
Hiroshima
What is the name of the NFL team that calls Philadelphia home?
Two atomic bombs which were dropped on Japan Energy released: equivalent to 12.5 kilotons of TNT. Code name: “Little Boy”. Dropping the first atomic bomb At 2:45 A.M. local time (August 6, 1945), the Enola Gay, a B-29 bomber loaded with an atomic bomb, took off from the US air base on Tinian Island in the western Pacific. Six and a half hours later, at 8:15 A.M. Japan time, the bomb was dropped and it exploded a minute later at an estimated altitude of 580 +- 20 meters over central Hiroshima. Initial explosive conditions Maximum temperature at burst point: several million degrees centigrade. A fireball of 15-meters radius formed in 0.1 millisecond, with a temperature of 300,000 degrees centigrade, and expanded to its huge maximum size in one second. The top of the atomic cloud reached an altitude of 17,000 meters. Black rain Radioactive debris was deposited by “black rain” that fell heavily for over an hour over a wide area. Damaging effects of the atomic bomb Thermal hear Intense thermal heat emitted by the fireball caused severe burns and loss of eyesight. Thermal burns of bare skin occurred as far as 3.5 kilometers from ground zero (directly below the burst point). Most people exposed to thermal rays within 1-kilometer radius of ground zero died. Tile and glass melted; all combustible materials were consumed. Blast An atomic explosion causes an enormous shock wave followed instanteneously by a rapid expansion of air called the blast; these represent roughtly half the explosion's released energy. Maximum wind pressure of the blast: 35 tons per square meter. Maximum wind velocity: 440 meters per second. Wooden houses within 2.3 kilometers of ground zero collapsed. Concrete buildings near ground zero (thus hit by the blast from above) had ceilings crushed and windows and doors blown off. Many people were trapped under fallen strunctures and burned to death. Radiation People exposure within 500 meters of ground zero was fatal. People exposed at distances of 3 to 5 kilometers later showed symptoms of aftereffects, including radiation-induced cancers. Bodily injuries Acute symptoms Symptoms appearing in the first four months were called acute. Besides burns and wounds, they included: general malaise, fatigue, headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, abnormally low white blood cell count, bloody discharge, anemia, loss of hair. Aftereffects Prolonged injuries were associated with aftereffects. The most serious in this category were: keloids (massive scar tissue on burned areas), cataracts, leukemia and other cancers. Atomic demographics Population The estimated pre-bomb population was 300,000 to 400,000. Because official documents were burned, the exact population is uncertain. Deaths With an uncertain population figure, the death toll could only be estimated. According to data submitted to the United Nations by Hiroshima City in 1976, the death count reached 140,000 (plus or minus 10,000) by the end of December, 1945. Health card holders Persons qualifying for treatment under the A-bomb Victims Medical Care law of 1957 received Health Cards; holders as of March 31, 1990, numbered 352,550. Nagasaki The atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki exploded at 11:02 A.M. on August 9. Using plutonium with an explosive power of 20 kilotons of TNT-equivalent, it left an estimated 70,000 dead by the end of 1945, although both population and the deaths are uncertain. Photos (click to enlarge the image) Manhattan Project — Journey of the dead Hiroshima — August 7, 1945
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Bing, King, and Rainier are all types of what?
The Best Cherries For Eating vs. Baking | The Huffington Post The Best Cherries For Eating vs. Baking 07/10/2012 09:00 am ET | Updated Aug 31, 2012 Do you know the difference between the kind of cherries you'd eat vs. the ones you should bake or cook with? There are many varieties of cherries, all in different colors, but cherries are basically broken down into two groups: sweet and tart. That distinction may seem minimal but it's really important to realize and know when it comes to baking or cooking with cherries, since there are some things you will need to take into account -- or you might end up with a runny pie that tastes wincingly sour. Don't get us wrong, you can bake with any cherries you wish, but if you're looking for that characteristic cherry pie recipe, there's only one type of cherry you should be using -- and that's sour (or tart) cherries. Sour cherries are actually pretty sour on their own. Some people can tolerate eating them, but they're really best for baking into pies and tarts or cooking into jams or relishes. The cherry pies you'd buy in the supermarket or the cherry pie filling you buy in a can are made from sour cherries. Generally you won't find fresh sour cherries in the supermarket, so instead try the farmer's market. Sour cherries are bright red in color and have an almost perfectly spherical shape. They're also very juicy, so you will want to use starch to thicken their liquids when you're baking a pie. And of course, since they're tart, you'll need more sugar than you would if you were using sweet cherries.
Cherry
What SNL cast member is the host of this years Shark Week?
Types of Cherries: There Are Over 1,000 Different Cherries! Follow Types of Cherries With over 1,000 different types in existence, there is a cherry out there for everyone’s taste buds. The most familiar types are maraschino, black, bing, and rainier cherries. The choke cherry , black stone cherry, morello, north star, napoleon, and Spanish cherry cherries are some of the less well known types. Many of them come from the subgenus Cerasus and are cultivated in the Northern Hemisphere in at least twenty different countries. These tasty antioxidant fruits grow best in temperate climates, and their peak season is summer. The seeds of a cherry do require some cold to germinate, which is why they cannot grow in tropical weather. With all the types of cherry, it’s hard to know where to start. Unfortunately, not all the types are edible or as delicious as others. The most popular types of cherries are: maraschino, black, bing, and rainier cherries. You can find these cherries in supermarkets all across the western world. The following is a list of the more familiar types of cherries, along with some lesser known (but not obscure) ones: Here is a list of cherry types. Types of Cherries Sweetheart Tieton Cherry Categories Most often, cherry types are divided into two categories: sweet (P. avium) and sour (P. cerasus). Sweet cherries are often eaten plain, while sour/tart cherries are used for cooking (adding flavor and the like). These two categories have different benefits. Sweet cherries are less physically health, providing both fiber and vitamin C but not in quantities as significant (to Daily Value) as with sour cherries. Sour cherries contain high percentages of vitamins A and C and beta carotene. The acerola cherry is reported to have a vitamin C content higher than any other fruit we know of. The montmorency and balaton varieties of cherries are produced primarily in Michigan. Bing cherries and rainer cherries are extremely well-known varieties, and the former is produced primarily in Michigan. Montgomery cherries are popular in the midwest U.S. and fit into the sour category. They are used frequently as pie fillings or fruity sauces. You’ll find tieton cherries displayed in most grocery stores due to their sweet flavor, large size, and glossiness, which make them appear enticing. Health Benefits of Cherries Research has been conducted to establish the amount of anthocyanins in cherries and their effects. So far, the studies suggest that cherries can have an effect on inflammation and pain. In one study, tart cherry powder combined with a high-fat diet, was fed to rats. These rats did not gain as much body weight as others. This suggest tart cherries could reduce weight gain, but further research is necessary on this topic. Most recently, scientists have tested cherries’ effect on sufferers of gout. They found that individuals who eat cherries regularly had a 35-75% lower risk of experiencing an attack of gout, which causes joint inflammation that is incredibly painful. The lead researcher of this study urges sufferers not to give up on their gout medication, but to increase their cherry intake in combination with it. The year following this study, the research team checked in with participants and found that those consuming cherry extract had a 45% decrease in attacks. The most significant change was for those eating raw cherries, who experienced a 75% drop. Simply amazing! For more information, read how cherries work to prevent gout . Read and learn more about cherries! Visit the following pages on this site:
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Begining the end of July, what war was known as The War to End All Wars?
WWI Centennial: “The War to End All Wars” | Mental Floss WWI Centennial: “The War to End All Wars” Getty Images Like us on Facebook The First World War was an unprecedented catastrophe that shaped our modern world. Erik Sass is covering the events of the war exactly 100 years after they happened. This is the 139th installment in the series. August 14 - 19, 1914: “The War to End All Wars” “We have not sought this reckoning, we have done our utmost to avoid it; but now that it has been forced upon us it is imperative that it should be a thorough reckoning,” the British futurist writer H.G. Wells wrote in an article titled “The War That Will End War,” published in The Daily News on August 14, 1914. Commonly cited as “the war to end all wars” or a similar variant, the phrase was quickly adopted as a slogan to explain British and later American participation in the war, as set forth by Wells in his essay: This is already the vastest war in history. It is a war not of nations, but of mankind. It is a war to exorcise a world-madness and end an age… For this is now a war for peace. It aims straight at disarmament. It aims at a settlement that shall stop this sort of thing for ever. Every soldier who fights against Germany now is a crusader against war. This, the greatest of all wars, is not just another war—it is the last war! In fact, pundits welcomed the war for a whole variety of reasons, coincidentally reflecting their own agendas. Some predicted it would lead to a “rebirth” of society in a “purified” form, which could mean anything from the end of class distinctions, to a return of chivalrous ideals, to the purging of “foreign” racial elements. Others, like Wells, hoped it would result in the overthrow of tyranny and triumph of democracy. Colonial subjects believed the war might force white Europeans to grant them more rights, or even independence. Illinois.edu But for many ordinary young men who volunteered to fight in the early days of the conflict, it simply seemed to offer an opportunity for adventure and (ironically) freedom. Jack O’Brien, a Canadian volunteer, recalled telling his friend, “I can't get it out of my head. There is going to be the devil of a scrap over there—and say, boy! I've got to get into it!” The German novelist Carl Zuckmayer later recalled that for young middle class men volunteering meant Liberation from middle-class narrowness and fussiness… from the doubts about choosing a profession and from all the things that we perceived—consciously or unconsciously—as the saturation, closeness, and rigidity of our world… It had become serious… and at the same time a huge exhilarating adventure... We shouted out “freedom” while we were jumping into the strait-jacket of the Prussian uniform. It sounds absurd. But we had become men with a single blow. 1914-1918.net In Britain, 299,000 men enlisted in August (the scene in Whitehall, above), followed by another 463,000 in September, while 350,000 Frenchmen volunteered in the first week of August alone, and comparable numbers flooded recruiting centers in Germany. Everything around them seemed to confirm they were making the right decision. Across Europe, young men enlisted and went off to war in a festive atmosphere, amid cheering throngs who smothered them with candy, flowers, alcohol, cigarettes and—in a memorable departure from propriety for some young women—kisses. French and British troops in Belgium and British troops in France received similarly delirious welcomes. Hugh Gibson, the secretary at the American embassy in Brussels, described the arrival of French scouts in Brussels: The people in the crowd had bought out the near-by shops of cigars and cigarettes and chocolate and small flasks of brandy, and as each man rode by he was loaded up with as much as he could carry… All the cafes around the Porte Louise sent out waiters and waitresses with trays of beer to meet the troops… Each man would snatch a glass of beer, swallow it as he rode along, and hand it back to others… The French and British troops can have anything they want in this country. Wikimedia Commons Philip Gibbs, a British war correspondent, recalled: “In every market square where the regiments halted for a rest there was free wine for any thirsty throat, and soldier boys from Scotland or England had their brown hands kissed by girls who were eager for hero worship and had fallen in love with these clean-shaven lads and their smiling grey eyes.” Hidden Fears But these public scenes didn’t tell the whole truth, as many people kept their fears private— especially women who, finding themselves suddenly alone, still tried their best to put on a brave face. Princess Blücher, an Englishwoman married to a German aristocrat who was living in Berlin, wrote in mid-August: … a lady has just been in to see me who came straight from parting from her only son, a boy of 21. She described how heartrending were his excitement and delight at going off with the rest, and how she could hardly hide her grief when beaming with pride he showed her the little metal disc with his name on it, which every soldier wears for identification in case of being killed… In fact this seemingly unfeeling heroism often puzzles me. There is hardly any thought of life and love and relations in the young men going away, but a sort of reckless joy in the certainty of the near death awaiting them… One can do nothing as a woman but remain passive and look on, although on a perfect rack of torment. Everywhere, the public displays of enthusiasm coexisted with anxiety about the future. Many people hoped the war would be “over by Christmas,” but Lord Kitchener, the hero of Sudan who was hastily appointed Secretary of State for War on August 6, shocked the British public with his prediction that the war would last at least three years and require millions of men. Equally sobering were the first contacts with refugees. On August 14, Piete Kuhr, a 12-year-old girl living in eastern Germany, wrote: “You suddenly get the feeling that the enemy is quite near. People are becoming uneasy. Fresh refugees have arrived from East Prussia… One woman with noisy children kept crying out, ‘Where can we go? Where can we go?’ She said, ‘A girl like you can have no idea what it’s like, can you?’ and tears ran down her chubby red cheeks.” The Enigma of War This widespread anxiety was heightened by a general sense of helpless ignorance; indeed, one of the most remarkable aspects of the Great War was how little most people, civilians and soldiers alike, actually knew about what was going on. This was the inevitable (and probably intended) result of wartime censorship, instituted by emergency decrees and legislation like Britain’s Defense of the Realm Act, which left an information vacuum to be filled by rumor and official propaganda. Soldiers were often stunningly misinformed. On August 9, Hugh Gibson, the secretary at the American embassy in Brussels, heard about German prisoners of war who “did not know what they were attacking and thought they were in France.” Around the same time Gladys Lloyd, an Englishwoman traveling in Belgium, had a friendly encounter with German Uhlans (cavalry) who occupied the village she was staying in: “Many honestly believe, and have probably been told so by their officers, that Belgium wantonly declared war on Germany.” On the other side many people believed that the United States was joining the war on one side or the other. Gibson, the secretary at the U.S. embassy in Brussels, recalled: “They were pathetic in their confidence that the United States was coming to save them… Nearly every group we talked to asked hopefully when our troops were coming…” Irvin Cobb, a writer for the Saturday Evening Post, was asked by a Belgian innkeeper: “Messieurs… do you think it can be true, as my neighbors tell me, that the United States President has ordered the Germans to get out of our country?” A few days later, Cobb met a German private who asked him if the U.S. was going to join the war on Germany’s side. Even people supposed to be “in the know” were anything but. On August 9, the French General Joseph Gallieni, sitting in a Paris café in civilian attire, overhead a newspaper editor at a neighboring table assuring his friend that he, Gallieni, had just entered Colmar, 230 miles to the east of Paris, at the head of a victorious French army. Amused, Gallieni whispered to his friend, “That is how history is written.” Foreigners were sometimes better informed than natives, if they had access to outside information. On August 23 Eric Fisher Wood, the U.S. military attaché in Paris, wrote: Here in Paris, extraordinary as it may seem, we have had no real news of the progress of the war. The Official Communiques carry to a fine point the art of saying nothing of any importance. The newspapers are so strictly censored that they are permitted to publish little except these communiques or editorials based upon them. Letters and papers from America really give us the first accounts of events which are happening at our very gates. Americans Caught In the War Zone Wood’s colleagues at the U.S. embassy had their work cut out for them. Among the Great War’s more marginal victims were thousands of Americans who’d been enjoying a lovely summer on the continent only to find themselves suddenly caught in a war zone. They were a cross section of American society, from wealthy tourists to middle class college students, bohemian artists, professional musicians, and everyone in between, but they all had one thing in common: they wanted out—now. This was a challenge, as railroads were taken over by each nation’s military, berths on ships leaving Europe quickly sold out, and the international banking system froze up, making checks drawn on American banks useless. The latter was an especially trying circumstance for American millionaires who now found themselves literally penniless and adrift in a foreign country. Meanwhile anyone with the misfortune to be caught in Germany had an extra layer of logistics to deal with, since the only way out was through the neutral Netherlands, Switzerland, or Scandinavian countries. Charles Inman Barnard described meeting some American tourists recently arrived in Paris from Germany via Zurich, including one family… lucky enough to catch the last train conveying [German] troops westward. They traveled for two days without food or water, one of the ladies fainting from exhaustion, and after the train reached its destination they had to walk several miles across the frontier, where they were taken on board a French troop train. They lost all their baggage. Eight other Americans reported a similar experience. They had a tramp of ten miles into France, and one of their number, a lady partly paralyzed, had to be carried. They could procure no food until they reached France. The U.S. ambassador to the Netherlands, Henry van Dyke, recalled: I never had any idea, before the war broke out, how many of our countrymen and countrywomen there are roaming about Europe every summer, and with what a cheerful trust in Providence and utter dis­regard of needful papers and precautions some of them roam! There were old men so feeble that one’s first thought on seeing them was: “How did you get away from your nurse?”… There were col­lege boys who had worked their way over and couldn't find a chance to work it back. There were art-students and music-students whose resources had given out. There was a very rich woman, plastered with diamonds, who demanded the free use of my garage for the storage of her auto­mobile. When I explained that, to my pro­found regret, it was impossible… she flounced out of the room in high dudgeon. Now, not for the first or last time, the U.S. government set about the task of extricating its hapless citizens from a very complex and unpleasant situation overseas. Congress allocated $1.5 million in gold to provide credit (or grants) to stranded Americans and on August 6 the battleship U.S.S. Tennessee departed for from New York for Europe carrying this money, as well as $3 million in private bankers’ gold, and Assistant Secretary of War Henry Breckinridge to oversee the relief and evacuation efforts. After the Tennessee arrived in Britain on August 16, the United States Relief Commission set up its headquarters London, where thousands of Americans from across the continent had already washed up. Meanwhile Breckinridge proceeded to tour U.S. embassies and consulates across the continent, stopping in the Hague, Berlin, Vienna, Budapest, Geneva, and Paris, with funds to help indigent Americans get as far as London, where the relief commission would take over. Spy Scares Ambient feelings of ignorance and insecurity helped fuel a wave of paranoia that swept Europe in the first weeks of the Great War, fixating on spies. Although both sides doubtless employed spies to keep tabs on enemy troops movements and public opinion, it’s also very likely that thousands of innocent people were accused—and in some cases executed without trial—for totally imagined offenses. In Germany there were rumors of Russian agents driving cars full of French gold back to Russia, leading peasants to stop anyone in a car at gunpoint—and on occasion shoot first and ask questions later. In Berlin Princess Blücher lamented the “extraordinary spy-fever prevailing here as everywhere. People are being arrested all over the country, and the most harmless individuals are accused of being spies if they look the least different from their neighbours. Continual mistakes are being made, which often lead to fatal results for the victims.” Belgium, treacherously invaded by a much larger neighbor, suffered some of the worst spy mania. According to Wilson McNair, Belgian boy scouts led the persecution: One newspaper… had an article telling how a boy scout tracked a German spy and caught him while in the act of setting up a wireless installation on a housetop. From that hour every boy scout in Brussels became a spy-hunter… The thing became a plague within twenty-four hours… They followed the most innocent people and spread terror wherever they went… Spies were everywhere, and every man began to feel himself unsafe. Suspicion soon crossed into the realm of the absurd, according to Paul Hamelius, who fled Liège before invading German forces, along with some other unfortunates: “A pathetic site was a group of three Chinese students from the University of Liège, youths of the Mandarin caste, with small hands and polite manners. They told us, in their harsh accent, and with the humble Oriental smile, how they, of all men, had been taken for German spies.” Germans March Through Belgium Hamelius and his new friends left Liège in the nick of time, as one fort after another fell under the methodical, merciless bombardment of the German Army’s huge 42-centimeter siege guns. Fort Pontisse, the first victim of the “Big Berthas,” fell on August 12; on August 13, it was the turn of Embourg and Chaudfontaine; and by August 14 all the forts east of Liège had fallen, with the surrender of Boncelles, Liers, and Fléron. Finally, on August 16, the last holdout, Fort Loncin, was completely destroyed when a lucky shot hit the magazine (below). A German officer related the heroic, last-ditch resistance of Belgian troops led by General Gerard Leman: By this time our heaviest guns were in position, and a well-placed shell tore through the cracked and battered masonry and exploded in the main magazine.  With a thunderous crash the mighty walls of the fort fell.  Pieces of stone and concrete twenty-five cubic meters in size were hurled into the air… All the men in the fort were wounded, and most were unconscious.  A corporal with one arm shattered valiantly tried to drive us back by firing his rifle. Buried in the debris and pinned beneath a massive beam was General Leman… We thought him dead, but he recovered consciousness, and, looking around, said, “It is as it is.  The men fought valiantly,” and then, turning to us, added: “Put in your dispatches that I was unconscious.”   Nieuwdossier The fall of Liège cleared the way for the German First and Second Armies to advance into northern and central Belgium in force (top, German troops advance in Flanders) while the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Armies advanced through Luxembourg into the Ardennes Forest region of southeastern Belgium. On the other side, in the first half of August chief of the French general staff Joseph Joffre sent the Third Army under Pierre Ruffey and the Fourth Army under General Fernand de Langle de Cary to the eastern Belgian frontier to await the Germans, while the Fifth Army under General Charles Lanrezac advanced to a position near Mézières and Sedan. Joffre’s Plan XVII anticipated an advance by the German right wing through the Ardennes—but as Lanrezac predicted several months before, the German right wing, consisting of the First and Second Armies, was actually advancing through central Belgium some 50 miles further north, suggesting a sweeping envelopment of the French armies from the rear, which was indeed the essence of the Schlieffen Plan (see map below). In an age before spy satellites, it was difficult to gather reliable intelligence about the enemy’s position, as analysts tried to piece together disparate, sometimes contradictory information from spies, scouts on horseback, and pilots who attempted to estimate troop concentrations and movements with the naked eye. Nonetheless, in the first half of August a stream of alarming reports seemed to confirm Lanrezac’s suspicions: on August 7 German cavalry reached the River Meuse at Huy, just ten miles east of the key fortress city of Namur, and seemed to be preparing to cross west of the river into central Belgium. But on August 10 Joffre, busy with First Army’s short-lived invasion of Alsace, dismissed Lanrezac’s warning. Then on August 12, as German Uhlans skirmished with Belgian forces at Halen, Joffre again refused to allow Lanrezac to move Fifth Army north to Namur—although he grudgingly agreed to move a single corps (out of five in Fifth Army) to Dinant, barely across the Belgian border. He repeated the refusal on August 14. Meanwhile Lanrezac wasn’t the only one getting nervous. On August 11, Field Marshal Sir John French, the field commander of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), was briefed with intelligence revealing a large number of reserve divisions in the German front line – a surprising development, suggesting that the Germans were staking everything on a huge blow through Belgium. The following day Lord Kitchener, the new Secretary of War, predicted a German invasion west of the River Meuse and argued that the BEF should form further back, at Amiens, but was overruled by the French and British general staffs: The British divisions would concentrate near Maubeuge, close to the Belgian border, as originally planned. French Advance Into Lorraine Joffre, the architect of the Allied strategy, remained convinced that the main German thrust would come across the Franco-German frontier to the south, and acted accordingly. Following the embarrassing withdrawal of the First Army’s VII Corps from Mulhouse on August 10, on August 14 he ordered a new attack by the French First and Second Armies into the “lost province” of Lorraine, while the reinforced VII Corps, now acting as the independent Army of Alsace, mounted another attack into Alsace. In short, it was to be an all-out attack across the length of the frontier. Once again, the French offensive seemed to begin easily, as the First and Second Armies attacked towards Sarrebourg and into the Vosges Mountains, as well as northeast towards Morhange, and forward elements of the German Sixth and Seventh Armies withdrew before them. However, German resistance stiffened in the evening of August 14, with machine guns and heavy artillery inflicting heavy casualties, and the following day Second Army’s advance slowed as French troops encountered massed rifle fire. The French brought up artillery support and continued advancing doggedly, suffering more casualties as the Germans used long-range artillery to blunt the French offensive. Bibliothèque nationale de France Despite heavy opposition, on August 18 the First Army under Auguste Dubail occupied Sarrebourg in Lorraine, while the Second Army under Édouard de Castelnau was closing in on Morhange, about 20 miles to the northwest, and to the south the Army of Alsace under Paul Pau captured Mulhouse (for the second time) on August 19. However the tide was about to turn against the French. As they pursued Joffre’s ambitious goals a gap had opened between the French First and Second Armies, leaving the flank of the Second Army vulnerable. On August 16 the commander of the German Sixth and Seventh Armies, Crown Prince Rupprecht of Bavaria, asked for permission to mount a counteroffensive, and (after several days of waffling by chief of the general staff Moltke) received tentative approval on August 18. Of course this was a major departure from the strategy outlined in the Schlieffen Plan, which called for the German Sixth and Seventh Armies to mount a fighting withdrawal intended to lure French forces into Alsace-Lorraine, leaving the job of envelopment to the German right wing, swinging down through Belgium and northern France to attack the French forces from the rear. Instead Moltke now began to consider attempting a “double envelopment,” with the German left wing attacking at the same time as the right wing to speedily encircle French forces and achieve a decisive victory early on. As early as August 14, in fact, Moltke had begun shifting forces from the right wing to the left wing—a move that fatally weakened the all-important northern offensive, critics later alleged. Joffre Begins to Move Fifth Army While French forces seemed to be making progress in Alsace-Lorraine, the French high command was finally beginning to see signs of serious trouble to the north. On August 15 Lanrezac’s sole army corps at Dinant came under attack by German advance forces trying to cross the River Meuse, which the French managed to repel in heavy fighting, and news also arrived that the Germans were approaching the fortress city of Namur. Thus, on the evening of August 15, Joffre ordered Lanrezac to send reinforcements from Fifth Army north towards Dinant—but he still refused to move the French Fourth Army under Langle de Cary further west at the same time, meaning Lanrezac’s Fifth Army was stuck guarding a larger area with the same number of troops. Joffre wanted the Fourth Army to stay where it was for his planned invasion of the Ardennes, set to begin August 21. Towards that end he also split the French Third Army, creating a new Army of Lorraine to guard the right flank while the remainder of the Third Army attacked northeast towards Luxembourg. By August 19, the stage was set for two major clashes—one in Lorraine and another in the Ardennes region of southeast Belgium. Joffre’s Plan XVII was about to meet reality. Belgians Withdraw to Antwerp Belgium’s King Albert was already staring some unpleasant facts in the face. After the fall of Liège, the vastly outnumbered Belgian Army had no hope of holding off the advancing Germans by itself. Disappointed by the failure of the French and British to send sizeable forces to Belgium’s aid, and alarmed by the approach of Von Kluck’s First Army to the River Gete just 20 miles east of Brussels, on Tuesday, August 18, Albert ordered the government and Belgian Army to withdraw from the defenseless capital and head north to the fortified city of Antwerp, now dubbed the “National Redoubt.” Here they would be able to hold out for at least a few more months, and hopefully receive Allied reinforcements via Britain’s Royal Navy. A Stunning Serbian Victory While everyone expected Austria-Hungary to crush Serbia quickly at the beginning of the war, against all odds the Serbs delivered a humiliating defeat to Hapsburg forces in August 1914, foreshadowing a whole series of military disasters in store for the Dual Monarchy. At the beginning of the war the Serbian commander, Marshal Putnik, mobilized his three small armies in central Serbia, leaving the capital Belgrade undefended, in order to gain time and space to organize his forces and assess Austrian intentions. At first Hapsburg advance forces under Bosnia’s military governor Oskar Potiorek struggled to establish bridgeheads across the river Sava, which marked the northwestern border of Serbia, but by August 12 they had crossed the river and occupied the town of Šabac on the south shore. This cleared the way for the Austro-Hungarian Second, Fifth, and Sixth Armies to invade Serbia in force. The main battle began on August 15, when Austro-Hungarian forces met Serbian forces on the slopes of Cer Mountain, about 15 miles southwest of Šabac. After heavy losses on both sides, the Hapsburg forces began to fall back on August 16, and the following day the Serbs mounted an unsuccessful attack on Austro-Hungarian forces in Šabac. The Austrians in turn attempted to push the Serbs back on August 18, but this also failed as the Serbs brought up artillery and cavalry reinforcements. A series of skirmishes through the night culminated in a major victory on August 19, as the morale of the Hapsburg forces collapsed and they began to retreat in total disorder. By August 24, they had withdrawn from Serbia completely. Meanwhile, the Austro-Hungarian chief of the general staff, Conrad von Hötzendorf, was alarmed by the rapid advance of Russian forces invading the empire’s northeastern province of Galicia (see map, below); he was also facing urgent requests from the German chief of the general staff, Moltke, to transfer more troops to the Russian front in order to take pressure off the German Eighth Army, guarding East Prussia against the advancing Russian First and Second Armies. Thus Conrad reluctantly put his plan to “punish” Serbia on hold and began transferring the Second Army from the Balkan front to Galicia. Russians Invade East Prussia Like the Austrians, the Germans were surprised by the speed with which the Russians were able to take the offensive: instead of six weeks, as expected, the first Russian forces crossed the border into East Prussia just two weeks after the beginning of mobilization. The Russians had rushed their forces into action before mobilization was complete, thus fulfilling their promise to France to attack within 15 days of mobilization, in the hopes of forcing the Germans to withdraw forces from the Western Front. Two Russian armies, the First Army under Paul Rennenkampf and the Second Army under Alexander Samsonov, were supposed to converge on the German Eighth Army under Maximilian von Prittwitz, guarding the old Prussian capital of Königsberg as well as the bridges across the River Vistula. However Russian communications and logistics were extremely poor, and the armies were separated by East Prussia’s patchwork of lakes, which presented an additional obstacle to a coordinated attack; it probably didn’t help that Rennenkampf and Samsonov apparently despised each other. On August 17, Rennenkampf’s First Army was held up briefly by a minor German victory at the Battle of Stallupönen, but this border skirmish had little effect beyond inflating the ego of the German corps commander, Hermann von François, who flagrantly disobeyed Prittwitz’s order to retreat (this would be a recurring theme wherever François was involved). The First Army continued to advance, and two days later the Samsonov’s Second Army crossed the German border to the south. The arms of the Russian pincer were closing, and the German Eighth Army was surrounded – or so it seemed.
World War I
Known as The Badger State or America's Dairyland, what was the 30th state to join the Union on May 29, 1848?
World War I History - World War I - HISTORY.com World War I History A+E Networks Introduction In late June 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated by a Serbian nationalist in Sarajevo, Bosnia. An escalation of threats and mobilization orders followed the incident, leading by mid-August to the outbreak of World War I, which pitted Germany, Austria-Hungary and the Ottoman Empire (the so-called Central Powers) against Great Britain, France, Russia, Italy and Japan (the Allied Powers). The Allies were joined after 1917 by the United States. The four years of the Great War–as it was then known–saw unprecedented levels of carnage and destruction, thanks to grueling trench warfare and the introduction of modern weaponry such as machine guns, tanks and chemical weapons. By the time World War I ended in the defeat of the Central Powers in November 1918, more than 9 million soldiers had been killed and 21 million more wounded. Google World War I Begins (1914) Though tensions had been brewing in Europe–and especially in the troubled Balkan region–for years before conflict actually broke out, the spark that ignited World War I was struck in Sarajevo, Bosnia, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand, nephew of Emperor Franz Josef and heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, was shot to death along with his wife by the Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip on June 28, 1914. The assassination of Franz Ferdinand and Sophie set off a rapid chain of events: Austria-Hungary, like many in countries around the world, blamed the Serbian government for the attack and hoped to use the incident as justification for settling the question of Slavic nationalism once and for all. As Russia supported Serbia, Austria-Hungary waited to declare war until its leaders received assurances from German leader Kaiser Wilhelm II that Germany would support their cause in the event of a Russian intervention, which would likely involve Russia’s ally, France, and possibly Great Britain as well. Did You Know? The young Winston Churchill, then first lord of the British Admiralty, resigned his command after the failed Gallipoli campaign in 1916, accepting a commission with an infantry battalion in France. On July 5, Kaiser Wilhelm secretly pledged his support, giving Austria-Hungary a so-called carte blanche or “blank check” assurance of Germany’s backing in the case of war. The Dual Monarchy then sent an ultimatum to Serbia, with such harsh terms as to make it almost impossible to accept. Convinced that Vienna was readying for war, the Serbian government ordered the Serbian army to mobilize, and appealed to Russia for assistance. On July 28, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, and the tenuous peace between Europe’s great powers collapsed. Within a week, Russia, Belgium, France, Great Britain and Serbia had lined up against Austria-Hungary and Germany, and World War I had begun. World War I’s Western Front (1914-17) According to an aggressive military strategy known as the Schlieffen Plan (named for its mastermind, German Field Marshal Alfred von Schlieffen), Germany began fighting World War I on two fronts, invading France through neutral Belgium in the west and confronting mighty Russia in the east. On August 4, 1914, German troops under Erich Ludendorff crossed the border into Belgium, in violation of that country’s neutrality. In the first battle of World War I, the Germans assaulted the heavily fortified city of Liege, using the most powerful weapons in their arsenal–enormous siege cannons–to capture the city by August 15. Leaving death and destruction in their wake, including the shooting of civilians and the deliberate execution of Belgian priest, whom they accused of inciting civilian resistance, the Germans advanced through Belgium towards France. In the First Battle of the Marne, fought from September 6-9, 1914, French and British forces confronted the invading Germany army, which had by then penetrated deep into northeastern France, within 30 miles of Paris. Under the French commander Joseph Joffre , the Allied troops checked the German advance and mounted a successful counterattack, driving the Germans back to north of the Aisne River. The defeat meant the end of German plans for a quick victory in France. Both sides dug into trenches, and began the bloody war of attrition that would characterize the next three years on World War I’s Western Front. Particularly long and costly battles in this campaign were fought at Verdun (February-December 1916) and the Somme (July-November 1916); German and French troops suffered close to a million casualties in the Battle of Verdun alone. World War I’s Eastern Front and Revolution in Russia (1914-17) On the Eastern Front of World War I, Russian forces invaded East Prussia and German Poland, but were stopped short by German and Austrian forces at the Battle of Tannenberg in late August 1914. Despite that victory, the Red Army assault had forced Germany to move two corps from the Western Front to the Eastern, contributing to the German loss in the Battle of the Marne. Combined with the fierce Allied resistance in France, the ability of Russia’s huge war machine to mobilize relatively quickly in the east ensured a longer, more grueling conflict instead of the quick victory Germany had hoped to win with the Schlieffen Plan. Over the next two years, the Russian army mounted several offensives on the Eastern Front but were unable to break through German lines. Defeat on the battlefield fed the growing discontent among the bulk of Russia’s population, especially the poverty-stricken workers and peasants, and its hostility towards the imperial regime. This discontent culminated in the Russian Revolution of 1917, spearheaded by Vladimir Lenin and the Bolsheviks. One of Lenin’s first actions as leader was to call a halt to Russian participation in World War I. Russia reached an armistice with the Central Powers in early December 1917, freeing German troops to face the other Allies on the Western Front. Gallipoli Campaign (1915-16) and Battles of the Isonzo (1915-17) With World War I having effectively settled into a stalemate in Europe, the Allies attempted to score a victory against the Ottoman Empire, which had entered the conflict on the side of the Central Powers in late 1914. After a failed attack on the Dardanelles (the strait linking the Sea of Marmara with the Aegean Sea), Allied forces led by Britain launched a large-scale land invasion of the Gallipoli Peninsula in April 1915. The invasion also proved a dismal failure, and in January 1916 Allied forces were forced to stage a full retreat from the shores of the peninsula, after suffering 250,000 casualties. British-led forces also combated the Turks in Egypt and Mesopotamia, while in northern Italy Austrian and Italian troops faced off in a series of 12 battles along the Isonzo River, located at the border between the two nations. The First Battle of the Isonzo took place in the late spring of 1915, soon after Italy’s entrance into the war on the Allied side; in the Twelfth Battle of the Isonzo, or the Battle of Caporetto (October 1917), German reinforcements helped Austria-Hungary win a decisive victory. After Caporetto, Italy’s allies jumped in to offer increased assistance. British and French–and later American–troops arrived in the region, and the Allies began to take back the initiative on the Italian Front. World War I at Sea (1914-17) After the Battle of Dogger Bank in January 1915, the German navy chose not to confront Britain’s mighty Royal Navy in a major battle for more than a year, preferring to rest the bulk of its strategy at sea on its lethal U-boat submarines. The biggest naval engagement of World War I, the Battle of Jutland (May 1916) left British naval superiority on the North Sea intact, and Germany would make no further attempts to break the Allied naval blockade for the remainder of the war. It was Germany’s policy of unchecked submarine aggression against shipping interests headed to Great Britain that helped bring the United States into World War I in 1917. Widespread protest over the sinking by U-boat of the British ocean liner Lusitania in May 1915 helped turn the tide of American public opinion steadfastly against Germany, and in February 1917 Congress passed a $250 million arms appropriations bill intended to make the United States ready for war. Germany sunk four more U.S. merchant ships the following month and on April 2 President Woodrow Wilson appeared before Congress and called for a declaration of war against Germany. Toward an Armistice (1917-18) With Germany able to build up its strength on the Western Front after the armistice with Russia, Allied troops struggled to hold off another German offensive until promised reinforcements from the United States were able to arrive. On July 15, 1918, German troops under Erich von Ludendorff launched what would become the last German offensive of the war, attacking French forces (joined by 85,000 American troops as well as some of the British Expeditionary Force) in the Second Battle of the Marne. Thanks in part to the strategic leadership of the French commander-in-chief, Philippe Petain, the Allies put back the German offensive, and launched their own counteroffensive just three days later. After suffering massive casualties, Ludendorff was forced to call off a planned German offensive further north, in the Flanders region stretching between France and Belgium, which he had envisioned as Germany’s best hope of victory. The Second Battle of the Marne turned the tide of war decisively towards the Allies, who were able to regain much of France and Belgium in the months that followed. By the fall of 1918, the Central Powers were unraveling on all fronts. Despite the Turkish victory at Gallipoli, later defeats by invading forces and an Arab revolt had combined to destroy the Ottoman economy and devastate its land, and the Turks signed a treaty with the Allies in late October 1918. Austria-Hungary, dissolving from within due to growing nationalist movements among its diverse population, reached an armistice on November 4. Facing dwindling resources on the battlefield, discontent on the home front and the surrender of its allies, Germany was finally forced to seek an armistice on November 11, 1918, ending World War I. World War I’s Legacy World War I took the life of more than 9 million soldiers; 21 million more were wounded. Civilian casualties caused indirectly by the war numbered close to 10 million. The two nations most affected were Germany and France, each of which sent some 80 percent of their male populations between the ages of 15 and 49 into battle. The war also marked the fall of four imperial dynasties–Germany, Austria-Hungary, Russia and Turkey. At the peace conference in Paris in 1919, Allied leaders would state their desire to build a post-war world that would safeguard itself against future conflicts of such devastating scale. The Versailles Treaty, signed on June 28, 1919, would not achieve this objective. Saddled with war guilt and heavy reparations and denied entrance into the League of Nations, Germany felt tricked into signing the treaty, having believed any peace would be a “peace without victory” as put forward by Wilson in his famous Fourteen Points speech of January 1918. As the years passed, hatred of the Versailles treaty and its authors settled into a smoldering resentment in Germany that would, two decades later, be counted among the causes of World War II . Tags
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On August 5, 1981, Ronald Reagan fired 11,359 striking members of what profession over their refusal to return to work?
Presidents of the United States - President Ronald Reagan - TheUSAonline.com Presidents of the United States Ronald Reagan Ronald Wilson Reagan (February 6, 1911 � June 5, 2004) was the 40th (1981�1989) President of the United States and the 33rd (1967�1975) Governor of California. Reagan was also an actor in films before entering politics. He lived longer than any other President (93 years, 119 days) and was the oldest elected President (69 years, 349 days when taking office). Order:  January 20, 1981 - January 20, 1989  Predecessor:  George H. W. Bush  Early life and career  Reagan attended Eureka College in Eureka, Illinois, graduating in 1932. Child of an alcoholic father, Reagan developed an early gift for storytelling and acting. He was a radio announcer of Chicago Cubs games, getting only the bare outlines of the game from a ticker and relying on his imagination and storytelling gifts to flesh out the game. Once in 1934, during the ninth inning of a Cubs - St. Louis Cardinals game, the wire went dead. Reagan smoothly improvised a fictional play-by-play (in which hitters on both teams gained a superhuman ability to foul off pitches) until the wire was restored.  Film career  Reagan had a successful career in Hollywood as a second-rank leading man, as his face and body were as handsome as his voice. In 1940 he played the role of George "The Gipper" Gipp in the film Knute Rockne All American, from which he acquired the nickname the Gipper, which he retained the rest of his life. Reagan himself considered that his best acting work was in Kings Row ( 1942 ). Other notable Reagan films include Hellcats of the Navy and the campy Bedtime for Bonzo. He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6374 Hollywood Blvd.  Military service  Reagan was commissioned as a reserve cavalry officer in the U.S. Army in 1935. After Pearl Harbor he was activated and was assigned to the First Motion Picture Unit in the Army Air Corps, which made training and education films. He remained in Hollywood for the duration of the war.  Television career  As Reagan's film roles became fewer in the late 1950s, he moved into television as a host and frequent performer for General Electric Theater. His final regular acting job was as host and performer on Death Valley Days.  Early political career  Ronald Reagan began his political life as a liberal Democrat, supporting Franklin Delano Roosevelt and his New Deal. He gradually became a staunch social and fiscal conservative. He embarked upon the path that led him to a career in politics during his tenure as president of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), aligning himself with Senator Joseph McCarthy and cooperating with the House Un-American Activities Committee to "expose Communist influence in Hollywood". He turned in several of his allegedly Communist co-workers, although unlike many anti-Communists of the time he was strongly opposed to the formal banning of the American Communist Party. His employment by the General Electric company, delivering anti-communist speeches on radio broadcasts and speaking tours, further enhanced his political image in the anti-Soviet climate of 1950s America. By the 1964 election, Reagan was an outspoken supporter of conservative Republican Barry Goldwater. In 1966, he was elected the 33rd Governor of California. Reagan tried to gain the Republican presidential nomination in 1968, and again in 1976 over the incumbent Gerald Ford but was defeated at the Republican Convention. He succeeded in gaining the Republican nomination in 1980. The campaign was marked by the Iran hostage crisis. Overseas press charged that the Reagan camp had made a secret deal to keep the hostages imprisoned until after the election. Most analysts believe President Jimmy Carter 's inability to solve the hostage crisis played a large role in his defeat and Reagan's victory. Reagan went on to be elected President that year and re-elected in a landslide in 1984.  Presidency  On March 30, 1981, just 69 days into his Presidency, while leaving the Hilton Hotel in Washington, DC President Reagan, Press Secretary James Brady, a Secret Service agent and a District of Columbia police officer were shot by a delusional John Hinckley, Jr. Shortly before surgery to remove the bullet from his chest (which barely missed his heart) he remarked to his surgeons, "I hope you're all Republicans," and to his wife Nancy he jokingly commented, "Honey, I forgot to duck."  As a politician and as President, he portrayed himself as being:  anti-communist  He is credited with:  increasing military spending  deploying US Pershing II missiles in Germany in response to the Soviet stationing of SS-20 missiles near Europe  pushing for the deployment of the Peacekeeper missile system  negotiating nuclear arms reduction treaties  proposing the Strategic Defense Initiative  arming and training anti-communist groups like the Contras and the mujahideen  selling arms to foreign allies such Taiwan , Israel , Saudi Arabia and, notoriously, Iraq  lowering taxes significantly, reversing a historic trend towards higher taxes  increasing the federal deficit  greatly escalating the " war on drugs "  ending the high inflation that damaged the economy under his predecessors, Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford .  helping to 'win' the Cold War  firing air traffic controllers when they illegally struck  Reaganomics  Part of President Reagan's first term in office focused on reviving an inherited economy exhibiting stagflation, or both inflation and unemployment. Reagan's policies, partially based on supply-side economics sought to stimulate the economy with large across-the-board tax cuts. Most economists agree that tax cuts stimulate the economy, but supply-siders say that they have a much greater effect than most economists say they would. George H. W. Bush had called Reagan's economic ideas "voodoo economics" prior to becoming his vice-president. Reagan's policies soon became known as " Reaganomics ", a nickname used by both his supporters and detractors. These tax cuts combined with heavy military spending increases led to enormous deficit spending and a dramatic increase in the national debt. The debt increased by approximately 200% (tripled) between when Reagan took office and when his successor, George H. W. Bush, took office.  On the other hand, this spending was slightly offset by increased tax revenues, and some supporters of Reagan attribute this to the successful use of supply-side economics tax policies. Critics of President Reagan argue that despite his frequent pronouncements that he advocated smaller and less intrusive government, federal spending and bureaucracy increased in size during his administration. Not surprisingly, there is disagreement over how much Reagan's policies contributed to the severe recession that took place in 1982, the strong economic expansion that began late in his first term and ran throughout his second term, and the fall in the average inflation-adjusted hourly wage for American workers that happened between his 1981 swearing-in and his successor's 1989 swearing-in.  The Soviet Union and the Cold War  Like many successful American politicians, Reagan had great stage presence, as well as great instincts for cultivating positive responses from the public. His calm speaking voice and forceful language earned him the nickname "the Great Communicator." On March 8, 1983 he called the Soviet Union an "Evil Empire" and later in his presidency while speaking in front of the Berlin Wall he challenged Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to "tear down this wall". Some historians believe that all of those traits would have been meaningless without his perceived enthusiasm for America and strong personal belief in the individual.  While many Reagan partisans credit him with winning the Cold War, scholars attribute the collapse of communism in 1989 in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union to the mounting Soviet economic crisis and the failure of the economic and political reforms initiated by Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev. Reagan's policies included strong support of the U.S. military and the doctrine of "peace through strength." One of his more controversial proposals was the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), a missile defense system which he hoped would make the U.S. invulnerable to nuclear missile attack by the Soviet Union. SDI was dubbed "Star Wars" by opponents, connoting the impractical or fantastic, and Reagan was given the nickname "Ronnie Raygun" by some wags.  Critics of SDI argued that the technological objective was unattainable in practical terms, and that the attempt would be likely to increase the Arms Race , as well as increasing the instability of future international crises. Other critics saw the extraordinary expenditures involved in the multiple distinct SDI programs as a military-industrial boondoggle.  Supporters call SDI the nail in the coffin of the arms race with the Soviet Union through the application the strategy of technology. They saw SDI as an attempt to convince the Soviets that their nuclear missile arsenal wwould become obsolescent, burdening the Soviets with addition spending on new technology to maintain a credible nuclear deterrent.  Reagan had a close friendship with many other conservative political leaders across the globe, especially Margaret Thatcher in Britain, and Brian Mulroney in Canada. Reagan had a great desire for establishing personal relationships with other heads of state, often inviting them to his ranch or Camp David for casual retreats.  As part of the policies that became known as the Reagan Doctrine, the United States also took an increasingly hard line against Communist influences in Latin America, which often involved the controversial support of anti-Communist military dictatorships with poor human rights records. This has led some to charge that Reagan was undertaking secret and illegal guerilla wars. In 1983 Reagan ordered a formal military invasion of the small island nation of Grenada after it underwent a Communist coup. Near the end of his term, Reagan was also instrumental in supporting the transition of Latin American democracy, giving generous foreign aid packages to states who held free elections.  Iran-Contra Affair  During his administration, there was a major scandal and investigation of his administration's covert support of wars in Iran and Nicaragua in what came to be known as the Iran-Contra Affair. Two members of administration, National Security Advisor John Poindexter and Col. Oliver North had hatched an elaborate plot to sell arms to the Iranian government and give the profits to the anti-Communist Contras guerillas in Nicaragua, who were engaged in a bloody civil war. Both actions were contrary to acts of Congress. Reagan professed ignorance of the plot, but admitted that he had supported the initial sale of arms to Iran, on the grounds that such sales were supposed to help secure the release of Americans being held hostage by the Iranian-backed Hezbollah terrorist group in Lebanon. Reagan's quick call for the appointment of an Independent Counsel to investigate the wider scandal, and cooperation with counsel, kept Iran-Contra from ending his presidency. It was found that the President was guilty of the scandal only in that his lax control of his own staff resulted in his ignorance of the arms sale. Although considered personally honest by most Americans, President Reagan and his term in office saw several other scandals of bribery, corruption, and influence peddling involving Reagan's aides and subordinates, resulting in more than 130 officials in the Reagan Administration either being convicted or forced to resign their posts to avoid prosecution. The failure of these scandals to damage Reagan's reputation led Congressman Patricia Schroeder to dub him the " Teflon President", a term that has been occasionally attached to later Presidents and their scandals.  "War on Drugs"  Reagan's policies in the " War on Drugs " emphasized imprisonment for drug offenders while cutting funding for addiction treatment. This resulted in a dramatic increase in the USA's prison population. Critics charged that the policies did little to actually reduce the availability of drugs or crime on the street while resulting in a great financial and human cost for American society. Nevertheless, it was an important part of Reagan's policy of being tough on crime. Due to this policy and various cuts in spending for social programs during his Presidency, Reagan was regarded by some critics as indifferent to the needs of poor and minority citizens.  Miscellaneous  On August 5, 1981, Reagan fired 11,359 striking air traffic controllers who ignored his order to return to work. Ironically, PATCO , the air traffic controller's union, had been one of the few unions that had supported Reagan over Carter in the election nine months previous.  In the spring of 1983, Reagan sent US Marines into Lebanon. Following several smaller bombings, a truck bombing of their barracks killed 241 Marines. Two days later Reagan invaded the tiny Caribbean nation of Grenada. Three months later, Reagan withdrew the Marines from Lebanon.  On July 13, 1985, Reagan underwent surgery to remove cancerous polyps from his colon, causing the first-ever invocation of the Acting President clause of the 25th Amendment. On January 5, 1987, Reagan underwent prostate surgery which caused further worries about his health.  Reagan was widely criticized in 1985 for an incident related to an official visit to West Germany. On April 11, the White House announced that Reagan would be visiting the Bitburg military cemetery, to lay a wreath in honor of German soldiers who died in both World Wars. This became controversial when it came to public attention that a small number (variously reported as 49 or 56) of gravesites contained remains of soldiers who had served in Waffen-SS units. Despite protests from various quarters, most notably Elie Wiesel, Reagan proceeded with the visit on the grounds that it would promote reconciliation between the former adversaries.  Legacy and retirement from public life  Reagan was in many ways the founder of the modern Republican Party. His redefinition of fiscal conservatism as being focused on tax cuts without significant regard to a balanced budget (" Reaganomics "); his opposition to progressive taxation, greater environmental protection and regulation, and abortion; the importance of the Moral Majority and its supporters in his governing coalition; and even his support of missile defense systems have all become trademarks of subsequent Republican leaders, including George W. Bush. Reagan's immediate predecessors such as Richard Nixon and Dwight Eisenhower would not have recognized any of these as part of the Republican platform.  In 1992, four years after leaving office, Reagan was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. As the years went on, the disease began to slowly take over the former President's brain and body, forcing him to live his post-presidency in quiet isolation. He informed the nation of his condition himself when on November 5 , 1994 a letter he wrote was released announcing he had Alzheimer's disease. He can now no longer speak coherently and has trouble with even the most basic tasks. His health was further destabilized by a fall in 2001, which shattered part of his hip and rendered him virtually immobile.  On February 6, 1998, Washington National Airport in Washington, DC was renamed Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Also, the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) was christened March 4, 2001, making it one of the very few United States Navy ships to be named for a living person.  In November 2003, Reagan and his family were the subject of a controversial television miniseries, The Reagans. In response to the unflattering docu-drama, a number of Congressional Republicans introduced the "Ronald Reagan Dime Act" (HR 3633), a bill that would replace Franklin Delano Roosevelt 's portrait on the United States dime with Reagan's. The bill did not have widespread support and appeared unlikely to be put up for a vote. In 2004 , Reagan turned 93, making him the oldest former president in American history.  Death Reagan died at his home in Bel Air, Los Angeles, California on June 5, 2004 at 1:09 PM local (Pacific) time. He died of pneumonia, with his wife Nancy and their children Patti and Ron present. He is survived also by his son Michael, from his first marriage to Wyman; his daughter Maureen preceded him in death in 2001. Reagan was given a full presidential state funeral on June 9, the first since Lyndon Johnson. With 4,000 people in attendance, Reagan's national service at the National Cathedral on June 11 included eulogies by George W. Bush, George H. W. Bush, Margaret Thatcher and Brian Mulroney. Numerous other past and present world leaders attended the service, including Mikhail Gorbachev. He was buried that evening at sunset in a private ceremony, with 600 people in attendance, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, which included remarks from his three surviving children.   Nancy Reagan lays her head on the flag draped casket of President Reagan.Reagan holds the record for the longest-living President in American history. John Adams lived a record 90 years and 247 days before Reagan surpassed it on October 11, 2001. Quotes  - "This is the issue of this election: Whether we believe in our capacity for self-government or whether we abandon the American Revolution and confess that a little intellectual elite in a far-distant capital can plan our lives for us better than we can plan them ourselves.", nationwide televised speech supporting Barry Goldwater's presidential campaign, October 27, 1964. - "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!", speech at the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, June 12, 1987. - "Information is the oxygen of the modern age. It seeps through the walls topped by barbed wire, it wafts across the electrified borders. ... The Goliath of totalitarianism will be brought down by the David of the microchip." - "What does an actor know about politics?", criticising Screen Actors Guild president Ed Asner for his views on foreign policy.  - "I know all the bad things that happened in that war. I was in uniform for four years myself," defending his visit to the Bitburg Military Cemetery.  - "My fellow Americans, I'm pleased to tell you today that I've signed legislation that will outlaw Russia forever. We begin bombing in five minutes," during a radio microphone test in 1984.  Supreme Court appointments  William Rehnquist - Chief Justice, 1986 (an associate justice since 1972) Antonin Scalia - 1986 
Air traffic controller
The FBI has recently announced that a "credible lead" has surfaced in the investigation of what famed hijacker, who commandeered a Northwest Orient flight in 1971?
Peace & Justice History: July-September | peaceCENTER Peace & Justice History Select Page Peace & Justice History: July-September You’ll notice that many of our daily blog entries are about Peace & Justice history, events that are often left out of the history textbooks (especially in Texas!) We’ve been maintaining this database for more than a decade now; it contains almost 2,000 entries. JANUARY-MARCH is available HERE OCTOBER-DECEMBER is available HERE Here are a couple of ideas for teachers: Assign students to report on a Peace & Justice history event that is on or closest to their birthdays. We’ve found that this heightens interest in an event because they have a connection, however random. Divide students into small groups (three is a workable number) and give each group a printout of one month of the peace history events. Allow about 20 minutes for them to match as many events as they can to one of the 198 methods of nonviolent action listed by Gene Sharp in his taxonomy. You can download a copy of Sharp’s list here . 1 1853 The San Antonio Zeitung, a “Social-Democratic Newspaper for the Germans in West Texas,” began weekly publication as San Antonio’s first German-language newspaper on July 1, 1853, under the editorship of C. D. Adolph Douai, a German-born scholar, teacher, and social reformer. The newspaper, written largely in German, was aimed at the large German population in San Antonio and the surrounding region. In a prospectus Douai announced that the Zeitung would regard every political question from the viewpoint of social progress. In 1854 a series of editorials attacked the institution of slavery as an evil incompatible with democratic government, a form of government that required “free tillers of their own soil.” July 1 1917 Eight thousand anti-war marchers demonstrated in Boston. Their banners read: “IS THIS A POPULAR WAR? WHY CONSCRIPTION? WHO STOLE PANAMA? WHO CRUSHED HAITI? WE DEMAND PEACE!” The march was attacked by soldiers and sailors on orders from their officers. July 1 1941 Civil rights leader A. Philip Randolph had proposed an African-American March on Washington to demand an executive order banning race discrimination in the defense industries (full employment had returned because of the war in Europe). The march was canceled on this day after a dramatic confrontation between Randolph and President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the White House.. FDR had invited Randolph to the White House to persuade him to cancel the march, arguing that it would set back the cause of civil rights. When Randolph refused, FDR caved in and agreed to issue what became the historic Executive Order 8802 creating a Fair Employment Practices Committee July 1 1944 A massive general strike and nonviolent protest in Guatemala led to the resignation of dictator Jorge Ubico who had harshly ruled Guatemala. A decade of peaceful democratic rule followed, until a CIA-backed coup in 1954 ushered in a new, even more brutal era of dictatorial and genocidal regimes. July 1 1972 Publication of the first monthly issue of Ms. Magazine, founded by Gloria Steinem, Letty Cottin Pogrebin, and others. July 1 2002 The International Criminal Court was established to prosecute individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. July The East St. Louis riots ended. July 2 1934 The Night of the Long Knives, which started on June 30, ended. This was a series of 85 executions carried out by the when the Nazi regime against their opponents. July 2 1964 U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 into law, barring discrimination in public accommodations (restaurants, stores, theaters, etc.), employment, and voting. The law had survived an 83-day filibuster in the U.S. Senate by 21 members from southern states lead by Richard Russell (D-GA) who said “We will resist to the bitter end any measure or any movement which would have a tendency to bring about social equality and intermingling and amalgamation of the races in our (Southern) states.” July 3 1835 Children employed in the silk mills at Paterson, New Jersey, went on strike for an eleven-hour workday and a six-day workweek rather than 12-14 hour days. With the help of adults, they won a compromise settlement of a 69-hour week. July The last pair of great auks was killed. July 3 1848 Peter von Scholten, Governor-Generl of the Danish West Indies, was opposed to Christian VIII of Denmark’s idea that every child born of an unfree woman should be free from birth, as he felt that such an arrangement could cause envy law . When this was brought into effect, he felt himself proven right as a slave rebellion broke out on St. Croix. Von Scholten responded on this day by emancipating all slaves in the Danish West Indian Islands. July 3 1913 On the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, thousands of Civil War veterans descended on the town. A recreation of Pickett’s Charge was reenacted by 120 (Confederate) veterans of Pickett’s Division and 180 (Union) veterans from the Philadelphia Brigade. The Confederate veterans charged over 100 feet of ground to the wall and shook hands with the Union veterans. The New York Herald wrote: “Today fifty thousand veterans of the great War are moving on to take peaceful possession of the field where the ardor of youth they strove in such deadly conflict. No better evidence of healing of the nation’s wounds could be offered than the spectacle of men of the Grand Army and of the Confederacy striking hands on the spot where they made history.” July 3 1966 4,000 Britons chanting, “Hands off Vietnam,” demonstrated in London against escalation of the Vietnam War. Police moved in after scuffles broke out at the demonstration outside the U.S. Embassy in Grosvenor Square; 31 were arrested. July 3 1978 The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that the Federal Communications Commission had a right to reprimand NY radio station WBAI for broadcasting George Carlin’s “The Seven Words You Can’t Say On Television.” Note: the video of his performance (below) has the words bleeped out. The year before, Carlin was arrested for disturbing the peace when he performed the routine at a show at Summerfest in Milwaukee. July 4 1965 The first of an annual picket in front of Philadelphia’s Independence Hall was held by gay and Lesbian Americans. Jack Nichols and Frank Kameny and members of the New York and Washington Mattachine Society and the Daughters of Bilitis wished to change the general perception that homosexuals were “perverted” or “sick.” July 4 1966 The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was enacted, with an effective date one year later, July 4, 1967. It was repealed the next day but a virtually identical FOIA was enacted on July 5, 1967, and was effective from July 4, 1967. July 4 1971 Three kayaks, three canoes and a rubber raft, crewed by Philadelphia Quakers, blocked the path of a Pakistani freighter steaming in to load arms in the port of Baltimore. The next day the Foreign Affairs Committee of the US House of Representatives voted to withhold military and economic aid from Pakistan, which was being used to repress East Pakistan, now Bangladesh. July 4 1983 The Seneca Women’s Encampment for a Future of Peace and Justice started their annual encampment in Romulus, NY, near Seneca Army Depot to demonstrate the connections among militarism, high rates of inflation, unemployment and global poverty, personal violence, addiction, abuse in all its forms and global environmental destruction. The Encampment continued as an active political presence in the Finger Lakes area for at least 5 more years and engaged thousands of women from Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, Catholics against Nuclear Arms, the War Resisters League, Women Strike for Peace, Women’s Pentagon Action, Rochester Peace and Justice, and the Upstate Feminist Peace Alliance. July 4 2007 The first of several Peace Caravans (Caravanes de Paix) set out from South Kivu and traveled across Africa’s Great Lakes region, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi and Rwanda. The Scout Associations of the countries in the violence-ridden area trained hundreds of young people in conflict resolution through their focus on education for peace. The classes and the caravans included hundreds of young people in Scouts and Girl Guides from many ethnic groups (often with a history of mutual hostility) who act as community mediators. July 5 1855 The Governor of Texas authorized James Hughes Callahan to cross the Rio Grande, ostensibly to retaliate for Apache raids but generally agreed upon by historians to be an expedition to capture runaway slaves who had escaped across the border to Nueva León and Coahuila, where slavery was illegal. Callahan crossed the border in October and a battle ensued at Rio Escondito, with casualties on both sides. Callahan retreated to Piedras Negras, captured the town, and burned it. A claims commission awarded the Mexican victims $500,000 in 1876. July 5 1934 On “Bloody Thursday,” police armed with machine guns opened fire against striking longshoremen and their supporters, killing two, wounding 32 more by gunfire, and injuring 75 others at Rincon Hill in San Francisco. July 5 1935 The National Labor Relations or Wagner Act (named for New York Senator Robert Wagner), recognizing workers’ rights to organize and bargain collectively, was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The act was bitterly opposed by the Republican Party and business groups who launched a campaign of filing injunctions to keep the National Labor Relations Board from functioning. This campaign continued until the Act was found constitutional by the Supreme Court in National Labor Relations Board v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corporation (1937.) July 5 1948 The British National Health Service Act was launched providing government-financed medical and dental care as an integral part of British society, largely “free at the point of delivery”, paid for by taxes. July 5 1952 Congress passed the Gwinn Amendment, which required a loyalty oath of all residents of public housing who received federal funds. The oath requirement led to the highly publicized case of James Kutcher, a World War II veteran, who had lost both of his legs in the war, and who was a member of the Socialist Workers Party. July 5 1989 Former National Security Council aide Oliver North received a $150,000 fine and a suspended prison term for his part in the Iran-Contra scandal. The scandal was a secret arrangement directed from the Reagan White House that provided funds to the Nicaraguan Contra rebels (despite specific congressional prohibition) from profits gained by selling arms to Iran (at war with Iraq at the time) in hopes of their releasing hostages, despite President Reagan’s claim that he would never negotiate with hostage-takers. July 5 2000 Conservationists launched the largest ever airlift of wild birds. Over 18,000 penguins were moved to safety as an oil slick threatened their South African breeding ground during mating season. A third of the entire species of black-footed penguins (found only in Africa and classified as “threatened”) lived on the islands. Thousands of volunteers and zoo experts helped with both the airlift, and the cleaning of 20,000 birds. July 6 1348 Pope Clement VI issued a decree protecting Jews during the Black Death. Popular opinion blamed the Jews for the plague, and massacres erupted throughout Europe. Pope Clement condemned the violence and said those who blamed the plague on the Jews had been “seduced by a liar.” He urged clergymen to take action to protect the innocent. July 6 1892 In one of the worst cases of violent union-busting, a fierce battle broke out between the striking employees (members of the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers) of Andrew Carnegie’s Homestead Steel Company and a Pinkerton Detective Agency private army brought on barges down the Monongahela River in the dead of night. Twelve were killed. Henry C. Frick, general manager of the plant in Homestead, near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, had been given free rein by Carnegie to quash the strike. At Frick’s request, Pennsylvania Governor Robert E. Pattison then sent 8,500 troops to intervene on behalf of the company. July 6 1911 Joe Hill’s song “The Preacher & the Slave” first appeared in the IWW (Wobbly) Little Red Song Book. You will eat by & by, / In that glorious land above the sky. / Work & pray, / Live on hay, / You’ll get Pie in the Sky, When you die, (that’s a lie!) July 6 1924 The 1924 Democratic Party Convention was thrown into turmoil over a fight about the Ku Klux Klan; the delegates were split over a resolution proposed by northern and western delegates that condemned the Klan by name. After a tumultuous debate, the party adopted a plank on this day that “deplore[d] and condemn[ed] any effort to arouse religious or racial dissension,” but did not mention the Klan by name. July 6 1944 During World War II, while stationed at Fort Hood, Texas as a Second Lieutenant, Baseball player Jackie Robinson refused to move to the back of an Army bus when requested to by the driver. The driver summoned the military police, who took Robinson into custody. When Robinson later confronted the investigating duty officer about racist questioning by the officer and his assistant, the officer recommended Robinson be court-martialed When his commander refused to authorize the legal action, Robinson was transferred to another unit and was charged with multiple offenses. Robinson was acquitted by an all-white panel of nine officers. Robinson’s court-martial proceedings prohibited him from being deployed overseas, thus he never saw combat action. July 6 1944 Irene Morgan, a 28-year-old black woman, was arrested for refusing to move to the back of the bus eleven years before Rosa Parks did so. Her legal appeal, after her conviction for breaking a Virginia law forbidding integrated seating, resulted in a 7-1 Supreme Court decision barring segregation in interstate commerce. July 6 2006 An ancient pass on the Silk Road between India and China, sealed during the Sino-Indian War, re-opened for trade after 44 years. July 7 1540 The Spanish, led by Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, attacked Hawikuh (Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico) believing it to be one of the Seven Cities of Gold. It was the first skirmish between Indigenous Americans and Europeans in western US. In 1628 the Mission La Purisima Concepcíón de Hawikuh was established. The Spanish attempted to suppress the Zuni religion, and introduced the encomienda forced-labor system. In 1632 the Hawikuh Zunis rebelled, burnt the church, and killed the priest. July 7 1903 Labor organizer Mary Harris “Mother” Jones led the “March of the Mill Children” over 100 miles from Philadelphia to President Theodore Roosevelt’s Long Island summer home in Oyster Bay, New York, to publicize the harsh conditions of child labor and to demand a 55-hour work week. It is during this march, on about the 24th, she delivered her famed “The Wail of the Children” speech. Roosevelt refused to see them. July 7 1911 The United States, Great Britain, Japan, and Russia signed the North Pacific Fur Seal Convention of 1911 banning open-water seal hunting, the first international treaty to address wildlife preservation issues. July 7 1917 The Post Office notified the editors The Masses, a leading radical magazine and an outspoken opponent of American involvement in the World War I, that it would be barred from the mails. The Masses challenged the ban and won, but lost on appeal (November 2, 1917). The Masses went out of business in December. The editors founded The Liberator as a replacement, but were careful not to publish anything that would incur the wrath of the government regarding the war. July 7 1957 Convened at the onset of the Cold War, a group of scientists held their first peace conference in the village of Pugwash, Nova Scotia, Canada. The mission of the Pugwash Conference was to “. . . bring scientific insight and reason to bear on threats to human security arising from science and technology in general, and above all from the catastrophic threat posed to humanity by nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction . . . .” July 7 1979 2,000 American Indian activists and anti-nuclear demonstrators marched through the Black Hills of western South Dakota to protest the development of uranium mines on sacred native lands. July 7 2005 Influenced by Live 8, the G8 leaders pledged to double 2004 levels of aid to Africa from US$25 to US$50 billion by the year 2010. July 8 1853 US warships, commanded by Commodore Matthew Perry, under orders from American President Millard Fillmore arrived at Edo, capital of the closed country of Japan, to demand that it opens for trade. This is an example of “gunboat diplomacy, the pursuit of foreign policy objectives with the aid of conspicuous displays of naval power—implying or constituting a direct threat of warfare, should terms not be agreeable to the superior force. July 8 1955 The University Texas Board of Regents voted to permit Texas Western University (Now the University of Texas-El Paso) to admit Black students. Thelma Joyce White had be denied admission and brought suit in Federal court, defended by Thurgood Marshall. Ms. White decided to attend New Mexico A&M, although her children attended UTEP. July 8 1958 In an effort called “Omaha Action,” by the Committee for Nonviolent Action (CNVA), anti-nuclear activist Don Fortenberry was arrested after climbing a fence to protest against the building of ICBM sites in Nebraska. Also arrested during this series of actions was peace activist A. J. Muste. July 8 1998 The first arrests were made in Great Britain for pulling up Genetically Engineered crops. Five women pull up almost 200 plants at Model Farm, Watlington in Oxfordshire. Thames Valley Police later released the women as the owners, Monsanto, did not press charges July 8 2014 The French Senate votes to ban child beauty pageants for kids under the age of 16. The measure was prompted by a row over a photo shoot in Vogue magazine that showed a girl of 10 with two others, all three in heavy make-up and wearing tight dresses, high heels and expensive jewelry. photo July 9 1917 During World War I, Emma Goldman and Alexander Berkman, leaders of the No-Conscription League, spoke out against the war and the draft. Both were found guilty in New York City of conspiracy against the draft, fined $10,000 each and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment with the possibility of deportation at the end of their terms. July 9 1945 Three black members of the US Women’s Army Corps were beaten in the Elizabethtown, Kentucky bus terminal for sitting in the “white” section when the “black” section was full; the policeman involved was acquitted. July 9 1955 The Russell–Einstein Manifesto was released by Bertrand Russell in London, England, United Kingdom. It highlighted the dangers posed by nuclear weapons and called for world leaders to seek peaceful resolutions to international conflict. July 10 1985 The Greenpeace flagship Rainbow Warrior was blown up by the French Secret Service in Auckland Harbour, New Zealand, killing Fernando Pereira, a photographer, who drowned on the sinking ship. The attack had been authorized by French President François Mitterand because the environmental organization had plans to protest France’s nuclear bomb tests in the South Pacific. July 10 2015 A blistering internal report by the American Psychological Association (APA) made public on this day revealed that top leaders of the APA had assisted torture programs operated by the CIA and the Pentagon in the war on terror. The report concluded that the association’s ethic office “prioritized the protection of psychologists –even those who might have engaged in unethical behavior- ab0ve the protection of the public.” July 11 1905 At a four-day conference, African-American leaders who opposed the accommodationist racial policy of Booker T. Washington and wanted a more aggressive defense of civil rights, met and formed the Niagara Movement. The conference marked the beginning of the organized civil rights movement in the twentieth century. July 11 1924 Eric Liddell won the gold medal in 400m at the 1924 Paris Olympics, after refusing to run in the heats for 100m, his favored distance, on the Sunday because of religious reasons. This is the incident shown in the film “Chariots of Fire.” July 11 1951 One of the biggest riots in U.S. history began after a young black couple, Harvey and Johnetta Clark, moved into an apartment in all-white Cicero, IL, west of Chicago. The sheriff turned them away when they first tried to move in. With a court order in hand, the couple finally moved their belongings into the apartment on July 11, as a mob formed around them, heckling and throwing rocks. The mob, many of them eastern European immigrants, grew to as many as 4,000 by nightfall. The couple fled, unable to stay overnight in their new apartment. That night, the mob stormed the apartment and hurled the family’s belongings out of a third floor window. The mob tore out the fixtures: the stove, the radiators, the sinks. They smashed the piano, overturned the refrigerator, bashed in the toilet. They set the family’s belongings on fire and then firebombed the buildings. The rioters overturned police cars and threw stones at firefighters who tried to put out the fire. The Illinois Governor, Adlai Stevenson, had to call in the National Guard for the first time since the 1919 race riots in Chicago. It took more than 600 guardsmen, police officers and sheriff’s deputies to beat back the mob that night and three more days for the rioting over the Clarks to subside. A total of 118 men were arrested in the rioting but none were indicted. Instead, the rental agent and the owner of the apartment building were indicted for inciting a riot by renting to the Clarks in the first place. (From the book, The Warmth of Other Suns) July 11 1968 The American Indian Movement (AIM) was founded in Minneapolis, Minnesota, by George Mitchell, Dennis Banks, Clyde Bellecourt and 200 others. They gathered to organize in order to deal with widespread and persistent poverty among native Americans, and unjust treatment from all levels of government. July 12 1917 About 2,000 vigilantes and law enforcement officers forcibly deported 1,185 striking working men associated with the radical IWW labor union and their supporters from Bisbee, Arizona. The deportees were loaded onto cattle cars and taken 200 miles away and left in New Mexico. July 12 1974 The National Research Act was signed into law, creating the National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research. Revelations about the abuse of human research subjects, including the notorious Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment (exposed by The New York Times in 1972), led to a movement to provide formal procedures to ensure that people were not subject to research that might endanger them in some way without their informed consent. This law led to the creation of Institutional Review Board (IRB) at universities and other research institutions to ensure the protection of human subjects. July 13 1985 The first Live Aid concert raised $75 million for agricultural and technical assistance to Africa, many times what was expected. Described as the Woodstock of the ‘80s, the world’s biggest rock festival (in London, Philadelphia, Moscow and Sydney, Australia, simultaneously and linked by satellite) was organized by Boomtown Rats singer Bob Geldof to raise money for famine relief in Ethiopia. July 13 1863 New Yorkers angry about military conscription started three days of rioting that would go down in history as the worst US riot. White New Yorkers, largely poor Irish immigrants, could not afford to buy their way out of the draft or pay someone else to take their place. African Americans were not subject to the draft, inflaming rage against them. Beginning as a protest to the draft, the demonstration quickly turned into a riot with looting and with African Americans being attacked on sight. Abolitionists, Protestant churches and public buildings were also targets of angry rioters. Homes of African Americans were burned, as was the Colored Orphan Asylum. The police were overwhelmed. At least 120 were killed and 2,000 wound; some sources place the number of dead as high as 2,000. video July 13 1956 Crusading San Antonio Priest Carmelo Antonio Tranchese, known as “El Padrecito,” died on this day. On July 7, 1932, Tranchese began his duties as the pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church on the West Side of San Antonio, which was home for the majority of the city’s 82,000 Mexican Americans. Tranchese helped establish the Guadalupe Community Center, which, in cooperation with the Bexar County Tuberculosis Association, sponsored a health clinic that offered workshops in disease prevention and provided free vaccinations and other medical care. He encouraged efforts to improve working conditions and wages, supported local strikes and was particularly active in soliciting provisions and establishing breadlines for pecan workers who struck in 1935 and 1938. In October 1938, when the city’s pecan companies mechanized in response to the Fair Labor Standards Act (Wage-Hour Act), throwing approximately 8,000 shellers out of work, Tranchese helped organize the Catholic Relief Association, which solicited and distributed food, clothing, and shelter. Tranchese’s most noted accomplishment was his role in bringing a federal housing project to San Antonio. Opponents of public housing threatened Tranchese’s life and slandered his character. Tranchese’s determination contributed to the removal of some of the worst slums on the West Side and their replacement by the Alazan-Apache Courts for Mexican Americans. He also played a role in securing USHA loans and annual subsidies for courts built in other areas of the city, including Victoria Courts for Anglo families and Lincoln and Wheatley courts for blacks. The projects were completed in 1942. You can see Father Tranchese peeking over the shoulder of Patricia Castillo in Seeds of Solidarity, a 2005 mural on Guadalupe Street by Mary Agnes Rodriguez & Jose Cosme, which has since been destroyed. July 14 1798 Congress passed the Sedition Act, making it a federal crime to “. . . unlawfully combine or conspire together, with intent to oppose any measure or measures of the government of the United States . . . or to excite any unlawful combinations therein, for opposing or resisting any law of the United States, or any act of the President of the United States . . . .” July 14 1934 The Catholic Legion of Decency and Protestant churches affiliated with the Federal Council of Churches ordered bulk copies of a pledge to boycott “indecent” motion pictures as part of a nationwide “clean film” campaign. The boycott of allegedly indecent films led by Catholic Church figures, had begun the year before, and scored a major victory with the 1934 Motion Picture Production Code, which involved a voluntary self-censorship process by the major Hollywood studios, and it imposed a repressive regime of censorship on American movies. Among films banned by the Legion of Decency were The Last Picture Show (1971), Grease (1978) and The Odd Couple (1968). July 14 1948 Segregationist Southerners, reacting to President Harry Truman’s civil rights program, walked out of the Democratic Party Convention and founded an independent States’ Rights Party, dedicated to preserving racial segregation. On this same day, the Democratic Party had adopted a strong civil rights plank for its platform, the first major political party to do so. The States’ Rights Party nominated South Carolina Governor Strom Thurmond as its presidential candidate. July 14 1998 Twenty Eight Food Not Bombs and homeless activists were arrested in San Francisco’s United Nations Plaza during a non-violent, direct-action demonstration seeking to reclaim public space & parks which are increasingly being made inaccessible to homeless people. July 15 1834 The Spanish Inquisition, a centuries-long brutal effort by the Catholic Church to root out heresy, begun in 1481, was officially abolished. The Inquisition was originally intended to ensure the orthodoxy of those who converted from Judaism and Islam after the royal decrees issued in 1492 and 1501 ordered Jews and Muslims to convert or leave Spain. Estimates of the number of persons charged with crimes by the Inquisition range up to 150,000 with 2,000 to 5,000 people actually executed. July 15 1955 Eighteen Nobel laureate scientists signed the Mainau Declaration against nuclear weapons. Drafted by German nuclear scientists Otto Hahn and Max Born, the call to end such radioactive and perilous bombs drew the signatures of 52 Nobel laureates –mostly chemists and physicists – within a year. July 15 1958 US President Dwight D. Eisenhower authorized Operation Blue Bat, the first application of the Eisenhower Doctrine under which the U.S. announced that it would intervene to protect regimes it considered threatened by international communism. The goal was to bolster the Christian, pro-Western Lebanese government of President Camille Chamoun against internal opposition and threats from Syria and Egypt. Approximately 14,000 men were deployed. The U.S. withdrew its forces on October 25, 1958. July 15 1978 The Longest Walk, a peaceful transcontinental trek for Native American justice, which had begun with a few hundred departing Alcatraz Island, California, ended this day when they arrived in Washington, D.C. accompanied by 30,000 marchers. They were calling attention to the ongoing problems plaguing Indian communities throughout the Americas: lack of jobs, housing, health care, as well as dozens of pieces of legislation before Congress canceling treaty obligations of the U.S. government toward various Indian tribes. They submitted petitions signed by one-and-a-half million Americans to President Jimmy Carter. 15 2005 An estimated 50-75 people took part in a staged protest at a eucalyptus grove on the UC Berkeley campus, many of them stripping naked in doing so, to make clear their opposition to a proposed FEMA-funded tree-clearing program in the East Bay hills. The event was orchestrated by the Tree Spirit Project whose mission is “to raise awareness of the critical role trees play in our lives, both globally and personally.” The Federal Emergency Management Agency in March allocated $5.7 million to the California Office of Emergency Services to remove eucalyptus trees as part of fire hazard abatement in Claremont Canyon — scene of a devastating wildfire in 1991 — and other nearby areas. photo July 16 1439 In response to an outbreak of the plague, the Parliament of King Henry VI of England issued a proclamation banning kissing. The ban was directed at ritual kissing and kissings of greetings, July 16 1877 Firemen and brakemen for the Pennsylvania and Baltimore & Ohio Railroads refused to work, and refused to let replacements take their jobs. They managed to halt all railroad traffic at the Camden Junction just outside of Baltimore. The railroad companies had cut wages and shortened the work The work stoppage spread west and eventually became the first nationwide strike. July 16 1917 Norman Thomas, a pacifist and opponent of American involvement in World War I, issued a defense of the role of heretics and dissenters as a crucial element of a democratic society. “Every movement worthwhile began with a minority,” he wrote. He might have added that important ideas usually originate with unpopular minorities. The essay was first published in the July 1917 issue of The World Tomorrow, the magazine of the Fellowship of Reconciliation in August, July 16 1945 The first atomic bomb exploded, Trinity Site, Alamogordo, New Mexico. Detonation was not made public for three weeks, when two others like it devastated the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Powered by a sphere of plutonium the size of an orange, it produced a fireball that rose 8,000 feet in a fraction of a second, pushing a mushroom cloud 41,000 feet high. Nearby residents were told an ammunition dump had exploded. July 16 1964 Igniting what was to become four years of unrest called “The Long Hot Summer,” a fatal shooting of a fifteen year-old African-American youth, James Powell, by a white off-duty New York City police officer sparked six days of rioting in Harlem, the center of the African-American community in New York City. An estimated 4,000 people participated in the riot, which left one person dead, 118 people injured, and considerable property damage. July 16 1979 The largest release of radioactive material in the U.S. occurred in the Navajo Nation. More than 1200 metric tons (1,100 tons) of uranium tailings (mining waste) and 378 million liters (100 million gallons) of radioactive water burst through a packed-mud dam near Church Rock, New Mexico. The river contaminated by the spill, the Rio Puerco, showed 7,000 times the allowable standard of radioactivity for drinking water downstream from the broken dam shortly after the breach was repaired. A month later, only 5% of the tailings had been cleaned out. Warnings not to drink the contaminated water were issued by officials, but non-English-speaking Navajo never heard them, having no electrical power for TV or radio. Humans and livestock continued to drink the water. July 16 1983 During a time of increasing tension between the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics), and an escalating nuclear arms race, 10,000 peace activists formed a human chain linking the two superpowers’ embassies in London, England. July 16 2001 The Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation was signed by the People’s Republic of China and the Russian Federation. July 17 1944 US P-38 fighter bombers dropped napalm bombs on a German Army fuel depot near St. Lo in Normandy, France, one of the earliest uses of napalm. Napalm, a mixture of gasoline and a thickening agent, stubbornly sticks to anything it comes in contact with, greatly increasing its lethality against humans and effectiveness in catching things on fire. Named for the thickening agents first used, naphthenic and palmitic acids, it was developed on a government contract by Harvard University in 1942. Napalm sticks to human skin, with no practical method for removal of the burning substance. On January 21, 2009, President Barack Obama’s first full day in office, he signed the 1980 United Nations Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW), which bans the use of napalm. July 17 1970 The Young Lords Party, a Puerto Rican nationalist movement, entered Lincoln Hospital in the South Bronx, New York. The hospital, located in a condemned and dilapidated building, was filled with pain, degradation, neglect, flies, and humiliation. The YLP set up care units in the Hospital, drawing attention to the abysmal conditions. The direct action takeover prompted a response by the government, and the building of a new Lincoln Hospital. July 17 1976 The opening ceremony of the 21st Olympic Games in Montreal was marked by the withdrawal of more than twenty African countries, Iraq and Guyana, and their 300 athletes. They had demanded that New Zealand be banned from participation because its national rugby team had toured South Africa, itself banned from the Olympics since 1964 for its refusal to end the racially separatist policy of apartheid. July 18 1872 Great Britain, under the leadership of William Gladstone, passed a law requiring voting by secret ballot. Previously, people had to mount a platform in public and announce their choice of candidate to the officer who then recorded it in the poll book. Secrecy served to prevent the possibility of coercion and retaliation for one’s vote. Pictured is the first British secret ballot box. July 18 1979 Canada began accepting 50,000 Vietnamese boat people into the country; 24,000 of the refugees were sponsored by the government and the rest through some 7,000 private humanitarian groups. July 19 1848 The first Women’s Rights Convention in the U.S. was held at Seneca Falls, New York. Its “Declaration of Sentiments” launched the movement of women to be included in the constitution. When suffrage finally became a reality in 1920, seventy-two years after this first organized demand in 1848, only one signer of the Seneca Falls Declaration, Charlotte Woodward, then a young worker in a glove factory, had lived long enough to cast her first ballot. July 19 1919 The Cenotaph, a monument to those killed or wounded during the First World War, was unveiled in Whitehall, London, during the first Peace Day celebration, which was celebrated throughout England. Many veterans, however, were outraged by the lavish public extravaganzas while they either could not find work or found only low paying menial jobs. Pensions for the maimed, crippled and disfigured men were meager and no programs to integrate them back into society were in place. As public ceremonies began for Peace Day, veterans began to jeer officials and then to riot, burning down the Luton Town Hall and dragging pianos into the street for music and singing. Bonfires were started and when the town hall was burned rioters cut the firemen’s hoses. video July 19 1958 Several black teenagers, members of the local NAACP chapter (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People), entered downtown Wichita’s Dockum Drug Store (then the largest drugstore chain in Kansas) and sat down at the lunch counter.The store refused to serve them because of their race. They returned at least twice a week for the next several weeks. They sat quietly all afternoon, creating no disturbance, but refused to leave without being served. Though the police once chased them away, they were breaking no law, only asking to make a purchase, a violation of store policy. This was the first instance of a sit-in to protest segregationist policies. Less than a month later, a white man around 40 walked in and looked at those sitting in for several minutes. Then he looked at the store manager, and said, “Serve them. I’m losing too much money.” That man was the owner of the Dockum drug store chain. July Martha Tranquilli was jailed nine months for tax refusal over Vietnam War,Sacramento, California. photo July 19 2000 A federal administrative law judge ordered white supremacist Ryan Wilson to pay $1.1 million in damages to fair housing advocate Bonnie Jouhari and her daughter, Dani. The decision stemmed from threats made against Jouhari by Wilson and his Philadelphia neo-Nazi group, ALPA HQ. July 20 1944 In what they called “Operation Valkyrie,” a clique of officers attempted to kill Adolf Hitler and stage a coup. A briefcase concealing a time bomb was left at Hitler’s feet during a meeting. The bomb killed four people, but a table shielded Hitler. In Berlin, conspirators took over, believing Hitler dead. By midnight the participants were shot. The Gestapo arrested 7,000 and execute 4,980 people resulting in the destruction of the organized resistance movement in Germany. July Sirimavo Bandaranaike of Sri Lanka became world’s first elected woman prime minister. July 20 1967 The first Black Power conference was held in Newark, New Jersey, calling on black people in the U.S. “to unite, to recognize their heritage and to build a sense of community.” July 20 1971 The first labor contract in the history of the federal government was signed by postal worker unions and the newly re-organized U.S. Postal Service. This contract was made possible by the postal strike of March 1970, in which 200,000 postal workers walked off the job, defying federal law. Prior to that, postal worker salaries started at $6,200 a year, a rate set by Congress, and many postal workers were eligible for food stamps. July 21 1619 Earlier in the year, Polish artisans, brought to the new Jamestown Colony in Virginia to make pitch, tar, rosin and potash, went on strike to get the right to vote, which was only granted to white males of English descent. On this day, the courts emfranchised them: “Upon some dispute of the Polonians resident in Virginia, it was now agreed (notwithstanding any former order to the country) that they shall be enfranchised, and made as free as any inhabitant there whatsoever . . “ July 21 1954 The major world powers reached agreement on the terms of a ceasefire for Indochina. The war began in 1946 between nationalist forces of the Communist Viet Minh, under leader Ho Chi Minh, and France, the occupying colonial power after the Japanese lost control during World War II. The peace treaty called for independence for Vietnam and a 1956 election to unify the country. However, only France and Ho Chi Minh’s Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North) signed the document. The United States did not approve of the agreement; they instead backed Emperor Boa Dai and Prime Minister Ngo Dinh Diem’s government in South Vietnam and refused to allow the elections, knowing, in President Eisenhower’s words, that “Ho Chi Minh will win.” The result was the Second Indochina War, more commonly known as the Vietnam War. July 21 1955 During a Geneva summit, US President Dwight Eisenhower presented his “Open Skies” proposal under which the US and the Soviet Union would trade maps detailing locations of each others military facilities and offer mutual aerial observation. Though his offer was rejected in that Cold War environment, it was enacted 37 years later when reintroduced by Pres. George H. W. Bush. Twenty three nations, including Russia, Ukraine, and other former Soviet states, signed the Treaty on Open Skies which went into force in 2002, establishing a program of unarmed aerial surveillance flights over the entire territory of its participants to help build trust. July 21 1988 With the passage of the Multiculturalism Act, Canada became the first country in the world to make multiculturalism its national policy. “It is hereby declared to be the policy of the Government of Canada to recognize and promote the understanding that multiculturalism reflects the cultural and racial diversity of Canadian society and acknowledges the freedom of all members of Canadian society to preserve, enhance and share their cultural heritage . . .” July 21 1998 A group of ten activists from ACT UP and harm reduction programs, demanding that President Clinton lift the ban on funding of needle exchanges to prevent the spread of HIV, seized control of the office of Presidential AIDS Policy Coordinator Sandra Thurman in Washington, DC. The activists chained themselves inside her office immediately after Thurman refused to publicly condemn Clinton’s April 20 decision to uphold the ban on federal funding for needle exchange. Nine were arrested. July 22 1756 The “The Friendly Association for gaining and preserving Peace with the Indians by Pacific Measures.” was founded in Philadelphia. It was comprised primarily of Quakers who wished to pursue peaceful coexistence between the native peoples and the European immigrants to Pennsylvania. July 22 1937 President Franklin D. Roosevelt proposed to add five new justices to the Supreme Court, because the Court was overturning many of his programs; the Senate turned down his proposal. July 22 1987 President Ronald Reagan signed into law the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act which provided emergency relief provisions for shelter, food, mobile health care and transitional housing. July 22 1992 Following bombings in Palermo, Sicily in 1992, which killed two judges and many others, seven women began a fast; by the end of the month, they numbered 30 women. They took three-day shifts during which they stayed in Piazza Castelnuovo, the main square in Palermo, for the entirety of their shift. The Mafia threatened to place a bomb in the square if they didn’t end their hunger strike. July 23 1789 In an atmosphere of popular rebellion against the French King, the commons refused to leave the chamber when directed by Louis XVI, claiming that “no one can give orders to the assembled nation.” July 23 1846 Protesting slavery and US involvement in the Mexican War, Henry David Thoreau refuses to pay his $1 poll tax and was tossed into jail by the Concord, Massachusetts town constable — an experience that moved him to write “On the Duty of Civil Disobedience.” July 24 1903 Mother Jones delivered her famed “The Wail of the Children” speech during the “March of the Mill Children.” On July 7 1903 Labor organizer Mary Harris (“Mother”) Jones begins the “March of the Mill Children” from Philadelphia to Beloved & Respected Comrade Leader Pres. Theodore Roosevelt’s summer home in Oyster Bay, Long Island, NY to publicize the harsh conditions of child labor & in demanding a 55 hour work week. The President refused to meet with them. July 24 1959 Vice President Richard Nixon and Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev engaged in a heated debate about capitalism and communism in the middle of a model kitchen set up for the American National Exhibition in Moscow. July 24 1983 Canadians and Americans spanned the international border at Thousand Islands Bridge, linking New York and Ontario, to protest nuclear weapons and border harassment of peace activists. July 25 1898 With 16,000 troops, the United States invaded Puerto Rico at Guánica, asserting that they were liberating the inhabitants from Spanish colonial rule, which had recently granted the island’s government limited autonomy. The island, as well as Cuba and the Philippines, were spoils of the Spanish-American War which ended the following month. Puerto Rico remains a U.S. commonwealth today. July 25 1994 After generations of hostility, Jordan‘s King Hussein and Israel‘s Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin signed the Washington Declaration formally ending 46 years of bloodshed, due in part to the initiative and personal involvement of President Bill Clinton and his untiring work for peace in the Middle East. July 25 1997 K.R. Narayanan was sworn in as President of India–the first from an “untouchable” caste. In his inaugural, after receiving 95 percent of the votes in the electoral college, he said, “That the nation has found a consensus for its highest office in someone who has sprung from the grass-roots of our society and grown up in the dust and heat of this sacred land is symbolic of the fact that the concerns of the common man have now moved to the centre stage of our social and political life.” July 26 1935 Labor activist Bill Bailey and some fellow merchant seamen tore down the swastika-emblazoned flag that flew from the bow of the German ship Bremen docked in Manhattan and threw it into the Hudson river, watched by a cheering crowd of 5,000. In response to Nazi propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels’ protest, New York mayor La Guardia sent ten Jewish detectives to the German consulate. They were turned away by the Nazis. July 26 1937 Congress repealed a law, passed in 1933, which required that if both members of a married couple worked for the federal government and layoffs were necessary, the wife would be the one fired. The offensive law was Section 213 of the 1933 Economy Act. July 26 1948 Segregation in the U.S. military and federal government was banned by order of President Harry Truman. July 26 1990 The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush. It prohibited discrimination based on disability in employment, in public accommodation, in transportation services, and in all activities of state and local governments. The law did not go into effect until January 26, 1992. July 26 1998 Three hundred Mexicans and Americans blockaded the Juarez-El Paso bridge in protest of the Texas Radioactive Waste Bill, which permitted the disposal of nuclear waste along the US-Mexico border. July 26 2000 A lawsuit ended with Swiss banks awarding $1.25 billion to more than a half million plaintiffs who alleged the banks had hoarded money deposited by Holocaust victims. July 26 2013 The French parliament lifted a ban on insulting the president that had been in place since 1881. It had be illegal to insult the French president and those who risked it could be fined, but the government lifted the ban after the European Court of Human Rights ruled that the law violated the freedom of expression. July The Geneva Convention of 1929, dealing with treatment of prisoners-of-war, is signed by 53 nations. July 27 1940 Lonnie E. Smith, a black dentist and civil-rights activist, attempted to vote in the Democratic primary in his Harris County precinct in Houston. As an African American, he was denied a ballot under the white primary rules of the time; the US Supreme Court had ruled in 1935 that the Democratic Party was a private organization and could set its own rules. Smith, with the assistance of attorneys supplied by the NAACP (including the future US Supreme Court justice Thurgood Marshall), filed suit in the US District Court, petitioning for redress for the denial of his rights under the Fourteenth, Fifteenth, and Seventeenth amendments. Following an unfavorable ruling in the district court, Smith’s attorneys lodged appeals that ultimately reached the Supreme Court. On April 3, 1944, the court’s decision in Smith v. Allwright reversed the prior decisions against Smith by a margin of eight to one. Since that time, all eligible Texans have had the right to vote in the primary election of their choice. July 27 2000 La Marcha de los Quatro Suyos or the March of the Four Directions began. About 20,000 demonstrators, from the four corners of Peru and many of whom had to travel by bus for several days, peacefully marched down the streets of Peru’s capital, Lima, to protest against President Alberto Fujimori’s illegal third term election. Peasants and city-dwellers alike shouted “¡Abajo la dictadura!” (“Down with Dictatorship!”) and paraded all day long. That evening, reportedly 100,000 demonstrators convened in the Paseo de la República, one of Lima’s principal avenues. Because of this and other events, Fujimori’ resigned in November July 28 1868 The Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, guaranteeing due process, equal protection of the law, and full citizenship to all males over 21 went into effect. July 28 1982 San Francisco became the first major U.S. city to ban the sale and possession of handguns. July 28 2005 The Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) officially ended its 30-year armed campaign to win the independence of Northern Ireland and began the full decommissioning of its weapons under international supervision, which was completed two months later. From that day on, they said they would pursue exclusively peaceful means to its ends. July 29 1899 The First Hague Convention was signed, one of two of international treaties and declarations negotiated at two international peace conferences at The Hague in the Netherlands. The Second Hague Conference was in 1907. Along with the Geneva Conventions, the Hague Conventions were among the first formal statements of the laws of war and war crimes in the body of secular international law. Among its provisions were the creation of the Permanent Court of Arbitration; the protection of marked hospital ships; the prohibition, for the next five years that no projectiles or explosives would be launched from balloons, “or by other new methods of a similar nature.” It also stated that the parties will abstain from using projectiles “the sole object of which is the diffusion of asphyxiating or deleterious gases” and from using “bullets which expand or flatten easily in the human body.” The US abstained from these last two provisions. July 29 1957 The International Atomic Energy Agency was established to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to inhibit its use for military purposes. July 29 1970 After a five-year strike, the United Farm Workers (UFW) signed a contract with the table grape growers in California, ending the first grape boycott. July 29 1972 The U.S. Supreme Court ruled the death penalty to be cruel and unusual punishment by a 5-4 vote. The Court called the wide discretion in application of capital punishment, including the appearance of racial bias against black defendants, “arbitrary and capricious” and thus in violation of due process guarantees in the 14th Amendment. July 30 1935 Penguin paperbacks are launched to make books affordable to all, creating a revolution in publishing. Penguin’s success demonstrated that large audiences existed for serious books and had a significant impact on public debate in Britain, through its books on politics, the arts, and science. July 30 1956 “In God We Trust” was adopted as the official motto of the United States. The phrase first started appearing on coins during the Civil War, generally thought to be an attempt to link the Union cause with God. In 1956, the nation was at a tense time in the Cold War, and the United States wanted to distinguish itself from the Soviet Union, which promoted state atheism. The motto was first challenged by champions of the separation of church and state in Aronow v. United States in 1970, but the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled: “It is quite obvious that the national motto and the slogan on coinage and currency ‘In God We Trust’ has nothing whatsoever to do with the establishment of religion. Its use is of patriotic or ceremonial character and bears no true resemblance to a governmental sponsorship of a religious exercise.” July 30 1965 President Lyndon Johnson signed Medicare and Medicaid into law. At the time nearly half of all Americans over 65 had no health insurance and family savings were ever in jeopardy of being wiped out. Today, the number of elderly Americans without insurance today is 2 percent. July 31 1492 The Jews were expelled from Spain when the Alhambra Decree took effect. The edict was formally revoked in 1968, following the Second Vatican Council. In 2014, the government of Spain passed a law allowing dual citizenship to Jewish descendants who apply, in order to “compensate for shameful events in the country’s past. Scholars disagree about how many Jews left Spain as a result of the decree; the numbers vary between 130,000 and 800,000. July 31 1703 Daniel Defoe was placed in a pillory for the crime of seditious libel after publishing a politically satirical pamphlet, but was pelted with flowers. July 31 1896 The National Association of Colored Women (NACW) was established in Washington, D.C. Its two leading members were Josephine Ruffin and Mary Church Terrell. Founders also included some of the most renowned African-American women educators, community leaders, and civil-rights activists in America, including Harriet Tubman, Frances E.W. Harper, Margaret Murray Washington, and Ida B. Wells-Barnett. The original intention of the organization was “to furnish evidence of the moral, mental and material progress made by people of colour through the efforts of our women.” However, over the next ten years the NACW became involved in campaigns favoring women’s suffrage and opposing lynching and Jim Crow laws. By the time the United States entered the First World War, membership had reached 300,000. July 31 1962 A rally of supporters of Sir Oswald Mosley and his anti-Semitic Blackshirt group in London’s east end ends when missiles including rotten fruit, pennies and stones are thrown at him and police are forced to end the rally when he knocked to the ground by protesters. July 31 1986 25,000 people rallied in Namibia for freedom from South African colonial rule. In June, 1971 the International Court of Justice had ruled the South African presence in Namibia to be illegal. Eventually, open elections for a 72-member Constituent Assembly were held under U.N. supervision in November, 1989. Three months later Namibia gained its independence, and maintains it today. July 31 1991 The worlds two superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union, signed the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) an historic agreement reducing their stockpiles of nuclear warheads by more than 30%. July 31 1998 A total ban on the use of landmines was announced by the British government, after significant public pressure to endorse an international landmines treaty. July 31 2001 Judge Roy Moore of Alabama, a justice on the Alabama Supreme Court, installed a 5,280-pound granite block inscribed with the Ten Commandments in the Alabama Judicial Building. In November 2002, the U.S. District Court declared the monument a violation of the Establishment Clause and ordered it removed. Judge Moore announced he would not obey the decision. In November 2003, Judge Moore was removed from office for violating the Alabama Canon of Judicial Ethics. In 2012, Moore was reelected to his old job. August 1 1715 The Riot Act, which authorized local authorities to declare any group of twelve or more people to be unlawfully assembled, and thus have to disperse or face punitive action, came into force in England. It was repealed in 1967. When you read someone the riot act, you’re saying: “Our sovereign lord the King chargeth and commandeth all persons, being assembled, immediately to disperse themselves, and peaceably to depart to their habitations, or to their lawful business, upon the pains contained in the act made in the first year of King George, for preventing tumults and riotous assemblies. God save the King.” August 1 1842 The Lombard Street riot erupted in Philadelphia. In the morning,1,000 members of the black Young Men’s Vigilant Association held a parade in commemoration of the eighth anniversary of the end of slavery in Jamaica. As the paraders neared Mother Bethel Church, they were attacked by an Irish Catholic mob, resentful of having to compete with African-Americans for jobs. The rioters moved west, setting fires and attacking fire fighters and police as they went. Requests to the mayor and police for protection initially led to the arrest of several of the victims and none of the rioters. August 1 1914 As World War I began, Harry Hodgkin, a British Quaker, and Friedrich Siegmund-Schulte, a German Lutheran pastor, attending a conference in Germany, pledged to continue sowing the “seeds of peace and love, no matter what the future might bring,” germinating the idea for the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR). August 1 1920 Mohandas Gandhi began the movement of “non-violent non-cooperation” with the British Raj (ruling colonial authority) in India. The strategy was to bring the British administrative machine to a halt by the total withdrawal of Indian popular support, both Hindu and Muslim. British-made goods were boycotted, as were schools, courts of law, and elective offices. August 1 1938 Now remembered as the Hilo Massacre or Bloody Monday, more than 70 police officers attempted to disband 200 unarmed, nonviolent protesters during a strike, injuring 50 of the demonstrators. In their attempts to disband the crowd, officers tear gassed, hosed and finally fired their riot guns, leading to 50 injuries, but no deaths. These protesters included Chinese, Japanese, Native Hawaiian, Luso and Filipino Americans and were members of many different unions, including the International Longshoremen’s and Warehousemen’s Union (ILWU). The different groups, long at odds, put aside their differences to challenge the Inter-Island Steam Navigation Company, demanding equal wages with workers on the West Coast of the United States. The Wagner Act, passed in 1935, legalized workers’ right to join and be represented by labor unions but Hawaii — not yet a State — was controlled by five corporations that played the races against each other, which kept wages low. August 1 1938 Possibly one of the most controversial Olympic games of modern times opened in Berlin, Germany with a ceremony presided over by Adolf Hitler. The Games of the XI Olympiad were used by Germany as a tool for propaganda. to promote their ideology and its promotion of the superiority of the “Aryan Race” by only allowing Germans of “Aryan race” to compete for Germany. August 1 1952 Pfc. Sarah Louise Keys traveled from Fort Dix, N.J., to her family’s home in Washington, NC. During a stop to change drivers, she was told to relinquish her seat to a white Marine and move to the back of the bus. Keys refused to move, whereupon the driver emptied the bus, directed the other passengers to another vehicle, and barred Keys from boarding it. When Keys asked why she shouldn’t ride the bus, she was arrested, and spent 13 hours in a cell. Keys was eventually ordered to pay a $25 fine for disorderly conduct, was released, and put on a bus to her hometown. Her case was brought before the Interstate Commerce Commission and wasn’t settled until 1955. In Sarah Keys vs. Carolina Coach Company, the ICC favored Keys Evans, ruling the Interstate Commerce Act forbids segregation. Photo August 1 1974 The United Nations Security Council authorized the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus to create the “Green Line”, dividing Cyprus into two zones, Turkish and Greek. August 1 1975 The U.S. and the U.S.S.R, represented by President Gerald Ford and General Secretary Leonid Brezhnev, along with 33 other nations, signed the Helsinki Accords at the close of the Finland meeting of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe. The agreement recognized the inherent relationship between respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the attainment of genuine peace and security. All signatories agreed to respect freedom of thought, freedom of conscience, as well as freedom of religion and belief, and to facilitate the free movement of people, ideas, and information between nations. August 1 2010 The Convention on Cluster Munitions entered into force. The international treaty prohibits the use, transfer and stockpile of cluster bombs, a type of explosive weapon which scatters submunitions (“bomblets”) over an area. August 1 2014 The Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence went into effect. Also called the Istanbul Convention, it aims at prevention of violence, victim protection and “to end with the impunity of perpetrators.” August 2 1869 Japan abolished its samurai, farmer, artisan, merchant class system as part of the Meiji Restoration reforms. August 2 1937 The Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 was passed in America, the effect of which was to render marijuana and all its by-products illegal. August 2 1939 President Roosevelt signed into law the Hatch Act (officially An Act to Prevent Pernicious Political Activities), which prohibits political activity by employees of the federal government. The Act was spurred by widespread allegations that local Democratic Party politicians used employees of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the congressional elections of 1938. The Act forbids the intimidation or bribery of voters and restricts political campaign activities by federal employees. It prohibits using any public funds designated for relief or public works for electoral purposes. It forbids officials paid with federal funds from using promises of jobs, promotion, financial assistance, contracts, or any other benefit to coerce campaign contributions or political support. It provides that persons below the policy-making level in the executive branch of the federal government must not only refrain from political practices that would be illegal for any citizen, but must abstain from “any active part” in political campaigns. In 1940 the Act was amended to include local officials who are paid with Federal funds, including appointed local law enforcement agency officials with oversight of federal grant funds. The Hatch Act bars state and local government employees from running for public office if any federal funds support the position, even if the position is funded almost entirely with local funds. The Hatch Act does not apply to actively serving uniformed members of the U.S. Armed Forces, although it does apply to Department of Defense civilians and the active duty Coast Guard. August 2 1931 Albert Einstein urged all scientists to refuse military work. “I know not with what weapons World War III will be fought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones.” August 3 1882 Congress passed the first U.S. law to restrict immigration of a particular ethnic group into the United States, the Chinese Exclusion Act. It stopped all further Chinese immigration for ten years, and denied citizenship to those already in the country, most of whom had been recruited by American railroad and mining companies. The law remained in effect until 1943. August 3 1913 Four died and many others were injured in the Wheatland Hop Riot when police and vigilantes fired into a crowd of California hop pickers trying to organize. At the Durst Ranch in Wheatland, the state’s largest single agricultural employer, hundreds of workers—whites, Mexicans, and Filipinos—had put down their tools because of terrible working conditions, low wages, and a lack of sanitation and decent housing. It was one of the first attempts to organize agricultural workers in the US. August 3 1986 Laurie McBride and seven other Motherpeace members of the Nanoose Conversion Campaign were arrested for picnicking on Winchelsea Island, east of British Columbia’s Vancouver Island. They, along with dozens of volunteer witnesses and supporters who had set off by boat from the town of Nanoose Bay, were protesting the ten-year extension of free use by the U.S. of the Canadian Forces Maritime Experimental Test Range (CFMETR). It is a joint Canadian-American facility for torpedos, other maritime warfare and detection equipment; the island held the command and control center. The Campaign advocated conversion of the area back to peaceful purposes. August 3 1988 One hundred forty-three white English and Afrikaans conscripts from four cities in South Africa announced their refusal to serve in the South African Defense Force. The SADF was engaged in actions to preserve apartheid, the social and economic system of racial separatism, in South Africa, and to occupy and thwart independence for South Africa’s neighbors, Angola and Namibia August 4 1735 Freedom of the Press: John Peter Zenger, writer and publisher of the New-York Weekly Journal, is acquitted of charges of seditious libel against the royal governor of New York. The New York City jury, which only deliberated for ten minutes, says: “the truth is not libelous.” By establishing that the truth, even if defamatory, is an absolute defense against accusation of libel, this case firmly establishes the freedom of the press in America. August 4 1942 The United States government signed the Mexican Farm Labor Program Agreement with Mexico, the first among several agreements aimed at legalizing and controlling Mexican migrant farmworkers along the southern border of the United States. Conceived as a temporary measure to supply much-needed workers during the early years of World War II, the bracero program continued uninterrupted until 1964. The agreement guaranteed a minimum wage of thirty cents an hour and humane treatment (in the form of adequate shelter, food, sanitation, etc.) of Mexican farmworkers in the United States. It has been estimated that in the 1950s the United States imported as many as 300,000 Mexican workers annually; Between 1942 and 1964 more than 4.5 million braceros entered the United States. August 4 1964 FBI agents discovered the bodies of three missing civil rights workers buried deep in an earthen dam near Philadelphia, Mississippi. James Chaney was a local African-American man who had joined the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner had traveled from New York to heavily segregated Mississippi that year to help register voters with the support of CORE. August 4 1985 Peace Ribbons made by thousands of women were wrapped around the U.S. Pentagon, the White House and the Capitol. Twenty thousand people participated, and the 27,000 panels making up the ribbon stretched for 15 miles. August 4 1987 The Federal Communications Commission rescinded the Fairness Doctrine which had required radio and television stations to present controversial issues “fairly”. August 5 1884 The Statue of Liberty‘s cornerstone was laid on Bedloe’s Island, New York Harbor to begin the assembly and ascension of the gift to the US from the people of France. August 5 1963 The Nuclear test ban treaty was signed by the United States, United Kingdom, and Soviet Union, which banned testing in the atmosphere, space and underwater. August 5 1964 President Lyndon Johnson asked Congress ”for a resolution expressing the unity and determination of the United States in supporting freedom and in protecting peace in southeast Asia.” The resulting Gulf of Tonkin Resolution authorizing military force in Vietnam, Passed on August 7, was the legal basis for the war there that lasted until 1975. Only two members of the senate voted against the resolution: Ernest Greuning of Alaska and Wayne Morse of Oregon. August 5 1981 President Ronald Reagan, having ordered striking air traffic controllers back to work within 48 hours, fired 11,359 (more than 70%) who ignored the order, and permanently banned them from federal service (a ban later lifted by President Bill Clinton). The controllers, seeking a shorter workweek among other things, were concerned the long hours they were required to work performing their high-stress jobs were a danger to both their health and the public safety August 6 1727 French Ursuline nuns first arrived at New Orleans and establish the first Catholic charitable institution in America, consisting of orphanage, a hospital and a school for girls. August 6 1890 At Auburn Prison in New York state, William Kemmler became the first person to be executed in the electric chair, developed by the Medico-Legal Society and Harold Brown, a colleague of Thomas Edison. Kemmler received two applications of 1,300 volts of alternating current. The first lasted for only 17 seconds because a leather belt was about to fall off one of the second-hand Westinghouse generators. Kemmler was still alive. The second jolt lasted until the smell of burning flesh filled the room, about four minutes. As soon as his charred body stopped smoldering, Kemmler was pronounced dead. August 6 1945 The United States dropped the first atomic bomb used in warfare on Hiroshima, An estimated 140,000 died from the immediate effects of this bomb and tens of thousands more died in subsequent years from burns and other injuries, and radiation-related illnesses. August 6 1957 Eleven activists from the Committee for Nonviolent Action (CNVA) were arrested attempting to enter the atomic testing grounds at Camp Mercury, Nevada, the first of what eventually became many thousands of arrests at the Nevada test site. August 6 1965 The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was signed by President Johnson, making illegal century-old practices aimed at preventing African Americans from exercising their constitutional right to vote. It created federal oversight of election laws in six Southern states (Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Virginia) and in many counties of North Carolina where black voter turnout was very low. August 6 1975 Congresswoman Barbara Jordan (D-TX) led an effort to have the 1965 Voting Rights Act was expanded to include language minorities. Congress amended the definition of “test or device” to prohibit laws requiring ballots and voting information be provided exclusively in English in jurisdictions where a single-language minority group comprised more than 5% of the voting-age population. Congress also enacted bilingual election requirements, which require election officials in certain jurisdictions to provide ballots and voting information in the language of language minority groups. August 6 1945 The United States dropped the first atomic bomb used in warfare on Hiroshima, Japan. An estimated 140,000 died from the immediate effects of this bomb and tens of thousands more died in subsequent years from burns and other injuries, and radiation-related illnesses. August 6 1964 Prometheus, a bristlecone pine and the world’s oldest tree, was cut down. The tree, which was at least 4862 years old and possibly more than 5000, was cut down in 1964 by a graduate student and United States Forest Service personnel at Wheeler Peak in eastern Nevada for research purposes. The people involved did not know of its world-record age before the cutting August 6 1988 The Alphabet City/East Village neighborhood, in which the Tompkins Square Park was located, was divided about what, if anything, should be done about groups of “drug pushers, homeless people and young people known as ‘skinheads'” had largely taken over the park. The local governing body adopted a 1 a.m. curfew in an attempt to bring it under control. At a rally on this day,the police charged a crowd of protesters, and a riot ensued. Bystanders, activists, police officers, neighborhood residents and journalists were caught up in the violence. The mêlée continued until 6 a.m. the next day. The neighborhood was unanimous in its condemnation of the heavy-handed actions of the police and more than 100 complaints of police brutality were lodged following the riot. Police Commissioner Benjamin Ward confirmed what media images made clear: the NYPD were responsible for inciting a riot. August 6 1990 The U.S. imposed trade sanctions on Iraq. As a result, the lack of much-needed medicines, water purification equipment and other items led to the death of many innocent Iraqis. According to British Member of Parliament George Galloway in his testimony to a committee of the U.S. Congress on May 17, 2005, these sanctions “ . . . killed one million Iraqis, most of them children, most of them died before they even knew that they were Iraqis, but they died for no other reason other than that they were Iraqis with the misfortune to be born at that time . . . .” August 6 2005 During August 2005, when President George W. Bush took a vacation at his ranch in Crawford, Texas, Cindy Sheehan, whose son Casey was killed in Iraq in April, vowed to go to Crawford and demand a meeting with the President, challenging his rationale for the Iraq War. Hadi Jawad offered her the use of the Crawford Peace House as a base. On August 6 approximately 75 people began a walk for peace towards President Bush’s ranch. They were stopped by police, and ended up making the field where they stopped “Camp Casey.” In the first week, more than 700 activists passed through. They suffered vandalism and death threats: one neighbor ran, with his truck, over a shrine of crossed erected by Veterans for Peace in the memory of dead soldiers; another fired a rifle into the camp. On 26 August, 1,500 counter-protesters gathered in Crawford to support pro-war efforts. They spoke out against Ms. Sheehan and accused the anti-war message of being anti-American. At the same time, 2,500 people gathered at Camp Casey for an anti-war rally (including a busload of activists from San Antonio.) Camp Casey was disbanded on August 29 when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans and President Bush’s vacation was cut short. August 7 1495 The Diet of Worms abolished private warfare in Holy Roman Empire. The Ewiger Landfriede (variously translated as “Perpetual Peace”, “Eternal Peace”, “Perpetual Public Peace”) of 1495, banned the medieval right of vendetta (Fehderecht.) It established the monopoly of the state in the use of force: internal conflicts were to be resolved by legal process. (A Diet is a general assembly; it is derived from the Greek diaita, meaning “way of living.” The Japanese and German assemblies are still called Diets. Worms is a city in Germany.) August 7 1854 The St. Louis “Know Nothing” riots started when rumors started that recent Catholic immigrants — many of them Irish Catholics who immigrated after the Irish potato famine of 1845–1846 and the failed Irish uprising of 1848— were attempting to vote. That morning, the Missouri Republic announced: “A large number of illegal votes will be attempted. Watch them close.” Vigilante groups deployed to the heavily Irish 5th Ward. Ten people were killed, 33 wounded, and 93 buildings were damaged. The influx of Irish Catholic immigrants was sparked by the Irish potato famine of 1845–1846 and the failed Irish uprising of 1848. Similar riots occurred in Philadelphia in 1844, Louisville in 1855, Baltimore in 1857 and New Orleans in 1858. The illustration below is of the Philadelphia riots. August The Peace Bridge opened between Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, New York. August 7 1972 Ugandan leader Idi Amin ordered an estimated 60,000 Asians, most of them residents for several generations, to leave the country within 90 days. The ethnic cleansing was conducted in a climate of Indophobia, in which the Ugandan government claimed that the Indians were hoarding wealth and goods to the detriment of indigenous Ugandans and “sabotaging” the Ugandan economy. Many of the Indians were citizens of the United Kingdom and Colonies and subsequently emigrated to the United Kingdom. Others became stateless after being stripped of Ugandan citizenship. Most of the Ugandan Indian refugees who were accounted for went to Britain, which took around 27,200 refugees. 6,000 refugees went to Canada, 4,500 refugees ended up in India and 2,500 refugees went to nearby Kenya. Malawi, Pakistan, West Germany and the United States took 1,000 refugees each, with smaller numbers emigrating to Australia, Austria, Sweden, Norway Mauritius and New Zealand. About 20,000 refugees were unaccounted for. All were stripped of their businesses and property. August 7 1978 President Jimmy Carter declared a federal emergency at Love Canal due to toxic waste that had been disposed of negligently. en years after the incident, New York State Health Department Commissioner David Axelrod stated that Love Canal would long be remembered as a “national symbol of a failure to exercise a sense of concern for future generations.” August 7 2004 After agonizing for a month, Sgt. Joseph Darby reported that his fellow soldiers were abusing Iraqi prisoners. He turned in two CD’s of photos that revealed inmates hooded and naked being led around on a leash like dogs. August 8 1942 The Quit India Movement was launched at the Bombay session of the All India Congress Committee in response to Gandhi’s call for immediate independence of India. In a speech at the Gowalia Tank Maidan, renamed August Revolution Ground, Gandhi urged Indians to follow a course of non-violent civil disobedience to bring the British Govt. to the negotiating table. He told the masses to act as an independent nation and not to follow the orders of the British. His call “to Do or Die” found support among a large number of Indians. August 8 1970 Janis Joplin bought a gravestone for blues legend Bessie Smith, who was buried in an unmarked grave after she died in a car accident in 1937. Joplin often called Smith’s raspy blues voice her greatest inspiration. The marker, in Mount Lawn Cemetery in Sharon Hill, PA, reads, “The Greatest Blues Singer in the World Will Never Stop Singing.” August 8 1974 President Richard M. Nixon resigned from office, the first U.S. president ever to do so. The House Judiciary Committee had, with bipartisan support, voted for three articles of impeachment: obstruction of justice, abuse of power and contempt of Congress. August 8 1988 In what is known as the 8888 uprising, Burmese students begin protesting for a return to democracy and were joined Burmese citizens from all walks of life, including Buddhist monks. The demonstrations were peaceful and spread from the Burmese capital to other cities in Burma. As the numbers of protesters grew Burma’s military government leader Ne Win put military soldiers on the streets with orders, “That Guns were not to shoot upwards.” It is estimated that the soldiers killed more than 2,500 students and Buddhist monks before the uprising ended . (Burma was renamed Myanmar the next year.) August 8 1999 A 53-mile peace walk commemorating the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki ended near Clam Lake, Wisconsin, at the site of the U.S. Navy’s Project Elf (extremely low frequency) submarine communications transmitter. Twelve of the demonstrators were arrested for trespassing, adding to the nearly 500 previously arrested for sit-ins, Citizen Inspections, blockades and disarmament actions at the transmitter site in Ashland County. August Henry David Thoreau published “Walden,” which described his experiences living near Walden Pond in Massachusetts. August 9 1925 Ku Klux Klan members flooded Washington; Pennsylvania Avenue was awash in white robes and official Klansmen asserted that they had met their quota of 50,000 marchers. As they awaited the speeches of high ranking Klan officials rain, thunder, and lightening broke up the crowd that met on Saturday. However, many stayed for meetings on Sunday. They went to the tomb of the unknown soldier and burned a gigantic cross. A huge number of women, garbed in white robes, marched alongside of the men. August 9 1956 20,000 women demonstrated against the pass laws in Pretoria, South Africa. Pass laws required that Africans carry identity documents with them at all times. August 9 1966 Two hundred people sat in at the New York City offices of Dow Chemical Company to protest the widespread use in Vietnam of Dow’s flammable defoliant Napalm. August Mauritania passed a law criminalizing slavery for the first time. August 10 1883 Adrian “Cap” Anson refused to field his visiting Chicago White Stockings team in an exhibition baseball game if the Toledo Mud Hens included star catcher Moses Fleetwood Walker in their lineup. Anson, who grew up in slave-holding Iowa, said he wouldn’t share the diamond with a non-white player. After more than an hour’s delay, Charlie Morton, the Toledo manager, insisted that if Chicago forfeited the game, it would also lose its share of the gate receipts; Anson relented. Morton had not planned to have Walker catch due to injury, but insisted on putting him in at centerfield, despite Cap Anson’s objections. August 10 1931 The Wickersham Commission, appointed by President Herbert Hoover, was the first federal study of the American criminal justice system. It published 14 volumes on different aspects of crime and criminal justice. The most famous report was “Lawlessness in Law Enforcement,” issued on this day. It created a sensation as a blistering account of police abuse of citizens, including widespread physical brutality, prolonged detention, and coercion of confessions. August 10 1988 President George H.W. Bush signed legislation apologizing and compensating for the World War II internment of Japanese Americans. August 11 1943 Conscientious objectors at the Danbury Federal Prison in Connecticut, incarcerated for refusing to cooperate with the draft during World War II, staged a hunger strike to protest racial segregation of the dining hall. The strike, which began on this day, lasted 135 days, ending on December 23, 1943, when the warden announced that the dining hall would soon be integrated. August 11 1978 American Indian Religious Freedom Act was passed to protect and preserve the traditional religious rights and cultural practices of American Indians, Eskimos, Aleuts, and Native Hawaiians. These rights include, but are not limited to, access to sacred sites, freedom to worship through ceremonial and traditional rights, and use and possession of objects considered sacred, such as eagle feathers or bones and peyote. August 12 1883 The world’s last quagga, a now-extinct subspecies of plains zebra that lived in South Africa, died at the Artis Magistra zoo in Amsterdam, Netherlands August 12 1949 The IV Geneva Convention was adopted. Based on the experiences of World War II, it granted additional protections to civilians in wartime, including an agreement that occupiers would not settle occupied territory with their own people. August 12 1998 Representatives of Swiss banks and holocaust survivors agreed to a settlement of $1.25 billion in reparations for victims of the Nazi regime. August 13 1906 The Brownsville Raid, an alleged rampage by soldiers from the all-black Twenty-fifth United States Infantry, resulted in the largest summary dismissals in the history of the United States Army. The battalion arrived at Brownsville, then a community of 6,000, from recent duty in the Philippines and Fort Niobrara, Nebraska. A reported attack on a white woman during the night of August 12 incensed many townspeople and an early curfew was imposed. Around midnight, a bartender and policeman were shot. Although the officers swore that the curfew was not violated and all of the soldiers denied the shootings, civilian and military investigations presumed the guilt of the soldiers without identifying individual culprits. On November 5 President Theodore Roosevelt summarily discharged “without honor” all 167 enlisted men. This action of Roosevelt shocked his black constituency and moved the controversy to the national stage. In 1972, President Richard Nixon pardoned the men and granted them honorable discharges, most of whom had since died. August 13 1961 The city of Berlin was divided as East Germany sealed off the border between the city’s eastern (Soviet Union-controlled) and western (American-, British- and French-controlled) sectors in order to halt the flight of economic and political refugees to the West. Two days later, work began on the Berlin Wall. August 14 1904 The cattle-herding Hereros, a tribe of Southwest Africa (later Namibia), became the first genocide victims of the 20th century. Kaiser Wilhelm II had sent General Lothar von Trotha to put down a Herero uprising along with the groups of rebellious Khoikhoi. Trotha drove the Hereros into the desert and then issued a formal “extermination order” (Schrecklichkeit) authorizing the slaughter of all who refused to surrender. Out of some 80,000 Hereros, 60,000 died in the desert. Of the 15,000 who surrendered, half of those died in prison camps. Some 9,000 escaped to neighboring countries. August 14 1912 The US Public Health Service was established under the Dept. of the Treasury by the Public Health and Marine Hospital Service Act. August 14 1935 President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law, creating unemployment compensation, old-age benefits and aid to dependent children. August 14 1936 Rainey Bethea was hanged in Owensboro, Kentucky in the last public execution in the United States. August 14 1941 In the German Nazi concentration camp at Auschwitz, a group of prisoners had been chosen by the camp’s commander for death by starvation. Roman Catholic Fr. Maximilian Maria Kolbe offered himself for death instead of one of the condemned because the man had a family he needed to be alive to support. Fr. Kolbe was put to death on this day by lethal injection following two weeks of starvation. Pope John Paul II declared him a Saint in 1982. August 14 1948 The States’ Rights Party was formed by southern Democrats (usually called Dixiecrats) who walked out of the Democratic Party Convention in July because of that party’s strong civil rights plank. South Carolina Senator Strom Thurmond became the States’ Rights Party’s candidate for president. On this day, the party adopted a defense of racial segregation in its platform: “We stand for the segregation of the races and the racial integrity of each race; the constitutional right to choose one’s associates; to accept private employment without governmental interference, and to earn one’s living in any lawful way. We oppose the elimination of segregation, the repeal of miscegenation statutes, the control of private employment by Federal bureaucrats called for by the misnamed civil rights program. We favor home-rule, local self-government and a minimum interference with individual rights.” August 14 1980 Some 17,000 Polish workers, led by Lech Walesa, began a 17-day strike at the Lenin Shipyards in Gdansk. This resulted in the creation of the Solidarity labor movement. August 14 2000 The Democratic convention opened in Los Angeles at Staples Auditorium. Demonstrators fought with police following a concert by the band Rage Against the Machine. The concert followed a “March of Corporate Shame” through downtown LA. VIDEO August 14 2002 Mexican President Vicente Fox angrily canceled a scheduled meeting with President Bush hours after Texas executed a Mexican national for killing a Dallas police officer despite pleas from the Mexican leadership. Javier Suarez Medina, a Mexican national, was never told he could contact the Mexican consulate for help after his 1988 arrest, a violation of the 1963 Vienna Convention of Consular Relations. August 14 2011 Chinese state media said authorities in the northeastern port city of Dalian ordered a petrochemical plant be shut down after more than 12,000 people demonstrated over pollution concerns. Calls to relocate the plant grew after waves from Tropical Storm Muifa broke a dike guarding it on August 8 and raised fears that flood waters could release toxic chemicals. August 14 2012 In Tunisia, thousands of protesters gathered in the capital, Tunis, to protest against moves made by the Islamist-controlled government which could potentially reduce women’s rights. The concern was over wording in a draft of the new constitution for the country that stated that women were “complementary” to men. August 14 2012 Malaysia’s PM Najib Razak said he would review a legal amendment that critics claim threatens free expression online after they staged a one-day “Internet blackout.” NGOs, bloggers and opposition politicians staged the protest earlier in the day by replacing their homepages with black screens featuring messages attacking the new section of the Evidence Act, which went into effect in April despite widespread opposition. August 14 2015 The US Embassy in Havana, Cuba re-opened after 54 years of being closed when Cuba–United States relations were broken off. August 15 1819 The Peterloo Massacre occurred at St Peter’s Field, Manchester, England, , when cavalry charged into a peaceful crowd of 60,000–80,000 that had gathered to demand the reform of parliamentary representation. August 15 1876 Congress passed a law to remove the Lakota Sioux and their allies from the Black Hills country of South Dakota after gold was found there. Often referred to as the “starve or sell” bill, it provided that no further appropriations would be made for 1868 Treaty-guaranteed rations for the Sioux unless they gave up their sacred Black Hills, or Paha Sapa. That treaty had granted them the territory and hunting rights in exchange for peace. August 15 1967 The Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., speaking at a Southern Christian Leadership Conference in Atlanta, urged a massive civil disobedience drive in northern cities. Responding to the widespread rioting there, he said, “It is purposeless to tell Negroes they should not be enraged when they should be . . . Civil disobedience can utilize the militance wasted in riots . . . .” August 15 1967 Convinced that foreign governments were behind anti-Vietnam War protests, President Lyndon Johnson ordered Central Intelligence Agency Director Richard Helms to begin spying on the anti-war movement. The exact date of the meeting is not known, but this day marks the first official CIA memo on the program. Although Helms told LBJ that such a program would be illegal, LBJ ordered him to do it anyway. The CIA delivered four reports on the anti-war movement, all of which concluded that the anti-war movement was home-grown. LBJ rejected the conclusions of all four of them and remained convinced that the anti-war movement was influenced or controlled by foreign governments. The CIA domestic spying program grew in size and was later renamed Operation Chaos. It was exposed by The New York Times on December 22, 1974. August 15 1975 One hundred Native American protesters took over the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) building in Portland, Oregon, in response to the killing of Joseph Stuntz, member of the American Indian Movement (AIM) who was killed in a shootout with FBI agents on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. August 15 1996 In South Korea some 6,000 police clashed with 7,000 students who protested for reunification with North Korea and the removal of 37,000 US troops. August 15 1998 In Britain it was reported that 6,000 mink from a fur farm in Ringworm had been released by animal rights activists. The released mink caused a wildlife disaster as they preyed on all wildlife. August 15 2007 In Kenya hundreds of journalists wearing black gags marched silently through Nairobi to protest a proposed law that would allow courts to compel reporters to reveal their sources. August 15 2012 Australia highest court upheld the world’s toughest law on cigarette promotion, which prohibits tobacco companies from displaying their logos on cigarette packs. Starting in December, packs will instead come in a uniformly drab shade of olive and feature graphic health warnings and images of cancer-riddled mouths, blinded eyeballs and sickly children. August 16 1819 English police charged unemployed demonstrators at St. Peter’s Field in the Manchester Massacre. 11 people were killed in the Peterloo massacre. The press responded with a volley of attacks that included “The Political House that Jack Built” by William Hone and illustrator George Cruikshank. August 16 1846 When President John Tyler vetoed a second attempt by Congress to re-establish the Bank of the United States, angry congressman who supported the bank stormed down Pennsylvania Avenue, gathered outside the White House and burned an effigy of Tyler. August 16 1894 Chiefs from the Sioux & Onondaga tribes met to urge their people to renounce Christianity and return to their traditional beliefs. August 16 1971 A memo from White House Counsel John Dean set forth his ideas about using federal agencies, such as the IRS, to punish people the Nixon administration believed were their enemies. The list was exposed in the Watergate hearings two years later. JOHN DEAN: “This memorandum addresses the matter of how we can maximize the fact of our incumbency in dealing with persons known to be active in their opposition to our Administration; stated a bit more bluntly — how we can use the available federal machinery to screw our political enemies.” August 16 2001 In Nepal the government outlawed discrimination against members of the lowest caste, the Dalits, who would be free to enter any temple or religious structure. August 16 2005 The Bush administration reduced the estimated value of recreation in national forests from $111 billion to $11 billion. Environmentalists warned the new Forest Service assessment could be used to justify increased logging. August 16 2005 In Taize, France, Brother Roger, the 90-year-old founder of an ecumenical religious community dedicated to peace and reconciliation, was knifed to death by an apparently deranged Romanian woman at an evening prayer service attended by 2,500 people. Brother Roger founded the Taize religious community in 1940 emphasizing the need for all Christians to come together in peace, love and reconciliation. August 16 2007 A CARE spokeswoman said the donation of wheat and other crops does not help in regions where people consistently go hungry because local farming has been weakened by international competition. The Atlanta-based group turned down $46 million worth of US food aid, arguing that the way the American government distributes its help hurts poor farmers. CARE was founded in the United States in 1945 when it sent food parcels to Europe. The name stood for ‘Cooperative for American Remittances to Europe’. As CARE’s activities broadened, this was changed to the ‘Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere’. Today the name is used in its own right rather than as an acronym. August 16 2010 US-based Rapaport Diamond Trading Network, one of the world’s largest diamond trading networks, said it will expel members who knowingly trade Zimbabwean stones tainted by allegations of killings and human rights abuses. August 16 2010 In Bolivia protesters suspended road blockades and hunger strikes, saying government officials agreed to address their grievances after 19 days of demonstrations that paralyzed Bolivia’s southern Potosi region. The government agreed to build a new airport and cement factory in the area to end the 3-weeks of roadblocks. August 16 2011 In India anti-corruption activist Anna Hazare (74), arrested for planning a public hunger strike, began his fast behind bars as his supporters held protests across the country, with thousands detained by police. The government decided to release as public anger rose, but Hazare refused to leave jail unless he was given written permission to resume his fast in a park in central Delhi. August 16 2012 A solar powered toilet that turns urine and feces into hydrogen and electricity won a $100,000 first prize in the Reinvent the Toilet Challenge in Seattle, sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. August 17 1870 Esther Morris was named a justice of the peace in South Pass City, Wyoming, the first woman to hold public office in the US. August 17 1915 Leo Frank, a Jewish factory manager, was lynched by a mob of anti-Semites in Cob County, Georgia. He had been convicted in the killing of Mary Phagan, a 13-year-old girl who worked at his pencil factory. The governor believed him innocent and commuted his death sentence in June. August 17 1962 East German border guards shoot & kill Peter Fechter, an 18 year old bricklayer, as he attempted to cross the Berlin Wall into the western sector. Fechter was shot in the pelvis in plain view of hundreds of witnesses. He fell back into the death-strip on the Eastern side, where he remained in view of Western onlookers. Despite his screams, he received no medical assistance from the East side, and could not be tended to by those on the West side. Western police threw him bandages, which he could not reach. He bled to death after approximately one hour. August 17 1982 The first draft resister since the Vietnam era, Enten Eller, was convicted. A member of the Church of the Brethren, an historic peace church, he received probation with two years’ alternative service for refusing to register for the draft. Support demonstrations occurred all over the U.S. “I have not registered simply because the U.S. Government has asked be to do something God would not have me do,” Eller wrote in a statement describing his position on this issue. Today, the Selective Service System accommodates conscientious objectors by allowing them to apply for CO status at the time of registration. August 17 1915 Leo Frank, a Jewish-American in Atlanta, Georgia, was lynched by a mob in Marietta, Georgia, one of the worst incidents of anti-Semitism of the period. Frank had been convicted of the murder of Mary Phagan, who worked at a factory where he was a superintendent. Frank was the last person to see Phagan alive, but there were many questions about whether he was in fact guilty. In 1986, Frank was granted a pardon because of the failure of authorities to protect him when he was lynched. Reportedly, half of the Jews living in Georgia left after the lynching. The lynching was closely related to the revival of the Ku Klux Klan, which was newly organized at Stone Mountain, Georgia,, three months after the lynching. The Klan in this period directed its hatred against Catholics and Jews almost as much as African-Americans, particularly in states outside the South. August 18 1856 Congress passed The Guano Islands Act, which enables citizens of the U.S. to take possession of islands containing guano deposits so long as they are not occupied and not within the jurisdiction of other governments. It also empowers the President of the United States to use the military to protect such interests. Guano, bird, bat and seal poop, was prized as a source of saltpeter for gunpowder as well as an agricultural fertilizer. More than 100 islands have been claimed for the U.S. under the Guano Islands Act. August 18 1920 The Nineteenth Amendment granting women the right to vote was ratified when Tennessee became the 36th state to ratify the amendment. Anti-women’s suffrage forces attempted to reverse the state’s ratification; the governor finally signed the certificate of ratification on August 24th. U.S. Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby signed the Nineteenth Amendment into law on August 26th. Women voted in presidential elections for the first time on November 2, 1920. August 18 1964 South Africa was banned from taking part in the 18th Olympic Games in Tokyo due to the country’s refusal to reform its racially separatist apartheid system. August 18 2008 Tens of thousands of Muslims waving green and black protest flags gathered in Indian Kashmir’s main city for a march to UN offices demanding freedom from India and intervention by the world body. August 18 2010 A leading Venezuelan newspaper replaced front-page photos with the word “censored” to protest a court’s month-long ban on the publication of information and photos about violence. August 18 2011 Chile officially recognized 9,800 more victims of the Pinochet dictatorship (1973-1990), increasing the total number of people killed, tortured or imprisoned for political reasons to 40,018. Victims, relatives of those killed and survivors were entitled to benefits and compensation. August 19 1749 According to the Texas State History Association, on this day four Apache chiefs, accompanied by many followers, buried a hatchet, along with other instruments of war, in a peace Ceremony in San Antonio. TSHA states that the ceremony indicated the Apache’s conversion to Christianity in exchange for protection by the Spanish from Comanche raids. The plaque embedded in Main Plaza in 2008 tells a different story, and cites a different date and year: Captain Toribio de Urrutia and Fray Santa Ana now determined to do their best to establish a permanent and lasting peace with the Apache nation. …this was a great day for San Antonio. After thirty years of depredations, the harassed settlement was about to secure, as was thought, a lasting peace. Early in the morning the plaza began to fill with an eager throng… First, a great hole was dug in the center of the plaza, and in this were placed a live horse, a hatchet, a lance, and six arrows, all instruments of war. Then Captain Urrutia and the four chiefs, joining hands, danced three times around the hole, the Indians afterwards doing the same with the priests and the citizens. When this ceremony was concluded, all retired to their respective places. Then, upon a given signal, all rushed to the hold and rapidly buried the live horse, together with the weapons, thus signifying the end of war… August 19 1791 Benjamin Banneker sends a copy of his just-published almanac to Secretary of State, Thomas Jefferson, along with an appeal on behalf of African-Americans’ “humiliating condition (slavery)…” August 19 1839 The French government announced that Louis Daguerre’s photographic process is a gift “free to the world”. August 19 1989 The “Pan-European Picnic” helped precipitate the fall nearly three months later of the Berlin Wall. Members of Hungary’s budding opposition organized a picnic at the border with Austria to press for greater political freedom and promote friendship with their Western neighbors. August 19 1998 In Italy the Assicurazioni Generali insurance company announced that it will pay $100 million to Holocaust survivors and the heirs of victims for life insurance and annuity policies that it refused to honor after WW II. August The first Africans were brought to Jamestown, Virginia, as servants. August 20 2014 Russian police arrested four people who climbed a Moscow skyscraper, attached a Ukrainian flag to its spire and painted the upper part of the massive golden-colored star on top of the spire blue, so that it would also resemble the yellow-blue Ukrainian national flag. They were charged with vandalism and face a fine of 40,000 rubles (around $1,100), correctional labor of up to a year or up to 3 months’ detention. “It’s symbolic that today, perhaps, the tallest skyscraper in Moscow was painted in our colors,” Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko wrote on his Facebook page. “I invite Ukrainians around the world to put out Ukrainian flags on the eve of our Independence Day as part of Our Colors Initiative. Glory to Ukraine!” August 21 1939 In an action coordinated by a young black attorney, five African-American men applied for library cards in Alexandria, Virginia’s new library. When they were refused because of their race, each quietly took a book from the shelves, sat down and read. They were arrested for disorderly conduct. Their case went to court in September. In January a judge ruled that Alexandria must issue library cards to it Black taxpayers. Within days, hundreds applied. The city then immediately appropriated funds to build a “separate but equal” black library,; it opened in April and was far inferior to the white library. The Alexandria libraries did not integrate until the 1960s. August 21 1944 The US, Britain, the Soviet Union and China opened the Dumbarton Oaks conference in Washington, D.C. It laid the foundation for the establishment of the UN. August 21 1968 The Czechoslovakian people spontaneously, nonviolently and ultimately unsuccessfully resisted invasion of their country of 14 million by hundreds of thousands of troops and 5,000+ tanks from the Soviet Union and four other Warsaw Pact countries. The troops were enforcing the overthrow and arrest of Alexander Dubček and his government, who had been implementing significant democratic reforms known collectively as “socialism with a human face,” or the Prague Spring. August 21 1983 Exiled popular Philippine political leader Benigno Aquino was assassinated by soldiers of the Aviation Security Command as he crossed the tarmac at Manila International Airport. He had spent three years of asylum in the U.S. Upon his return, he intended to lead the political opposition to Pres. Ferdinand Marcos and the martial law he had imposed. The Aquino funeral drew millions and gave impetus to the broad-based People’s Power movement which eventually forced Marcos from power. August 21 2008 Protests were held in Mbabane, the capital of Swaziland, by hundreds of women. The women protested against a shopping trip to Europe and the Middle East by nine of the king’s wives. As one of the poorest countries in the world, the protesters believed the money could be spent in a better way. August 22 1849 The 2nd International Peace Congress met for three days in Salle Sainte-Cecile, Paris, with Victor Hugo as President. Hugo called for the creation of a United States of Europe. Hugo, then in exile on the Island of Guernsey, planted a tree in the grounds of his residence, saying that when this tree matured the United States of Europe would have come into being. This tree is still growing in the gardens there. August 22 1864 In Geneva, Switzerland, representatives of 12 nations agreed to sign the First Geneva Contention “for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded in Armies in the Field.” By 1866 twenty countries had signed. 194 states were signatories as of 2008. August 22 1924 The famed attorney Clarence Darrow on this day gave a celebrated closing argument in the trial of Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb, on trial for the murder of Bobby Franks in Chicago. The two highly intellectual sons of wealthy parents committed the murder to see if they could commit the perfect crime. Darrow’s closing argument lasted for an incredible 12 hours as he pleaded that the defendants not be sentenced to death. (He did not argue that they were innocent.) Darrow was a passionate and longtime opponent of the death penalty. At the end of his argument, the judge was in tears, and he then sentenced the two to life in prison. August 22 1964 Fannie Lou Hamer, leader of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP), testified in front of the Credentials Committee at the Democratic National Convention. She was challenging the all-white delegation that the segregated regular Mississippi Democrats had sent to the presidential nominating convention. Mississippi’s Democratic Party excluded African Americans from participation. The MFDP, on the other hand, sought to create a racially inclusive new party, signing up 60,000 members. August 22 1971 The FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) arrested twenty in Camden, New Jersey, and five in Buffalo, New York, for conspiracy to steal and destroy draft records. Eventually known as the Camden 28, most were Roman Catholic activists, including four priests, and a Lutheran minister. August 23 1927 Italian-born anarchist immigrants Nicola Sacco (right) and Bartolomeo Vanzetti, convicted of murder in 1921, were executed in Boston in spite of worldwide protests. On April 15, 1920, a paymaster and his guard at a shoe factory in Braintree, Massachusetts, were killed in a robbery. In the national climate of suspicion of anarchists, communists and foreigners in general, Sacco and Vanzetti, two admitted radicals, were arrested for the crime and convicted on flimsy circumstantial evidence in a trial presided over by the openly prejudiced Judge Webster Thayer. For six years, the two gained support as they attempted to obtain a new trial, but their request was denied even after a convicted killer confessed to the 1920 murders. In April 1927, Judge Thayer sentenced Sacco and Vanzetti to die in the electric chair. In 1977 Sacco and Vanzetti were vindicated when Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis established a memorial in the victims’ honor. August 23 1948 The World Council of Churches (WCC) was formed in Amsterdam by delegates from 147 churches to help reconcile differences among Christians. August 23 1954 The small community of Charleston, Arkansas, became the first in the South to end segregation in its schools. This was in response to the May 17 US Supreme Court ruling on Brown vs. Board of Education. August 23 1971 Shamu the Whale, the 1st of a number of Shamus, died at Sea World in San Diego, Ca., after 6 years in captivity. August 23 1989 Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania — the three nations living by the Baltic Sea — surprised the world by taking hold of each other’s hands and jointly demanding the re-establishment of the independence of the Baltic States, which was bargained away by the Germans & Russians in the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact in the early days of World War II. More than a million people joined hands to create a 400 mile long human chain from the foot of Toompea in Tallinn to the foot of the Gediminas Tower in Vilnius, crossing Riga and the River Daugava on its way, creating a synergy in the drive for freedom that united the three countries. August 23 1999 In Jordan the National Popular Campaign for Ending So-Called Honor Crimes began efforts to get rights for women and harsher laws against men who kill female relatives for family honor. August 23 2014 7,500 people from 27 countries formed an 8-kilometer long human chain across the German-Polish border to protest opencast brown coal (lignite) mining, which could entail the destruction of villages in both countries. August 24 1662 An Act of Uniformity, a part of the Clarendon Code (1661-1665), was passed by the English Parliament and required that England’s college fellows and clergymen accept the newly published Book of Common Prayer. August 24 1967 Led by Abbie Hoffman, the Youth International Party temporarily disrupted trading at the New York Stock Exchange by throwing dollar bills from the viewing gallery, causing trading to cease as brokers scrambled to grab them. August 24 1970 United Farm Workers Organizing Committee (UFWOC) leader Cesar Chavez called for a consumer boycott of lettuce to support the strike against lettuce growers who would not negotiate contracts with the farm workers for decent wages and working conditions. August 24 2008 In India about 40,000 protesters surrounded the Tata Motors factory slated to produce the Nano, the world’s cheapest car, alleging land for the site was forcibly taken from local farmers. A day earlier Ratan Tata, whose Tata Motors is India’s top vehicle-maker, warned he would move the plant out of the state if the demonstrations kept up, although his company has already invested 350 million dollars in the project. August 25 1950 The University of California Regents voted to fire 31 faculty members who refused to sign a Loyalty Oath. The state Supreme Court declared the University of California loyalty oath unconstitutional on October 17, 1952. The oath stated, in part, “I am not a member of the Communist Party or any other organization which advocates the overthrow of the Government by force or violence, and that I have no commitments in conflict with my responsibilities with respect to impartial scholarship and free pursuit of truth.” August 25 2004 ACT UP protested naked outside of Penn Station on the eve of the Republican National Convention in NYC, demanding that the Bush Administration drop the debt of poor countries with large HIV/AIDS epidemics. ACT UP & Health GAP and allies pushed for debt reduction in a sustained movement with other allies that resulted in over $100 billion of debt cancelled in 29 countries–freeing up money to pay for the fight against AIDS and to pay health workers instead of paying back rich-countries’ banks. August 26 1789 The French National Assembly agreed to a document known as the “Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen,” a set of principles for gauging the legitimacy of any governing system. It included: Men are born and remain free and equal in rights; Those rights are liberty, property, security, and resistance to oppression; Liberty consists in the freedom to do everything which injures no one else; and The free communication of ideas and opinions is one of the most precious of the rights of man. August 26 1920 The 19th amendment (women’s suffrage) was ratified, making it legal for the first time for women in the United States to participate in elections. August 26 1999 In Tibet Tashi Tsering, a carpenter, lowered the Chinese flag in the capital and attempted to put up the banned Tibetan flag. He was arrested and died on Oct 13 from beatings while under Chinese police custody. August 26 2012 In Togo women in the civil rights group “Let’s Save Togo” said they will have a week long sex strike to demand the resignation of President Faure Gnassingbé. August 27 1685 The Strasbourg Agreement, signed between France and the Holy Roman Empire, banned the use of poison bullets in conflict. The next major agreement on chemical weapons did not occur until the 1925 Geneva Protocol. August 27 1928 The Kellogg–Briand Pact (officially the General Treaty for Renunciation of War as an Instrument of National Policy) was an international agreement in which signatory states promised not to use war to resolve “disputes or conflicts of whatever nature or of whatever origin they may be, which may arise among them.” It was signed by Germany, France and the United States on August 27 and by most other nations soon after. The Pact renounced the use of war and called for the peaceful settlement of disputes. Ultimately, the pact blurred the legal distinction between war and peace because the signatories, having renounced the use of war, began to wage wars without declaring them as in the Japanese invasion of Manchuria in 1931, the Italian invasion of Abyssinia in 1935, the Soviet invasion of Finland in 1939, and the German and Soviet Union invasions of Poland. August 27 2004 Thousands of cyclists snarled traffic in NYC and police said they arrested more than 250 people and confiscated their bicycles in the first significant protest against President Bush before the Republican convention. August 27 2008 In Honolulu Marcus Eriksen and fellow eco-mariner Joel Paschal celebrated the end of their 2,600-mile voyage on what they call the JUNK raft. They had spent three months crossing the Pacific on a raft made of plastic bottles to raise awareness of ocean debris. Research suggested that every square kilometer of the ocean has an average of 13,000 pieces of plastic floating in it. The floating portion was thought to make up only 15% of marine litter. August 28 1957 The Massachusetts legislature “cleared” six victims of the notorious 1692 Salem Witch Trials. The Salem Witch Hunt, in which twenty people were convicted and executed for being witches, is one of the worst examples of mass hysteria in American history. The resolution passed on this day named Ann Pudeator and five other unnamed persons. August 28 1963 Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to a crowd of half a million gathered on the Mall in Washington, D.C. August 28 1976 60,000 joined the Community of Peace People demonstrations in Belfast and Dublin, Ireland. Peace People was founded by two women, Betty Williams and Mairead Corrigan to decry the painful violence between Catholics and Protestants, between unionists and republicans, and to move the peace process forward in Northern Ireland. They jointly won the Nobel Peace Prize for 1976. August 28 1987 The administration of President Ronald Reagan adopted a formal policy barring visas to people with the HIV infection. The policy was one of several similar policies that reflected both an indifference to the HIV/AIDS crisis and hostility to homosexuality. The policy was finally rescinded by the administration of President Barack Obama on January 5, 2010, when the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) removed HIV from the list of diseases that barred people from obtaining visas to enter the U.S. August 28 2006 In South Africa Adriaan Vlok, whose ministry helped suppress anti-apartheid protests, last weekend visited the offices of the Rev. Frank Chikane, a top presidential aide, to apologize. Vlok brought his Bible and washed Chikane’s feet in an attempt to atone for the sins of the white racist regime that ruled the country until 1994. August 28 2009 Denmark announced the 5 winners of its biennial Index design awards. The winners included: Kiva.org, of the SF Bay Area for bringing money and intellectual capital to the working poor; Better Place, of the SF Bay Area for a clean energy system for all-electric cars; the Freeplay fetal heart rate monitor; Philip Design for its India-team designed safe kitchen stove for one-room homes; and Rotterdam-based Pig 05049 for its list of 185 good and bad products made from a single pig. August 29 1756 New Jersey established the first American Indian Reservation, on the edge of the Pine Barrens, near Burlington. Traditional Lenni Lenape lands encompassed the Delaware Valley of eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey from the Lehigh River south into eastern Delaware and the Delaware Bay, and western Long Island, New York Bay, and the Lower Hudson Valley in New York. In exchange for this 3,000 acres, they agreed to renounce all further claim to lands anywhere else in New Jersey, except for the right to fish in all the rivers and bays north of the Raritan River, and to hunt on unenclosed land. This community of Lenni-Lenape (Delaware) Indians did not last very long. The remnants of the tribe were eventually removed to Western reservations. Most Lenape now reside in the US state of Oklahoma, with some communities living also in Wisconsin, Ontario (Canada.) Some Delaware’s migrated to Texas; In 1847, John Meusebach was assisted by Delaware Jim Shaw in settling the German communities in the Texas Hill Country. In 1859, the US government forced the last of the Texas Delaware to move to Oklahoma. August 29 1933 In response to an “outbreak of intolerance abroad,” notably the Nazis coming to power in Germany and the rise of militaristic fascist groups in the U.S., the National Conference of Christians and Jews began a speaking tour of the U.S. on this day, featuring representatives of the three major faiths in the country. The Rabbi, priest and minister were known as the “Tolerance Trio.” August 29 1957 The U.S. Congress passed the Civil Rights Act, the first such law since reconstruction. The bill established a Civil Rights Commission which was given the authority to investigate discriminatory conditions. A Civil Rights Division was created in the Department of Justice, allowing federal prosecutors to obtain court injunctions against interference with the right to vote, among other things. In an ultimately futile attempt to block passage, then-Democrat, former Dixiecrat, and later Republican Senator Strom Thurmond of South Carolina set the all-time filibuster record: 24 hours, 19 minutes of non-stop speaking on the floor of the Senate. August 29 1958 Britain’s Notting Hill Riots began when a gang of white youths attacked a Swedish woman, Majbritt Morrison. The youths had seen her the previous night arguing with her Jamaican husband, Raymond, at Latimer Road tube station. This led to a series of violent demonstrations against non-white West Indians in the ethnically diverse northwest London neighborhood of Notting Hill and first drew public attention to the growing problem of racial tension in Britain. August 29 1970 Some 30,000 Chicanos gathered in East Los Angeles’ Laguna Park at the culmination of the Chicano National Moratorium to protest the disproportionate number of deaths of Chicano soldiers in Vietnam. Three died when the anti-war march turned violent. The Los Angeles Police Department attacked and one gunshot, fired into the Silver Dollar Bar, killed Ruben Salazar, a Los Angeles Times columnist and a commentator on KMEX-TV. August 29 1970 Members of the United Native Americans, with support from the American Indian Movement, occupied Mount Rushmore to reclaim the land that had been promised to the Oceti Sakowin (The Great Sioux Nation) in the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie in perpetuity. When gold was found in the mountains, prospectors migrated there in the 1870s and the federal government forced the Sioux to relinquish the Black Hills portion of their reservation. When park officials asked protesters how long they intended to stay, UNA president Lehman Brightman replied, “As long as the grass grows, the water flows, and the sun shines.” This phase referenced President Jackson’s, then General, promise to protect the life and land of the Native people of Mississippi before his massive campaign to exterminate them. August 29 2004 Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the fortified streets of Manhattan to protest President Bush’s foreign and domestic policies as Republican delegates gathered to nominate the president for a second term. Organizers estimated up to 400,000 participants. August 30 1861 Union General John Fremont declared martial law throughout Missouri and issued his own emancipation proclamation to free slaves in the state. However, Fremont’s order was countermanded days later by President Lincoln. Fremont was soon relieved of command after refusing Lincoln’s order to rescind his proclamation and adhere to the terms of the August 6 Confiscation Act, which treated slaves as confiscated property of the US government and did not grant them freedom. August 30 1956 From the Texas State History Association: Though the Mansfield school district numbered fewer than 700 whites and sixty blacks in 1956, it segregated black children to an inferior elementary school. Black teenagers were obliged to ride public buses, which dropped them twenty blocks from a school in Fort Worth. In response to a suit brought by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People on behalf of three black high school students, the Mansfield school district was the first in the state ordered by a federal court to desegregate. The school board acquiesced, but white citizens resisted, aided by the complicity of the mayor and chief of police. While some 100 other, mostly West Texas, school districts desegregated quietly that fall, angry mobs of 300 to 400 whites ringed Mansfield High School on August 30 and 31, preventing the enrollment of the three students. During demonstrations whites hanged three blacks in effigy, roughed up several outside observers, and threatened the sheriff. Downtown stores closed in a show of support. Vigilantes met all cars entering town, barring suspected sympathizers with integration. Governor Allan Shivers, calling the Mansfield demonstration an orderly protest, defied the federal court order by dispatching Texas Rangers to uphold segregation and authorizing the Mansfield school board to transfer black students to Fort Worth. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, in the midst of a reelection campaign, did not intervene. The demonstrations ended as the segregated status quo was restored. A year before Little Rock, the Mansfield uprising was the nation’s first clear example of failure to enforce a federal court order for the desegregation of a public school. In 1965, faced with the loss of federal funds, the Mansfield school district quietly desegregated. August 30 1940 Senpo Chinne Sugihara, the Japanese diplomat in Lithuania, received orders from Japan to stop issuing visas immediately. He disobeyed the order and continued issuing visas until the end of the month when the consulate closed. In all, Sugihara issued visas to some 3,500 Jewish refugees. August 30 1971 Ten empty school buses were dynamited in Pontiac, Michigan, eight days before a school integration plan was to begin. Following Federal Judge Damon Keith’s finding that Pontiac’s school board had “intentionally” perpetuated segregation, a plan was developed by the board that included bussing of 8700 children. The bombers were later identified as leaders and members of the Ku Klux Klan, arrested, tried, convicted and imprisoned. August 30 2015 120,000 of protesters rallied outside Japan’s parliament in Tokyo to oppose a proposed constitutional change that could see troops in the officially pacifist nation engage in combat for the first time since World War II. Protesters chanted “No to war legislation!” ”Scrap the bills now!” and “Abe, quit!” Other protests were held throughout the country. photo August 31 1835 Angry mob in Charleston, South Carolina, seized US mail containing abolitionist literature and burned it in public. August 31 1962 After over seven harsh years of war, Algeria claimed its independence from France in 1962. However, internal turmoil threatened Civil War. On August 31, 20,000 workers gathered in a square in Algiers for a rally organized by the General Union of Algerian Workers to protest the fighting between the two rival factions. Union leaders gave speeches to the assembly and the demonstrators shouted, “Seven years is enough!” The entire rally voted in favor of a general strike if a civil war began. The leaders of the one province addressed the crowd and called for them to stand without weapons before the tanks and machine guns and to shout in anger at the troops to prevent them from fighting. Several times unarmed citizens stood in rival factions way to prevent fighting. In the area of Boghari, when two groups of rival troops were about to meet, local villagers stood between the two groups and shouted to them, “No more bloodshed!” In another instance, local Algerians laid down in the road to prevent troops from moving towards each other. At the border between two provinces unarmed citizens again intervened with a demonstration, blocking the troops. After talking with the soldiers they were able to convince first the soldiers, then the officers, to lay down their weapons and shake hands with the other side. Although bloody confrontations continued, the peacemakers were able to leverage the memory of the devastating seven-year war for independence in order to deter an all out civil war. August 31 1994 The Irish Republican Army (IRA) declared a permanent and “complete cessation of military operations” after 25 years of bombing and 3000 deaths (both republican and unionist) intended to end British control of Northern Ireland. August 31 2013 Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, hosted TEDx talks. Academics, activists artists and entrepreneurs gathered to challenge the negative images of the infamously dangerous and war-ravaged city. September 1 1914 The Passenger Pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius) became extinct when Martha, the last bird, died at age 29 in the Cincinnati Zoo. The species lived in enormous migratory flocks until the early 20th century, when hunting and habitat destruction led to its demise.. Passenger Pigeons Slowly the passenger pigeons increased, then suddenly their numbers Became enormous, they would flatten ten miles of forest When they flew down to roost, & the cloud of their rising Eclipsed the dawns. They became too many, they are all dead Not one remains… 1 1987 The Olof Palme Peace March began, an 18-day-long transnational peace march/demonstration that took place in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany.). The peace march involved people from West Germany, East Germany and Czechoslovakia. It began at Stralsund on the Baltic Sea coast, and crossed the territory of East Germany, taking a far from direct route, to end at Dresden. It was considered remarkable because members of East German political opposition groups were permitted to participate in the march legally. The march was named to honor the former prime minister of Sweden, Olof Palme, who had been shot dead by an unidentified assailant on a Stockholm street the previous year Palme had opposed the nuclear arms race and advocated a nuclear weapons-free corridor in central Europe. September 1 1987 In California S. Brian Wilson (46), Vietnam veteran, had his legs sliced off when a munitions train at the Concord Naval Weapons Station ran him over during the Nuremberg Actions protest against weapons shipments to Central America. September 1 1997 Kurdish and British activists blockaded an arms trade exhibition outside London. Eighty nine members of Campaign Against the Arms Trade (CAAT)were arrested for protesting the presence of Turkish, Chinese and Indonesian government representatives in Britain to purchase weapons. September 1 2001 In Durban, South Africa, a variety of African leaders at the UN World Conference Against Racism demanded apologies, and in some cases financial reparations, from Western countries that benefited from slavery and colonization of African countries for over 3 centuries. Activists at the conference developed a strategy, later known as “BDS,” that included boycotts, divestments and sanctions, to push their agenda. September 2 1885 A mob of white coal miners, led by the Knights of Labor, violently attacked their Chinese co-workers in Rock Springs, Wyoming, killing 28 and burning the homes of 75 Chinese families. The white miners wanted the Chinese barred from working in the mine. The mine owners and operators had brought in the Chinese ten years earlier to keep labor costs down and to suppress strikes. September 2 1939 FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover on this day established a Custodial Detention Index of people to be rounded up and detained in case of a U.S. national emergency. The list reflected Hoover’s political prejudices against left-wing and liberal activists and included no due process provisions for people on the secret list. September 2 1998 A United Nations court found Jean-Paul Akayesu, the former mayor of a small town in Rwanda, guilty of nine counts of genocide, marking the first time that the 1948 law banning genocide was enforced. September 2 2009 In El Salvador Christian Poveda, a French filmmaker who recently made a documentary about the lives of members of El Salvador’s street gangs, was found shot dead in Tonacatepeque, a rural region north of San Salvador. Earlier this year, Poveda, made the documentary “La Vida Loca,” which follows the lives of members September 2 2009 Vietnamese authorities arrested blogger Nguyen Ngoc Nhu Quynh at her home in Nha Trang. Quynh’s arrest was the latest in a series of police moves against writers who criticized government policies toward China. The government tightened its rules for bloggers earlier in the year year, saying they must restrict their writings to personal matters. September 3 1838 Frederick Douglass made his escape from slavery in Baltimore and went on in life to become an abolitionist, journalist, author, and human rights advocate. September 3 1940 In France more than 700,000 books were seized from bookshops and destroyed. The “Otto lists,” or liste Otto, were comprised of books banned by the German occupying authorities in Vichy France. By September, 1940, 1,060 titles were on the list. The list aimed to ban anti-German, antifascist, pro-Marxists books, works by Jewish authors and British and American books. September 3 1963 President. Johnson signed the Wilderness Act and designated 9 million acres as an area “where the Earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.” It allowed for roadless federal lands to qualify for wilderness protection. September 4 1894 Twelve thousand New York tailors went out on strike to protest the sweatshop system that exploited their labor for half a year and then gave them no work off for the other half. Their demands were “for a ten hours’ day, from 7 A.M. to 6 P.M., with an hour off at noon, a weekly minimum wage, and a weekly pay-day. September 4 1948 As the performers and 20,000 concert-goers left a benefit concert given by Paul Robeson, Pete Seeger and others in Peekskill, NY they were attacked by an angry mob who objected to their support for unions, integration, worker’s rights and peace. More than 140 people were injured in what has come to be known as the Peekskill Riots. September 4 1950 In August 1949, Euless, TX school superintendent O. B. Powell attempted to transfer forty-six black students from the Mosier Valley community to “colored” schools in Fort Worth, claiming that busing them would be cheaper than maintaining the ramshackle Mosier Valley facility. On this day, Mosier Valley parents and thirty-five grade-school students entered the all-White Euless school and tried to enroll. A crowd of some 150 whites gathered outside, harassed photographers, and jeered as the blacks later filed out. Powell told the blacks that state segregation laws took precedence over all others. Under federal duress, in 1968 the Mosier Valley school closed and the Euless district was fully integrated. September 4 1957 Arkansas National Guard troops prevented nine African-American students from entering Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. September 4 1970 During the Labor Day weekend of September 4–7, 1970, Operation RAW (“Rapid American Withdrawal”) took place. It was a three-day protest march from Morristown, New Jersey, to Valley Forge State Park in Pennsylvania by over 200 veterans. Vietnam Veterans Against the War were joined by members of “Nurses for Peace” and other peace groups. The march was designed to dramatize a Vietnam-type search and destroy mission as they passed through numerous towns. Upon entering each town along the march, the group made sweeps, took and interrogated prisoners, seized property and cleared homes with the aid of previously planted “guerrilla theater” actors portraying civilians. The 86-mile-long march culminated in a four-hour rally at Valley Forge attended by more than 1,500 people. September 4 2005 In Nepal police fired tear gas and used bamboo batons to stop pro-democracy demonstrators from marching into the capital’s center, arresting former Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala (80) and dozens of other protesters. September 4 2009 Thousands of opponents of Hugo Chavez marched against the Venezuelan president across Latin America, accusing him of everything from authoritarianism to international meddling. The protests, coordinated through Twitter and Facebook, drew more than 5,000 people in Bogota, and thousands more in the capitals of Venezuela and Honduras. Smaller demonstrations were held in other Latin American capitals, as well as New York and Madrid. September 4 2010 In France Roma migrants whose camp was bulldozed led a protest in Paris against the French government’s security crackdown, with similar demonstrations taking place across the country and abroad. September 4 2010 Thousands of Indonesian Muslims rallied outside the US Embassy in Jakarta to denounce an American church’s plan to mark the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks by burning copies of the Quran. September 4 2015 Indigenous Mayans of Guatemala took to the streets and overturned the “Monsanto Law,” passed in July, which would have given multinational corporations such control over corn seed that it would have made their traditional farming methods, which include saving seed corn, impossible. The Monsanto Law in Guatemala meant that farmers would not be allowed to grow food from natural seeds. They would have to license patented seeds from transnational companies such as Monsanto, and pay patent fees even if GM seeds got mixed with their natural crop as a result of pollination or wind. photo September 5 1882 More than 10,000 workers demanding the 8-hour day marched to protest working conditions in the first-ever U.S. Labor Day parade, held in New York City. About a quarter million New Yorkers turned out to watch. Originally the second Tuesday of the month, it is now the first Monday, and recognized as a national holiday. September 5 1958 Martin Luther King was arrested in an Alabama protest for loitering and fined $14 for refusing to obey police. September 5 1980 The opera “Satyagraha” by Philip Glass, commissioned by the city of Rotterdam, was first performed by the Netherlands Opera. September 5 1981 The Greenham Common Women’s Peace Camp was established outside Greenham Air Base in England, as “Women For Life On Earth.” September 5 2002 In Illinois Judge Harold Frobish of Livingston County ruled that prison inmates can choose to starve themselves rather than endure years of solitary confinement and that right outweighs the state’s duty to keep them alive. September 5 2013 In Indonesia some 1,000 members of the Islamic group Hizbut Tahrir Indonesia resumed protests against the Miss World pageant to be held this weekend in Bali. The week before, the Indonesia Ulema Council, whose fatwas are followed by many devoted Muslims, urged the government to cancel the event, saying the exposure of skin by women in such a competition violated Islamic teachings. September 5 2015 Malawi said it plans to use the $15 million it gained from selling its presidential jet to feed the more than 1 million people suffering chronic food shortages. Joyce Banda, Malawi’s new president, also announced she would be selling the impoverished country’s fleet of 60 Mercedes. September 6 1865 Russia forbade the use of Latin letters in the Lithuanian language. Following the 1863 uprising the Czarist authorities prohibited the publication of Lithuanian books in Roman letters. Books in Cyrillic were allowed but not accepted by the people. Secret book couriers smuggled in Latin lettered books until 1904. September 6 1941 All Jews over the age of six in German-occupied territories were ordered by the Nazi regime to wear a yellow Star of David on their clothing. September 6 1968 The Latin American Episcopal Conference, in response to Vatican II, issued what has come to be known as the Medellin Statement. September 6 1986 Some 300 invitees paid $5,000 apiece to hear Barbra Streisand’s benefit concert. Streisand launched her concert One Voice, in part, as a protest against Reagan-era nuclear arms proliferation in the late Cold War. video September 6 1998 In Peshawar, Pakistan, an estimated 15,000 members of the Movement for the Enforcement of Islamic Law (Tehreek-e-Nafaz-e-Shariat-e-Mohammadi) marched to protest an American missile attack on Afghanistan border. The US did not inform Pakistan of the strikes that crossed Pakistani air space. September 8 2000 The UN Millennium Summit ended in NYC with the adoption of an 8-page plan, the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to cure the world’s direst problems. Pledges were made to halve the proportion of people in poverty by 2015, to reverse the spread of AIDS, and to strengthen the UN’s ability to keep peace. September 6 2001 Ethiopia banned the Ethiopian Women’s Lawyers Assoc. The group had organized a Feb. march of some 1,000 women to the office of PM Meles Zenawi and parliament to protest domestic violence. September 6 2003 President Bush asked Congress to pass the Military Commission Act of 2006 which re-defined U.S. obligations under Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions to change the absolute prohibition on inhumane treatment with a “flexible” standard, which would assess on a case-by-case basis whether particular conduct would amount to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. Common Article 3 of the Geneva Convention places an absolute prohibition on inhumane treatment of detainees during an armed conflict. September 6 2008 Thousands of Armenians lined the streets of the Yerevan to protest the first-ever visit by a Turkish leader and to demand that Turkey acknowledge the World War I massacres of Armenian civilians as genocide. September 6 2011 In Swaziland more than 1,000 people marched through the main city of Manzini in one of the largest protests yet against Africa’s last absolute monarch, King Mswati III. September 7 1989 The US Senate voted 76-8 to approve the Americans with Disabilities Act, forbidding discrimination in employment, public accommodations, transportation and communications. September 7 1996 Two women were arrested for trespass at the Norfolk (Virginia) Naval Base after walking into the base with a banner reading, “Love Your Enemies.” September 7 1998 Feminists and others protested the demeaning image of women at the Miss America Pageant in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Contrary to popular myth, they did not burn their bras; women did throw into a trash can items that were symbols of traditional femininity, including high heeled shoes, girdles, bras, and other items. September 7 2007 Sunni, Shiite, Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish, Christian, and Shinto leaders gathered in Greenland for a 6-day coastal tour and symposium called “The Arctic: Mirror of Life,” designed to focus global attention on climate change. September 7 2007 Grand Ayatollah Mohammad Eshagh al-Fayyadh, one of the top four Shiite clerics in Iraq, called on Muslims to keep religion out of politics and not use mosques and religious events for the interest of political groups, sects or personalities. September 7 2013 Thousands of Cambodians, many holding lotus flowers symbolizing peace, joined a mass protest in the capital Phnom Penh in a last-ditch bid to challenge Prime Minister Hun Sen’s disputed election win. September 8 1941 In Norway, 2000 workers in the shipyards went on strike against diversion of milk, “depriving mothers and babies,” to military use by the German soldiers in Finland. In retaliation, Oslo was placed under a 7 o’clock nightly curfew, after which transportation was stopped, public meetings prohibited, radios seized, dancing forbidden. Boy Scouts, Girl Guides and Salvation Army organizations were all dissolved. September 8 1965 Table grape pickers, the mostly Filipino members of the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee (AWOC), led by Larry Itliong, went on strike for higher wages in Delano, California. September 8 2000 The UN Millennium Summit ended in NYC with the adoption of an 8-page plan, the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to cure the world’s direst problems. Pledges were made to halve the proportion of people in poverty by 2015, to reverse the spread of AIDS, and to strengthen the UN’s ability to keep peace. The plan under Jeffrey Sachs proposed 7 basic reforms to improve lives and provide livelihoods. September 8 2005 Russians flew humanitarian aid to the United States following Hurricane Katrina, landing three Il-76 aircraft at a disaster aid staging area at Little Rock, Arkansas, marking the first time Russia’s international aid group, EMERCOM, has flown such a mission to North America. The delivery of more than 60 tons of medical supplies, rations, tents, blankets and 6 tons of drinking water, also set in motion a cooperative relationship between the two countries’ two disaster aid agencies, FEMA and EMERCOM. September 8 2009 Sudanese journalist Lubna Ahmed Hussein, who spent a day in jail for refusing to pay a fine for wearing “indecent trousers,” vowed on her release to keep up the battle against the law. September 8 2012 The Hong Kong government backed down from its plan to implement “moral and national education” in public schools, a victory for civil society in the semiautonomous Chinese territory. The official about-face came in response to hunger strikes by protesters and 10 days of well-organized and peaceful student-led demonstrations that included a broad cross section of the population. September 9 1963 Students at Chu Van An boys’ high school in Saigon tore down the government flag and raised a Buddhist flag to protest the corrupt Diem regime in South Vietnam; 1,000 were arrested. September 9 1980 Eight activists from the Atlantic Life Community were arrested after hammering the nose cones of two Mark 12 missiles at the General Electric plant in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. This action would become the first of an international movement of dozens of “Plowshares” anti-nuclear direct actions. September 9 1997 Sinn Fein, the Irish Republican Army’s allied political party, formally renounced violence by accepting the principles put forward by former U.S. Senator George Mitchell (D-Maine) who was mediating the talks between the Irish Republicans and the British Unionists on Northern Ireland’s future. September 10 1897 in the Lattimer massacre, 19 mineworkers were killed and dozens were wounded while marching peacefully. The strike began weeks prior as miners from eastern Penn. protested extremely dangerous working conditions, unpaid overtime, and the company store. On Sept. 10, about 400 miners, most immigrants, began an unarmed peaceful march to Lattimer to support the newly formed UMW there. When they arrived, the sheriff and his deputies opened fire. September 10 1977 At Baumetes Prison in Marseille, France, Hamida Djandoubi, a Tunisian immigrant convicted of murder, became the last person executed by guillotine. The guillotine first gained fame during the French Revolution when physician and revolutionary Joseph-Ignace Guillotin won passage of a law requiring all death sentences to be carried out by “means of a machine,” viewed as more humane than other execution techniques, such as hanging or firing squad. Use of the guillotine continued in France in the 19th and 20th centuries. In September 1981, France outlawed capital punishment altogether, thus abandoning the guillotine forever. The last public / outdoor execution in France was in 1939. September 10 1981 Pablo Picasso’s painting Guernica was returned to Spain and installed in Madrid’s Prado Museum. Picasso had stated in his will that the painting was not to return to Spain until the Fascists lost power and democracy was restored. September 10 1996 Sheryl Crow’s second album was banned from Wal-Mart stores because the song she co-wrote with Tad Wadhams, “Love Is A Good Thing” opens with “Watch out sister, watch out brother, Watch our children while they kill each other With a gun they bought at Wal-Mart discount stores….” September 10 2012 In India political cartoonist Aseem Trivedi, whose drawings mock Indian government corruption, has been jailed in a sedition investigation that was widely condemned as evidence of political leaders’ growing intolerance of criticism. Trivedi refused bail at a court hearing in Mumbai, saying he would remain in jail until the sedition charges against him were lifted. September 11 1906 Mohandas Gandhi, then a young Indian lawyer, began a nonviolent resistance campaign in Johannesburg, South Africa, demanding rights and respect for those of Asian descent. It was the birth of his concept of political progress through nonviolent resistance known as Satyagraha, or truth-force. He led a meeting of 3000 of the town’s Indians, protesting the Transvaal Asiatic Law Amendment Ordinance that required all Asians to carry passes for which they had to give their fingerprints and limited where they could live and work. The meeting produced the Fourth Resolution, in which all Indians resolved to go to prison rather than submit to the ordinance September 11 2006 Hundreds of thousands of Catalans held hands in a 250-mile human chain across their region on Wednesday to press the Spanish government to let them vote on breaking away and forming their own country. September 12 1960 John F. Kennedy, Democratic Party candidate for president, gave a speech to Baptist ministers in Houston, Texas, on this evening, in which he explained his views on the place of religion in politics. Kennedy had recently been attacked by a Protestant group as a Catholic who would impose his faith’s doctrines on the country.. Kennedy explained that he strongly supported both the free exercise of religion and the separation of church and state. The speech was immediately regarded as a great success, winning over a generally hostile audience and putting to rest the religious objections to his candidacy. September The European Parliament voted for phasing out promotion and advertising of war toys. September 13 1983 The first group from Peace Brigades International (PBI) arrived in Guatemala to provide unarmed and nonviolent witness protection for indigenous leaders. Following decades of severe repression of native ethnic groups by the unelected military government, the PBI team accompanied the Mutual Support Group (GAM in Spanish) of Families of the Disappeared, the first human rights group to emerge from the terror and survive. September 13 1994 The 1994 Violent Crime Control Act was signed into law by President Bill Clinton. The act was one of the most important law enforcement acts of modern time, addressing community policing, police abuse, and violence against women. Section 14141 of the law addressed police misconduct by authorizing the U. S. Justice Department to sue law enforcement agencies that engage in a “pattern or practice” of abuse of peoples’ rights. September 14 1872 A joint arbitration commission ordered Great Britain to pay the US $15.5 million as compensation for damages during the Civil War. The peaceful resolution of these claims seven years after the war ended set an important precedent for solving serious international disputes through arbitration. The controversy began when Confederate agents contracted for warships from British boatyards. Disguised as merchant vessels during their construction in order to circumvent British neutrality laws, the craft were actually intended as commerce raiders which eventually sank more than 150 Northern ships and impelled much of the U.S. Merchant Marine to adopt foreign registry. Charles Sumner, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, argued that British aid to the Confederacy had prolonged the Civil War by 2 years, and indirectly cost the United States hundreds of millions, or even billions of dollars (the figure Sumner suggested was $2.125 billion). Some Americans adopted this argument and suggested that Britain should offer Canada to the United States in compensation. September 14 1911 The Congreso Mexicanista, sometimes referred to as El Primer Congreso Mexicanista, met in Laredo from September 14 to 22. Clemente Idar, whose family owned and published La Crónica, proposed the meeting to organize the Gran Liga Mexicanista de Beneficencia y Protección (Great Mexican League for Benefit and Protection) to advance education, culture, and civil rights for Mexican Americans. Their motto was motto “Por la Raza y Para la Raza.” September 14 1918 Eugene V. Debs was sentenced to ten years in prison for opposing U.S. entry into World War I. Debs had been an elected official in Indiana, a labor organizer, writer and editor, had founded the first industrial union in the U.S., the American Railway Union, and had run for President four times on the Socialist Party ticket. He ran again for president from prison in 1920 with the slogan “From Atlanta Prison to the White House,” and received nearly one million. September 14 1989 An ACT UP (the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power) protest of pharmaceutical price-gouging on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange stopped trading for the first time in history. September 15 1829 The Guerrero Decree, which abolished slavery throughout the Republic of Mexico except in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, was issued by President Vicente R. Guerrero September 15 1963 During Sunday School, 15 sticks of dynamite blew apart the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, killing four children in the basement changing room and injuring 23 others. A week before the bombing Governor George C. Wallace had told The New York Times that to stop integration, Alabama needed a “few first-class funerals.” September 15 1982 In what is considered to be the birth of the environmental justice movement, protesters in the predominantly poor & Black Warren County, North Carolina, attempted to block the dumping of toxic PCBs in their community. Over the course of the next few weeks, more than 500 were arrested. September 15 2001 Four days after 9/11, Representative Barbara Lee (D-California) cast the only congressional vote against authorizing President Bush to use “all necessary and appropriate force” against anyone associated with the terrorist attacks of September 11. “I am convinced that military action will not prevent further acts of international terrorism against the United States.” September 16 1837 William Whipper, a Negro from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, published “An Address on Non-Resistance to Offensive Aggression” in the The Colored American, outlining his commitment to a strictly non-violent response to the evils of slavery. This landmark essay predated Thoreau’s “On the Duty of Civil Disobedience” by 12 years.“As a people we have suffered much from the pestilential influence of mob violence that has spread its devastating influence over our country. And it is to me no matter of astonishment that they continue to exist. They do but put in practice a common every day theory that pervades every neighborhood, and almost every family, viz.: That it is right, under certain circumstances, to violate all law, both civil and national, and abuse, kick and cuff your fellow man, when they deem that he has offended or insulted the community in which he resides.” September 16 1939 August Dickmann, a German Jehovah’s Witness, became the first conscientious objector to be executed by the Nazis during World War II. The execution by firing squad took place in Sachsenhausen concentration camp before all of the prisoners, including 400 Jehovah’s Witness inmates. Though threatened with the same fate, none of the remaining 400 Witnesses renounced their CO position. German military courts sentenced and executed 270 Jehovah’s Witnesses, the largest number of COs executed from any victim group during World War II. September 16 1996 6,000 rallied and 1,033 were arrested near the Headwaters Grove in rural Carlotta, California, in protest against cutting one of the last large unlogged stands of redwood trees in the world September The US Constitution was officially adopted, in Philadelphia. September 17 1944 The Dutch begin a railroad strike against German occupiers to prevent the transportation of Jews to concentration camps in the East as well as prevent the movement of German troops back to Germany to protect from the Allied invasion. Although this strike was intended to hinder the Nazi war machine, it also caused the halting of coal, gas, and food to Dutch cities, which resulted in a very difficult winter before the Nazis were defeated by the Allied forces that spring. September 17 1961 1,314 anti-nuclear protesters were arrested during a sit-down in London’s Trafalgar Square by 12,000 (authorities had denied a permit.) The organizers hoped to to ‘fill the jails’, with the intention of causing prison overload and large-scale disorder. September 17 2011 the Occupy Wall Street movement began in Zuccotti Park, in New York’s financial district. Within weeks, encampments sprang up around the world to join the protest against social and economic inequality for “the 99%”. September 18 1850 Congress passed the Fugitive Slave Act, allowing slave owners to reclaim slaves who escaped into another state, and levying harsh penalties on those who would interfere with the apprehension of runaway slaves. As part of the Compromise of 1850, it offered federal officers a fee for each captured slave and denied the slaves the right to a jury trial. September 19 1796 George Washington delivered his farewell address: Observe good faith and justice towards all nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all. Religion and morality enjoin this conduct; and can it be, that good policy does not equally enjoin it – It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and at no distant period, a great nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a people always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence. Who can doubt that, in the course of time and things, the fruits of such a plan would richly repay any temporary advantages which might be lost by a steady adherence to it ? Can it be that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of a nation with its virtue? The experiment, at least, is recommended by every sentiment which ennobles human nature. September 19 1893 New Zealand’s Electoral Act of this date made this country of the British Empire the first in the world to grant women the right to vote in parliamentary elections. The bill granted the vote to women of all races. New Zealand women were denied the right to stand for parliament, however, until 1920. In 2005 almost a third of the Members of Parliament elected were female. September 19 1966 After 300 members of Grenada, Mississippi’s white community called for “an end to violence,” hundreds of Negro schoolchildren were allowed to integrate the local public schools. The leaders of the vicious organized attack on the kids the previous week (including the town’s justice of the peace) had been arrested by the FBI, and the mobs were gone, but the children were all escorted to school by community members, or driven in cars for safety. September 19 2001 The Harkin-Engel Protocol called for action from the chocolate and cocoa industry to put an end to exploitative child labor by 2005 (the deadline was not met.) It also included a commitment to develop voluntary and industry-wide standards of public certification that cocoa beans had been grown and processed without the use of child labor. almost 2 million children had worked on cocoa farms or plantations. Tens of thousands of them were illegally trafficked and sold into child slavery. They are forced to work long hours in dangerous conditions with little or no pay for their work. 70% of the world’s cocoa comes from Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana, where these children are forced to work in the fields. A handful of western corporations control almost all of the cocoa exports from the West Coast of Africa. All major chocolate companies buy from producers that use child labor. September 19 2013 After Greenpeace activists attempted to scale the Prirazlomnaya drilling platform on 18 September 2013, as part of a protest against Arctic oil production, Russian authorities seized the Greenpeace ship the Arctic Sunrise in international waters, arrested the crew at gunpoint, towed the ship to Murmansk, and detained the crew of 28 activists (from 17 countries) and two freelance journalists. The Investigative Committee of Russia opened a criminal investigation, charging the activists initially with piracy and later with hooliganism. The Russians eventually released the crew as part of a general amnesty after two months of detention. September 20 1830 The National Negro Convention, a group of 38 free black Americans from eight states, met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with the express purpose of abolishing slavery and improving the social status of African Americans. They elected Richard Allen president and agreed to boycott slave-produced goods and encourage free-produce organizations. One of the most active would be the Colored Female Free Produce Society, which urged the boycott of all slave-produced goods. September 20 1906 Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle,” a realist novel, was published, exposing the dangerous conditions and deplorable sanitation in Chicago’s meat-packing plants. Reaction from readers was intense, including President Theodore Roosevelt who coined the term, muckrakers, to describe Sinclair, Lincoln Steffens, Ida Tarbell and other writers who exposed corruption in government and business. September 20 1932 Rabindranath Tagore, recipient of the 1913 Nobel Prize for Literature, began a campaign of resistance to practice of “untouchability” in then-British India. He penned Dalit heroes for his poems and his dramas, and he campaigned—successfully—to open Guruvayoor Temple to Dalits. (Dalit, meaning “oppressed” in Marathi, is the self-chosen political name of the castes who were formerly considered “untouchable” according to the Hindu varna system.) September 20 1997 3,000 protesters helped to rip up the railroad tracks leading from Krummel nuclear power station to the main Hamburg-Berlin line. The previous year two doctors had sued for closure of the plant due to the increased incidence of leukemia among the population around the plant. In January, a train carrying nuclear waste derailed near the reactor at Krummel. September 20 2014 Hundreds of people from both sides of the Canada-U.S. border converged at Peace Arch Park for a climate action rally. Environmentalists, First Nations, and scientists arrived at the park in busloads to protest coal, oil and liquefied natural gas projects happening in British Columbia. and Washington State that they say are fuelling climate change. “The Salish Sea is poised to become one of the largest exporters of fossil fuels in the world,” the organizers claimed. September Sandra Day O’Connor became the first female Supreme Court Justice. September 21 1981 International Day of Peace was established by United Nations General Assembly resolution 36/37 as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. Furthering the Day’s mission, the General Assembly voted unanimously in 2001 to adopt resolution 55/282 establishing 21 September as an annual day of non-violence and cease- fire. September 22 1966 Eight hundred Puerto Rican men pledged to refuse the U.S. Vietnam draft. They saw compliance as “part of the colonial subjugation of our country.” September 22 1985 The first Farm Aid concert was held with more than 50 musicians raising $9 million for debt-ridden U.S. Farmers September 23 1857 The “Little Rock Nine” returned to Central High School where they were finally enrolled. Units of the United States Army remained at the school for the rest of the academic year to guarantee their safety. The nine students arrived at Central High School on September 3 and were greeted by an angry mob of white students, parents, and citizens determined to stop integration. Governor Orval M. Faubus intervened, ordering the Arkansas National Guard to keep the nine African American students from entering the school. Faced with no other choice, the “Little Rock Nine” gave up their attempt to attend Central High School which soon became the center of a national debate about civil rights, racial discrimination and States’s rights. On September 20, 1957, Federal Judge Ronald Davies ordered Governor Faubus to remove the National Guard from the Central High School’s entrance and to allow integration to take its course in Little Rock. When Faubus defied the court order, President Dwight Eisenhower dispatched nearly 1,000 paratroopers and federalized the 10,000 Arkansas National Guard troops who were to ensure that the school would be open to the nine students. September 24 1838 The Anti-Corn Law League was formed, a successful political movement in Great Britain aimed at the abolition of the unpopular Corn Laws, which protected landowners’ interests by levying taxes on imported wheat, thus raising the price of bread at a time when factory-owners were trying to cut wages. The League marked the emergence of the first powerful national lobbying group into politics, one with a centralized office, consistency of purpose, rich funding, very strong local and national organization, and single-minded dedicated leaders. It elected men to Parliament. Many of its procedures were innovative, while others were borrowed from the anti-slavery movement. It became the model for later reform movements. September 25 1555 The Peace of Augsburg was signed, a treaty between Charles V and the forces of the Schmalkaldic League, an alliance of Lutheran princes, in present-day Bavaria, Germany. It officially ended the religious struggle between the two groups and made the legal division of Christendom permanent within the Holy Roman Empire. The Peace established the principle Cuius regio, eius religio (who rules, his religion), which allowed Holy Roman Empire’s states’ princes to select either Lutheranism or Catholicism within the domains they controlled. Subjects who did not wish to conform to the prince’s choice were given a period in which they were free to emigrate to different regions in which their desired religion had been accepted. September 26 1983 Soviet military officer Stanislav Petrov single-handedly averted a worldwide nuclear war when he chose to believe his intuition instead of the computer screen with its indication that the U.S. had launched a nuclear missile attack against the Soviet Union. The country was already on high alert, expecting retaliation for its downing of a Korean Air Boeing 747. The Lieutenant Colonel had no confirmation and only minutes to decide his course of action. September International weapons inspectors certified the Irish Republican Army‘s full disarmament. September 26 2007 The Myanmar military junta began a crackdown on the tens of thousands of Buddhist monks and their lay supporters who nonviolently had taken to the street earlier in the week to protest the repressive regime. September 27 1990 The last U.S. Pershing II tactical nuclear missiles were removed from Germany, fewer than ten years after their installation provoked a massive anti-nuclear movement across Europe. September 28 1943 In Denmark, underground anti-Nazi activists began systematic smuggling of Jews to Sweden. The Nazis began rounding up Danish Jews on the evening of October 1, Rosh Hashanah. In just three weeks, all but 481 of Denmark’s 8,000 Jews had been moved to safety in Sweden. September 29 1943 Six conscientious objectors, in prison for refusing to cooperate with the draft during WW II, began a hunger strike to protest the censorship of mail and reading material in prison. The strike ended in December 1943. James V. Bennett, head of the federal Bureau of Prisons, ended the censorship but retained the right to open and read mail for security purposes. At the time one out of six inmates held in United States’ federal prisons was a conscientious objector. September 29 1983 The municipal council of Woensdrecht, a southern Dutch town, voted against cooperating in the possible siting of 48 U.S. nuclear-tipped cruise missiles at the nearby air base. The council voted not to cooperate with the national government, and to stop any activities that might lead to the missiles being sited at the base. September 20 2002 A London crowd – estimated between 200,000 and 500,000 – protested British and U.S. plans for a “preemptive” invasion of Iraq. September 29 2012 62,000 people attended the Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, enjoying concert performances by Neil Young, Foo Fighters, and The Black Keys to promote anti-poverty initiatives with the Global Poverty Project. $167.5 million in new commitments were raised. September
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Multi-billionaire industrialist Tony Stark is the secret identity behind what Marvel super hero?
Iron Man (Anthony Stark) - Marvel Universe Wiki: The definitive online source for Marvel super hero bios. Iron Man (Anthony Stark) Anthony Edward "Tony" Stark Aliases "Shellhead," "Golden Avenger," "Tetsujin"; formerly Crimson Dynamo, Iron Knight, Hogan Potts, "Spare Parts Man"; impersonated Cobalt Man (Ralph Roberts) Identity Tales of Suspense #39 (1963) Origin Tales of Suspense #39 (1963) Significant Issues Red and gold armor debuted (Tales of Suspense #48, 1963); traveled to Camelot with Dr. Doom (Iron Man #149-150, 1981); succumbed to alcoholism (Iron Man #167-182, 1983-1984); Jim Rhodes became Iron Man (Iron Man #169-199, 1983-1985); Tony Stark returned as Iron Man in red & silver armor (Iron Man #200, 1985); fought Armor Wars against armored villains (Iron Man #225-231, 1987-1988); traveled to Camelot again with Doom (Iron Man #249-250, 1989); manipulated by Kearson DeWitt in "Armor Wars II" (Iron Man #258-266, 1990 -1991); James Rhodes took over as Iron Man (Iron Man #284, 1992); Tony Stark became Iron Man again (Iron Man #289, 1993); helped form Force Works (Force Works #1, 1994); time traveled with Dr. Doom (Iron Man #11, 1997); returned from Counter-Earth (Iron Man #1, 1998); revealed as member of Hell Fire Club (X-Men #73, 1998); armor became sentient, killed Whiplash (Iron Man #26-30, 2000); Ultron took control of armor (Iron Man #46-49, 2001-2002); became Secretary of Defense (Iron Man #73-78, 2003); infiltrated the Thunderbolts as Cobalt Man (Avengers/Thunderbolts #1-6, 2004); helped form new group of Avengers (New Avengers #1, 2005); became Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. (Civil War #7, 2007) Occupation Adventurer, president emeritus of Stark Industries, founder of Maria Stark Foundation; formerly director of S.H.I.E.L.D., CEO of Stark Industries, Stark Solutions, Stark Enterprises, Circuits Maximus & Stark International, US Secretary of Defense, computer technician Known Relatives Ph.D.s in physics and electrical engineering Physical Attributes 225 lbs.; (in armor) 425 lbs. Eyes Black Powers None; Tony's body had been enhanced by the modified techno-organic virus, Extremis, but it is currently inaccessible and inoperable. Abilities Tony has a genius level intellect that allows him to invent a wide range of sophisticated devices, specializing in advanced weapons and armor. He possesses a keen business mind. Weapons The Iron Man armor includes Tony’s primary energy weapon, repulsor rays, a powerful particle beam which is standard equipment in the palms of his armor; the repulsor ray can repel physical and energy-based attacks, traveling as either a single stream or as a wide-field dispersal. The armor has also been outfitted with pulse bolts (extremely powerful plasma discharges which grow in strength as they seek their target), sonic generators, explosive shell projectiles, mini-missiles, magnetic field generators and a laser torch built into the finger of Tony’s gauntlet. The armor’s surface can generate an electric charge to dispel attackers. Paraphernalia Tony’s most recent armor is protected by an energy-draining shield which expands from the gauntlets, as well as a personal deflector shield. The armor grants Tony superhuman strength (lifting 100 tons at maximum power). Its Jet boots enable flight at Mach 8; he can also hover utilizing a localized gravity field. The armor’s internal air supply lasts more than one hour and can be sealed for travel through low oxygen, underwater or outer space environments. The armor also features a chronometer, radar, sonar, a magnometer, an atom-force microscope, photon, heat, motion and other sensor instruments. The armor contains a subspace/satellite radio communications array which receives local radio and video signals; the armor can also jam transmissions. The chest plate features the unibeam, a powerful searchlight that can project beams in virtually every light spectrum (visible, infrared and ultraviolet); it also features a laser beam projector, an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) generator which can shut down electronic devices within a 50-yard radius, a scanning device that travels along energy waves emitted from the unibeam and a holographic generator. A "cool exec with a heart of steel," Tony Stark is the invincible Iron Man, fighting for justice as a modern day knight in high-tech armor. Contents 12. The Hammer Strikes the Shield Before the Iron Mask Anthony "Tony" Stark was born to Howard Anthony Stark and Maria Collins Carbonell Stark , owners of the prominent US firm, Stark Industries. As a boy, Tony was fascinated with building and controlling machines. At the age of 15 Tony entered the undergraduate electrical engineering program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and graduated with two master’s degrees by age 19. Tony went to work for Stark Industries, but showed more interest in living a reckless playboy lifestyle than using his engineering skills. At the age of 21, Tony inherited Stark Enterprises when his parents were killed in a car accident secretly orchestrated by rival corporation Republic Oil (later ROXXON). Still lacking in business acumen, Tony promoted secretary Virginia "Pepper" Potts to be his executive assistant and left the majority of his workload on her so that he could avoid what he saw as a burden. A Self-Made Superhero The Many Armors of Iron Man Tony personally attended a field test of his military hardware at one of his international plants; however, soon after his arrival Stark’s party was attacked by a gang of terrorists led by the Sin-Cong revolutionary Wong Chu . During the skirmish, a land mine went off and lodged a piece of shrapnel near Tony’s heart. Taken back to Wong-Chu’s camp, Tony shared a cell with Professor Ho Yinsen, a world-famous physicist. Wong-Chu demanded that the two scientists develop advanced weaponry for his forces. Knowing that he could not live long with the shrapnel so close to his heart, Tony proposed that he and Yinsen devote their gifts to creating one of the battlesuits he had been developing, equipped with a magnetic field generator to prevent the shrapnel from reaching his heart. The armor they created became the first true Iron Man armor and was equipped with crude magnetic weaponry for defense. While the armor’s battery was being powered, some of Wong-Chu’s men attempted to break in on the proceedings. Yinsen went to create a diversion and was shot to death by Wong-Chu’s men. When the battery had finished charging, Tony went into battle as Iron Man and tore Wong-Chu’s camp apart. He eventually returned to the USA with the aid of US Marine James "Rhodey" Rhodes . Tony offered Rhodey a job with his company should he ever need one. At first, Tony found his new life a torment; his armor’s chest plate had to be worn constantly and required frequent recharging. He kept the armor a secret from everyone, including his fiancée, Joanna Nivena. Turning suicidal and drinking heavily, Tony was supported by Joanna, with whom he shared his secret identity. Joanna encouraged him to use his armor as a super hero, but ultimately called off the engagement knowing Tony would not be the family man she desired. Tony worked to improve the Iron Man armor and claimed Iron Man was Tony Stark's personal bodyguard to disguise his identity. Tony played a dual-role with the formation of the Avengers both as the sponsor and, as Iron Man, as a founding member along with Thor , Ant-Man (Henry Pym) , the Wasp (Janet van Dyne) , and the Hulk . While pursuing Namor the Sub-Mariner , Iron Man came across the comatose body of Captain America (Steve Rogers) Rogers), the famous World War II super hero, preserved on ice. Revived, Captain America joined the Avengers and became an important teammate and friend to Tony. Later, Tony helped establish the international super-spy agency SHIELD to combat terrorist threats. During these early years as a super hero, Iron Man battled Mandarin , Hawkeye , and the Black Widow(Natasha Romanova) . A Change of Heart Tony found himself drawn to the beautiful Whitney Frost, but she proved to be the daughter of the Avengers’ foe Count Nefaria and a high-ranking member of the Maggia crime syndicate. Seeking to steal Tony’s inventions, she pitted agents such as Whiplash (Mark Scarlotti) and Gladiator (Melvin Potter) against him. After using one of his Life Model Decoys (LMDs) to deceive the Mandarin and protect his identity, Tony was horrified when the LMD developed an independent personality and usurped his identity. The LMD, believing itself superior to Tony, obtained a suit of Iron Man armor and began running Stark Industries while the real Tony was away. Unable to prove his identity, Tony fell into the clutches of Madame Masque (a newly garbed Whitney Frost), agent of the gold-loving Mordecai Midas, who attempted to force Stark to turn over his fortune. Tony used his original Iron Man armor to destroy the LMD imposter, but suffered another heart attack in the process. The Avengers rushed him to a hospital where Dr. Jose Santini transplanted a synthetic heart into his chest so that Tony no longer required his chest plate to live. Following the Avengers’ involvement in the interstellar Kree-Skrull War, Iron Man joined Mr. Fantastic , Black Bolt of the Inhumans , Professor Xavier of the X-Men , sorcerer Dr. Stephen Strange and Namor in founding the Illuminati , a secret organization designed to share knowledge and pool resources against major threats. Hero of Iron, Feet of Clay Renaming his corporation Stark International, Tony resolved to abandon munitions production in favor of electronics and computer engineering after witnessing firsthand the impact his company’s weapons had on innocent lives. Despite seeming to have everything a man could want, Tony was under much stress. The machinations of rival industrialist Justin Hammer and SHIELD’s constant pressure drove Tony further into drinking. His girlfriend at the time, Bethany Kabe, kept Tony from continued succumbing to his alcoholism. Their relationship ended when Bethany’s presumed-dead husband was discovered alive. In opposing Obidiah Stane's attempts at forming a major multinational conglomerate, Tony unwittingly made Stane a driven enemy. Obadiah Stane set up games of psychological warfare against Tony, which included physical attacks by his Chessmen super-operatives, outbidding Stark International for key contracts and having his lackey Indries Moomji romance Tony, all in an attempt to drive Tony to resort to drinking. As Stane’s pressure increased, Tony responded as anticipated, and after Indries rejected Tony, he virtually gave up trying to oppose Stane. When the villain Magma (Jonathan Darque) attacked Stark International, Tony proved too drunk to wage a competent battle and instead revealed his double identity to Rhodes. With Tony passed out, Rhodes donned the armor and defeated Magma. Tony told Rhodes to keep the armor and turned his back on Stark International while he proceeded to drink himself out of his company, property and fortune until all of his assets were frozen. Obadiah Stane stepped in and claimed Stark International, renaming it Stane International, but Rhodes prevented Stane from obtaining the Iron Man armors. Tony had hit rock-bottom, homeless and perpetually drunk. However, helping deliver a baby put life into perspective and he began his path of recovery and sobriety joining Alcoholics Anonymous. Tony, James, and James’ friends, Morley and Clytemnestra Erwin set up a California-based new corporation: Circuits Maximus . Obadiah planted a bomb in their laboratory, killing Morley and badly injuring Rhodes. Tony constructed his most advanced armor yet at the new West Coast Avengers Compound and confronted Stane, who had designed his own armored identity as the Iron Monger. When Tony defeated the Iron Monger, Stane committed suicide. Armor Wars After joining the West Coast Avengers, Iron Man provided sanctuary from reformed villain Force (Clay Wilson), an agent of Justin Hammer. Examining Force’s armor, Tony recognized familiar circuitry patterns based on his own Iron Man armor designs. Tony discovered that his old foe Spymaster had stolen his designs and sold them to Hammer who armored several of his super villain clients, including the Beetle (Abner Jenkins), the Controller, the Mauler (Brendan Doyle), the Raiders and Stilt-Man (Wilbur Day). Enraged by the thought that innocent people might have been killed with his technology, Tony resolved to eliminate all traces of his technology that had fallen into outside hands. However, Iron Man falsely accused federal agent Stingray of possessing Stark’s technology, forcing Tony to publicly fire his alter-ego. Steve Rogers was stripped of his Captain America identity, and became the Captain; Tony supplied him with a force shield. Unable to trust anyone using his armor technology, Tony targeted the Guardsmen at the Vault prison. The Captain tried to stop Iron Man, severely straining their friendship. Iron Man next attacked the Crimson Dynamo in Russia, and accidentally killed the Titanium Man, leading to Iron Man’s expulsion from the Avengers. Tony faked Iron Man’s death, and later rejoined the Avengers as the “new Iron Man.” Eventually, the Avengers saw through Tony’s facade. Start of the Breakdown After being shot and paralyzed by former love interest Kathleen Dare, Tony installed a biochip into his body to regain mobility. The biochip gained the attention of corporate foe Kearson DeWitt, who held grievances against Tony. DeWitt hijacked the biochip and took control of Tony’s nervous system. Though Tony regained control of his body using his armor, but by the time he had defeated DeWitt his body was so damaged he could barely move. Tony donned a skintight neuronet suit to help him function, but his armor became the only certain way to keep himself alive. After defeating the Mandarin, and using a rogue team of Avengers to seemingly destroy the Supreme Intelligence (against Avengers’ leader Captain America’s command), he expressed his regret to Captain America and the two began trying to repair their fractured relationship. As Tony’s health continued to deteriorate, he designed his variable threat assessment armor (model 11, also called the “War Machine”) and won back Stane International’s assets from its last owner, Justin Hammer. Succumbing to total nervous system failure, Tony seemingly died on an operating table. In his will, he made Rhodes the new CEO of Stark Enterprises and left the War Machine armor for him to carry on as Iron Man. Rhodes respected his wishes. A New Beginning Tony was secretly in cryogenic storage while his body’s entire nervous system was essentially rebuilt. Revived, Tony had to undergo intense physical therapy. Rhodes, who was infuriated at being deceived, immediately quit Stark Enterprises. Tony allowed Rhodes to keep the War Machine armor and launched a new model of armor, the Neuromimetic Telepresence Unit 150 (NTU-150),which he could control remotely while he recovered. He also used artificial intelligences to aid him in his work, including HOMER and PLATO. Outfitted in his new modular armor, Tony agreed to end the West Coast Avengers, but formed Force Works . Providing his team with full access to his cutting edge technology. Teen Tony Iron Man with the Avengers Some time later the villain Immortus , posing as his alternate reality version of himself Kang the Conqueror , took control of Tony Stark as a sleeper agent. Tony was forced to kill Yellowjacket (Rita DeMara) and Crystal 's Nanny, Marilla. To battle the combined forces of Iron Man and “Kang,” the Avengers were forced to recruit an alternate reality’s teenage version of Tony Stark from Earth-96020. Teen Tony stole a suit of armor from Stark International and aided the Avengers in battle. When the adult version came face to face with his teenage self he was finally able to overcome Immortus' control. Tony sacrificed himself to save the younger Tony’s life and defeated Immortus. Teenage Tony Stark continued to fight with the Avengers and took control of Stark International. The mutant Onslaught manifested, threatening life on Earth. The young Tony and many of the world's super heroes fought Onslaught in New York City's Central Park where young Iron Man, the Fantastic Four , Thor, the Hulk, and other heroes seemingly lost their lives defending the Earth . However, they were actually brought into a pocket universe created by Reed and Sue Richards ' son, Franklin . Events soon forced Franklin to choose a world to survive; he restored the original world. Upon returning, the still-adult Tony found he had the collective memories and experiences of the original Tony Stark merged with those of the Earth-96020 Tony and the person he had been on Counter-Earth. Secrets and Lies When Iron Man defeated the villain Mentallo, Tony took advantage of the situation and used Mentallo’s global mind control device to erase all knowledge of his often-compromised secret identity from every person on Earth. He then revealed it to those people he deemed trustworthy, causing them to remember the memories he had buried. Former Avenger Jocasta , a creation of the villainous robot Ultron , was forced to prepare the Iron Man armor to become Ultron’s new home; the process accelerated when Iron Man was hit by a lightning bolt, causing Tony to suffer a heart attack at the same time. Thinking that the armor had been granted its own consciousness, Tony attempted to teach the armor; the benign Ultron-12 aspect of its personality was receptive, but the cruelty of most past Ultron models corrupted the armor and it murdered Whiplash during a fight. However, the armor ultimately sacrificed its “life” to save Tony, whose heart was failing. After implanting a robotic “heart” in Tony’s chest that saved him, the armor deactivated. Tony later decided to reveal his secret identity to the world, and was offered work as a contractor for the US Department of Defense. Though turning down that opportunity, he accepted the post as the President's Secretary of Defense to monitor the use of his technology by the United States military. Tony’s tenure as Secretary of Defense ended in scandal when the insane Scarlet Witch caused him to engage in drunken and belligerent behavior at the United Nations. Disgraced, Tony was quickly drummed out of his position. The Scarlet Witch’s growing insanity led to the dissolution of the Avengers when her out-of-control powers wrecked Avengers Mansion and killed several teammates. Tony was further smeared when one-time corporate rival Clarence Ward stole Iron Man armor, using it to kill the Stark Industries board and Rumiko, Tony’s girlfriend. Iron Man defeated Ward and recalled all of the Iron Man armors he had granted to the military. He then publicly “resigned” as Iron Man but secretly intended to continue operating, again claiming it was another man wearing the armor. Extremis Iron Man clashed with Mallen, a terrorist enhanced by the Extremis virus, a techno-organic agent designed by Tony’s one-time classmate Maya Hansen and intentionally leaked so that the world could see its destructive potential. Mallen defeated Iron Man, nearly mortally wounding Tony in the process. Tony had Maya inject him with the Extremis, gambling on it saving his life and increasing his strength so that he could face Mallen as an equal. The process resulted in Tony’s body rebuilding itself with superior organs and he found that he could now link to virtually any computer on Earth; the newly enhanced Tony killed Mallen in a rematch. Civil War Captain America fighting Iron Man During a televised raid of a house containing escaped super villains from the Raft , the explosive villain Nitro detonated himself killing the majority of the New Warriors , children at a nearby elementary school and other local residents. In the wake of the tragedy, the federal Superhuman Registration Act was passed, requiring all super-powered beings to register their identities and subject themselves to federally mandated standards. While Tony spearheaded the support for the Act, convincing Spider-Man (Peter Parker) to publicly unmask in support of the Act, Captain America led an underground resistance defending heroes’ rights of privacy. Stark was accepted the position of Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. The Hammer Strikes the Shield When the alien Skrull’s Queen Veranke led an invasion of Earth, Earth’s defenses were disabled through a virus which ran through Tony’s Extremis-based powers, taking out all Stark-based technology. Although the heroes of Earth routed the Skrulls, it was “reformed” criminal Norman Osborn who slew Veranke and took the credit. Tony Stark was vilified for the failure of his technology to stop the Skrull invasion. S.H.I.E.L.D. was dismantled and Osborn put in charge of the replacement agency H.A.M.M.E.R. Osborn demanded Stark surrender the Superhuman Registration Database containing the secret identities of many heroes. Stark refused and loaded the database’s only copy into his brain. Evading capture by Osborn, Tony gradually wiped his mind. Tony was aided by Maria Hill , whom he sent to retrieve a hard drive containing a backup copy of his mind, and Pepper Hogan, whom he left in charge of Stark Industries and gifted with a suit of armor called Rescue, operated by an artificial intelligence named J.A.R.V.I.S. As Tony’s mind deteriorated he was finally assaulted in Dubai by the Iron Patriot-armored Osborn. By then Stark was virtually brain-dead and, as their battle was being televised, Osborn was forced to bring him in alive or risk being exposed for murdering a helpless man. Transferred to the custody of Dr. Donald Blake — actually Stark’s old friend Thor — Tony left directions which enabled his friends to restore his mind and awaken him from his coma. Iron Man returned to action in time to help in Osborn’s ultimate defeat.
Iron Man
Anchored by the star Regulus, what animal does the constellation Leo represent?
Robert Downey Jr. - The New York Times The New York Times Continue reading the main story Photo Dressing in his trailer for the role of Sherlock Holmes, London, Nov. 13, 2008. Credit Paolo Pellegrin/Magnum Photos, for The New York Times “I shouldn’t be alive. Unless it’s for a reason.” — Tony Stark O.K., pop quiz: What would you rather wear on your feet? a) State-of-the-art, macro-transistor-powered, hydraulic, bulletproof titanium alloy, crimson robo-boots with Mach 5 flight capability. b) Empty tissue boxes. c) Nothing, as you wander around Culver City in a drug-fueled haze. If you’re talking about Robert Downey Jr. (c) and Iron Man (a), it’s actually not an irrelevant question. The superhero co-creator Stan Lee based the character of the industrialist Tony Stark (Iron Man’s not-so-secret identity) on none other than Howard Hughes (b) in his heyday. I consider myself a true fan of ol’ Shellhead (Iron Man’s Marvel geek nickname), but I had forgotten this aspect of his off-page origin while watching the movie. It’s a curious fact that lends Downey’s riveting performance in the role even more poignancy than it already had. And it already had a lot. When we first got word that Mr. Downey Jr. had officially signed on to be Iron Man, well, we were giggling with girlish glee. The “we” in question being the mouth-breathing, myopic, trapped-in-adolescence-forever, comics-geek faux-cognoscenti. This was too good to be true. Why? Well for one thing, he’s a real actor. If there’s anything die-hard comics fans want it’s for their fantasies to be taken seriously. We have an insatiable ache for credibility so we can continue to play with our toys. This is the same reason we were so excited about poor Heath. Bring on the Oscar nominees! (The axiom, alas, is not infallible. The less said about Ang Lee’s “Hulk,” the better. Or Edward Norton’s.) Continue reading the main story But that was just the half of it. The best thing was we knew, without even reading the script, that Tony Stark’s story was Robert Downey Jr.’s story. It was eerily perfect, really. Consider: A brilliant star in his field, at the top of his game, who because of hubris and bad decisions (and a large dollop of moral weakness) finds himself in dire circumstances of his own making. Just when it looks the darkest, he manages to summon his wits and willpower to overcome the demons and not only survive, but thrive. He makes himself better than he ever was. And he looks really, really cool. Advertisement Continue reading the main story And here’s where the obvious tragedy of Howard Hughes comes in. Hughes was a real, live Stark (and by extension Downey) but without the redeeming third act. Considering Hughes’s fate when comparing Stark and Downey has the effect of separating one from the other — Stark is a fiction; and Robert is real — but when they are united on screen, the amalgam (in comics we call it a team-up) makes the fantasy totally plausible. We know Downey’s been through hell, so we have no trouble believing Stark has too. And that’s something else we geeks crave, maybe more than anything. No matter how fantastic, we want it all to be as possible as possible. Please verify you're not a robot by clicking the box. Invalid email address. Please re-enter. You must select a newsletter to subscribe to. Sign Up Privacy Policy Downey’s battle with substance abuse has been well documented in the media — the arrests, the missed court-ordered drug tests, the year in prison, the attempts at rehab, the relapses, the aforementioned barefoot hike through Culver City, the famous quote about the gun in his mouth and his fondness for the taste of it. It was public and prolonged and excruciating to watch, mainly because we genuinely liked him so much. He was the über-cool son of your arty uncle who had so much potential and just couldn’t get his act together. We wanted to help, but it was out of our hands. As with any addict, it was going to be up to him to decide that he wanted to be free of it. And, by God, finally, he did. All of this subtext is only part of what makes the movie work so well. The sheer design-o-rama aspect of it is just as enthralling. I can’t remember a live-action movie with this much love for the design process since Coppola’s “Tucker.” The huge pleasure comes from watching Stark actually create this amazing thing, step by step, and then beta-test it. And then modify it accordingly. And then righteously kick butt with it. Oh, yes. And Downey has his own design side too — he presented the 2006 Design Patron Award to his friend, the real estate developer Craig Robins; and he designed the cover for his own record album, “The Futurist.” When, in the film, Stark/Downey is creating his Iron Man suit in his lab and figuring things out, it doesn’t seem like he’s acting. The impression is that in another life this is what Downey the real person would have actually wanted to be and do. It’s design as performance. We fans of Iron Man in the comics have a fair idea of what’s in store for Stark in the movie sequel, and we already feel sorry for him. Suffice it to say that Marvel Comics turned Stark into a hopeless alcoholic for nine issues in 1979 and had him hit rock bottom in a story line called “Demon in a Bottle.” This was a comics milestone and, for an A-list mainstream superhero, unprecedented. It’s hard to imagine it won’t play at least some part in “Iron Man 2.” And if it does, it could provide Downey with an opportunity to deliver an even more affecting performance than before. I have no doubt he’ll rise (or sink, as needed) to the occasion. And I can’t wait. In the meantime, we have his fascinating, maddening, boy-genius, enfant-terrible, ultimately redeemed Stark (with the atomically powered heart) from the first installment, and this is the most remarkable thing: what you see — both on the screen and behind it — is proof that no matter how badly someone has messed things up, no matter how far he has fallen, it doesn’t have to be the end of the story if he really doesn’t want it to be. With enough determination, talent, ingenuity, humility and sheer force of will, a flawed human being (aren’t we all?) can still triumph. All he has to do is redesign his life. Chip Kidd is a graphic designer and writer. He is the author of “The Learners” and “Bat-Manga!: The Secret History of Batman in Japan.” A version of this article appears in print on , on Page MM45 of the Sunday Magazine with the headline: Robert Downey Jr. Today's Paper | Subscribe
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What is the highest rank a boy scout can obtain, after earning a minimum of 21 badges and demonstrating Scout Spirit, service, and leadership?
Eagle Scout (Boy Scouts of America) Eagle Scout (Boy Scouts of America) Gold Silver An Eagle Scout is a Scout with the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by over one and a half million or about five percent of all Boy Scouts. Requirements include earning a number of merit badges and demonstration of Scout Spirit, service and leadership. This includes an extensive service project that the Scout plans, organizes, leads, and manages. Eagle Scouts are presented with a medal and badge that visibly recognizes the accomplishments of the Scout. Additional recognition can be earned through Eagle Palms, awarded for completing additional tenure, leadership and merit badge requirements. History The BSA's highest award was originally conceived of as the Wolf Scout, as shown in the June 1911 Official Handbook for Boys. The August 1911 handbook subsequently changed this to Eagle Scout. The medal illustrated in the handbook was a profile of an eagle in flight, but was changed to the current design before any were issued. In their original conceptions, Life Scout, Star Scout (Life preceded Star until 1924) and Eagle Scout were not ranks, but part of the merit badge system that recognized Scouts who had earned a number of merit badges. Eagle Scout was awarded to any First Class Scout who had earned twenty-one merit badges. Consequently, eight of the first nine Eagle Scouts did not earn the ranks of Life or Star. The first Eagle Scout medal was awarded in 1912 to Arthur Rose Eldred, a seventeen-year-old member of Troop 1 in Rockville Centre, Long Island, New York. Eldred was notified that he was to be awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in a letter from Chief Scout Executive James West, dated August 21, 1912. The design of the Eagle Scout medal had not been finalized by the National Council, so the medal was not awarded until Labor Day, September 2, 1912. Eldred was the first of three generations of Eagle Scouts; his son and grandson hold the rank as well. Since then, more than one and a half million Scouts have earned the rank. In 1982, thirteen-year-old Alexander Holsinger, of Normal, Illinois, was recognized as the one millionth Eagle Scout. In 2002, 49,328 Scouts attained the Eagle Scout rank, more than in any other year. A total of 1,835,410 Scouts have earned Eagle Scout as of the end of 2005. Requirements Eagle Scout is earned by serving as a Life Scout for at least six months, earning a minimum of twenty-one merit badges, demonstrating Scout Spirit and serving as a leader in the troop, team, crew or ship. He must plan, develop and give leadership to a service project— the Eagle Project —that demonstrates both leadership and a commitment to duty. He must then take part in a Scoutmaster conference before his eighteenth birthday. After all of the requirements are met, he must complete an Eagle Scout Board of Review. Venturers and Sea Scouts who attained First Class as a Boy Scout or Varsity Scout in a troop or team may continue working toward the Star, Life and Eagle Scout ranks, as well as Eagle Palms, while registered as a Venturer or Sea Scout up to their eighteenth birthday. Scouts with a permanent mental or physical disability may use alternate requirements based on the Scout's abilities, if approved by the council. Eagle Scout may be awarded posthumously, if and only if all requirements are completed before death. A board of review may be held and the award presented to the Scout's family. Eagle Scout service project The completion of the Eagle Scout service project requires significant effort on the part of the Eagle Scout candidate. The project must benefit an organization other than the BSA. It cannot be performed for an individual or a business, cannot solely be a fund-raising project and cannot be commercial in nature. A written plan using the Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook must be submitted and pre-approved by the benefiting organization, the unit leader, the unit committee and a district representative, before the work of the project can begin. When the project is complete, the Scout will update the workbook and determine the methods in which he gave leadership, ways in which the plan may have had to change, and the benefits of the project. Examples of Eagle Scout service projects include: constructing park benches, running a Vial of Life drive, constructing a playground, building bat houses for a local park, refurbishing a room at a church or school, resetting stones at a cemetery, planting grass for erosion control, or organizing a dinner and collecting necessities for the homeless. Development Eagle Scout requirements have evolved since the awards' original conception. A requirement to earn 11 specific merit badges was added in 1914, which underwent minor changes in 1915. The Life–Star order was reversed in 1924, apparently because the five-pointed star of the Star Scout insignia could be associated with the five merit badges required to earn the rank immediately following First Class Scout. In 1927, Eagle Scout began the transition from being a super merit badge to a rank. As a result, the first requirements for tenure were created, Scouts were now required to be an active First Class Scout for one year and the initial requirements for what became the service project appeared with a requirement to show satisfactory service. The number of required merit badges increased to 12. In 1936, the ranks of Star and Life became mandatory, and the number of required merit badges jumped to 13. It was at this time Eagle Scout became a full-fledged rank. In 1952, age limits were set so that adults could no longer earn Eagle Scout and the service project requirement was slightly expanded to "do your best to help in your home, school, church or synagogue, and community". In 1958 the number of required merit badges increased again to 16 of the 21 total merit badges needed to obtain Eagle, along with the first requirements for service and leadership. In 1965, the requirements for the service project and specific troop leadership were defined, and the number of required merit badges returned to 11. The Eagle Scout candidate was now required to plan, develop, and carry out a leadership service project. Minor changes were made to the required merit badge list in 1970. In 1972, the Improved Scouting Program increased the number of merit badges needed to obtain Eagle to 24, while reducing the list of required merit badges to ten, eliminating badges that required swimming and outdoor skills and adding the requirement to show leadership during the service project. Until 1972, Explorers who were also registered as assistant Scoutmasters in a troop could work on Eagle until age 21. In 1978, the total number of merit badges needed for Eagle was dropped back to the original 21; required merit badges now numbered 11 and would eventually change to the current 12 in 1999. Palms While Palms are not themselves ranks, they represent recognition for a young man who has stayed active in his unit. A Palm is awarded when the Scout has demonstrated Scout Spirit, demonstrated leadership ability, earned five additional merit badges beyond those required for Eagle or last Palm and has taken part in a Scoutmaster conference. Sucessive palms may be earned by repeating these requirements. The insignia is a small metallic palm frond pin that is worn on the ribbon of the Eagle Scout medal or the Eagle Scout square knot. The Palms are awarded in three colors: bronze, representing five merit badges; gold , representing ten merit badges and silver for fifteen merit badges. For awards beyond fifteen merit badges, Palms are awarded in combinations. The order of bronze, gold and silver follows heraldic traditions borrowed from the US military. Insignia and apparel The Eagle Scout badge is worn on the left shirt pocket by youth. Adult leaders who earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a youth may wear the square knot on their uniform above the left shirt pocket. The Eagle Scout medal is worn on the left shirt pocket flap of the uniform. It is usually only worn on ceremonial occasions, and can be worn by both youth and adults while wearing the badge or square knot. The Eagle Presentation Kit currently includes the Eagle Scout medal, the Eagle Scout badge, a mother's pin, a father's pin and an Eagle Mentor pin. A variety of caps, belt buckles, pins, tie tacs, neckerchiefs and slides, bolo ties, rings, jackets, t-shirts and other items are also available for purchase. Official Eagle Scout insignia is controlled by BSA Supply and requires verification by presentation of the Eagle Scout card or other means before it can be purchased. History of the medal 1999-present CFJ Since its introduction in 1912, the Eagle Scout medal has undergone several design changes. Changes to the scroll and to the eagle pendant were not always introduced at the same time, therefore types may be somewhat mixed. Scouting historians classify these medals by the five different manufacturers and then by 17 sub-types, with several minor variations. Many variations were caused by quality control issues, mainly due to wear of the dies. During the 1920s and 1930s, some military schools allowed wear of the Eagle Scout medal on the uniform. In order to conform to the medal system, the scroll was removed and the ribbon affixed to a standard ribbon bar. T. H. Foley made the first medals from 1912 until they went out of business in 1915. The eagle pendant and scroll were of die struck bronze washed with silver . Early versions were made with a short double knot and later ones with a long double knot. Only 338 of these medals were issued, making them the rarest version. Some Foleys were issued with a drop ribbon – the ribbon was extended, folded through the bar mount on the scroll, then dropped behind the eagle pendant and cut in a swallowtail. The first drop ribbon style medal was issued to the fourth Eagle Scout – Sidney Clapp, a 31-year-old scoutmaster from West Shokan, NY. Dieges & Clust took over production from 1916 to 1920, basing the design on the Foley. These medals also have the distinguishing extra-long double knot hanging from the scroll. There were 1,640 of this variety awarded, all made of sterling silver. Eagle medal w/o BSA 1955-1969 In 1920, the Robbins Company took over production. They produced six distinct variants, all in sterling silver. The first 1920 version was similar to the Dieges & Clust design, but with smaller scroll lettering and the standard single knot. The second 1920 version has more distinctive feathering on the back side of the pendant. The engraving on the 1930 version is especially fine. In 1933, BSA was removed from all of the Eagle Scout insignia, including the medal. In 1955 the obverse of the eagle pendant was made flat so it could be engraved. BSA was added back to the front and the obverse was returned to a full feathered design in 1969. Medal manufacturer Stange was authorized to begin producing Eagle Scout medals in 1968, at the same time as Robbins – they created six distinct models. The 1968 version is very similar to the Robbins version, but the bend in the scroll is much flatter, more like a sideways V as compared to the S on the Robbins scroll. The BSA was added back to the front, and the obverse was returned to a full feathered design in 1970. A major re-design of the eagle pendant was made in 1974 to match the new NESA logo. In 1978, Robbins ceased manufacturing Eagle Scout medals and Stange switched to the last design used by Robbins. Minor differences are in the white edged ribbon and the sterling silver markings. In 1980 the price of silver rose dramatically and the medal was changed to silver plated, die struck copper. Very early versions were silver plated and oxidized, thus the scroll and pendant are black. Later versions were oxidized, buffed and lacquered to maintain the silver shine. Sterling silver medals were produced from the same dies and from this time were only available on special order. 1993 saw a number of changes. The clasp on the scroll was changed from the pin on type to a double clutch back. The pendant was changed to pewter and enlarged due to the lighter rigidity of the material. Custom Fine Jewelry (CFJ) took over the contract in 1999 and has currently created three types. The initial versions were based on the last Stange version but with the ribbon attached through the clutch pins instead of a bar (this led to damage of the ribbon). A small number of sterling silver versions were made, marked with 925. In later 1999, the dies were laser engraved, giving a much sharper look and the ribbon mount was improved to eliminate wear. The knot went from wire to a molded version in 2001. In the fall of 2006, the national supply division of the National Eagle Scout Association began to issue replica Eagle Scout medals for specific wear on U.S. military dress uniforms. These medals are designed to be proportionate to other military medals: they contain the same pendant, but no scroll, and a ribbon that has been made thinner and more rectangular in shape. History of the badge
Eagle Scout
What was it that Prometheus stole from Zeus and gave to mankind, angering the king of the gods to such a degree that he chained Prometheus to a rock, wherein an eagle would eat his liver each day, only to have it grow back at night?
Eagle Scout (Boy Scouts of America) - Wikipedia Eagle Scout (Boy Scouts of America) Eagle Scout   Scouting portal Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting program of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). A Scout who attains this rank is called an Eagle Scout or Eagle. Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than two million young men. [2] Requirements include earning at least 21 merit badges and demonstrating Scout Spirit through the Boy Scout Oath and Law, service, and leadership. This includes an extensive service project that the Scout plans, organizes, leads, and manages. Eagle Scouts are presented with a medal and a badge that visibly recognizes the accomplishments of the Scout. Additional recognition can be earned through Eagle Palms, awarded for completing additional tenure, leadership, and merit badge requirements. History The BSA's highest award was originally conceived as the Wolf Scout, as shown in the June 1911 Official Handbook for Boys . The August 1911 version of the handbook changed this to Eagle Scout. The medal illustrated in the handbook was a profile of an eagle in flight, but was changed to the current design before any were issued. In their original conceptions, Life Scout , Star Scout (Life preceded Star until 1924) and Eagle Scout were not ranks, but part of the merit badge system that recognized Scouts who had earned a specified number of merit badges. Eagle Scout was awarded to any First Class Scout who had earned 21 merit badges. [3] Consequently, eight of the first nine Eagle Scouts did not earn the ranks of Life or Star. [4] The Eagle Scout Memorial Fountain in Kansas City, Missouri The first Eagle Scout medal was awarded in 1912 to Arthur Rose Eldred , a 17-year-old member of Troop 1 of Rockville Centre , Long Island , New York. Eldred was notified that he was to be awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in a letter from Chief Scout Executive James West , dated August 21, 1912. The design of the Eagle Scout medal had not been finalized by the National Council, so the medal was not awarded until Labor Day, September 2, 1912. Eldred was the first of three generations of Eagle Scouts; his son and grandson hold the rank as well. [5] [6] As of 2009, more than two million Scouts have earned the rank. [2] In the 1960s, the Kansas City area awarded more Eagle Scout badges than any other council in the country, resulting in the creation of the Eagle Scout Memorial there in 1968. [7] In 1982, 13-year-old Alexander Holsinger, of Normal, Illinois , was recognized as the one-millionth Eagle Scout, [4] [8] and Anthony Thomas of Lakeville, Minnesota was the two-millionth in 2009. [2] [9] About 2.25 million Scouts had earned Eagle Scout through January 2014; [10] out of 83,486,083 Scouts since 1911; this was just over two percent of the Boy Scouting membership. [11] In 2012, 57,976 Eagle Scout awards were presented, about seven percent of the 2012 membership. Four Nobel Prize laureates are known to be Eagle Scouts: Dudley R. Herschbach , Peter Agre , Robert Coleman Richardson , and Frederick Reines [12] Requirements Eagle Scout may be earned by a Boy Scout who has been a Life Scout for at least six months, has earned a minimum of 21 merit badges, has demonstrated Scout Spirit, and has demonstrated leadership within his troop, team, crew or ship. Additionally he must plan, develop, and lead a service project—the Eagle Project —that demonstrates both leadership and a commitment to duty. After all requirements are met, he must complete an Eagle Scout board of review . He can complete the board of review after his 18th birthday as long as all other requirements are completed before his 18th birthday. [13] Venturers and Sea Scouts who attained First Class as a Boy Scout or Varsity Scout in a troop or team may continue working toward the Star, Life and Eagle Scout ranks, as well as Eagle Palms, while registered as a Venturer or Sea Scout up to their 18th birthday. Scouts with a permanent mental or physical disability may use alternate requirements based on abilities, if approved by the council. [14] Eagle Scout may be awarded posthumously, if and only if all requirements except the board of review are completed before death. A board of review may be held and the award presented to the Scout's family.[ citation needed ] The Spirit of the Eagle Award is an honorary posthumous special recognition for any registered youth member who has died in an accident or through illness. Of the 21 merit badges, 13 are required: [15] Camping Main article: Eagle Scout Service Project The Eagle Scout Service Project is the opportunity for a Scout to demonstrate leadership of others while performing a project for the benefit of any religious institution, any school, or his community. The project may not benefit the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) or its councils, districts, units, camps and so forth. It also cannot be of a commercial nature or be solely a fund-raising project. [17] Development A Scout taking the Eagle Scout Charge during his court of honor aboard the USS Oscar Austin Eagle Scout requirements have evolved since the award was conceived. A requirement to earn 11 specific merit badges was added in 1914, which underwent minor changes in 1915. [18] The Life–Star order was reversed in 1924, apparently because the five-pointed star of the Star Scout insignia could be associated with the five merit badges required to earn the rank immediately following First Class Scout. In 1927, Eagle Scout began the transition from being a super merit badge to a rank. [4] As a result, the first requirements for tenure were created and Scouts were required to be an active First Class Scout for one year. The initial requirements for what became the service project appeared with a requirement to show satisfactory service and the number of required merit badges increased to 12. In 1936, the ranks of Star and Life became mandatory, and the number of required merit badges rose to 13. It was at this time that Eagle Scout became a full-fledged rank. In 1952, age limits were set so that adults over 18 years of age could no longer earn Eagle Scout and the service project requirement was slightly expanded to "do your best to help in your home, school, church or synagogue, and community." [4] Some councils resisted the change limiting the Eagle Scout rank to youth so the addition of the requirement to hold a youth troop officer position was added in 1965. [19] In 1958, the number of required merit badges increased again to 16 of the 21 total merit badges needed to obtain Eagle, along with the first requirements for service and leadership.[ citation needed ] When the Exploring program was introduced in 1959, Explorers could earn Eagle Scout using requirements specific to the Exploring program. Explorers over the age of 18 who were also registered as assistant Scoutmasters in a troop could work on Eagle and Eagle Palms until age 21. [20] These options were discontinued in 1972 with the Improved Scouting Program , and Explorers could use the standard Eagle requirements only through age 18. [21] In 1965, the requirements for the service project and specific troop leadership were defined, and the number of required merit badges returned to 11. The Eagle Scout candidate was required to plan, develop, and carry out a leadership service project. Minor changes were made to the required merit badge list in 1970. In 1972, the Improved Scouting Program increased to 24 the number of merit badges needed to obtain Eagle, while reducing the list of required merit badges to ten, eliminating badges that required swimming and outdoor skills—both of which were later reinstated, and adding the requirement to show leadership during the service project. In 1978, the number of merit badges needed for Eagle was lowered to the original 21, and the number of required merit badges was set at 11 (this was changed to 12 in 1993). [4] In 2014 the number of Eagle required merit badges were increased to 13. [22] Palms Palms represent additional advancement for a young man who has stayed active in his unit. A Palm is awarded when the Scout has been active in the unit for at least three months since attaining Eagle (or a previous Palm); has demonstrated Scout Spirit, leadership and ability; has earned five additional merit badges beyond those required for Eagle or the last Palm; and has taken part in a conference with his unit leader. Merit badges which the young man has earned before reaching Eagle Scout are acceptable to use towards earning Palms. The insignia is a small metallic palm frond pin or device that is worn on the ribbon of the Eagle Scout medal, on the Eagle Scout square knot or on the Eagle Scout badge. [23] The Palms are awarded in three colors: bronze , representing five merit badges; gold , representing ten merit badges; and silver , representing fifteen merit badges. For each Palm awarded for five additional merit badges beyond the first bronze, gold, and silver recognitions, Palms are worn in combinations which require the smallest number of devices to reflect the total number of Palms earned. For instance, a Scout who has earned eight Palms would wear two silver Palms and a gold Palm. [24] The order of bronze, gold and silver follows heraldic traditions borrowed from the U.S. military. [25] [26] [27] Because of the three-month service requirement for palms, and the termination of advancement on a Scout's 18th birthday, the ability to earn palms will depend on the timing of a Scout's Eagle Board of Review. For example, a Scout who earns Eagle within two months before his 18th birthday will be unable to earn any palms regardless of the number of merit badges earned, because he will not be able to perform three months' additional active service before becoming ineligible for further advancement. Insignia and apparel An Eagle Scout presentation kit, including: Mother's oval pin, Dad's oval pin, Mentor oval pin, Eagle badge, and Eagle award medal The Eagle Scout badge is worn on the left shirt pocket by youth. [28] Adult leaders who earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a youth may wear the square knot on their uniform above the left shirt pocket. [29] The Eagle Scout medal is worn on the left shirt pocket flap of the uniform . It is usually only worn on ceremonial occasions, and can be worn by both youth and adults while wearing the badge or square knot. The Eagle Scout Award Kit currently includes the Eagle Scout medal, the Eagle Scout badge, a mother's pin, a father's pin and an Eagle Mentor pin. A variety of caps, belt buckles, pins, tie tacs , neckerchiefs and slides, bolo ties, rings, jackets, T-shirts and other items are also available for purchase. [30] Official Eagle Scout insignia is controlled by BSA Supply and requires verification by presentation of an Eagle Scout card or other means before it can be purchased. History of the medal Since its introduction in 1912, the Eagle Scout medal has undergone several design changes. Changes to the scroll and to the eagle pendant were not always introduced at the same time, therefore types may be somewhat mixed. Scouting historians classify these medals by the five different manufacturers and then by 17 sub-types, with several minor variations. [31] Many variations were caused by quality control issues, mainly due to wear of the dies . During the 1920s and 1930s, some military schools allowed wearing of the Eagle Scout medal on the uniform. In order to conform to the medal system, the scroll was removed and the ribbon affixed to a standard ribbon bar . T. H. Foley made the first medals from 1912 until they went out of business in 1915. [32] The eagle pendant and scroll were of die struck bronze washed with silver . Early versions were made with a short double knot and later ones with a long double knot. Only 338 of these medals were issued, making them the rarest version. Some Foleys were issued with a drop ribbon– the ribbon was extended, folded through the bar mount on the scroll, then dropped behind the eagle pendant and cut in a swallowtail. The first drop ribbon style medal was issued to the fourth Eagle Scout– Sidney Clapp, a 31-year-old Scoutmaster from West Shokan, NY. [31] Dieges & Clust took over production from 1916 to 1920, basing the design on the Foley. [32] These medals also have the distinguishing extra-long double knot hanging from the scroll. There were 1,640 of this variety awarded, all made of sterling silver . In 1920, the Robbins Company took over production. They produced six distinct variants, all in sterling silver. The first 1920 version was similar to the Dieges & Clust design, but with smaller scroll lettering and the standard single knot. The second 1920 version has more distinctive feathering on the back side of the pendant. The engraving on the 1930 version is especially fine. In 1933, BSA was removed from all of the Eagle Scout insignia, including the medal. In 1955 the obverse of the eagle pendant was made flat so it could be engraved. BSA was added back to the front and the reverse was returned to a full feathered design in 1969. [31] Medal manufacturer Stange was authorized to begin producing Eagle Scout medals in 1968, at the same time as Robbins – they created six distinct models. The 1968 version is very similar to the Robbins version, but the bend in the scroll is much flatter, more like a sideways V as compared to the S on the Robbins scroll. The BSA was added back to the front, and the obverse was returned to a full feathered design in 1970. A major re-design of the eagle pendant was made in 1974 to match the new NESA logo. In 1978, Robbins ceased manufacturing Eagle Scout medals and Stange switched to the last design used by Robbins. Minor differences are in the white edged ribbon and the sterling silver markings. In 1980 the price of silver rose dramatically and the medal was changed to silver plated, die struck copper. Very early versions were silver plated and oxidized, thus the scroll and pendant are black. Later versions were oxidized, buffed and lacquered to maintain the silver shine. Sterling silver medals were produced from the same dies and from this time were only available on special order. The year 1993 saw a number of changes. The clasp on the scroll was changed from the pin on type to a double clutch back. The pendant was changed to pewter and enlarged due to the lighter rigidity of the material. [31] Custom Fine Jewelry (CFJ) took over the contract in 1999 and has currently created three types. The initial versions were based on the last Stange version but with the ribbon attached through the clutch pins instead of a bar (this led to damage of the ribbon). A small number of sterling silver versions were made, marked with 925. In later 1999, the dies were laser engraved, giving a much sharper look and the ribbon mount was improved to eliminate wear. The knot went from wire to a molded version in 2001. [31] In the fall of 2006, the national supply division of the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) began to issue replica Eagle Scout medals for specific wear on U.S. military dress uniforms. These medals were designed to be proportionate to other military medals: they contained the same pendant, but no scroll, and a ribbon that had been made thinner and more rectangular in shape. However, in December 2007, the NESA stopped selling the mini-medal after service uniforming committees all contacted the BSA and asked them to stop promoting the medal for wear on military dress uniforms. The Eagle Scout medal is not authorized for wear on any U.S. military uniform. [33] History of the badge Since its introduction, the Eagle Scout badge has undergone several design changes. Scouting historians have classified these badges into nine different designs, with several minor variations within each type. [31] The cloth badge was introduced for Eagle Scouts attending the 2nd World Scout Jamboree in Denmark in 1924 with a design based on the hat pin. The Eagle Scout merit badge was sewn onto the top of the merit badge sash that was also created for the jamboree. The design is quite similar to the current badge. As with other patches of the time, the rank badges were embroidered onto rolls of fabric and then cut. The edges were folded under before sewing the badge onto the sash. Initially produced on tan cloth, it was later switched to olive for the Boy Scout uniform and white and blue to match the various Sea Scout uniforms. In 1933, BSA was removed from all of the Eagle Scout insignia, including the badge. [34] The text Eagle Scout and Boy Scouts of America was added to the border, and Be Prepared was added to the scroll. These badges were embroidered with silk thread, switching to cotton in 1940. The production of badges and emblems changed in 1956 to the rolled edge now in current use, thus eliminating the various colored backgrounds. The outside oval was then changed to red. With the introduction of the Improved Scouting Program in 1972 came an overhaul of many badges and emblems. The new stylized Eagle Scout badge with no text was a major change that proved to be unpopular. It appears that some Scouters commissioned reproductions of the 1956 badge for issue in place of the 1972 version. In 1975 the badge design partially reverted to the 1956 version. 1985 saw a reversion to the 1956 issue with some minor differences. The border and the eagle were done in silver metalized thread and the Be Prepared text was in blue. In 1986 the metalized eagle changed back to standard thread due to problems with wearing and the scroll and text were enlarged. The metalized border was changed to standard thread in 1989. Later variants increased the thread count of the white stripe to eliminate the visible background. [34] For the 2010 centennial , all of the rank badges had 2010 added to the text. To recognize the Eagle Scout centennial in 2012, a new version was released with Eagle Scout and Centennial in silver and with 1912 and 2012 in gold. [35] Other insignia The Distinguished Eagle Scout award Eagle Scout hat pins were produced from 1921 through 1958 with several variations. [36] Eagle Scouts who earned additional merit badges were recognized using Eagle Palms, introduced in 1927. Adults who had earned Eagle Scout began to be recognized in 1934 with a red, white and blue ribbon bar. In 1940, a small eagle pin was added to the bar. Ribbon bars were replaced by embroidered square knot patches in 1947. [37] Over the years, the knot was produced with various background colors to match the different uniforms. Although the Venturing and Sea Scout programs use different uniform shirts, the current knot is available only with a tan background that matches the Boy Scout uniform. [38] When the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award (DESA) was created in 1969, [39] a gold-colored eagle device was introduced for wear on the Eagle Scout square knot. The Law Enforcement Exploring program introduced a ribbon bar to recognize Eagle Scout and the Gold Award of the Girl Scouts of the USA in 1995. [40] The Eagle Scout Mentor pin was introduced in early 2004 in a gold-colored version. In early 2006 it was changed to a silver-colored antique finish to match the mother and father pins but in 2007 was changed back to gold-colored. In 2008, the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) introduced a knot recognizing those Eagle Scouts who are life members of NESA; it uses the standard knot emblem with a silver border. Certificates From 1912 to 1943 the BSA issued an index-sized card with information about the Eagle Scout. Wallet-size cards were introduced in 1944 and switched to a plastic credit card style in 1991. Certificates suitable for framing were first issued in 1944. As the honorary president of the BSA, the signature of the President of the United States appears on all certificates. Replacement of a card or certificate can be made by application through the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA). After becoming an Eagle Scout U.S. President Harry S Truman meeting with a group of Eagle Scouts in the Oval Office , 1950 Eagle Scouts are expected to set an example for other Scouts and to become the leaders in life that they have demonstrated themselves to be in Scouting . They are disproportionately represented in the military, service academy graduates, in higher education and academia, major professions, the clergy, business and politics. [41] [42] :149–159 Eagles are more likely to exercise for 30 minutes or more every day, volunteer for religious and nonreligious organizations, have closer relationships with family and friends, be in a leadership position at their place of employment or local community, donate money to charitable groups, and to work with others to improve their neighborhoods. [43] Adult Scouters who earned Eagle Scout as a youth may wear a square knot emblem with a red, white, and blue striped square knot above the left shirt pocket; the medal may be worn on formal occasions. [29] Eagle Scouts may join the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA), which serves as a fellowship and communications board for all Eagle Scouts. NESA directly administers several Eagle Scout scholarships . [44] The American Legion , [45] the National Jewish Committee on Scouting, [46] and the Sons of the American Revolution [47] offer scholarships directed toward Eagle Scouts. Many colleges and universities, local businesses, churches and other organizations may offer similar scholarships. The NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Award recognizes Eagle Scouts who have demonstrated outstanding achievement at the local, state, or regional level. The Distinguished Eagle Scout Award is given only to Eagle Scouts for distinguished service in their profession and the community for a period of at least 25 years after earning Eagle Scout. Eagle Scouts who enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces may receive advanced rank in recognition of their achievements. [48] [49] [50] Controversies For more details on this topic, see Boy Scouts of America membership controversies . After the Dale decision in 2000 affirmed the BSA's right to exclude homosexuals, a number of Eagle Scouts returned their badges to the National Council in protest of the BSA's policies. The advocacy group Scouting for All claimed to have received as many as one thousand letters from Eagle Scouts who had done so; [51] the BSA later stated that fewer than one hundred Eagle Scout badges had been received. [52] In 2012, the BSA reaffirmed its policies on the exclusion of homosexuals; again a number of Eagle Scouts returned their badges in protest. [53] In May 2013, the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America voted to lift the ban on openly gay youth beginning on January 1, 2014, [54] [55] with the ban on openly gay adult leaders remaining in effect. In response, two Eagle Scouts returned their badges in protest of the change to the BSA's policy. [56] [57] Recipients Athletes who have earned Eagle Scout include Basketball Hall of Famer (later U.S. Senator ) Bill Bradley , MLB All-Star Shane Victorino and pitcher Jon Moscot , and Notre Dame and San Diego Chargers linebacker Manti Te'o . [72] [73] Religious leaders who have earned Eagle Scout include Cardinal Archbishop Emeritus of Baltimore William H. Keeler , Church of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard , [74] and Howard W. Hunter , 14th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints . [75] Impact The National Eagle Scout Association researched the total volunteer hours of the Eagle service projects ever done and it came a total of more than 100 million hours of service. Each year, new Eagle Scouts add more than three million more hours. [76] Eagle scouts completed about 9.5 million hours in 2011. [10] August 1, 2012, was designated by the BSA as National Eagle Scout Day in recognition of Eldred's accomplishment in 1912. [76] References
i don't know
According to the WWII propaganda poster, what might loose lips do?
Loose lips sink ships - Columns - JamaicaObserver.com Loose lips sink ships Tweet ACCORDING to Wikipedia, "loose lips sink ships" is an American English idiom meaning beware of unguarded talk. The phrase originated on propaganda posters during World War II. The phrase was created by the War Advertising Council and used on posters by the United States Office of War Information. The most famous poster that helped popularise the phrase was created by Seagram Distillers Corporation by the designer Seymour R Goff. This type of poster was part of a general campaign of American propaganda during World War II to advise servicemen and other citizens to avoid careless talk concerning secure information that might be of use to the enemy. The British equivalent used variations on the phrase, "Keep mum", while in neutral Sweden the State Information Board promoted wordplay "en svensk tiger" (keeping silent), while Germany's admonition when translated into English meant "Shame on you, blabbermouth!" In Jamaica, the two most common phrases in this context are "Cock mout' kill cock!" or a departure from the biblical expression, "He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life," the latter being an extension of the "informer fi dead" culture. So the slogan "loose lips sink ships" is basically saying that one should avoid careless talk in general. Of course, another popular version of this slogan is "putting one's foot in one's mouth", which also translates into one having "foot and mouth disease". Jamaican politicians are often guilty of this malady which, in some cases, has led to their ending up in the doghouse, or causing their respective party to lose much political capital. Among the latest such verbal mishaps were Member of Parliament Damion Crawford's "dutty Labourite" remark at a People's National Party meeting, Senator A J Nicholson's "flexi-rape" sotto voce remark in the Upper House, and just last week Minister Robert Pickersgill's "articulate minority" statement during an interview with a journalist outside Parliament that has now gone viral on social media. But there have been many such "foot-in-mouth" utterances in the past. Recall Christopher Tufton's "vote X beside the head" comment at a Jamaica Labour Party mass meeting in Sam Sharpe Square, Edward Seaga's "black scandal bag" in reference to a PJ Patterson Administration and likening a PNP Government to a woman lying on her back to take whatever comes. And how can we forget Portia Simpson Miller's "don't draw mi tongue"! Then there was the late Dudley Thompson's famous outburst, "no angels were killed at Green Bay" in relation to the alleged luring and subsequent massacre of a number of presumed hardened criminals. Michael Manley had his fair share, too, including the "rod of correction" affirmation and "going to the mountaintop with Cuban President Fidel Castro". The sad truth is that once a politician is before a crowd, with microphone, he or she is likely to become a loose cannon. Politicians just love to talk, because perhaps that is what they do best. As a result, a great deal of horse manure is spread among the people, who also love to absorb this useless verbiage in a mindless way. However, it must be understood that platform presentations on the hustings, unlike formal presentations in Parliament and other structured settings, tend to be more designed to appeal to the lowest common multiple or geared towards whipping up a frenzy along partisan lines. Of course, parliamentarians are also known to play to the gallery, especially when the media is present, which increases the possibility of putting one's foot in one's mouth. In the court of public opinion, public officials with loose lips are likely to suffer irreparable damage to their character and reputation as their intemperate or ill-considered comments tend to haunt them for the rest of their lives. That is why it is important that politicians learn from their mistakes as well as those of others. As we say in Jamaican parlance, "Kibba yuh mout!" And it goes without saying that, while some utterances may be genuine errors or misplaced priorities, some smack of outright arrogance and callousness, not to mention mischief or disdain. On the other hand, given our much-divided society along partisan and other lines, loose lips frequently lead to guilty persons, especially politicians, being tarred and feathered, their characters assassinated or punished at the polls. Then there is the collateral damage that is inevitable, whereby parties, organisations, colleagues, and even family members are deemed to be guilty by association. Much trauma can ensue, and unless an apology and penitence come to the fore, as in the case of Senator Nicholson and his flexi-rape comment, one can remain in the eyes of many as persona non grata. Needless to say that in the eyes of some detractors, it is a case of damned if you do and damned if you don't. Incidentally, I see where a beleaguered Lennie Little-White of Outameni Experience fame has been taken to task for bringing up the black man versus white man syndrome when it comes to getting a government bailout. Putting the hypocrisy aside, it is no secret that there is still a tendency in this country for persons with a lighter pigmentation to be better treated than one with a great deal of melanin. And that is putting it mildly. However, there are some things best not said in certain scenarios depending on the situation. As the saying goes, when one's head is in a lion's mouth it is best to take it out slowly. But I still believe that beating up on the goodly gentleman because of what was deemed as a "loose lips" moment is grossly unfair, and he should not be chastised for basically speaking the truth. As for Minister Pickersgill's highly publicised and discussed remark, I am tempted to ask if there is indeed an inarticulate majority. The PNP chairman (for life) is a seasoned politician who knows the Jamaican demographics perhaps better than most of his detractors. Hence, a silent majority may well be in his corner, or is it? Of note, former prime minister and PNP president, PJ Patterson, who has the distinction of winning the most elections in Jamaica's history so far, was known during his tenure not to allow anyone to draw his tongue, and very seldom was caught with his foot in his mouth, except perhaps when he reportedly stated that the law must not be a shackle, or words to that effect, after he declared a national holiday when the Reggae Boyz qualified for the World Cup in 1998. Suffice it to say, it may well be that politicians, in general, need to take a leaf out of Patterson's book when it comes to "foot in mouth disease". After all, there are two things that "come not back": the spent arrow and the spoken word. Enough said. Lloyd B Smith is a member of Parliament and deputy speaker of the House of Representatives. The views expressed are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of the People's National Party or the Government of Jamaica. [email protected]
sink ships
What is the smallest denomination of bill available form our neighbors to the north, Canada?
‘Star Wars Episode VII’ Set Photo Shows They’re Serious About Spoilers The artist here is Cliff Chiang , who based the poster on the iconic “Loose Lips Might Sink Ships” propaganda from WWII. As /film points out, this poster hangs in an area in the Lucasfilm office at Pinewood where non-disclosure agreements are signed before stepping on set, according to jorts-ensconced taint enthusiast Kevin Smith . When Smith visited the set , he (inaccurately) described seemingly the same poster 39 minutes into this video , as transcribed by /film: “I get into the Lucasfilm office where you need to sign a non-disclosure agreement which says you’re not gonna say what you saw. So I can’t tell you exactly what I saw but we’ll work around it. I sign that. There’s a poster hanging on the wall right there. And it shows an Imperial Starship commander, in uniform, going like this [Mimics a finger to the mouth for the “shhhhh”] and it says ‘Loose lips sink starships.’ So they don’t want you to talk about what you see. And I said, ‘This is awesome’ and JJ’s assistant goes ‘JJ hung that up for you.’ So I was like, ‘I got it I got it.'” Smith forgot to describe the other WWII-inspired posters J.J. hung up just for Kevin, including “ We shall soon have our Storm Troopers in America. Will you be too high to notice?”, and “ He’s watching you , so put the Fleshlight down.” as well as “We can do it! (‘It’ being tying our own shoes without getting winded.)”, and, of course, “For the love of God, stop wearing short pants. You’re 44.” Share This By: DenseMan1 10.07.2014 @ 1:48 PM I dunno if it’s always Robo Panda that does it, but I get the most lovely feeling of schadenfreude whenever this site uses a Star Wars post to just bash the shit out of Kevin Smith. That picture of him teary-eyed after visiting the set is probably the most disgusted with another adult I have ever been.
i don't know
Tomorrow marks the birthday of our Commander in Chief, Barack Obama. How old will he be?
Remarks by the President and First Lady on the End of the War in Iraq | whitehouse.gov Remarks by the President and First Lady on the End of the War in Iraq Fort Bragg, North Carolina 11:52 A.M. EST MRS. OBAMA:  Hello, everyone!  I get to start you all off.  I want to begin by thanking General Anderson for that introduction, but more importantly for his leadership here at Fort Bragg.  I can’t tell you what a pleasure and an honor it is to be back here.  I have so many wonderful memories of this place.  A couple of years ago, I came here on my very first official trip as First Lady.  And I spent some -- a great time with some of the amazing military spouses, and I visited again this summer to help to put on the finishing touches on an amazing new home for a veteran and her family.  So when I heard that I had the opportunity to come back and to be a part of welcoming you all home, to say I was excited was an understatement.  And I have to tell you that when I look out at this crowd, I am simply overwhelmed.  I am overwhelmed and proud, because I know the level of strength and commitment that you all display every single day.  Whenever this country calls, you all are the ones who answer, no matter the circumstance, no matter the danger, no matter the sacrifice.  And I know that you do this not just as soldiers, not just as patriots, but as fathers and mothers, as brothers and sisters, as sons and daughters.  And I know that while your children and your spouses and your parents and siblings might not wear uniforms, they serve right alongside you.  AUDIENCE:  Hooah!  (Applause.) MRS. OBAMA:  I know that your sacrifice is their sacrifice, too.  So when I think of all that you do and all that your families do, I am so proud and so grateful.  But more importantly, I’m inspired.  But like so many Americans, I never feel like I can fully convey just how thankful I am, because words just don’t seem to be enough.  And that’s why I have been working so hard, along with Jill Biden, on a campaign that we call Joining Forces.  It’s a campaign that we hope goes beyond words.  It’s a campaign that is about action.  It’s about rallying all Americans to give you the honor, the appreciation and the support that you have all earned.  And I don’t have to tell you that this hasn’t been a difficult campaign.  We haven’t had to do much convincing because American have been lining up to show their appreciation for you and your families in very concrete and meaningful ways.  Businesses are hiring tens of thousands of veterans and military spouses.  Schools all across the country and PTAs are reaching out to our military children.  And individuals are serving their neighbors and their communities all over this country in your honor. So I want you to know that this nation’s support doesn’t end as this war ends.  Not by a long shot.  We’re going to keep on doing this.  We have so much more work to do.  We’re going to keep finding new ways to serve all of you as well as you have served us.  And the man leading the way is standing right here.  (Applause.)  He is fighting for you and your families every single day.  He’s helped more than half a million veterans and military family members go to college through the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill.  (Applause.) He’s taken unprecedented steps to improve mental health care.  He’s cut taxes for businesses that hire a veteran or a wounded warrior.  And he has kept his promise to responsibly bring you home from Iraq.  So please join me in welcoming someone who’s your strongest advocate, someone who shows his support for our military not only in words, but in deeds, my husband, our President, and your Commander-in-Chief, Barack Obama.  (Applause.) THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, everybody!  (Applause.)  Hello, Fort Bragg!  All the way! AUDIENCE:  Airborne! THE PRESIDENT:  Now, I’m sure you realize why I don’t like following Michelle Obama.  (Laughter.)  She’s pretty good.  And it is true, I am a little biased, but let me just say it:  Michelle, you are a remarkable First Lady.  You are a great advocate for military families.  (Applause.)  And you’re cute.  (Applause.)  I’m just saying -- gentlemen, that’s your goal:  to marry up.  (Laughter.)  Punch above your weight.  Fort Bragg, we’re here to mark a historic moment in the life of our country and our military.  For nearly nine years, our nation has been at war in Iraq.  And you -- the incredible men and women of Fort Bragg -- have been there every step of the way, serving with honor, sacrificing greatly, from the first waves of the invasion to some of the last troops to come home.  So, as your Commander-in-Chief, and on behalf of a grateful nation, I’m proud to finally say these two words, and I know your families agree:  Welcome home!  (Applause.)  Welcome home.  Welcome home.  (Applause.)  Welcome home. It is great to be here at Fort Bragg -- home of the Airborne and Special Operations Forces.  I want to thank General Anderson and all your outstanding leaders for welcoming us here today, including General Dave Rodriguez, General John Mulholland.  And I want to give a shout-out to your outstanding senior enlisted leaders, including Command Sergeant Major Roger Howard, Darrin Bohn, Parry Baer.  And give a big round of applause to the Ground Forces Band.  (Applause.) We’ve got a lot of folks in the house today.  We’ve got the 18th Airborne Corps -- the Sky Dragons.  (Applause.)  We’ve got the legendary, All-American 82nd Airborne Division.  (Applause.)  We’ve got America’s quiet professionals -- our Special Operations Forces.  (Applause.)  From Pope Field, we’ve got Air Force.  (Applause.)  And I do believe we’ve got some Navy and Marine Corps here, too.  AUDIENCE MEMBER:  Yes!  (Laughter.)   THE PRESIDENT:  And though they’re not here with us today, we send our thoughts and prayers to General Helmick, Sergeant Major Rice and all the folks from the 18th Airborne and Bragg who are bringing our troops back from Iraq.  (Applause.)  We honor everyone from the 82nd Airborne and Bragg serving and succeeding in Afghanistan, and General Votel and those serving around the world.   And let me just say, one of the most humbling moments I’ve had as President was when I presented our nation’s highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, to the parents of one of those patriots from Fort Bragg who gave his life in Afghanistan -- Staff Sergeant Robert Miller. I want to salute Ginny Rodriguez, Miriam Mulholland, Linda Anderson, Melissa Helmick, Michelle Votel and all the inspiring military families here today.  We honor your service as well.  (Applause.) And finally, I want to acknowledge your neighbors and friends who help keep your -- this outstanding operation going, all who help to keep you Army Strong, and that includes Representatives Mike McIntyre, and Dave Price, and Heath Shuler, and Governor Bev Perdue.  I know Bev is so proud to have done so much for our military families.  So give them a big round of applause.  (Applause.) Today, I’ve come to speak to you about the end of the war in Iraq.  Over the last few months, the final work of leaving Iraq has been done.  Dozens of bases with American names that housed thousands of American troops have been closed down or turned over to the Iraqis.  Thousands of tons of equipment have been packed up and shipped out.  Tomorrow, the colors of United States Forces-Iraq -- the colors you fought under -- will be formally cased in a ceremony in Baghdad.  Then they’ll begin their journey across an ocean, back home. Over the last three years, nearly 150,000 U.S. troops have left Iraq.  And over the next few days, a small group of American soldiers will begin the final march out of that country.  Some of them are on their way back to Fort Bragg.  As General Helmick said, “They know that the last tactical road march out of Iraq will be a symbol, and they’re going to be a part of history.” As your Commander-in-Chief, I can tell you that it will indeed be a part of history.  Those last American troops will move south on desert sands, and then they will cross the border out of Iraq with their heads held high.  One of the most extraordinary chapters in the history of the American military will come to an end.  Iraq’s future will be in the hands of its people.  America’s war in Iraq will be over. AUDIENCE:  Hooah! THE PRESIDENT:  Now, we knew this day would come.  We’ve known it for some time.  But still, there is something profound about the end of a war that has lasted so long. Now, nine years ago, American troops were preparing to deploy to the Persian Gulf and the possibility that they would be sent to war.  Many of you were in grade school.  I was a state senator.  Many of the leaders now governing Iraq -- including the Prime Minister -- were living in exile.  And since then, our efforts in Iraq have taken many twists and turns.  It was a source of great controversy here at home, with patriots on both sides of the debate.  But there was one constant -- there was one constant:  your patriotism, your commitment to fulfill your mission, your abiding commitment to one another.  That was constant.  That did not change.  That did not waiver. It’s harder to end a war than begin one.  Indeed, everything that American troops have done in Iraq -– all the fighting and all the dying, the bleeding and the building, and the training and the partnering -– all of it has led to this moment of success.  Now, Iraq is not a perfect place.  It has many challenges ahead.  But we’re leaving behind a sovereign, stable and self-reliant Iraq, with a representative government that was elected by its people.  We’re building a new partnership between our nations.  And we are ending a war not with a final battle, but with a final march toward home. This is an extraordinary achievement, nearly nine years in the making.  And today, we remember everything that you did to make it possible. We remember the early days -– the American units that streaked across the sands and skies of Iraq; the battles from Karbala to Baghdad, American troops breaking the back of a brutal dictator in less than a month. We remember the grind of the insurgency -– the roadside bombs, the sniper fire, the suicide attacks.  From the “triangle of death” to the fight for Ramadi; from Mosul in the north to Basra in the south -– your will proved stronger than the terror of those who tried to break it. We remember the specter of sectarian violence -– al Qaeda’s attacks on mosques and pilgrims, militias that carried out campaigns of intimidation and campaigns of assassination.  And in the face of ancient divisions, you stood firm to help those Iraqis who put their faith in the future. We remember the surge and we remember the Awakening -– when the abyss of chaos turned toward the promise of reconciliation.  By battling and building block by block in Baghdad, by bringing tribes into the fold and partnering with the Iraqi army and police, you helped turn the tide toward peace. And we remember the end of our combat mission and the emergence of a new dawn -– the precision of our efforts against al Qaeda in Iraq, the professionalism of the training of Iraqi security forces, and the steady drawdown of our forces.  In handing over responsibility to the Iraqis, you preserved the gains of the last four years and made this day possible. Just last month, some of you -- members of the Falcon Brigade -- AUDIENCE:  Hooah! THE PRESIDENT:  -- turned over the Anbar Operations Center to the Iraqis in the type of ceremony that has become commonplace over these last several months.  In an area that was once the heart of the insurgency, a combination of fighting and training, politics and partnership brought the promise of peace.  And here’s what the local Iraqi deputy governor said:  “This is all because of the U.S. forces’ hard work and sacrifice.” That’s in the words of an Iraqi.  Hard work and sacrifice.  Those words only begin to describe the costs of this war and the courage of the men and women who fought it. We know too well the heavy cost of this war.  More than 1.5 million Americans have served in Iraq -- 1.5 million.  Over 30,000 Americans have been wounded, and those are only the wounds that show.  Nearly 4,500 Americans made the ultimate sacrifice -- including 202 fallen heroes from here at Fort Bragg -- 202.  So today, we pause to say a prayer for all those families who have lost their loved ones, for they are part of our broader American family.  We grieve with them. We also know that these numbers don’t tell the full story of the Iraq war -– not even close.  Our civilians have represented our country with skill and bravery.  Our troops have served tour after tour of duty, with precious little dwell time in between.  Our Guard and Reserve units stepped up with unprecedented service.  You’ve endured dangerous foot patrols and you’ve endured the pain of seeing your friends and comrades fall.  You’ve had to be more than soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen –- you’ve also had to be diplomats and development workers and trainers and peacemakers.  Through all this, you have shown why the United States military is the finest fighting force in the history of the world.  AUDIENCE:  Hooah!  (Applause.) THE PRESIDENT:  As Michelle mentioned, we also know that the burden of war is borne by your families.  In countless base communities like Bragg, folks have come together in the absence of a loved one.  As the Mayor of Fayetteville put it, “War is not a political word here.  War is where our friends and neighbors go.”  So there have been missed birthday parties and graduations.  There are bills to pay and jobs that have to be juggled while picking up the kids.  For every soldier that goes on patrol, there are the husbands and the wives, the mothers, the fathers, the sons, the daughters praying that they come back. So today, as we mark the end of the war, let us acknowledge, let us give a heartfelt round of applause for every military family that has carried that load over the last nine years.  You too have the thanks of a grateful nation.  (Applause.)   Part of ending a war responsibly is standing by those who fought it.  It’s not enough to honor you with words.  Words are cheap.  We must do it with deeds.  You stood up for America; America needs to stand up for you. AUDIENCE:  Hooah! THE PRESIDENT:  That’s why, as your Commander-in Chief, I am committed to making sure that you get the care and the benefits and the opportunities that you’ve earned. For those of you who remain in uniform, we will do whatever it takes to ensure the health of our force –- including your families.  We will keep faith with you.  We will help our wounded warriors heal, and we will stand by those who’ve suffered the unseen wounds of war.  And make no mistake -- as we go forward as a nation, we are going to keep America’s armed forces the strongest fighting force the world has ever seen.  That will not stop. AUDIENCE:  Hooah!  (Applause.) THE PRESIDENT:  That will not stop.  But our commitment doesn’t end when you take off the uniform.  You’re the finest that our nation has to offer.  And after years of rebuilding Iraq, we want to enlist our veterans in the work of rebuilding America.  That’s why we’re committed to doing everything we can to extend more opportunities to those who have served. That includes the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, so that you and your families can get the education that allows you to live out your dreams.  That includes a national effort to put our veterans to work.  We’ve worked with Congress to pass a tax credit so that companies have the incentive to hire vets.  And Michelle has worked with the private sector to get commitments to create 100,000 jobs for those who’ve served.  AUDIENCE:  Hooah! THE PRESIDENT:  And by the way, we’re doing this not just because it’s the right thing to do by you –- we’re doing it because it’s the right thing to do for America.  Folks like my grandfather came back from World War II to form the backbone of this country’s middle class.  For our post-9/11 veterans -– with your skill, with your discipline, with your leadership, I am confident that the story of your service to America is just beginning. But there’s something else that we owe you.  As Americans, we have a responsibility to learn from your service.  I’m thinking of an example -- Lieutenant Alvin Shell, who was based here at Fort Bragg.  A few years ago, on a supply route outside Baghdad, he and his team were engulfed by flames from an RPG attack.  Covered with gasoline, he ran into the fire to help his fellow soldiers, and then led them two miles back to Camp Victory where he finally collapsed, covered with burns.  When they told him he was a hero, Alvin disagreed.  “I’m not a hero,” he said.  “A hero is a sandwich. “  (Laughter.)  “I’m a paratrooper.” AUDIENCE:  Hooah! THE PRESIDENT:  We could do well to learn from Alvin.  This country needs to learn from you.  Folks in Washington need to learn from you. AUDIENCE:  Hooah! THE PRESIDENT:  Policymakers and historians will continue to analyze the strategic lessons of Iraq -- that’s important to do.  Our commanders will incorporate the hard-won lessons into future military campaigns -- that’s important to do.  But the most important lesson that we can take from you is not about military strategy –- it’s a lesson about our national character. For all of the challenges that our nation faces, you remind us that there’s nothing we Americans can’t do when we stick together.  AUDIENCE:  Hooah! THE PRESIDENT:  For all the disagreements that we face, you remind us there’s something bigger than our differences, something that makes us one nation and one people regardless of color, regardless of creed, regardless of what part of the country we come from, regardless of what backgrounds we come out of.  You remind us we’re one nation. And that’s why the United States military is the most respected institution in our land because you never forget that.  You can’t afford to forget it.  If you forget it, somebody dies.  If you forget it, a mission fails.  So you don’t forget it.  You have each other’s backs.  That’s why you, the 9/11 Generation, has earned your place in history. Because of you -- because you sacrificed so much for a people that you had never met, Iraqis have a chance to forge their own destiny.  That’s part of what makes us special as Americans.  Unlike the old empires, we don’t make these sacrifices for territory or for resources.  We do it because it’s right.  There can be no fuller expression of America’s support for self-determination than our leaving Iraq to its people.  That says something about who we are. Because of you, in Afghanistan we’ve broken the momentum of the Taliban.  Because of you, we’ve begun a transition to the Afghans that will allow us to bring our troops home from there.  And around the globe, as we draw down in Iraq, we have gone after al Qaeda so that terrorists who threaten America will have no safe haven, and Osama bin Laden will never again walk the face of this Earth.   AUDIENCE:  Hooah!  (Applause.) THE PRESIDENT:  So here’s what I want you to know, and here’s what I want all our men and women in uniform to know:  Because of you, we are ending these wars in a way that will make America stronger and the world more secure.  Because of you.  That success was never guaranteed.  And let us never forget the source of American leadership:  our commitment to the values that are written into our founding documents, and a unique willingness among nations to pay a great price for the progress of human freedom and dignity.  This is who we are.  That’s what we do as Americans, together. The war in Iraq will soon belong to history.  Your service belongs to the ages.  Never forget that you are part of an unbroken line of heroes spanning two centuries –- from the colonists who overthrew an empire, to your grandparents and parents who faced down fascism and communism, to you –- men and women who fought for the same principles in Fallujah and Kandahar, and delivered justice to those who attacked us on 9/11. Looking back on the war that saved our union, a great American, Oliver Wendell Holmes, once paid tribute to those who served.  “In our youth,” he said, “our hearts were touched with fire.  It was given to us to learn at the outset that life is a profound and passionate thing.” All of you here today have lived through the fires of war.  You will be remembered for it.  You will be honored for it -- always.  You have done something profound with your lives.  When this nation went to war, you signed up to serve.  When times were tough, you kept fighting.  When there was no end in sight, you found light in the darkness. And years from now, your legacy will endure in the names of your fallen comrades etched on headstones at Arlington, and the quiet memorials across our country; in the whispered words of admiration as you march in parades, and in the freedom of our children and our grandchildren.  And in the quiet of night, you will recall that your heart was once touched by fire.  You will know that you answered when your country called; you served a cause greater than yourselves; you helped forge a just and lasting peace with Iraq, and among all nations. I could not be prouder of you, and America could not be prouder of you. God bless you all, God bless your families, and God bless the United States of America.  (Applause.) END
50
In terms of sales, Lowe's is the world's second-largest hardware store chain, behind which retailer?
Emotional speech – and the Dougie – mark Michelle Obama’s 50th – CNN Political Ticker - CNN.com Blogs As Americans continue to SUFFER the royalty has a ball! January 19, 2014 11:07 am at 11:07 am | B All I want to know is who paid for this ostentatious party during these economic times. January 19, 2014 11:10 am at 11:10 am | Anonymous @B and Kyle Grimm: For your information, it happens that President Obama actually draws a salary. They have income from books. They pay for their own parties, gifts and all other personal things from their salaries. Unlike Congress, he works all year, even while on their vacations that bug your kind so much. If you are truly concerned about these "economic times" tell it to Cantor who sets the calendar for umpteen vacations he gives to the House. Who pays for their back and forth trips home? We do..........and they don't earn half their salary. Sounds like a great party to me. January 19, 2014 11:30 am at 11:30 am | Marie MD Where to begin. The President is paid for his service to our country. It's like they are the only First Family to ever celebrate a birthday at the WH. Look at history and see how many parties your demi god Reagan and nancy had. I can bet what the teaklans wasted on the government shut down ($24B) that this party was NOT paid for by taxpayer money. You want to complain about a party? Try your own teaklan party. Most of us will work tomorrow even though it's the MLK holiday. Congress is probably taking the whole week off just like they take most of the summer off and December plus first week of January off to do nothing. January 19, 2014 11:42 am at 11:42 am | Len Anonymous and Marie MD, You are both 100% correct. We are so tired of the GOP and Tea Party folks! Vote them out in 2014. January 19, 2014 11:50 am at 11:50 am | Tampa Tim I want to know if the republicans are going to pay back the $24 billion from their government shut down, the $2 trillion from the tax cuts for the wealthy, the $800 billion for TARP, the trillion from the drug program, and the two trillion for their unnecessary war. January 19, 2014 11:55 am at 11:55 am | Gurgyl January 19, 2014 12:00 pm at 12:00 pm | shotokan 1 The power of the vote! use it wisely and you will be happy. January 19, 2014 12:32 pm at 12:32 pm | ThinkAgain - If you want Congress to actually do something FOR the American people, vote OUT the Repub/tea bag majority To all the RWNJs out there: Every president holds parties – get over it! Heck, GW did while he was illegally invading Iraq, letting bin Laden slip into Pakistan, and crashing the economy. Where were all your complaints then? January 19, 2014 01:01 pm at 1:01 pm | ThinkAgain - If you want Congress to actually do something FOR the American people, vote OUT the Repub/tea bag majority If you're looking for "royalty" holding a "ball" while the nation suffers, google the RNC meeting in Hawaii February 2010, when they went there to complain about the Obama Administration's fiscal irresponsibility. January 19, 2014 01:05 pm at 1:05 pm | don in albuquerque 24 Billion lost on a vanity shutdown of the govt. Countless Millions lost during the Iraq War (just lost or stolen). And the GOTP is worried about a party? January 19, 2014 02:42 pm at 2:42 pm | Joseph Mwansa The president works and draws a salary and he and his lovely wife can indeed celebrate a mile stone. Please stop being cheap and nasty. Happy birthday Madam first lady. We are proud of you here in Africa January 19, 2014 02:52 pm at 2:52 pm | Jeff Brown in Jersey January 19, 2014 03:15 pm at 3:15 pm | The right wing has lost their damned minds I'm glad they had a great time for Michelle's 50th Birthday...Not that often you reach a half of century old.. January 19, 2014 04:20 pm at 4:20 pm |
i don't know
What city does Spiderman spend his spare time protecting?
Amazing Spider-Man by Stan Lee, Larry Lieber and Alex Saviuk - Amazing Spider-Man Comic Strip | Comics Kingdom About this Comic The Authors The Characters It was on the pages of Amazing Fantasy No. 15 where the Amazing Spider-Man first appeared. And in March 1963, one year after his first appearance, Spider-Man was starring in his own comic book and on his way to becoming Marvel Comics' most popular super hero ever! Through the years, Spider-Man has also been a superpower in the world of licensing, appearing in paperback books, on posters, as an action figure, and in video games. And in addition to his licensing ventures, Spider-Man is also capturing bad guys in a hit animated TV show. In 1977, Spider-Man began starring in his own newspaper comic strip written by his creator, Stan Lee. The Amazing Spider-Man can be seen in newspapers worldwide and was a part of the first-ever comic strip/comic book crossover story. In the summer of 2002, Spider-Man swung onto the silver screen and broke box office records with its massive first weekend receipts. Based upon the freak accident that miraculously granted Peter Parker with his incredible spider-like abilities, the movie starring Tobey Maguire became a smash hit with audiences worldwide. The sequel was released in the summer of 2004. Stan Lee Known to millions as the man whose Super Heroes propelled Marvel Comics to its preeminent position in the comic book industry, Stan Lee's famous co-creations include Spider-Man, The Incredible Hulk, X-Men, The Fantastic Four, Iron Man, Daredevil, The Avengers, Silver Surfer and Dr. Strange, among many others. Lee first became publisher of Marvel Comics in 1972 and is presently the Chairman Emeritus of Marvel Enterprises, Inc. and a member of the Editorial Board of Marvel Comics. In 1977, he introduced Spider-Man as a syndicated newspaper strip that went on to become one of the most successful of all syndicated adventure strips. Spider-Man now appears in more than 500 newspapers worldwide making it the longest running of all Super Hero strips. Without question, Stan "the Man" Lee has exerted enormous influence over the comic book industry throughout his many years. He had a hand in creating many of Marvel's most recognized characters, the majority of which have been successfully licensed and marketed since 1965. The numbers are impressive. More than 2 billion of his comic books have been published in 75 countries and in 25 languages. In Europe alone, Stan Lee's name appears on over 35 million comics annually. Each year, X-Men sells more than 13 million copies. In 1981, Stan Lee transformed his Spider-Man and Hulk creations into Saturday morning and syndicated television cartoons. When Marvel Comics and Marvel Productions were acquired by New World Entertainment in 1986, Stan's horizons expanded even further, giving him the opportunity to become more deeply involved in the creation and development of filmed projects for both the big and small screen. He supervised such diverse animated series as X-Men, Spider-Man and The Hulk. To date, Stan's characters have populated over 24 separate television series, all of which continue in syndication around the world. Stan Lee's admirers are not limited to the younger generation. His avowed fans include Presidents (Ronald Reagan once said he started every day reading Spider-Man comics and George Bush, in presenting Stan with a Medal of the Arts, praised him for encouraging and assisting "millions of young people to broaden their own imaginations"). Media titan Steven Spielberg once explained that "Stan and I do the same thing. Only my pictures move." Even his competitors have only good things to say: "Most of my generation of writers learned our craft from or through Stan Lee. He's an incredible part of the business," states Paul Levitz of DC Comics. Now Stan Lee is broadening his horizons with his new company, "POW! Entertainment," where Stan is currently developing entirely new franchises for film and television. He still proudly cherishes the title of Marvel's Chairman Emeritus. Alex Saviuk Saviuk pencils the Spider-Man Sunday strip and inks the daily Spider-Man strips. Saviuk began his professional career at DC Comics in 1977 after studying sequential art with Will Eisner at The School of Visual Arts in New York City. Within a few short months, he became the regular artist on such titles as Green Lantern and The Flash. His resume extended to include Superman, Hawkman, Aquaman, The Atom, and Air Wave, among others. In 1986, Saviuk forged ahead to Marvel Comics where he soon became the penciller on Defenders of the Earth featuring The Phantom, Flash Gordon and Mandrake the Magician. Then, after successfully filling in on The Amazing Spider-Man, he worked on the Web of Spider-Man for more than seven years followed by two more years on Spider-Man Adventuresbased on the animated series. From 1997 to 1998, Saviuk pencilled the last 12 issues of The X-Files for Topps Comics. In 1997, he began pencilling the Sunday Spider-Man newspaper strip. In 2003, he began inking the Spider-Man dailies as well. Saviuk also joined ranks with the Swedish publisher Egmont and Australian publisher Frew in chronicling the adventures of The Phantom. In addition to comics, Saviuk likes to create storyboards and conceptual art for use in advertising and films. He lives in Florida. Peter Parker During a scientific experiment, hard-luck high-school student Peter Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider and given superhuman powers. But it wasn't until after he refused to stop a thief, who would later murder his Uncle Ben, that Peter learned his most valuable lesson: "With great power there must also come great responsibility." From that moment on, Peter Parker has used his superstrength (and the ability to stick to walls) in his never-ending battle against evil as the amazing Spider-Man! Mary Jane Watson-Parker After several rocky years as Peter's on-again-off-again girlfriend, Peter and MJ decided to tie the knot in 1987. It was shortly before their big day that Peter revealed his superpowered alter ego to her. Now, in addition to her adjustment to marriage and her career, Mary Jane has also had to adjust to the realization that every day they spend together could be their last. Aunt May After the death of her husband, Peter's aunt has focused her energies on him. Always concerned for his welfare, Aunt May would really have a heart attack if she knew what Peter was up to in his spare time. J. Jonah Jameson Although he has no superpowers, perhaps no one is more of a nemesis to Spider-Man than the cantankerous J. Jonah Jameson. As publisher of the Daily Bugle, this cigar-chomping newspaperman has dedicated his life to destroying the Web-swinger's reputation. In Jameson's mind, the world would be a perfect place without the presence of its superpowered inhabitants especially that of Spider-Man! Joseph "Robbie" Robertson Fortunately, not everyone in the world shares Jameson's hatred for Spider-Man. Next to his wife Mary Jane, Spider-Man's biggest supporter has to be Robbie Robertson. As editor in chief of the Daily Bugle, Robbie has spent his career trying to convince his publisher of Spider-Man's value to the city, but to no avail. Peter has always had the utmost respect for this honest, hardworking family man. And although Peter can never tell him, it's Robbie's faith in Spider-Man that has kept him from giving up his career as a crime-fighter on more than one occasion. Dr. Doom Victor Von Doom's scarred visage is the result of an experiment gone bad! Shame caused this brilliantbutmad scientist to hide his disfigurement in a metallic, armored exoskeleton which he has endowed with a number of weapons and other surprises for his arch enemy Spider-Man. Crazed by his accident and driven by an insane loathing for the rest of his "inferior" colleagues in the world of science, Doom is bent on world domination through his many monstrous creations. Dr. Octopus Dr. Otto Octavius was a brilliant atomic researcher who developed a harness of four mechanical limbs to assist him in handling radioactive substances at safe distances. A freak laboratory accident left Octavius' invention permanently bonded to his body and his mind forever altered. Doc Ock (as he is commonly known) will stop at nothing to acquire power and wealth! And if our friendly neighborhood arachnid gets crushed along the way, then so be it! The Kingpin Ostensibly the president and owner of many legitimate New York City-based businesses, Wilson Fisk masterminds the criminal activities of the shadowy East Coast underworld. Although he is publicly known as the "Kingpin of crime," his dual identity has never been officially proven. A fanatic about bodybuilding, he has excelled in the Japanese art of sumo and takes great pleasure in physical combat with his enemies.
New York City
What type of internal combustion engine uses the heat of compression to initiate fuel ignition as opposed to requiring an external spark source?
James Franco - Biography - IMDb James Franco Biography Showing all 82 items Jump to: Overview  (4) | Mini Bio  (1) | Trade Mark  (3) | Trivia  (48) | Personal Quotes  (23) | Salary  (3) Overview (4) 5' 11" (1.8 m) Mini Bio (1) Known for his breakthrough starring role on Freaks and Geeks (1999), James Franco was born in Palo Alto, California on April 19, 1978. His mother, Betsy Franco , is Jewish, and his father, Douglas Eugene "Doug" Franco, was of Portuguese and Swedish descent, and ran a Silicon Valley business. James's mother, a writer, has occasionally acted. Growing up with his two younger brothers, Dave Franco , also an actor, and Tom Franco , James graduated from Palo Alto High School in 1996 and went on to attend UCLA, majoring in English. To overcome his shyness, he got into acting while studying there, which, much to his parents' dismay, he left after only one year. After fifteen months of intensive study at Robert Carnegie's Playhouse West, James began actively pursuing his dream of finding work as an actor in Hollywood. In that short time, he landed himself a starring role on Freaks and Geeks (1999). The show, however, was not a hit to its viewers at the time, and was canceled after its first year. Now, it has become a cult-hit. Prior to joining Freaks and Geeks (1999), Franco starred in the TV miniseries To Serve and Protect (1999). After that, he had a starring role in Whatever It Takes (2000). Although he'd been working steadily, it wasn't until the TNT made-for-television movie, James Dean (2001) that James rose to fan-magazine fame and got to show off his talent. Since then, he has been working non-stop. After losing the lead role to Tobey Maguire , James settled for the part of "Harry Osborne", Spider-Man's best friend in the summer 2002 major hit Spider-Man (2002). He returned to the Osborne role for the next two films in the trilogy. - IMDb Mini Biography By: Breighton Lee; [email protected] Trade Mark (3) Tends to play characters with a troubled past or life Often plays real life characters Trivia (48) Auditioned for the role of Peter Parker in Spider-Man (2002), but was given the part of Harry Osborn. James appeared in two movies that premiered on the same day, Deuces Wild (2002) and Spider-Man (2002), both opening on May 3rd. The success of the two films was highly varied as Spider-Man film has to date amassed a box office gross some 67 times greater than that of Deuces. He has two younger brothers, Tom Franco and Dave Franco . His parents, Betsy Franco & Doug Franco, met at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. In his spare time he likes to paint. Was named one of People Magazine's 50 Hottest Bachelors [2004] Has his own production company - Rabbit Bandini Productions. Went by the name of Ted in high school and was voted "Best Smile" at Palo Alto High School. Was named one of Salon.com's "10 men who might just inspire the rebirth of Jewish male cool." Although he always hated it, he started smoking for his lead role in James Dean (2001). His father was of half Portuguese and half Swedish descent. His mother is from an Ashkenazi Jewish family (from Russia, Germany, Poland, and Lithuania). Worked with stunt coordinator Nick Powell in two movies both premiering in 2006: Tristan + Isolde (2006) and Annapolis (2006). Close friends with Tobey Maguire . He also used to "babysit" Tobey's daughter on the set of Spider-Man 3 (2007). His grandmother, Mitzie Verne, is an artist. Is friends with Busy Philipps , who he met on the set of Freaks and Geeks (1999). Franco told interviewer Terry Gross that when he was in junior high school, he was arrested for shoplifting cologne from a department store and reselling it with his friends at the school. He noted to Gross the irony that, in 2008, he shot an advertising campaign in which he became the face of Gucci cologne. While a guest on her NPR program "Fresh Air", Franco told interviewer Terry Gross that when he went back to UCLA to finish his undergraduate degree in creative writing, he was worried that his classmates and professors might think of him as "sliding by" because of his acting career, so he took a lot of extra courses to make sure they knew he was serious. He told Gross that the cap on the number of units that a student is allowed to take in a quarter was 19, but in his last quarter he took 62 units - which as far as he knows is a record for a single student. Franco's creative writing professors have included such major figures as Amy Hempel, Mona Simpson , Jonathan Lethem , Gary Shteyngart and Michael Cunningham . Chosen by Premiere magazine as one of the "The 40 Most Handsome Hollywood Men"(#1)[2009]. Mother Betsy Franco also played his character's mother on General Hospital (1963). He completed his private pilot's license to prepare for his role in 2006's Flyboys (2006). Is a talented mathematician. He interned at Lockheed Martin, the American global aerospace, defense, security, and advanced technology company. Has directed short films for two R.E.M. songs, "Blue" and "That Someone Is You" from their 2011 album, "Collapse Into Now". Franco volunteers at the charity Art of Elysium in Los Angeles, helping kids with serious medical conditions. In January 2011, he was honoured for his work at the hospital, receiving the Spirit of Elysium accolade. After seeing Franco's turn as James Dean , Robert De Niro personally chose him to play his drug-addicted son in the 2002 movie City by the Sea (2002). He did eight months of boxing training for Annapolis (2006). His production company is Rabbit Bandini Productions, which he runs with friend and producer Vince Jolivette . In 2009, Salon.com named Franco the "Sexiest Man Living.". May perhaps be one of the most academically accomplished actors (an "extreme scholar") in Hollywood history: besides his BFA in English from UCLA, he has two MFA degrees - both in writing - from Columbia and Brooklyn College, and a third MFA, in film, from New York University. He is continuing further degree studies while also teaching a graduate class that takes students through the process of making a feature-length film. (2011). His favorite film is My Own Private Idaho (1991). His debut book of poetry is due to be released in April 2014 [December 17, 2012]. Admitted to his younger brother, Dave Franco , that he hadn't seen a single episode of Dave's episodes in the TV series, Scrubs (2001). Was presented the 2,492nd Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame accompanied by his mother Betsy Franco , brother Dave Franco , Oz the Great and Powerful (2013) director Sam Raimi and This Is the End (2013) co-star Seth Rogen (March 7, 2013). Filming the action comedy Pineapple Express (2008). [March 2007] Has a movie due in December called The Company (2003), co-starring Neve Campbell . He is filming Spider-Man 2 (2004). [May 2003] New York, NY, USA: His educational achievements as a "prolific academic" are celebrated in a half-page ad in The New York Times paid for by his alma mater, UCLA, with the tagline: 'Some A-Listers Actually Get A's.' [March 2013] Enrolled in NYU's MFA program for creative writing in Tisch school of the arts [2008] In the Graduate Film program at NYU and the Graduate Program for Fiction Writing at Columbia. [2009] On his father's side, he is the grandson of Daniel Franco, Jr. and Marjorie J. (Peterson) Franco, who was a published author of young adult books. On his mother's side, he is the grandson of Daniel Verne (born Daniel S. Verovitz) and Marjorie "Mitzie" Levine. One of James's maternal great-grandfathers, Emanuel "Manuel" V. Levine, was a prominent judge in Cleveland. One of a handful of celebrities passing through Los Angeles International Airport (1 November 2013) when a gunman opened fire killing a TSA official. Franco was stuck on board a grounded plane during the rampage. As of 2014, has appeared in two films that were nominated for the Best Picture Oscar: Milk (2008) and 127 Hours (2010). Friends with Mila Kunis . They have acted in 4 films together: Third Person (2013), Oz the Great and Powerful (2013), Date Night (2010), and The Color of Time (2012). In 2015, James Franco will star in both Queen of the Desert (2015) and Every Thing Will Be Fine (2015), which are directed by Werner Herzog and Wim Wenders , who were both key figures in the New German Cinema film movement in the 1970s. His favorite film of 2015 was Mustang (2015). [Indiewiere, Nov.19 2015]. In October 2015, James Franco had a Bar Mitzvah, the Jewish coming-of-age ceremony traditionally celebrated at age 13. A rabbi, of the Reform Jewish denomination, presided over the ceremony, in which Franco, wearing a traditional prayer shawl and yarmulke, read from the Torah in Hebrew. Franco was 37 at the time of his Bar Mitzvah; though they are most often celebrated at 13, a Bar Mitzvah may be observed any time after 13, as well. The Bar Mitzvah was orchestrated by Franco's friend, Seth Rogen , as a fundraiser for Rogen's Alzheimer's research charity, "Hilarity for Charity". Originally, James Franco was set to play the role of "Arthur" in Inception (2010); however, due to scheduling conflicts, James was forced to drop out of the film and the director of the film, Christopher Nolan , later gave the role to Joseph Gordon-Levitt . Though they often collaborate with the same actors, producers, and directors respectively, he has never been in a film with his brother Dave Franco. Personal Quotes (23) [About painting] "I needed an outlet in high school and came across painting. I've actually been painting longer than I've been acting. A movie is a collaborative effort, and with painting you just have yourself." [About finding time to relax] "Never. It's an impossibility. I don't even like to sleep. I feel as if there's too much to do." [About what he looks for in a girl] "Just someone I can relate to artistically and who can also be understanding and supportive of the demands of my lifestyle." When I was a child, I wanted to be an actor, but I had really bad buck teeth. I didn't want to get braces, but my mom said I couldn't be an actor if I didn't get the braces. So, I got the braces. I worked at a McDonald's drive-through. I could always tell when girls were interested: They'd drive around again and say, "I forgot something." Acting is an art form and you want to take roles that are challenged and it's more of a challenge I think to play dark characters. Not that I want to always play those, but it is a challenge and challenges are rewarding and fun. You know, directors kind of want different things. Some of them think that if they just are always talking to you and keeping your spirits up and everything that it helps you, and then some leave you alone and give you your space. [on playing gay characters] - It's funny because the way that kind of stuff is talked about on blogs is so black-and-white. It's all cut-and-dry identity politics. 'Is he straight or is he gay?' Or, 'This is your third gay movie - come out already!' And all based on, gay or straight, based on the idea that your object of affection decides your sexuality. There are lots of other reasons to be interested in gay characters than wanting myself to go out and have sex with guys. And there are also lots of other aspects about these characters that I'm interested in, in addition to their sexuality. So, in some ways it's coincidental, in other ways it's not. I mean, I've played a gay man who's living in the '60s and '70s, a gay man who we depicted in the '50s, and one being in the '20s. And those were all periods when to be gay, at least being gay in public, was much more difficult. Part of what I'm interested in is how these people who were living anti-normative lifestyles contended with opposition. Or, you know what, maybe I'm just gay. [on using the videos trapped hiker Aron Ralston had made, in order to portray him in 127 Hours (2010)] He's not an actor giving a Shakespeare death soliloquy. He didn't want to lose himself because that would make it harder for his mother to watch. I knew that if I captured that, somehow, it would feel very authentic and powerful. [on accepting a position as a dramatics teacher at New York University] I've been very fortunate. I had to work hard but had opportunities to do everything that I wanted. That's one of the reasons I'm teaching. I'm trying to give back to other people. That's what I guess I want to do now - continue to be creative in a way that I can give back. [Observation while making a documentary about the porn industry] When I was young, I got a video camera and my girlfriend and I decided to film ourselves and watched it back and said, 'Yeah, well, let's never watch that again'. Those performers in pornos, they are great performers. They're not just doing it. They're selling it to an audience. [2011, on being a troubled youth] I was arrested for a lot of petty crimes. It added up. I was a ward of the court and was put on probation. Finally, I'd had enough chances, but they gave me one final chance, and, fortunately, I didn't get into any trouble after that. Otherwise, I guess it could have been like Lindsay Lohan , when she's on probation and then she's accused of stealing a necklace, and it's a kind of small thing that becomes a big thing. It's like probation doesn't end. (2011, on his earliest jobs) When I was 13 or 14 my dad got me a job working the counter at a coffee shop. It sucked. I read books when the place was empty and got let go when the assistant manager told the boss he'd found $2 in one of the aprons and said I was trying to steal. It turns out he had taken, like, $10,000. Later, when I wanted a car and my parents said they'd match whatever I could pay, I got a job driving carts at the Palo Alto Golf Course. I would read stuff like Naked Lunch in the cart, and they let me go when they caught me reading the sequel to A Separate Peace. Another summer I got a job with a friend on his father's construction crew, but we just got high every day...I was (also) given an internship at Lockheed Martin. But that experience showed me I never wanted to work in that environment. (2011, on the failure of Your Highness (2011)) I didn't write that movie. I was just doing my job. I think I'm fine in it. They knew there were problems with that movie a year ago. Just because it comes out after the Oscars, it's like "Oh, here's backlash". Well, you have the year's best actress Oscar winner in it, so wouldn't that boost ticket sales? And people want to blame me for that? It's just ridiculous. There's this feeling about me like, "He's doing too many things. Let's get him". [2011, on hosting the Oscars] It's hard to talk about because it's like assigning blame - not a fun thing to do. For three or four weeks, we shot the promos and the little film that played in the opening. In the last week, when we really started focusing on the script for the live show and did a run-through, I said to the producer, "I don't know why you hired me, because you haven't given me anything. I just don't think this stuff's going to be good". After the show, everybody was so happy, and Bruce Cohen , the show's producer, hugged me and said, "Steven Spielberg just told me it was the best Oscars ever!" As far as having low energy or seeming as though I wasn't into it or was too cool for it, I thought, Okay, Anne Hathaway is going the enthusiastic route. I've been trained as an actor to respond to circumstances, to the people I'm working with, and not to force anything. So I thought I would be the straight man and she could be the other, and that's how I was trying to do those lines. I felt kind of trapped in that material. I felt, 'This is not my boat. I'm just a passenger, but I'm going down and there's no way out'. (2011, on being a workaholic) I don't know, but the first short film I ever directed, years before I even went to film school at NYU, is about a boy who is introduced to the concept of his own mortality when his goldfish dies. He says to his parents, "I don't want to die," and though they say he shouldn't worry because there's plenty of time, they don't really comfort him. So he thinks, I have to do everything now. He gets a neighbor girl to marry him, gets a job, starts a family. Although I've changed and relaxed a bit, my behavior shows I've thought along those lines for quite a while. [on the show Girls (2012)] I am fine watching a show about women dealing with men. I watched Steel Magnolias (1989) when I was in junior high school and I can get off on female bonding. Done right. It's more interesting than male bonding. I'm also aware that I may just be giving myself too much credit: for all I know, but for the grace of Judd Apatow , I could be just like those struggling male idiots I see on the show. [on the moment that his successful film career failed to meet his artistic expectations] I remember getting ready to do the third 'Spiderman', just thinking, I don't know if I can take it again. If I can take all the work that doesn't seem to have a payoff that is equal to the effort. As soon as I started branching out and pursuing my other interests I could say, 'OK... it's a place where more earnest kinds of exploration can happen.' There's this public persona that's 'James Franco' that's half my creation but half of it isn't. Half of it's what other people write about me or how they perceive me. [His art is] a way of using... an image that other people have created and re-presenting it. [on his comedic Bar Mitzvah, as he received the Hasty Pudding 2009 Man of the Year award] ...actually really touching. I'm Jewish, my mother's Jewish, but I wasn't raised Jewish. I guess I wasn't a man until tonight. [on directing himself as an actor] I've done it many times before - it's something I've grown used to. As a director you're viewing everything from above or the outside. You just want to make sure all the pieces are working well together. I've acted in enough films that I can feel it from the inside, like okay, this is right... I actually don't like to do it. I enjoy directing other actors more. I enjoy the collaboration between directors and actors so much that - if I can get away with not being in a movie that I'm directing - I will. [on Marlon Brando ] Brando's performances revolutionized American acting precisely because he didn't seem to be "performing," in the sense that he wasn't putting something on as much as he was being. Off-screen he defied the studio system's control over his image, allowing his weight to fluctuate, choosing roles that were considered beneath him and turning down the Oscar for best actor in 1973. These were acts of rebellion against an industry that practically forces an actor to identify with his persona while at the same time repeatedly wresting it from him. [on 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days (2007), one of his 5 favourite films] Again, a very simple approach, but there's so much power in that film. You're not quite sure what's happening from the beginning, but you're just kind of thrown into it. All you know is that these women have this mysterious meeting, and it takes you from there. The film gives you a great sense of what it was really like to live in Romania in the 1980s.[2009] Salary (3)
i don't know
The Seattle Seahawks opened training camp on Saturday, starting a new season. In what year did they play their first ever game (a 27-20 preseason loss to San Francisco)?
Seattle Seahawks (1976-Present)   Historical Moments: 1976: Tragedy strikes the Seahawks before they even play their first game when Lloyd W. Nordstrom the expansion team's owner dies from a heart attack on January 20th while vacationing in Mexico. Nordstrom had been instrumental in landing an NFL team in the Pacific Northwest, and hiring the front office, but he never had a chance to see his team take the field. The Seahawks coached by Jack Patera finally play their first game on September 12th before a sold out Kingdome the expansion Seahawks played a solid game but had their desperation final pass intercepted in the endzone during a 30-24 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals. The Seahawks would go on to lose their first five game before they beat the Buccaneers their brothers in expansion 13-10 in Tampa on October 17th. Three weeks later the Seahawks would earn their first home victory by beating the Atlanta Falcons 30-13 behind the 12-yard effort of Running Back Sherman Smith. These two wins would be the only on the season as the first year team completed a typical expansion-like record of 2-12. 1977: In one of the dumbest moves in franchise history the Seahawks trade their top pick in the draft to the Dallas Cowboys for three second round picks. The Cowboys would use the pick to select Running Back Tony Dorsett who would have a Hall of Fame career. In their second season the Seahawks shifted from the NFC West to the AFC West, as they lost five of their first six games. On October 30th the Seahawks would earn their second win of the season when Quarterback Jim Zorn returned from an injury and threw four Touchdown passes in a 56-17 win over the Buffalo Bills at the Kingdome. Two weeks later the Seahawks would get their first shutout over the Jets 17-0 in New York. The Seahawks would go on to finish with a 5-9 record, winning their final two games in the process. 1978: After splitting their first 12 games the Seahawks stun the Raiders 17-16 in Oakland beating them for the second time in the season. It was the first time any opponent had beaten the Raiders twice in the same season in 13 years. The Seahawks would go on to finish with a 9-7 record, as Wide Receiver Steve Largent has a breakout season with 1,168 receiving yards. 1979: The Seahawks stumble out of the gate losing four of their first five games. The Seahawks would recover in time to score a 31-28 comeback win over the Falcons in Atlanta in their first Monday Night Appearance. Howeverm, a week later they would suffer their most humiliating loss at the Kingdome where they put up negative yardage in a 24-0 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The Seahawks would bounce back to win five of their final six games to finish with a 9-7 record for the second year in a row. 1980: The Seahawks would get off to another solid start winning four of their first seven games. However, defensive struggles would catch up with team as they lost their final nine games to finish with a 4-12 record. The Seahawks defense was torched for 408 points on the season as they lost several games by a Touchdown or less. 1981: The Seahawks get off to a terrible start losing six of their first seven games, on the way to a 6-10 season. Despite the struggles Steve Largent would have another stellar season with 1,224 receiving yards. 1982: The Seahawks stumble out of the gate losing their first two games before a two month player strike. When play resumed the Seahawks took the field with a new coach after Jack Patera was fired. Under the leadership of Interim Coach Mike McCormack the Seahawks would go 4-3 to finish with a 4-5 record. Following the season McCormack returned to the front office as Chuck Knox was hired as the new coach.   1983: Through the first 12 games the Seahawks play up and down football, sweeping the Los Angeles Raiders while enjoying a distinct home field advantage where fans perfected the NFL's first "wave."  Back-to-back road losses to the St. Louis Cardinals and Denver Broncos, however, led to a leveling 6-6 record." With their playoff hopes dwindling, the Seahawks beat the Kansas City Chiefs 51-48 in a overtime shootout at the Kingdome. The win would boost the Seahawks to win three of their last four games to finish with a 9-7 record, good enough for a playoff berth. In the Wild Card game the Seahawks would use a balanced offensive attack to bet the Denver Broncos 31-7 at the Kingdome. A week later the Seahawks drive 66 yards in five plays late in the 4th quarter to capture divisional playoff win over the Dolphins 27-20 in Miami. However, a week later in the AFC Championship Game the Seahawks season would end with a 30-14 loss to the Raiders in Los Angeles. 1984: The Seahawks seize the momentum form the previous season by winning 12 of their first 14 games. Along the way the Seahawks defense posts three shutouts, including a game at the Kingdome on November 4th in which they beat the Kansas City Chiefs 45-0 in a game highlighted by four touchdowns off interceptions returns including two by Dave Brown. However the Chiefs would get revenge with a 34-7 win in the next to last game of the season, which set up a showdown for the AFC West in the final game of the season at the Kingdome against the Denver Broncos. The Seahawks would fall by a score of 31-14 to finish with a 12-4 record, but the loss forced them to settle for the Wild Card. In the Wild Card Game the Seahawks defense for three turnovers and six sacks in a 13-7 win over the Los Angeles Raiders at the Kingdome. However, a week later their season would end with a 31-10 loss to the Dolphins in Miami. 1985: The Seahawks play mediocre football all season while posting a disappointing 8-8 record. During the season the Seahawks would win two straight games only to lose their next two, a pattern that repeated it self four times. Among the highlights was Quarterback Dave Krieg who passes 3,602 yards on the season, highlighted by 405-yard passing game in a comeback win over the Atlanta Falcons at the Kingdome on October 13th. 1986: The Seahawks get off to a solid start winning five of their first seven games including a 17-12 win over the New York Giants at the Kingdome on October 19th. However, the Seahawks would lose their next four games, which crippled the Seahawks playoff hopes. The Seahawks would go on to win their last five games to finish with a 10-6 record, but they would miss the playoff via a tiebreaker. Among the highlights of the season were Steve Largent who set a career record with consecutive games with a reception, and Running Back Curt Warner who had a career year rushing for 1,481 yards. 1987: Prior to the start of the season the Seahawks win a lottery for the right to pick Linebacker Brian Bosworth in the supplemental draft. After the regulars split their first two games the Seahawks scabs play decent football winning two of three games. When the regulars returned the Seahawks played solid football winning four of their first five games to sit in strong playoff position with a 7-3 record. However the Seahawks would struggle down the stretch winning just two of their final three games. None the less their 9-6 record was still good enough for a Wild Card berth, as Wide Receiver Steve Largent made history again by breaking the record of career receptions. In the Wild Card Game the Seahawks would battle the Oilers back and forth all day before falling in overtime 23-20 in Houston. 1988: Steve Largent continues to make history as he sets the career record in receiving yards, as the Seahawks with their first two games. However, in the third game Quarterback Dave Krieg suffers a shoulder separation and misses nearly two months as the Seahawks barely keep their head above water at 5-5. When Krieg returned the Seahawks would catch fire winning three of their final four games to capture their first AFC West title with a 9-7 record. However, the Seahawks would fall 21-13 in the Divisional Playoffs to the Bengals at Cincinnati. 1989: Playing in his final season Wide Receiver Steve Largent suffers an elbow injury in a season opening loss to the Eagles in Philadelphia. In the game Largent caught a Touchdown pass brining him to with one of the NFL record. Largent would return to tie and break the record, but the Seahawks struggled all year finishing with a 6-10 record. Prior to the season finale at the Kingdome the Seahawks honored Largent the last original Seahawk by retiring his number 80, and putting him in the ring of honor. Largent would retire holding career records in catches, yards, and Touchdowns. Although all of his records would fall within a few years, he would always be remembered as one of the best receivers of all time. 1990: The Seahawks stumble out of the gate losing their first three games. The Seahawks would slowly climb their way out of the hole finally reaching the .500 mark after the 12th game of the season. During the Seahawks rise back to .500 they had many thrilling comeback victories including on November 11th in Kansas City when Quarterback Dave Krieg shook off a single game record of seven sacks from Derrick Thomas to beat the Chiefs on 25-yards pass to Paul Skansi on the game's final play 17-16. The Seahawks would win three of their last four games to finish with a 9-7 record. However, they missed the playoff via tiebreaker. 1991: Viewed as the quarterback of the future the Seahawks use their first round pick to select Dan McGwire, the brother of baseball all-star Mark McGwire. McGwire would have to wait for his chance as he stood on the sidelines most of the season, as the Seahawks played mediocre football all season on the way to a 7-9 record. Following the season Coach Chuck Knox resigned to return to the Los Angeles Rams, two time Super Bowl winning coach Tom Flores would eventually replace him. 1992: With the departure of Quarterback Dave Krieg, most expected to see Dan McGwire given the nod, but he struggled in the preseason and lost out to Stan Gelbaugh. However in the regular season Gelbaugh struggled as well as Kelly Stoufer too over. Stoufer would not fair much better, and McGwire looked lost every time he was on the field as the Seahawks scored just 140 points in the midst of a franchise worst 2-14 season. Despite the misery on offense, Cortez Kennedy shined on Defense winning Defensive player of the Year honors.  1993: The Seahawks all but give up on Quarterback Dan McGwire by drafting Notre Dame golden boy Rick Mirer. Mirer, who drew comparisons to Joe Montana, is given the starting job right away. Under Mirer the Seahawks would lose their first two games, before bouncing back to win four of their next five games to sit at 4-3. However, the Seahawks would do a noise dive lose seven of their final nine games to finish with a 6-10 record.  1994: Forced to play their first three home game at Husky Stadium on the campus of University of Washington after a concrete block fell at the Kingdome the Seahawks got off to a solid start winning three of their first four games. However, a six game losing streak, as they returned to the Kingdome. The Seahawks would go on to finish with a 6-10 record, despite a stellar 1,545-yard season from Running Back Chris Warren. Following the season Tom Flores would depart his coaching position to concentrate on his General Manager duties. To replace Flores on the sidelines the Seahawks hire Dennis Erickson from the University of Miami. 1995: The Dennis Erickson era gets off to a shaky start when the new coach is charged with drunk driving. Erickson would settle is legal troubles quietly, but the Seahawks on field struggles were hard to fix as Quarterback Rick Mirer continued to struggle a 2-6 start. With John Friez replacing Mirer down the stretch the Seahawks would win six of their next seven games before finishing with an 8-8 record. 1996: With Quarterback Rick Mirer's struggles continuing the Seahawks get off to a poor start again losing their first three games on the way to another season without the playoffs with a 7-9 record. Following a season in which he threw 12 interceptions to just five Touchdowns Rick Mirer was released. 1997: After nine seasons without a playoff berth the Seahawks began to become impatient, and it showed with the signing of aging Quarterback Warren Moon. Moon would have an All-Pro season passing for 3,678 yards and 25 touchdowns. However, the four game losing streak near the end of the season doomed Seattle to another season without the playoffs with an 8-8 record. Changes appeared on the horizon as the team is sold to Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. Under Allen the Seahawks see a change in the front office as General Manager Tom Flores resigns. 1998: With a playoff or else ultimatum hanging over Coach Dennis Erickson's head the Seahawks get off to a solid start winning their first three games. However, Moon would be lost to injuries as the Seahawks struggled under John Kitna. Moon would return and the Seahawks would continue to play mediocre football to sit at 6-6 through 12 games. Facing the Jets in the Meadowlands the Seahawks would lose 32-31 when Quarterback Vinny Testeverde lunge for the endzone was ruled a Touchdown despite replays clearly showing only his bare hand crossed the endzone. That loss would be the backbreaker as the Seahawks went to finish with an 8-8 record missing the playoffs by just one game. Following the season coach Dennis Erickson is fired, and Mike Holmgren is hired away from the Green Bay Packers to fill the duel role of General Manager and coach. 1999: In their final season at The Kingdome the Seahawks get off to a terrific start wining eight of their first ten games, as Quarterback John Kitna has a solid season passing for 3,346 yards. However, Kitna would struggle down the stretch as the Seahawks lost four of their last five games. Fortunately for Seattle the good start was good enough for the Seahawks to win their second Division Title with a 9-7 record. In the Wild Card Round the Seahawks hosted the Miami Dolphins in the final game ever at The Kingdome. The Seahawks would hold a 17-13 lead over the sixth seeded Dolphins midway through the 4th Quarter. However, Dan Marino would have one last magic moment leading the Dolphins on a game winning Touchdown drive with five minutes left to win the game 20-17. 2000: Within a few months of the playoff loss the Kingdome was leveled to make room for a brand new stadium. However, while the stadium was built the Seahawks were forced to play two seasons on the campus of University of Washington. Without a true home field the Seahawks struggled early, losing seven of their first nine games, as Quarterback John Kitna fell out of favor with Coach Mike Holmgren and the fans. The Seahawks would go on to finish with a disappointing 6-10 record. Following the season the Seahawks cut Kitna and traded for Matt Hasselbeck.  2001: Young Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck who the Seahawks acquired from the Green Bay Packers struggled early leading to singing of Trent Dilfer. The Seahawks would play only mediocre football most of the season under Hasselbeck going 5-7 in his starts. However, whenever Dilfer was on the field the Seahawks played with an extra spark, winning all four of his starts. Also making news was Running Back Shaun Alexander who had a break out game on November 11th in front of a Sunday Night National TV audience at Husky Stadium, when he rushed for 266 yards in a 34-27 win over the Oakland Raiders. It was the fourth highest single rushing game in NFL history on the way to a 1,318-yard season in which he scored 16 touchdowns. However, needing a win and help to make the playoffs in the final week of the season, the Seahawks did their part beating the Kansas City Chiefs 25-22. However, they did not get the help they need and were the only team with a winning record at 9-7 not to make the playoffs.    2002: The Seahawks finally opened their state of the art stadium, moving back to the NFC West where they played their inaugural season in 1976, as part of the NFL's realignment. After dropping their first game on the road the Seahawks would open Seahawks Stadium with a disappointing 24-13 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, as they dropped five of their first six games. Things appeared to go from bad to worse in Week 7 when Quarterback Trent Dilfer injured his Achilles on the road against the Dallas Cowboys. However, backup Matt Hasselbeck would come on to lead the Seahawks to a 17-14 victory spoiling a record day for Emmitt Smith who set the NFL's al-time rushing mark. With Dilfer out the rest of the season Matt Hasselbeck would play strong in his place as the Seahawks finished the season on a strong note winning their final three games with Hasselbeck passing for 3,075 yards as the Seahawks posted a record of 7-9, while Running Back Shaun Alexander led the NFC with 18 Touchdowns. 2003: The Seahawks got off to a roaring start winning their first theee games to take an early two game lead in the NFC West. However after a bye week the Seahawks looked rusty in a 35-13 road loss to the Green Bay Packers. However the Seahawks would recover to win their next games at home, as they would defend their nest in style all season winning all eight games at Seahawks Stadium. However the road would be a different story as after a solid 38-0 win over the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2 the Seahawks lost their next six road games which included a hard to swallow Week 12 loss to the Baltimore Ravens where they had a 41-24 lead in the 4th Quarter disappear as the Ravens won in Overtime 44-41. The Seahawks road woes would cost them first place, as they entered the final game of the season on the road against the San Francisco 49ers just to make the playoffs. After trailing 14-0 early in the 2nd Quarter the Seahawks came to life scoring two quick Touchdowns before halftime. The momentum carried on to the second half where they would get the win 24-17 to sew up a playoff spot with a solid 10-6 record. In the playoffs the Seahawks would return to Green Bay for a match up against the Packers in a home coming for both Coach Mike Holmgren, who mentored Packers Coach Mike Sherman and Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck a former back up to Packers Quarterback Brett Favre. After trailing at halftime 13-6 the Seahawks came out smoking and took a 20-13 lead. From there the game went back and forth as at the end of regulation it was tied 27-27. In overtime as the Seahawks won the coin toss Hasselbeck boasted the Seahawks would win. However, Hasselbeck may have been too aggressive as he had a pass intercepted by All Harris and returned for the game winning Touchdown that end the Seahawks season in heartbreak 33-27. 2004: With hopes high on winning a division title the Seahawks got off to a strong start winning their first three games. However with a chance to get a stranglehold for the NFC West the Seahawks blew a 24-7 halftime lead against the St. Louis Rams losing in overtime at home 33-27. The loss would be the first of three in a row as the Seahawks began a pattern of inconsistent play that would frustrate fans the rest of the season. With the hopes of helping their struggling receiving crew the Seahawks acquired legendary Wide Receiver Jerry Rice form the Oakland Raiders. The acquisition of Rice would have little effect as the Seahawks hovered near .500 all season, including another frustrating loss to the Rams. However, it would still be good enough to win the NFC West if they won their final game as Shaun Alexander battled for the NFL rushing title while scoring 20 Touchdowns. Alexander would fall one yard short with 1,696 yards but the Seahawks would hold on stopping the Atlanta Falcons on a two point conversion attempt to preserve a 28-26 win to clinch the NFC West with a 9-7 record. In the playoffs the Seahawks would faced their nemesis the Rams again. Once again it would be battle as the game went back and forth with the Rams leading 27-20 as the Seahawks drove for a game tying Touchdown, as Matt Hasselbeck tried to redeem himself from his playoff interception return in Overtime. On 4th Down and goal with one last chance to tie the game Hasselbeck found Bobby Engram in the endzone. However, the pass would slip through his hands as the Rams held on beating the Seahawks for the third time, as a frustrated Matt Hasselbeck punched the ground in anger. 2005: After more playoff disappointment there was a sense that this was going to be a make or break season for Coach Mike Holmgren, already stripped of his General Manager duties it was well known he was on the hot seat as the season began, as the Seahawks had not won a playoff game in over 20 years. The season would not start off well as the Seahawks lost on the road to the Jacksonville Jaguars 26-14. Coming home the Seahawks would rebound nicely to edge the Atlanta Falcons 21-18 as Shaun Alexander after a rough Week 1 began his run towards one of the greatest offensive seasons in NFL history by rushing for 144 yards. After another home win over the Arizona Cardinals the Seahawks hit another bump in the road as they were stunned by the Washington Redskins in overtime 20-17. Week 5 would bring a big test as they faced their nemesis from 2004 the St. Louis Rams on the road. After losing three times in 2004 the Seahawks showed that this year would be different as they won behind the rushing of Alexander again 37-31, while Wide Receiver Joe Jereivicius began establishing himself as a go to guy with 137 yards and one Touchdown. The win over the Rams seemed to be just the spark the Seahawks needed as they started to roll as they started to mount a winning streak winning games by blowouts such as their home rematch with the Rams and games that they had to rely on a little luck like their 7th straight win over the New York Giants which they won in overtime 20-17 after Giants kicker Jay Feely missed three potential game winning field goals. At 9-2 the Seahawks were well on there way to a division title but still had not grabbed any national attention that was until a Monday Night match up with a batter and bruised Philadelphia Eagles team. Highlighted by two interception returns for Touchdowns by Andre Dyson and Rookie Lofa Tatupu the Seahawks clobbered the Eagles jumping out to a 35-0 halftime lead on the way a 42-0 win for their eighth straight victory. A week later the Seahawks flew high again ripping the San Francisco 49ers 41-3 to complete a perfect 6-0 record against the NFC West rivals and improve to 11-2. After a 28-24 road win over the Tennessee Titans in which Alexander rushed for 172 yards the Seahawks extended their impressive win streak to 11 games by beating the Indianapolis Colts 28-13 in what some saw as a Super Bowl Preview. With nothing really to play for in the final week of the season the Seahawks concentrated on rest and individual accomplishments as Shaun Alexander set a new single season record with 28 Touchdowns while clinching the rushing title with 1,880 yards in a 23-17 loss to the Green Bay Packers on the road. Despite the season ending loss the Seahawks headed to the playoffs with a best ever 13-3 record, and home field advantage in the NFC, as Shaun Alexander won both the Offensive Player of the Year Award and the NFL MVP. 2005 Playoffs: After a bye week the Seahawks faced the Washington Redskins in the Division Round of the Playoffs. Things would not go as smoothly as planned as MVP Shaun Alexander suffered a concussion on the game's first series as the game was scoreless for the first 21 minutes before the Redskins struck first on 26-yard field goal by John Hall. Without Alexander the Seahawks needed a big day by Quarterback Matt Hasslebeck who delivered with a 29-yard Touchdown pass to Darrell Jackson to give the Seahawks a 7-3 halftime lead. Relying on defense and Hasslebeck the Seahawks extended the lead to 14-3 in the 3rd Quarter on a six yard Quarterback sneak. After expanding the lead to 17-3 early in the 4th Quarter the Redskins suddenly and quickly got back into the game by driving down the field quickly to make it 17-10. Then on the ensuing kickoff Josh Schobee fumbled giving the Redskins the ball deep in Seattle territory. However, the Seahawks defense would not give in an inch and the Redskins missed a short field goal to swing the momentum back to the Seahawks who would go on to win the game 20-10 ending a 21-year drought without a playoff win, and earning a trip to the NFC Championship Game. In the Championship Game the 12th Man was louder then ever as the Seahawks faced the Carolina Panthers. The Seahawks would jump out early as Matt Hasslebeck hit Jerramy Stevens on a 17-yard Touchdown pass. Using their defense to shut down Panthers vaunted Wide Receiver Steve Smith the Seahawks lead would eventually jump out to a 17-0 lead on the first play of the 2nd Quarter as Shaun Alexander scored on one yard run. After the Panthers broke through on a Steve Smith Punt Return for a Touchdown, the Seahawks would go into halftime riding high up 20-7. In the 3rd Quarter is more of the same as Qwest Field continued to rock as the Hasslebeck hit Darrell Jackson to extend the lead to 27-7. Alexander would score another Touchdown in the 4th Quarter as the Seahawks won the game easily 34-14 to earn a trip to Super Bowl XL. Super Bowl XL: In every great story there has to be a villain and the Seahawks were cast as the villain out to spoil Pittsburgh Steelers Running Back Jerome Bettis storybook ending with the Super Bowl in his hometown of Detroit. Not given much of a chance the Seahawks were 11-point underdogs. However, early on it was the Seahawks defense that was the story as they shutdown Steelers Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger early taking a 3-0 lead late into the 2nd Quarter. However the Steelers offense would finally break through at the two minute warning as Roethlisberger snuck the ball just over the goaline. However, some replays showed the ball did not cross at all as the Steelers took a 7-3 lead. Before the half there would be more controversy as a Matt Hasslebeck to Darrell Jackson Touchdown pass was ruled out of bounds, although some replays showed Jackson did get both feet down in the endzone. The play would not be reviewed as Josh Brown missed a 54-yard Field Goal attempt at the end of the first half. After the Steelers extended the lead to 14-3 on a 75 yard Touchdown run to begin the 3rd Quarter, the Seahawks began to see the game slipping away as the Steelers got the ball back and appeared to be driving in for another score, when Kelly Herndon intercepted a Roethlisberger pass and returned in 75 yards to set the Seahawks up for Touchdown as Hasslebeck hit Jerramy Stevens on a 16-yard pass to cut the deficit to 14-10. However, in the 4th Quarter the questionable calls from the referees would continue to mount Hasslebeck had a pass intercepted by Ike Taylor and was called for an unsportsmanlike penalty on a low block. The Steelers would take quick advantage of the Seahawks who seemed dazed and confused by the calls all game as Antwaan Randle-El hit the game's MVP Hines Ward on 43-yard Touchdown pass that gave the Steelers a 21-10 win leaving the Seahawks with a bitter taste in their mouth as they flew home, while taking parting shots at the game's officials. 2006: Coming off their first trip ever to the Super Bowl the Seahawks once again got off to a strong start winning their first three games. However a foot injury sidelined MVP Shaun Alexander, and slowed down the Seahawks offense significantly. After a 37-6 loss on the road to the Chicago Bears, the Seahawks returned home and found themselves trailing the St. Louis Rams 21-7 at halftime. However, led by Matt Hasselbeck who threw three touchdown passes the Seahawks were able to rally and win the game 30-28 on a 54-yard Field Goal by Josh Brown with four seconds left. A week later the Seahawks 12-game home winning streak would come to an end as Matt Hasselbeck joined Shaun Alexander on the sideline with a sprained knee as the Seahawks were beaten by the Minnesota Vikings 31-13. After a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, the Seahawks used their defense to get back in the win column beating the Oakland Raiders 16-0 behind nine sacks. In their third straight game without Matt Hasselbeck, the Seahawks used another late field goal by Josh Brown to beat the Rams at home 24-22. Shaun Alexander would return for a road game against the San Francisco 49ers, However he was limited to just 37 yards as the 49ers won the game 20-14. A week later Matt Hasselbeck would return as Alexander rushed for 201 yards leading the Seahawks to a 34-24 win over the Green Bay Packers. A week later in Denver, Josh Brown played hero again hitting a 50-yard in a 23-20 win over the Broncos. At 8-4 the Seahawks appeared to be cruising to a third straight division title. However, three straight losses had the Seahawks needing a win in their final game just to hold on. The Seahawks would rise to the occasion beating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-7 as their offense and defense both played well on the road. Facing the Dallas Cowboys at home the Seahawks found themselves trailing in the 4th Quarter 20-13, as their offense seemed stuck in neutral. However, when Cowboys Wide Receiver fumbled into the enddzone the Seahawks suddenly had new life with a safety. The Seahawks would take full advantage scoring on a 37-yard Matt Hasselbeck to Jeremy Stevens Touchdown pass to take a 21-20 lead. However, after a failed two-point conversion the Seahawks had to hold on for dear life. With the Cowboys driving it looked as if it would be heartbreak for the Seahawks, as the Cowboys had an easy 19-yard Field Goal with 1:19 left. However, the snap was botched by Cowboys Quarterback Tony Romo, allowing the Seahawks hold on, and win 21-20. A week later the Seahawks would return to Solider Field for a rematch with the Bears, this game would go considerably better for the Seahawks, who used two Shaun Alexander touchdowns to take a 24-21 lead into the 4th Quarter. However, the Bears would rally and force overtime on a 41-yard field goal by Robbie Gould. In overtime the Seahawks got the ball first, but stalled at midfield. From there it would be Gould again as the Bears kicker nailed the game winner at 4:53 from 49-yards out to send the Bears to the NFC Championship Game. 2007: The Seahawks began the season on a positive note, as they defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-6 as Shaun Alexander rushed for 105 yards with a touchdown. However, the one time MVP continued to regain his 2005 form as the Seahawks played mediocre football for half the season, as they held an 8-8 record following a 33-30 loss in overtime to the Cleveland Browns. With Alexander struggling the Seahawks decided to sit him down and start Maurice Morris, while relying heavily on the passing of Matt Hasselbeck. After a 24-0 win over the San Francisco 49ers the Seahawks faced the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last year. The Seahawks got a taste of revenge against the Chicago Bears with a 30-23 win as Hasselbeck completed 30 passes for 337 yards with two touchdowns. Hasselbeck would play hero again a week later as the Seahawks overcame a 19-7 deficit to beat the St. Louis Rams 24-19. The Seahawks continued to roll the following week as they beat the Philadelphia Eagles on the road 28-24, with Lofa Tatupu picking off three passes from A.J. Feeley. Shaun Alexander would return in time for the Seahawks second meeting with the Arizona Cardinals, but the story once again was Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, who tossed four touchdown passes to lead the Seahawks to a 42-21 win that avenged a Week 2 loss, and all but locked up the fourth straight NFC Western Division title. The Seahawks five game winning streak would come to an end with a loss to the Carolina Panthers, but the Seahawks would go on to post a solid 10-6 record as they split their final two games, resting several players in the finale against the Atlanta Falcons. In the playoffs the Seahawks were facing a Washington Redskins team riding a wave of emotion as they needed to win their last four games after the death of All-Pro Sean Taylor. Early on it was defense for the Seahawks that led the way as they held a 10-0 lead at halftime. The Seahawks added a field goal in the 3rd Quarter as the Redskins finally broke through with a Todd Collins seven yard touchdown pass to Antwaan Randle-El. The Redskins would strike again quickly as Matt Hasselbeck had a pass intercepted by Taylor's replacement LaRon Landry, setting up a 30-yard pass to Santana Moss that gave the Redskins a lead. However, the early fourth quarter hiccup would be overcome by the Seahawks as the regained control of the game as Hasselbeck found D.J. Hackett on a 20-yard Touchdown pass to give them back the lead, as they converted on a two point conversion to get a seven point lead. The Seahawks would then put the game away 30 seconds later as Marcus Trufant intercepted and returned a Collins pass 78 yards for a touchdown to put the game out of reach, as Jordan Babineaux added an interception return of his own to give the Seahawks a 35-14 win. A week later in Lambeau Field with a trip to the NFC Championship on the line the Seahawks got off to a quick start turning two Ryan Griggs fumbles into an early 14-0 lead. However, with the snow falling on the frozen tundra the Packers scored twice to tie the game before the end of the first quarter, as  the Seahawks early lead was quickly snowed under as the Packers took the lead and never looked back, winning 42-20. Following the season the Seahawks would make some tough decisions, as the released Shaun Alexander after a second straight subpar season in which he rushed for 716 yards with just four touchdowns. 2008: With Coach Mike Holmgren planning to retire at the end of the season, the 2008 season took on a feeling of the end of an era, as the Seahawks five year grip on the NFC West started to slip. Before the season even began the Seahawks had a new Running Back as they signed Julius Jones away from the Dallas Cowboys to replace Shaun Alexander. Right from the start there were signs of trouble as the Seahawks were hammered on the road by the Buffalo Bills 34-10 in the season opener. In the loss the Seahawks who were already playing without Deion Branch and Bobby Engram lost Wide Receiver Nate Burleson for the entire season with a knee injury. A week later the Seahawks would suffer another disappointing 33-30 loss in overtime in their home opener against the San Francisco 49ers. The Seahawks would rebound to beat the St. Louis Rams 37-13 a week later, and hoped to for a rebound off the bye week, as Branch and Engram returned from injury. However, injuries continued to hound the Seahawks, as Matt Hasslebeck was sidelined with a back injury, while the team went into a tail spin, losing nine of their next ten games, falling out of the playoff race. The Seahawks would win two of their final three games, including a 13-3 win over the New York Jets on a snowy day at Qwest Field that all but knocked the Jets out of playoff contention. However, with a 4-12 record the Seahawks season was nothing short of a major disappointment. 2009: After a decade of Mike Holmgren at the helm, the Jim Mora era started on a positive note as the Seahawks shutout the St. Louis Rams 28-0 at Qwest Field. Following a 23-10 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on the road, the Seahawks returned home and lost to the Chicago Bears 25-19 wearing for the first time ever a lime green third jersey that became an instant source of laughter around the league, as Seneca Wallace started at quarterback for an injured Matt Hasselbeck. After the losing streak hit three straight games with a 34-17 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, the Seahawks finally got back in the win column as Hasselbeck returned to lead the Seahawks to a 41-0 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Qwest Field, throwing four touchdown passes. However, the Seahawks could not build on that momentum as they lost their next two games sandwiched around the bye week. After a home win again the Detroit Lions, the Seahawks road woes continued with losses to the Arizona Cardinals and Minnesota Vikings, which all but put them out of playoff contention 3-7. The Seahawks would final earn a road win against the lowly St. Louis Rams, which was followed up by a win over the San Francisco 49ers at home, as Olindo Mare won the game with a 30 yard Field Goal. However, it would be the last bright spot for the Seahawks as they dropped their final four games to finish with a disappointing record of 5-11. The late season skid would end up costing Coach Jim Mora his job, as the Seahawks hired USC Coach Pete Carroll. 2010: The Pete Carroll era started on a winning note, as the Seahawks slammed the San Francisco 49ers 31-6 at Qwest Field, with Matt Hasselbeck throwing three touchdown passes. After a road loss to the Denver Broncos, the Seahawks used the 12th man to their advantage as Leon Washington returned two kickoffs for touchdowns in a 27-20 win over the San Diego Chargers. However, they would head into the bye with a divisional loss as they were beaten by the St. Louis Rams 20-3 on the road. Coming out of the bye the Seahawks played one of their strongest games of the season as they stunned the Chicago Bears on the road 23-20, as newly acquired Running Back Marshawn Lynch, who the Seahawks picked up in a trade with the Buffalo Bills, made an immediate contribution with a touchdown. The Seahawks would continue to play well the following week, as they improved to 4-2 with a 22-10 home win over the Arizona Cardinals. In Oakland the Seahawks would stumble, losing to the Raiders 33-3. During the game, QB Matt Hasselbeck was banged up forcing the Seahawks to start Charlie Whitehurst as they took on the New York Giants at Qwest Field a week later. Whitehurst in his first NFL struggled badly, completing just 12 of 23 passes for 113 yards as the Giants plucked the Seahawks 41-7. Hasselbeck returned the following week and passed for 333 yards as the Seahawks beat the Cardinals on the road 36-18. During the win, Hasselbeck suffered a wrist injury but would continue to play through it as the Seahawks faced the New Orleans Saints. Once again he would have a strong game, passing for 366 yards, but the Seahawks would lose a tough game on the road 34-19. Returning home the Seahawks would continue to struggle, as they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs 42-14. The loss which was the Seahawk fourth in five games dropped the Seahawks to 5-6 on the season. The Seahawks would rebound to beat the lowly Carolina Panthers 31-14. However, their defense continued to struggle as they dropped three straight, allowing at least 34 points in all three games. During the last two games they saw the continued wear and tear of a long career get to Matt Hasselbeck as he was force to the leave losses to the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers early. Despite the struggles that saw them lose seven of nine games, and sit at 6-9 entering the final game of the season, the Seahawks still controlled their own destiny as they faced the St. Louis Rams at Qwest Field in primetime with the winner claiming the NFC West Title. No team in NFL history during a non-strike season had ever made the playoffs with a losing record, but in a division that was historically bad the Seahawks had the 12th man on their side as they looked to steal a playoff spot. With Matt Hasselbeck still hurting the Seahawks again turned to Charlie Whitehurst, who had struggled in his other opportunities to play. However, this time he got off to a strong start putting the Seahawks on the board early with a four yard pass to Mike Williams. The Seahawks defense which struggled most of the second half of the season only allowed a Field Goal in the first half, as the Seahawks took a 7-3 lead to the locker. The Rams would add another field goal in the 3rd Quarter, but that would be all they managed to score as the Seahawks added three Olindo Mare Field Goals would go on to win the game 16-6 and the NFC West with a record of 7-9. 2010 Playoffs: They were called the worst playoff team in NFL history, at 7-9 who was to argue, as the Seahawks faced the defending champion New Orleans Saints at Qwest Field. Some even suggested it was unfair the Seahawks hosted the game, and called for a change to the NFL playoff seeding, as the Saints entered the game as a heavy favorite. Early on it was all Saints as they jumped out to a 17-7 lead early in the 2nd Quarter. However, the Seahawks soared in front scoring the next 17 points as Matt Hasselebeck had three first half touchdown passes to take his team into halftime with a 24-20 lead. In the 3rd Quarter the Seahawks would extend the lead, as Hasselbeck connected with Mike Williams for a 38 yard Touchdown pass. Olindo Mare would than add a Field Goal as the Seahawks held a 34-20 lead at the start of the 4th Quarter. The Saints would begin to claw their way back in the game as Julio Jones scored early. The lead would be cut to 34-30 when Garrett Hartley hit a 21 yard Field Goal. With the game in the balance, the Seahawks would deliver the knockout blow with 3:22 left as Marshawn Lynch shock the earth with a 67 yard Touchdown run breaking several tackles. The noise created from Qwest Field would register a small tremor as the Seahawks took a 41-30 lead. The Saints would not go down without a fight, as they answered back with a Drew Brees to Devry Henderson Touchdown pass. However, the Saints failed to get the two point conversion, as the Seahawks sealed the 41-36 upset win when John Carlson recovered the on-side kick. With the win the Seahawks advanced to the Divisional Playoffs, where they would face the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field, where the Seahawks had one of their best performances of the season. Things would start off poorly for the Seahawks as the Bears jumped out early, with a Jay Cutler to Greg Olsen 58 yard Touchdown Pass. The Seahawks offense meanwhile would have trouble getting started. The Bears would added another 1st Quarter TD and another in the 2nd Quarter to take a 21-0 lead at the half. The Bears lead would grow to 28-0, before Olindo Mare finally got the Seahawks on the board with a 30 yard Field Goal late in the 3rd Quarter. Matt Hasselbeck would finish the game strong with three touchdown passes in the 4th Quarter. However, it would not be enough as the Bears advanced to the NFC Championship Game with a 35-24 win. Following the season the Seahawks would continue to move toward the future as QB Matt Hasselbeck, who led them to Super Bowl XL, was not re-signed. 2011: Despite making the playoffs and winning a game after a 7-9 season, the Seahawks began looking toward the future as Quarterback Matt Hasslebeck was not re-signed after the season. Hasselbeck who led the Seahawks to Super Bowl XL, held a number of franchise records after spending a decade in Seattle. To replace, Hasselbeck the Seahawks signed free agent Tavaris Jackson from the Minnesota Vikings, bring on of his favorite receivers Sidney Rice along with him. In the season opener, the Seahawks were doubled up by the San Francisco 49ers 35-17, as Ted Ginn Jr. broke the game open with two long kick returns for a Touchdown in the fourth quarter. A week later the Seahawks traveled to Pittsburgh, but left their offense on the west coast, as they were blanked 24-0 by the Steelers at Heinz Field. In their home opener, the Seahawks would get into the win column, as they edged the Arizona Cardinals 13-10. The following week, the Seahawks fell behind early against the Atlanta Falcons, trailing 27-7 early in the third quarter. The Seahawks would not show any quit as they rallied late. However, they would still end up losing 30-28, falling to 1-3. In the Meadowlands, the Seahawks would put up their most complete effort of the season, as they stunned the New York Giants 36-25, despite losing Tavaris Jackson to an injury. With the Giants driving for the winning score, Brandon Brower returned an Eli Manning interception 94 yards for a game sealing Touchdown in the final minutes. After the bye week the Seahawks played their unquestioned worst game of the season as they lost to the Cleveland Browns 6-3 in an ugly unwatchable penalty filled game. The Seahawks would continue to struggle even with the return of Tavaris Jackson as they lost to the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys to drop to 2-6. Against the Baltimore Ravens at CenturyLink Field the Seahawks season was revived by the 12th man as they forced three turnovers and stunned the Ravens 22-17, with Steven Hauschka kicking five field goals to provide the difference. The following week the Seahawks would again get three turnovers as they earned a second straight win against the St. Louis Rams 24-7. However, with a chance to get back in the playoff race, the Seahawks suffered a disappointing 23-7 loss to the Washington Redskins at home, as the Redskins rallied to score 16 unanswered points in the fourth quarter to erase a ten points Seahawks lead. Four days later the Seahawks would rely on Marshawn Lynch who had a 148 rushing yards with two touchdowns in a Thursday Night 31-14 upset win against the Philadelphia Eagles. Against the Rams, the Seahawks got another big game from Lynch who led the way in a 30-13 win at home. The Seahawks got the fans into the game early as Michael Robinson scored on a blocked punt. The Seahawks second half surge would continue at Soldier Field, as they crushed the Chicago Bears 38-14 to improve to 7-7, as the Seahawks intercepted Caleb Hanie three times, with Red Bryant and Brandon Brower returning picks for touchdowns. Looking to climb over .500 the Seahawks hosted the San Francisco 49ers on Christmas Eve and held a 17-16 lead after a Marshawn Lynch touchdown run. However, the 49ers would deliver coal in the stockings as David Aker hot a 39 yard field goal to win the game for the 49ers 19-17 as time expired. In the season finale against the Cardinals in Arizona, the Seahawks would suffer more Holiday heartburn, as they were beaten in overtime 23-20 in a game of division rivals looking to finish .500. Despite finishing in third place with a 7-9 record, there were many positives as the Seahawks secondary led by Brandon Brower established themselves as one of the best in the league, while they earned wins against two of the four teams to play in the Conference Championship games including the Super Bowl Champion Giants.   2012: During the off-season the Seahawks looking for an upgrade at quarterback signed Green Bay Packers backup Matt Flynn. However, during the pre-season Flynn was beaten out for the starting job by Russell Wilson, who the Seahawks picked in the third round of the NFL draft out of Wisconsin. Wilson struggled in his debut as the Seahawks lost their opener 20-16 against the Arizona Cardinals. Wilson looked much better in his home debut a week later, as the Seahawks stunned the Dallas Cowboys 27-7. The rookie passed for 251 yards with a touchdown, while a blocked punt returned for a TD by Jeron Johnson swung the game in favor of the Seahawks early. Russell Wilson got his first taste of primetime in Week 3, as the Seahawks hosted the Green Bay Packers on Monday Night Football. The game would be a defensive struggle as Wilson's 41 yard Touchdown pass to Golden Tate was the lone score in the first half. Wilson though would have his troubles against the Packers defense as the Packers took a 12-7 lead in the 4th Quarter. In the final seconds Russell Wilson would throw up a pair to the endzone which appeared to be intercepted by Packers Cornerback M.D. Jennings. However, on the ground Golden Tate wrestled the ball away in the endzone, as the replacement referee incorrectly award Tate the Touchdown as the Seahawks walked off the field with a stunning 13-12 win. The controversial play would hasten the return of the regular officials as the league settled its labor dispute against the refs just 48 hours later. Following their fortunate win, Russell Wilson continued to show growing pains, as he was intercepted three times in a 19-13 loss to the St. Louis Rams. Wilson would also struggle in Week 5, but the Seahawks defense managed to shutdown Cam Newton, and earned their first road win over the year 16-12 over the Carolina Panthers. In Week 6, Russell Wilson showed the ability to win a game in the 4th Quarter again, as the Seahawks stunned the New England Patriots 24-23 at Century Link Field. Trailing 23-10 with eight minutes left, Wilson hooked up with Braylon Edwards for a ten yard TD pass. He would later connect with Sidney Rice on a 46 yard score with 1:27 left, while Richard Sherman sealed the win with an interception of Tom Brady. Sherman would later taunt Brady as he walked off the field, saying "U Mad Bro?" Four days later the Seahawks defense had another strong effort, as they held a 6-3 halftime lead on the road against the San Francisco 49ers. Unfortunately, the Seahawks offense could not get much done either, as Russell Wilson struggled as the 49ers won the game 13-6. The following week against the Detroit Lions the Seahawks suffered their own 4th Quarter heartbreak as the Lions rallied to win the game 28-24 as Matt Stafford connected with Titus Young on the winning score with 20 seconds left. After two frustrating losses on the road, the Seahawks returned home and improved to 4-0 in front of the 12th man as Russell Wilson had a flawless afternoon in a 30-20 win over the Minnesota Vikings. A week later it would be the Golden Tate show, as the Seahawks receiver caught a Touchdown pass and threw a Touchdown pass as the Seahawks shot down the New York Jets 28-7. The win improved the Seahawks to 5-0 at home, but the road continued to bring heartache as the Seahawks suffered a 24-21 loss to the Miami Dolphins on a last second Field Goal by Dan Carpenter. Facing another road loss the following week, Russell Wilson connected with Golden Tate on a 14 yard Touchdown pass to give the Seahawks 17-14 lead over the Chicago Bears with 32 seconds left at Soldier Field. The Bears would quickly get down the field and force overtime on a 46 yard Field Goal by Robbie Gould, but the Seahawks would not be denied as they won in overtime 23-17 with Russell Wilson connecting with Sidney Rice on a 13 yard TD pass. Returning home in Week 14, the Seahawks would avenge their loss in the season opener by humiliating the Cardinals 58-0. Russell Wilson became the first quarterback since the merger to start and win his first six games at home, but it was the Seahawks defense that was the story forcing eight turnovers as the Seahawks enjoyed the biggest blowout in team history. Enjoyed it so much they did again a week later by beating the Buffalo Bills 50-17 in Toronto. The suddenly surging Seahawks would roll up the score again in Week 16, as they beat the 49ers 42-13 to clinch a playoff spot. The Seahawks would end the season with a 20-13 home win over the Rams, completing the season at 11-5, with a perfect 8-0 record at Century Link Field. 2012 Playoffs: The Seahawks who ended the season with five straight wins entered the playoffs with all eyes on the quarterback battle as Russell Wilson faced Robert Griffin III and the Washington Redskins. Early on it was all RGIII as the Redskins raced out to a 14-0 lead in the 1st Quarter. However, Griffin reinjured his knee and despite remaining in the game it was clear he was not 100% as the Seahawks clawed their way back in the game with 13 points in the 2nd quarter. The second half would be all Seattle, as the Seahawks took the lead on a 27 yard run by Marshawn Lynch add a two point conversion early in the 4th Quarter. The Seahawks would add a Field Goal by Steven Hauschka his third of the game to win 24-14. It was their first road playoff win in 29 years. Facing the top seeded Atlanta Falcons in the Divisional Round, the Seahawks once again got off to a slow start, as the Falcons dominated the first 30 minutes to take a 20-0 lead at the half. The Seahawks would get a Touchdown as Golden Tate caught a 29 yard pass from Russell Wilson on the first series of the 3rd Quarter. However, the Falcons answered back and continued to control the game with a time consuming touchdown drive that made the score 27-7. The Seahawks though would not go down without a fight as Russell Wilson ran the ball into the endzone himself to make the score 27-14 early in the 4th Quarter. The Seahawks would make things even closer as an interception by Earl Thomas set up another scoring drive that was capped by a Touchdown to Zach Miller that suddenly turned what looked like a blowout into a nail biter. The Seahawks 4th Quarter surge continued as Leon Washington set up good field position with a 15 yard punt return to the 39 yard line. The Seahawks would drive down the field taking a 28-27 lead with 34 seconds left on a two yard run by Marshawn Lynch. With the crowd at the Georgia Dome watching in stunned disbelief, the Falcons would quickly move down the field on two plays to set up Matt Bryant for a 49 yard field goal which was good on its second try, after Seahawks Coach Peter Carroll's attempt to freeze the kicker backfired as Bryant's first attempt was missed. Carroll's timeout was granted before the kick was made give Bryant a second chance which he would hit to give the Falcons a 30-28 lead. The Seahawks would get one more chance after a squib kick, but Julio Jones picked off Russell Wilson's Hail Mary attempt as the Seahawks season came to an end. 2013: Coming off a strong season, and a playoff win on the road the Seattle Seahawks were the trendy pick in the NFC. With QB Russell Wilson entering his second season and a secondary that was second to none, the Seahawks began the season on the road against the Carolina Panthers. The Seahawks got a 300 yard game from Russell Wilson, but were unable to get in the endzone. However, four field goals by Steven Hauschka were enough to get a 12-7 win, as the Seahawks defense frustrated QB Cam Newton to a career low 125 passing yards. In the home opener the Seahawks looked to send a message as they hosted the reigning NFC Champion San Francisco 49ers on Sunday Night Football. The Seahawks offense struggled early, but their defense was simply dominant as they held a 5-0 lead at halftime. As the crowd at Century Link Field set records for loudness the Seahawks would pull away in the second half as Marshawn Lynch kicked into beast mode with three touchdowns to lead the way in a 29-3 win. Following an easy 45-17 win over the lowly Jacksonville Jaguars, the Seahawks looked to be heading for their first loss of the year, as they trailed the Houston Texans on the road 20-3 at the half. The Seahawks offense could not get on track, but would begin chipping away with a Hauschka Field Goal late in the 3rd Quarter. The Seahawks added a Touchdown from Marshawn Lynch in the 4th Quarter, but still trailed 20-13 as the clock began to run out on them. However, an ill-advised pass from Texans QB Matt Schaub opened the door, as Richard Sherman tied the game with 58 yard interception return. The Seahawks would go on to win the game 23-20 to get off to a 4-0 start for the first time in franchise history on a 45 yard Field Goal by Steven Hauschka. A week later the Seahawks looked to be heading to a 5-0 start, as they jumped out to a quick 12-0 lead over the Indianapolis Colts. However, Andrew Luck with a 73 yard pass to T.Y. Hilton got his team back on track. The game would go back and forth the rest of the way, with the Colts winning the game 34-28. Returning home, the Seahawks completed their journey through the AFC South against the Tennessee Titans, who stunned the fans in Seattle by taking a 10-7 lead at the half as a fumble by Chris Maragos led to a 77 yard fumble return on the final play of the 2nd Quarter. The Seahawks would get control back in the second half and would win the game 20-13.With two touchdown passes by Russell Wilson in the 1st Quarter, the Seahawks easily beat the Arizona Cardinals 34-22 to continue their strong start with a Thursday Night win in the desert. Things would not be as easy the following week as they faced another primetime road game against the St. Louis Rams. With most of St. Louis focused on the World Series, the Rams defense forced nine punts as Russell Wilson was sacked seven times. However, with an 80 yard touchdown pass to a waiving Golden Tate; Wilson and the Seahawks had the last laugh with a 14-9 Monday Night win. At 7-1 the Seahawks were exceeding expectations, but not playing as well as they were in the first few weeks, this was apparent as they hosted the winless Tampa Bay Buccaneers and found themselves trailing 21-0 in the 2nd Quarter. However, the Seahawks continued to find ways to win games, as they tied the game late on a pass from Russell Wilson to Doug Baldwin and won the game in overtime 27-24. Facing the Atlanta Falcons, who knocked them out of the playoffs a year earlier; seemed to bring the best out of the Seahawks as they delivered a dominant 33-10 win. Steven Hauschka had four Field Goals while Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch each had big games. Returning home, the Seahawks offense continued its resurgence beating the Minnesota Vikings 41-20 as they went into the bye week with a 10-1 record. After their bye week, the Seahawks hosted the New Orleans Saints in a Monday Night Showdown, that quickly turned into another Seahawks showcase, as they won 34-7, with Russell Wilson passing for 310 yards with three touchdowns as the Seahawks defense limited Drew Brees to a season low 147 yards passing. The Seahawks winning streak would end a week later as they lost to the 49ers 19-17 on a late Phil Dawson Field Goal. A week later the Seahawks would get back on the winning track and try out the surroundings at the Meadowlands home of Super Bowl XLVIII, whitewashing the New York Giants 23-0, while intercepting Eli Manning five times. However, with a chance to lock up home field, the Seahawks suffered a stunning 17-10 loss to the Cardinals at home, ending their 14 game winning streak at Century Link Field. A week later the Seahawks would bounce back with a 27-9 win over the Rams to close the season with a franchise best record of 13-3 that gave them home field advantage in the playoffs. The Seahawks ended the year leading the league in points allowed (231), yards allowed (4,378) and takeaways (39), the first team to lead all three categories since the legendary 1985 Chicago Bears. 2013 Playoffs: In the Divisional Playoffs the Seahawks hosted the New Orleans Saints for the second time. Once again the Seahawks looked to completely lockdown the Saints offense, as they took control with a 16-0 lead at the half. However, the Saints managed keep the game within two scores, as they finally got on the board with a Khiry Robinson touchdown run to cut Seattle's lead in half. The game would than turn into a nail biter until Marshawn Lynch appeared to ice the game with a 34 yard touchdown run. However, the Saints did not go down quietly again driving the field to make the score 23-15 with 26 seconds left. The Saints would than recover the on-side kick and all of sudden it was white knuckle time at the Link. The Saints got the ball at the Seahawks 38 yard line and looked to be setting up for a throw to endszone. However, Marquis Colston instead of stepping out of bounds attempted a lateral that went forward resulting in a penalty which ended the game with a 23-15 Seahawks win. In the NFC Championship Game the Seahawks would face the 49ers for a third time with a trip to the New York Super Bowl on the line. Early on the Seahawks appeared jittery as Russell Wilson fumbled on the first snap, but the 49ers only managed a Field Goal. The 49ers would eventually take a 10-0 lead, before the Seahawks found their groove, with Steven Hauschka putting them on the board with a Field Goal late in the 2nd Quarter. The Seahawks would tie the game on a Marshawn Lynch 40 yard Touchdown run in the 3rd Quarter, only to see the 49ers regain the lead 17-10. Trailing 17-13 at the start of the 4th Quarter the Seahawks finally assumed control of the game with a 35 yard Touchdown pass from Russell Wilson to Jermaine Kearse. The Seahawks defense than stepped up the pressure as Cliff Avril force a fumble by Colin Kaepernick. However, the Seahawks instead of padding the lead with a Field Goal attempted to break the Niners sprit but ended up keeping them in the game when Lynch fumbled the hand off at the one yard line. However, Kam Chancellor kept it from being a decision Coach Pete Carroll would regret the entire off-season by picking off Kaepernick at the 40. This time Carroll decided to go for the kick and the Seahawks lead was 23-17. However, the 49ers had one more chance to win the game and drove the ball down the field in the final minutes only to see Richard Sherman deflect a pass meant for Michael Crabtree and into the arms of Malcolm Smith for a sealing interception, as Sherman trash talked his way into NFL fame take the Seahawks to the Super Bowl for the second time. Super Bowl XLVIII: Once a bitter division rival in the AFC West, the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks came to the Meadowlands on two different paths. The Seahawks were the top defense in the NFL, while the Broncos led by Quarterback Peyton Manning shattered records for offense. What was expected to be the first cold weather Super Bowl, ended up being ideal conditions as a brutal cold and snowy winter in the Northeast had a brief break with kickoff temperature at 49 �F, ten degrees warmer than Super Bowl VI in New Orleans, which remained the coldest Super Bowl. The Seahawks made sure to bring the 12th man to New York area and they had a quick impact on the game, as Peyton Manning saw the first snap of the sail over his head into the endzone for a safety just 12 seconds into the game. The Seahawks would add a pair of Steven Hauschka to hold an 8-0 lead after the first 15 minutes. The Seahawks continued to control and dominate the game in the 2nd Quarter as Marshawn Lynch scored the game's first touchdown. The Broncos offense never got on track and when they finally started to move down the field, Malcolm Smith erased any hope of them getting back in the game before halftime, returning an interception 69 yards for a touchdown to give the Seahawks a 22-0 lead at intermission. Just as they did to start the game the Seahawks broke the Broncos spirits in the second half as Percy Harvin returned the second half kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown again scoring 12 seconds into the half. With a 29-0 lead the Seahawks could smell victory even as the smoke from Bruno Mars' halftime show still hung over East Rutherford. The Seahawks would eventually hold a 36-0 lead, before the Broncos finally got on the board with a touchdown on the last play of the 3rd Quarter. However, the Seahawks were just a freight train on that night in early February crushing the Broncos 43-8 to claim their first Super Bowl Championship as Russell Wilson capped the scoring with a ten yard touchdown pass to Doug Baldwin. Malcolm Smith whose 69 yard interception return all but sealed the Broncos fate was named the Super Bowl MVP, adding a second half fumble recovery.  2014: The Seattle Seahawks as reigning Super Bowl Champions kicked off the season at home against the Green Bay Packers. Continuing their postseason dominance the Seahawks crushed the Packers 36-16. However, a week later the Seahawks would show some holes as they suffered 30-21 loss on the road against the San Diego Chargers as Antonio Gates had three touchdown receptions in a usually hot day in San Diego. A week later the Seahawks would host the Denver Broncos in a rematch of Super Bowl XLVIII at Century Link Field. Once again the Seahawks were able to frustrate Peyton Manning taking a 17-3 lead at the half. The Broncos would answer back this time rallying to force overtime with a touchdown and two point conversion with 18 seconds left. The Seahawks would answer with a methodical drive capped with a six yard touchdown run by Marshawn Lynch to win the game 26-20. Following a bye week, the Seahawks would beat the Washington Redskins in a Monday Night road game 27-17, despite losing three Percy Harvin touchdowns to offensive penalties. The Seahawks continued to struggle a week, losing at home to the Dallas Cowboys 30-23. The Seahawks struggled on both ends of the field as DeMarco Murray rushed for 115 yards, while Russell Wilson completed just 14 of 28 passes for 126 yards. Following the game the Seahawks would deal Percy Harvin to the New York Jets for a sixth round draft pick, after the Wide Receiver who often clashed with his teammates made an insulting comment about Russell Wilson. The Seahawks continued to struggle from a Super Bowl hangover after the Harvin trade, losing to the St. Louis Rams 28-26 as they were by a misdirection play on a 90 yard punt return by Stedman Bailey. Trailing 9-6 in a game of Field Goals against the Carolina Panthers, the Seahawks appeared on the verge of falling to 3-4. However, Russell Wilson found Luke Wilson in the end zone with 47 seconds left to win the game 13-9. Returning home the Seahawks would again show some warts, beating the Oakland Raiders 30-24, as they nearly wasted away a 24-3 halftime lead with more sloppy play in the second half. In Week 10, the Seahawks played their best game since the season opener beating the New York Giants at Century Link Field 38-17, scoring three unanswered touchdowns in the fourth quarter with Marshawn Lynch finding beast mode with 140 yards and four scores. Despite losing a tough road game to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 11, the Seahawks were finally getting back to the play that made them Super Bowl Champions. They began to move up on the first place Arizona Cardinals with a 19-3 win in Week 12 with the 12th man making an impact all game against a helpless looking Cardinals offense. Four days later in a repeat performance on the road, the Seahawks beat the San Francisco 49ers 19-3 on Thanksgiving Night. The Seahawks would beat the 49ers again two weeks later at home, following a solid 24-14 win over the Philadelphia Eagles on the road. After trailing the NFC West by three games with six games left, the Seahawks moved into first place with a dominant Sunday Night performance in the desert, crushing the Cardinals 35-6, with Russell Wilson and Luke Wilson hooking up on an 80 yard touchdown pass, and Marshawn Lynch rumbling 79 yards for a fourth quarter score. The Seahawks would go on to beat the Rams 20-6 in the season finale, again securing home field advantage by posting a record of 12-4.  2014 Playoffs: In the Divisional Playoffs the Seattle Seahawks would host the Carolina Panthers, looking to return to the NFC Championship Game. Russell Wilson was sharp early with two first half touchdown passes including a 63 yard play to Jermaine Kearse. After leading 14-10 at the half the Seahawks and Panthers played a scoreless third quarter as the 12th man began to make Cam Newton feel the heat. The Seahawks padded their lead with a 37-yard Steven Hauschka Field Goal on the fourth quarter. Following Russell Wilson's third touchdown of game, Seattle sealed the game with a 90 yard interception return by Kam Chancellor. The Seahawks would win the game 31-17, becoming the first reigning Super Bowl Champion to win a playoff game the following season in nine years. As good as Russell Wilson was in the Divisional Round against the Panthers he was terrible in the NFC Championship against the Green Bay Packers, with four interceptions. The Packers could have put the game away early, but the Seahawks defense kept them out of the end zone, forcing them to settle for Field Goals of less than 20 yards early in the first quarter. However, the Packers still appeared to be in full control leading 16-0 at halftime. The Seahawks would get on the board as Wilson completed a 19 yard touchdown pass to Garry Gilliam, but the Seahawks quarterback continued to struggle and all hope looked lost when he was picked off again, with five minutes left and the Seahawks trailing 19-7, as the only score was off a fake Field Goal with Punter/Holder Jon Ryan completing a Touchdown pass to Garry Gilliam. The Packers failed to take time off the clock on the ensuing possession, as the Seahawks used all but one timeout to leave the door slightly open for a miracle. The Seahawks would go down the field on seven plays with Russell Wilson capping the 69 yard run with a one yard TD plunge. With 2:09 left and one timeout the Seahawks needed an on-side kick recovery to keep their hopes of returning to the Super Bowl alive. The ball bounced off Packers Tight End Brandon Bostick's head and into the arms of Chris Matthews giving Seattle new life. From there it would take just four plays capped by a 24 yard run from Marshawn Lynch to give the Seahawks the lead adding a two point conversion for a 22-19 lead. The Packers still had time to answer and did, as Mason Crosby tied the game with a 48 yard Field Goal. In overtime the Seahawks would win the coin toss and start with the ball on their own 13 yard line. Russell Wilson who struggled all afternoon was at his sharpest needing just six plays to go down the field, as his 35 yard pass to Jermaine Kearse sent the Seahawks on to their second straight Super Bowl with a 28-22 win as Century Link Stadium created a mini earthquake with fans erupting into pandemonium. Super Bowl XLIX: Looking for a second straight Lombardi Trophy the Seattle Seahawks faced the New England Patriots in Arizona. For the first half it was clear that the two teams in Super Bowl XLIX were evenly matched as they matched each other with two second quarter touchdowns to go into halftime tied 14-14. The Seahawks began to take over the game in the third quarter scoring ten points, with Doug Baldwin making three yard touchdown catch to build a 24-14 lead. However, the Patriots began to claw their way back in the final ten minutes as Tom Brady connected with Danny Amendola to make it a one score game with 7:55 left. The Patriots would then take the lead on their next drive, with Brady completing his fourth touchdown of the game to Julian Edelman with just over two minutes left. After the miracle in the NFC Championship Game, the Seahawks had more than enough time to answer and drove down the field with Jermaine Kearse making a circus catch covered by Malcolm Butler to get the ball to the New England 5 yard line with under one minute left. Marshawn Lynch on first down would take ball to the one yard line and suddenly the Seahawks were knocking at the door of a dynasty. Time was ticking away and the Seahawks held all the cards with second and goal on the one. The Seahawks just need Lynch to power his way of the goal and the game was theirs. Russell Wilson also could have easily snuck the ball over the goal line like he has done many times.  Instead and inexplicably Coach Peter Carroll had Wilson attempt a risky pass over the stacked middle of the line, the ball was deflected up and intercepted by Malcolm Butler with 20 seconds left in the game, preserving a 28-24 win for the Patriots. Frustrated by the sudden change in emotion, Bruce Irvin started a brawl as the Brady kneeled in victory formation, becoming the first player ever ejected from a Super Bowl. Following the game Carroll took all the blame on himself, as the decision to pass was labeled the worst call in the history of the big game. 2015: After two straight Super Bowl appearances the Seattle Seahawks began the season on the road against the St. Louis Rams. Things looked good early for Seattle, as Tyler Lockett opened the scoring with a 57-yard punt return. However, the Rams would answer with a punt return of their own for 75 yards by Tavon Austin to take a 24-13 lead at the end of three quarters. In the fourth quarter the Seahawks rallied to take a 31-24 lead on an eight yard fumble return by Cary Williams, but the Rams again tied it as Lance Kendricks caught a 37-yard pass with 53 seconds left. The Rams would go on to win the game in overtime 34-31 on a 37-yard Field Goal by Greg Zeurlein. A week later the Seahawks would fall to 0-2 with a 27-17 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. A major part of the problem for the Seahawks early struggles was a holdout from All-Pro Safety Kam Chancellor. The Seahawks would get Chancellor back in time for their home opener against the Chicago Bears in Week 3. After a sluggish first half that saw just two Steven Hauschka Field Goals, the Seahawks started the third quarter with a bang as Tyler Lockett returned the second half kickoff 105 yards for a touchdown. The Seahawks would go on to blank the Bears 26-0. Not all news was good for the Seahawks, as Marshawn Lynch suffered a hamstring injury, which would hamper him the rest of the season. In just seven games, Beats Mode was hibernation, with a career low 417 yards, in what would be his final season. With Lynch sidelined, the Seahawks offense was limited in Week 4, as they edged the Detroit Lions 13-10 on Monday Night Football. With the Lions driving for the winning score, Kam Chancellor saved the day stripping Calvin Johnson at the one yard line to prevent a potential game winning score. Thomas Rawls emerged as the Seahawks leading rusher as he gained 169 yards with a touchdown as the Seahawks built a 24-7 on the road against the Cincinnati Bengals. However, a defensive letdown in the fourth quarter led to 17 unanswered points as the Bengals won the game in overtime 27-24. Marshawn Lynch returned for Week 6 and collected just 54 yards with a touchdown, but the Seahawks appeared to be in good shape leading the Carolina Panthers at home 23-14. However, once again the Seahawks had a late defensive lapse as the Panthers won the game 27-23, scoring two touchdowns in the final four minutes. The Seahawks had just four days to recover as they traveled to Levi's Stadium for a Thursday Night battle with the San Francisco 49ers. Lynch was in full Beast Mode with 122 rushing yards and a score as the defense played a full 60 minutes to win the game 20-3. The Seahawks defense needed to be just as strong as they held the Dallas Cowboys to four field goals, managing just one touchdown themselves the Seahawks pulled out a 13-12 win as Steven Hauschka hit a 24-yard Field Goal with 66 seconds left. The win came at a price as Ricardo Lockette suffered a career ending neck injury, after taking a brutal hit by Jeff Heath. Following their bye week, the Seahawks faced a crucial game against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday Night Football at Century Link Field. Early on things looked bleak as the Cardinals took a 19-0 lead, before Will Tukuafu but them on the board late in the second quarter. Down 25-10 the Seahawks found their game scoring on two straight possessions to make the score 25-23. They would than take the lead on a 22-yard fumble return by Bobby Wagner. However, twice missing the PAT, only had a 29-25 lead. The Cardinals would answer with two touchdowns to win the game 39-32 all but ending Seattle's hopes of winning the NFC West. At 4-5 it was clear there was a Super Bowl hangover in Seattle, as rumors of players be angry at Coach Pete Carroll's ill-advised end game decision to attempt a pass at the goal line, as both the offense and defense had yet to play with any consistency. Needing to finish strong without Marshawn Lynch the Seahawks began relying more on Quarterback Russell Wilson, who had a strong game against the 49ers at home, passing for 260 yards with three touchdowns to win the game 29-13. A week later Wilson on his 27th birthday passed for 345 yards and a career best five touchdowns as the Seahawks moved over .500 for the first time all season with a 39-30 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Also having a big afternoon in Seattle was Dough Baldwin who had 145 receiving yards with three touchdowns, including an 80-yard hook up to secure the win.  In the game the Seahawks would lose Tight End Jimmy Graham for the rest of the season with a knee injury. Acquired from the New Orleans Saints for Max Unger, Graham had a disappointing first season in Seattle, with just 645 yards and two touchdowns. The Seahawks continued their resurgence on the road with a 38-7 win over the Minnesota Vikings as Wilson and Baldwin continued to lead the way. A week later Russell Wilson had his second five touchdown performance in three weeks as the Seahawks beat the Baltimore Ravens 35-6. With the win the Seahawks also moved over .500 in their all-time franchise record. Not all news was good however, as Running Back Thomas Rawls suffered a broken ankle, knocking him out the rest of the season. Russell Wilson would follow that up by passing for 249 yards with three touchdowns as the Seahawks clinched a playoff spot by beating the Cleveland Browns 30-13. The Seahawks would go on to split their final two games, losing to the Rams but beating the Cardinals to finish with a record of 10-6. As the season ended it was clear Russell Wilson was an elite quarterback, having his best season to date, by passing for 4,024 yards with 34 touchdowns and just eight interceptions. 2015 Playoffs: In the Wild Card round, the Seattle Seahawks battled subzero temperatures as they faced the Minnesota Vikings on the road. Unable to play once again was Marshawn Lynch who despite being cleared medically was unable to get back to game speed. In what would be the third coldest game in NFL history, offense was at premium as the Vikings held a 9-0 lead entering the fourth quarter. The Seahawks finally got their offense on track in the fourth quarter as Russell Wilson connected with Doug Baldwin to cut the deficit to 9-7. The Seahawks would take a 10-9 lead on the next series as Steven Hauschka hit a 46-yard Field Goal with 8:04 left. However, the Vikings appeared to be on the way to winning the game as they drove deep into Seattle territory as time was running out. With 26 second left Blair Walsh needed just a 27-yard Field Goal to win the game, but the kick sailed wide left as the Seahawks survived with a 10-9 victory. Against the Carolina Panthers in the Divisional Round, the Seahawks got off to a terrible start, falling behind 31-0 at the half. The Seahawks would not relinquish their NFC Championship crown without a fight as they scored 24 unanswered points in the second half to get within one touchdown, but the game would come to an end with a 31-24 loss, as they were unable to come up with an on-side kick. Logo
1976
A female cat is known as a molly or queen. What name is given to an intact male cat?
Seattle Seahawks - HistoryLink.org HistoryLink.org Tweet The Seattle Seahawks professional football team was born in 1974. A group of Seattle businessmen led by the Nordstrom family was awarded one of two new franchises added that year by the National Football League. The Seahawks began playing in 1976 and became known for scrappiness and daring, but never made the playoffs under original head coach Jack Patera (b. 1933). Chuck Knox (b. 1932) arrived in 1983 and led the team to the American Football Conference (AFC) championship game in his first season. Two years later the team entered a 20-year year stretch without a playoff victory, spanning the tenures of three owners and four head coaches. Fans' patience was rewarded in the 2005 season. With Mike Holmgren (b. 1948) coaching, the Seahawks made their first Super Bowl appearance. The team won four consecutive division titles but suffered a losing season in 2008, Holmgren's final year. In 2011, his first season, Pete Carroll (b. 1951), led the team to an improbable division championship and a playoff victory that was literally seismic. The drafting of Russell Wilson (b. 1988) in 2012 gave the Seahawks a championship-caliber quarterback. A last-second loss in that season's division playoffs led to a dominating 2013 season, capped by a one-sided Super Bowl victory. The ensuing parade was considered the biggest gathering in Seattle's history. In a drama-filled 2014 season, the Seahawks' attempt to repeat their Super Bowl triumph ended one yard short. Landing a Franchise On June 15, 1972, a group calling itself Seattle Professional Football announced its intention of gaining a National Football League team. Its members were among the city’s most prominent businessmen and sportsmen, including Herman Sarkowsky (b. 1925), owner of the National Basketball Association (NBA) Portland Trail Blazers, who acted as their spokesman. They were in competition with the Seattle Kings, a group headed by Minneapolis businessman Wayne Field (1921-2009) and former University of Washington and San Francisco Forty-Niners star Hugh McElhenny (b. 1928). On June 4, 1974, NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle (1926-1996) announced that Seattle would be joining the league in 1976 (along with Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida, a franchise called Tampa Bay) and would play in the Kingdome, a King County-owned stadium being built on the south edge of Pioneer Square. Six months later, the league’s owners awarded the franchise to Seattle Professional Football with Lloyd W. Nordstrom (1911-1976) identified as majority owner. Fifty-one percent of the team was owned by the Nordstrom family. The family had begun selling shoes in Seattle in 1901 and had built its business into a prosperous chain of upscale clothing stores. The NFL franchise cost $16 million. There was pent-up enthusiasm for professional football in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Entries in a contest to name the team topped 20,300. When general manager John Thompson (b. 1927) revealed the winning selection on June 17, 1975, along with the team logo and uniform colors of blue, green, and silver gray, The Seattle Times heralded the news on page one. The coverage included a half page-wide line drawing of a helmet with the logo: a hooked-beak bird’s head drawn in a style reminiscent of Northwest native art. "The helmet design utilizes the region’s great Indian culture," Thompson said (Lyons, June 17, 1975). Season ticket applications were mailed six weeks later. More than 24,000 were accepted on the first day allowed, setting an NFL record. In less than a month, the team reached its target of 59,000, another record, and stopped selling season tickets. The idea was to save room for single-game admissions to the Kingdome, which was expected to seat about 65,000. On January 3, 1976, Jack Patera, the defensive line coach of the Minnesota Vikings and a former NFL linebacker, was introduced as head coach. Signing players was the next order of business. Fielding a Team As new franchises, Seattle and Tampa Bay would stock their rosters with players from the 26 established NFL teams through a veteran allocation draft. The available talent pool was not deep, since each established team could protect its top 32 players. The Seahawks took 39 veterans, notably young cornerback Dave Brown (1953-2006) from Pittsburgh and veteran middle linebacker Mike Curtis (b. 1943) from Baltimore. In the college draft, the team added 35 college players, including first-round choice Steve Niehaus (b. 1954), a defensive tackle from Notre Dame. The Seahawks also added talent by signing free agents -- players who had been with other NFL teams but were not under contract. One of the biggest, in terms of future performance, was 22-year-old left-handed quarterback Jim Zorn (b. 1953), who played college football at little Cal Poly-Pomona and had tried out unsuccessfully with the Dallas Cowboys. The Seahawks also made what still stands as the biggest trade in their history, sending a future eighth-round draft choice to Houston in exchange for rookie receiver Steve Largent (b. 1954). In 1995, he became the first Seahawk to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The team’s first headquarters and practice facilities were in Kirkland, on Lake Washington waterfront property owned by D. E. "Ned" Skinner (1920-1988), one of their minority owners. (The property was later developed into a retail and residential complex called Carillon Point, after the team had moved to land next to nearby Northwest College.) The first training camp was at Eastern Washington College, which was renamed Eastern Washington University the following year. Building a Reputation A Kingdome crowd of 60,825 showed up on August 1, 1976, for the Seahawks’ first preseason game. The San Francisco 49ers prevailed 27-20, but only after tackling Zorn just two yards short of the touchdown on the final play. The first regular season game in the Kingdome, on September 12, 1976, set a tone for the Seahawks: they wouldn’t win much at first -- in fact, they lost their first five games -- but they would make things interesting. Facing the St. Louis Cardinals, and with 10 new players added in the previous week, they were trailing 23-3 late in the third quarter before Zorn led a late rally. He threw two touchdown passes and ran for another touchdown before his game-ending pass was intercepted at the St. Louis goal line. The Cardinals escaped with a 30-24 win that was much closer than anyone expected. That season the Seahawks allowed more points than any other NFL team and managed to win only two of their 14 games. And one of the victories came against their expansion siblings, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Zorn’s performance reflected the ups and downs of his and the team’s first season. He threw twice as many interceptions as touchdown passes, but he set a league record for passing yardage and was named the National Football Conference’s Offensive Rookie of the Year. The Seahawks broke through with a winning record (9-7) in their third season and Patera was named NFL Coach of the Year by the Associated Press, but few outside the Pacific Northwest paid much attention. They made their first appearance on prime-time national television on October 29, 1979 -- during their fourth season -- on ABC’s Monday Night Football, and opened eyes coast to coast. The Seahawks used an assortment of trick plays against the Atlanta Falcons, in Atlanta. Punter Herman Weaver (b. 1948) completed a pass. Chunky kicker Efren Herrera (b. 1951) caught a pass. The result was a wild 31-28 victory that wowed ABC’s legendary commentator Howard Cosell (1918-1995). "You’ve got to love those Seahawks!" he said during the broadcast (Wittenmyer). They were giving "the nation a lesson in entertaining football," he added (Johnson, November 14, 2011). Riding a Rollercoaster It was a defining moment for the young franchise, branding it as spunky and innovative. But the good times didn’t last for long. Six days later, in the Kingdome, the Seahawks set an NFL record for ineptitude, netting minus-7 yards in a 24-0 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Although the Seahawks finished that year with another 9-7 record, two losing seasons followed. Patera’s teams had yet to make the playoffs after six seasons. Fans, and apparently the owners, were getting restless. Mike McCormack (1930-2013), a Hall of Fame inductee as a player and former head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Colts, was brought in as Director of Football Operations in March 1982. The next season started with two losses, then was interrupted by a league-wide players’ strike. Adding to his woes, Patera was arrested and subsequently convicted of driving while intoxicated. On October 13, 1982, John Nordstrom (b. 1937) announced the firing of Patera and Thompson, the general manager. McCormack finished the abbreviated season as interim head coach, and then began looking for a successor. He found a proven winner in Chuck Knox, who had taken his previous two teams, the Los Angeles Rams and the Buffalo Bills, to the playoffs seven times in 10 years. The Seahawks introduced Knox as their head coach on January 26, 1983. Making the playoffs The franchise’s next big step was a trade with Houston that gave Seattle the third pick in the college draft. The Seahawks used it to select Penn State’s Curt Warner (b. 1961), a running back with exceptional speed and moves. The first time he carried the ball in a regular season game, he gained 60 yards. He went on to set the team record for rushing, lead the AFC in touchdowns, and be named the conference Rookie of the Year. A critical move by Knox -- a symbolic passing of the torch -- was his mid-season decision to replace Zorn, hero of the early years, with Dave Krieg (b. 1958), an undrafted player from tiny, defunct Milton College. Krieg was less flashy but steadier. The Seahawks finished with a 9-7 record, their first winning season in four years. More important, they made the playoffs for the first time. The Seahawks beat division champion Denver 31-7 at the Kingdome in the first postseason game, and then went to Miami to play the defending AFC champion Dolphins. Miami, coached by Don Shula (b. 1930) and quarterbacked by Dan Marino (b. 1961), was a big favorite but the Seahawks kept the game close. They trailed 20-17 late in the fourth quarter, then shocked the Dolphins in the final 3-1/2 minutes. Krieg passed to Largent for a 40-yard gain, setting up a two-yard touchdown run by Warner, and the Dolphins fumbled two kickoffs, one of those fumbles leading to a Seahawk field goal. Final score: Seattle 27, Miami 20. A team that had won only 14 games in the previous three seasons would be playing the next week for the conference championship. Players hoisted Knox on their shoulders and carried him off the field. In the locker room, they chanted "Chuck, Chuck, Chuck" and the coach began to cry. "Only then did I realize what this win represented," veteran guard Reggie McKenzie (b. 1950) said. "He had taken a terrible losing team and placed them on the threshold of greatness in one season. Imagine that. One season" (Knox and Plaschke, 234). Riding High, Changing Owners A crowd estimated at between 10,000 and 15,000 met the team plane when it returned from Miami that night. Even though Seattle lost the next week to the eventual Super Bowl champion, the Raiders, in Los Angeles, expectations were sky high for the following season. Then, in the first half of the first game in 1984, Warner tripped on the Kingdome’s artificial turf and tore a knee ligament. The injury cost him the rest of the season, and required the Seahawks to change directions on offense and pick up the slack on defense, kickoffs, and kick returns. The result was a 12-4 season record, best in franchise history up to then -- and for the next 20 years. Krieg threw for 32 touchdowns. The defense led the league with 28 interceptions, and safety Kenny Easley (b. 1959) was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Knox won NFL Coach of the Year honors for the second straight season. In the playoffs, the Seahawks gained some revenge by beating the Raiders in the Kingdome, but were eliminated in a rematch with the Dolphins in Miami. The team continued to have success under Knox, including a 10-6 season in 1986 when the Seahawks were the only team to beat both Super Bowl teams (the New York Giants and the Denver Broncos) and a 1988 season when they won their first division championship. But meanwhile, trouble was brewing. In 1987, Seattle beat 37-to-1 odds in a lottery to gain the first pick in a supplemental draft and used it to select Oklahoma linebacker Brian Bosworth (b. 1965). McCormack and the Seahawks coaches celebrated with high fives when they landed that pick. Bosworth signed the biggest contract in team history -- 10 years for $10 million -- and played well as a rookie. But he also was a self-promoting spectacle in the form of The Boz, a marketing persona constantly seeking the spotlight. A players’ strike in mid-September led to more disruption. The NFL cancelled one week’s games, and then resumed its schedule using replacement players. When the regulars returned, there were hard feelings between them and management and toward teammates who crossed the picket lines. Knox called it "a year of total distraction" (Knox and Plaschke, 256). The strike made the Nordstroms uneasy as owners. They were image conscious and their first loyalty was to their stores. They hated being in a position where customers would direct hostility toward their business because of things happening with the football team. The franchise’s founding family began looking for someone to buy the team. On August 30, 1988, John Nordstrom announced that the Seahawks had been sold to Ken Behring (b. 1928), a real-estate developer from Danville, California, and a minority partner, Ken Hofmann (b. 1923). The price was about $80 million -- a $64 million increase (400 percent over the original purchase price) in 14 years. Changing for the Worse The hometown Nordstroms had been popular owners. Behring was an out-of-towner with unknown intentions. The product on the field seemed unaffected by the ownership change, at least initially. In their first season under Behring, with Knox still the head coach, the Seahawks won their first division championship. They managed a 9-7 record even though Krieg missed seven games because of a shoulder injury. He threw for 410 yards and four touchdowns in the final game, a 43-37 victory over the Raiders in Los Angeles that clinched the title. The new regime began to assert itself the following February when Tom Flores (b. 1937), who had coached the Raiders to two Super Bowl victories, replaced McCormack as team president and general manager. The Seahawks finished fourth in the five-team AFC West division with a 7-9 record in 1989. It was a season most memorable for being Largent’s last. The franchise’s best player from its inception, he retired as the league record-holder for all major pass-receiving records and was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995, the first year he was eligible. Knox coached the Seahawks to a 9-7 season in 1990, but he and Behring collided in the spring of 1991 over how to use the team’s first-round draft choice. The coach wanted to pick Bret Favre (b. 1969), who would become one of the league’s all-time elite quarterbacks. The owner insisted on taking Dan McGwire (b. 1967), a 6-foot-8 quarterback from San Diego State who would play in only 12 games and throw only two touchdown passes in the next four years before being released. Knox silently seethed. He finished that season -- another 7-9, fourth-place campaign -- and five days later the team announced that, by mutual agreement, he was leaving. Flores replaced him on January 6, 1992, assuming the title of President/Head Coach. Thus began the worst stretch of Seahawks football since the early 1980s. Krieg was not re-signed. In 1992, the team went through three quarterbacks and lost 14 out of 16 games, despite having a league-leading defense. The star of that defense was tackle Cortez Kennedy (b. 1968), a 306-pounder with astounding quickness and strength. He was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year, an honor rarely going to a player on a losing team, and in 2012 became the second Seahawk (after Largent) to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Over the next six seasons, the Seahawks would have eight consecutive years without a winning record, extending their streak of not making the playoffs to a full two decades. Behring Takes the Team South Dreary as things were on the field, there was bigger trouble above and off it. On July 19, 1994, while players were warming up for a Mariners baseball game in the Kingdome, several 26-pound tiles fell from the ceiling and crashed onto empty seats. The building was closed for the rest of the baseball season and into the football season while $57 million in repairs were made. The Seahawks played two preseason and three regular-season home games at the University of Washington’s Husky Stadium before the Kingdome re-opened. The Kingdome had never been lavish. At nearly 20 years old, it also seemed outdated. Both Major League Baseball and the National Football League were moving out of multi-purpose stadiums, like the Kingdome, and into buildings designed specifically for their sports and with revenue-producing features such as luxury suites. Behring already had complained about the Kingdome. But once the ceiling tiles fell, he got bumped to second in line by the Mariners, who were campaigning for a stadium of their own. King County voters said no to taxes that would build a baseball stadium on September 19, 1995. The Mariners owners threatened to sell the team. The state legislature responded by approving new taxes for a stadium, which was completed in 1999 and was named Safeco Field. While the Mariners were getting their stadium approved, Behring was getting nowhere. King County officials were unwilling to help finance yet another stadium and were adamant about holding Behring to his Kingdome lease, which ran through 2005. Frustrated by lack of public support, Behring announced on February 2, 1996, that he was moving the team to Southern California. It was a stunning development, especially since Behring was acting without league approval. Seahawks executive Gary Wright (b. 1944) got the word while coordinating media relations for the NFL at the Super Bowl in Phoenix. "I was absolutely shocked. For the next two or three hours, I’m driving around in total disbelief," said Wright, one of the team’s first hires. "I could understand it, but the franchise belonged here (in Seattle). It belonged to the city" (Wright interview). Behring established a practice facility in Anaheim, California, with team offices at a nearby hotel. The reaction in Seattle was outrage. King County officials sued Behring for breaking his lease. Behring counter-sued, arguing that the Kingdome was not a first-class facility and would not be safe in a major earthquake. The legal battle cooled when NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue (b. 1940) ordered Behring to return the team to Seattle and the owner, faced with daily fines, complied. The Seahawks went back to their Kirkland headquarters, but it was clear that their owner didn’t want to be there. Nor was he welcome. New Owner, New Stadium Even before he retreated from Anaheim, Behring was negotiating a potential sale of the team. The would-be buyer was Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen (b. 1953), a Seattle native who was one of the nation’s richest men and a sports fan. He already owned the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers. Representing him in talks with Behring was Bob Whitsitt (b. 1956), the Trail Blazers’ president and general manager. On April 20, 1996, they announced a tentative sale. Allen gained an exclusive 14-month option to buy the Seahawks, by then worth an estimated $170 million, and keep them in Seattle. The deal was contingent on King County helping him build a new stadium. Although county officials had been unwilling to help Behring toward that goal, Allen had the local connections and wealth to make a more palatable deal. He pledged to spend $100 million on a new stadium and also financed a statewide election on the issue of public funding. The question put to voters was whether to approve $300 million for a new stadium. Voters passed the referendum by a narrow margin, 51.1 percent to 48.9, on June 17, 1997. One week later the King County Council voted 9-3 in favor of a new stadium. On June 30, one day before Allen’s option to purchase the team would have expired, he became the Seahawks owner. Whitsitt added president of Football Northwest to his Trail Blazer titles. The Kingdome was imploded on March 26, 2000, dramatically creating a mountain of concrete rubble and clearing the way for Seahawks Stadium to be constructed on the site – between Pioneer Square and the Mariners’ new stadium, Safeco Field, which had opened in July 1999. Part of the deal was that the new facility be built to accommodate soccer, in the hopes of attracting a Major League Soccer franchise. (It did. Seattle Sounders FC joined the league as an expansion franchise in 2007.) The resulting 67,000 seat stadium opened for public tours on July 20, 2002. After two seasons of having Husky Stadium as their home field, the Seahawks moved into the new stadium in time for the 2002 preseason. Their first regular season game there was September 15, 2002, a 24-13 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Seahawks Stadium was renamed Qwest Field on June 2, 2004, and became CenturyLink Field on June 23, 2011. Holmgren to the Rescue While the long drama of changing owners and stadiums played out, Seahawks fans endured an era of frustration on the field. Flores, Behring’s pick as head coach, lasted only three seasons and left with a 14-34 record. His successor, Dennis Erickson (b. 1947), lasted four seasons -- the final two with Allen as the owner -- and was fired with a 31-33 record. During their combined seven seasons the team used eight different quarterbacks, including 1993 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Rick Mirer (b. 1970) and future Hall of Famer Warren Moon (b. 1956), and never posted a winning record. By then, Seattle had gone 10 years without making the playoffs. The man hired to stop the losing was Green Bay head coach Mike Holmgren, who had taken the Packers to two Super Bowls and won one. He was so popular in Green Bay that a street was named for him. Holmgren was willing to leave there in pursuit of more authority. He wanted to control personnel decisions as well as be head coach. Seattle offered that. On January 8, 1999, Whitsitt introduced Holmgren as Executive Vice President of Football Operations, General Manager, and Head Coach. Covering the announcement, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer ran on its front page a photo not of Holmgren’s face but of his hand, with a Super Bowl championship ring. In Holmgren’s first season, the Seahawks surged to an 8-2 start but lost five of their last six regular-season games. That was good enough to break their streak of losing seasons, win their first division title since 1988, and return to the playoffs. Even though they lost that playoff game (20-17 to Miami), there was a sense they were on the right track. Enthusiasm was tempered by a 6-10 record and fourth-place finish in 2000. Holmgren responded by trading for quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (b. 1975), who had been stuck on the bench behind Favre at Green Bay. As part of league realignment, the Seahawks moved back to the National Football Conference West, their original division, before the 2001 season. By the end of the 2003 season, Hasselbeck was fully established as the team’s quarterback. Running back Shaun Alexander (b. 1977), aided by standout offensive linemen Walter Jones (b. 1974) and Steve Hutchinson (b. 1977), was on his way to becoming the franchise record-holder in rushing yards and touchdowns. The team had just won 10 games, its most since 1986. Front-office Showdown But a power struggle was developing in the front office. Two days after the 2002 season ended with a 7-9 record, Whitsitt stripped Holmgren of his general manager title, taking away part of the reason he had accepted the Seahawks job. At the time Holmgren had a four-year record of 31-33, the same as Erickson when he was fired. Holmgren had solid credentials as a coach, but had made some questionable decisions in his role as general manager, so Whitsitt’s move was not without justification. Still, Holmgren was not pleased. Before the 2003 season, Allen installed Tod Leiweke (b. 1960) as chief executive officer in charge of all Seahawks business and administrative operations. Whitsitt, whose sport of expertise was basketball, was put in charge of football operations. Three top executives, all Holmgren boosters, chose to leave the team over the next two years, as tension between Whitsitt and Holmgren increased. After the 2004 season, when the Seahawks won the division championship, Holmgren went to Allen and said he was thinking about leaving. On January 5, 2005, the owner fired Whitsitt, and on February 23, Tim Ruskell (b. 1956) was introduced as president of football operations. With Holmgren appeased and a solid team in place, the scene was set for unprecedented success. Reaching the Super Bowl The 2005 season started slowly for Seattle. An overtime loss at Washington left the Seahawks with a record of 2-2. But then they won 11 straight games, the longest victory streak in team history. It included routs of 42-0 at Philadelphia and 41-3 against San Francisco on back-to-back weeks in December. The team lost its regular-season finale at Green Bay, but by then already had clinched another division championship and broke the franchise record for most victories. The Seahawks offense was the league’s best. Alexander led the league in rushing yards (1,880) and touchdowns (28). He was named NFL Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year. The playoffs started for Seattle on January 14, 2006. Before a roaring Qwest Field crowd of 67,551, the Seahawks beat Washington 20-10. It was their first playoff victory since December 22, 1984, a span of 20 long years. They followed that with a 34-14 victory over Carolina before an even bigger Qwest Field crowd (68,206). The Seahawks had captured their first conference championship. For the first time in the franchise’s 30 years, they would be in the Super Bowl, playing for the NFL championship. Super Bowl XL (No. 40; the league traditionally uses Roman numerals to identify its title games) was played in Detroit’s covered stadium, Ford Field, on February 5, 2006. Seattle’s opponent was the Pittsburgh Steelers, who had won four Super Bowls to Seattle’s none. In a matchup of storied franchise vs. upstart franchise, the Seahawks made too many mistakes and the Steelers made three big plays. Combined with some disputed calls by the officials, that added up to a 21-10 Pittsburgh victory. Falling and Relocating The loss was disheartening for the Seahawks and their fans, but reaching the championship game marked a high point in franchise history. What followed were two more winning seasons under Holmgren. He broke Knox’s team record for most coaching victories on December 9, 2007, the same day the Seahawks clinched their fourth consecutive division title. Still hoping to land a job that gave him total control of a franchise, he was getting ready to move on. On February 6, the team announced that assistant head coach Jim Mora (b. 1961) would become head coach after the 2008 season, when Holmgren’s contract expired. As if to signal the end of an era, the Seahawks moved their headquarters out of Kirkland for the first time (except for Behring’s short-lived fling with Southern California). On August 18, they began practicing at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center, their new headquarters on Lake Washington in Renton. Built on 19 acres owned by Allen’s Vulcan real estate company, the new complex had three outdoor practice fields, an indoor field, 15,000 square field of player meeting space, and 48,000 square feet for administrative offices. Neither the season nor the team lived up to the level of the new surroundings. Holmgren’s last Seahawks team won four games and lost 12. Mora, a former head coach of the Atlanta Falcons who had played football at the University of Washington, struggled through a 5-11 campaign. Ruskell, the president of football operations, resigned before it was over. On January 8, 2010, Mora was fired. Rocking the Stadium Mora’s successor was Pete Carroll, who had been head coach of the New York Jets (1994) and New England Patriots (1997-99) before becoming one of the nation’s top college coaches. In nine seasons at the University of Southern California, his teams won seven conference and two national championships. He was hired by the Seahawks as executive vice president of football operations and head coach on January 11, 2010, and then was involved in the hiring of a new general manager, John Schneider (b. 1971), director of football operations for the Green Bay Packers. Carroll and Schneider set out to rebuild the Seahawks’ aging roster. Besides adding players through the draft, they constantly watched for talent let loose by other teams -- signing free agents and making trades. In the week before the season started, they added six players. On the day of the first game, slightly more than half of the 53-man roster was new. From February 2010 to the end of the season in January 2011, they added and subtracted a total of 284 players, more than any other team in the league. The turnover had mixed results. On the minus side, the team had seven wins and nine losses. On the plus side, that record was good enough to top the weak NFC West, making Seattle the first team ever to make the playoffs with a losing record. The Seahawks grabbed the opportunity. On January 8, 2011, they pulled a stunning upset, beating the defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints 41-36. Hasselbeck set a team playoff record by throwing four touchdown passes. Marshawn Lynch (b. 1986), who was acquired in an October trade, had an unforgettable 67-yard touchdown run. Seemingly stopped near the line of scrimmage, Lynch broke tackle after tackle -- about eight altogether -- before somersaulting into the end zone. The crowd’s reaction was so loud at Qwest Field that it registered as seismic activity outside the stadium. Boosted by Their Fans Although the Seahawks were eliminated from the playoffs the following week and the 2011 season produced another 7-9 record, the team was clearly developing a strong defense and a potent rushing offense. A new crop of young stars -- along with Carroll’s tireless optimism and enthusiasm -- had raised expectations again. Not that their fans needed much convincing. From the beginning, the Seahawks had a special relationship with the people who watched and cheered for them. It started in 1975, before any games were played, when the team adopted a name suggested by fans. After Seattle’s big 1983 playoff victory at Miami, Knox said "this team does not play alone, we play with an extra man, a twelfth man -- our fans" (Knox and Plaschke, 235). Before the final game of the 1984 season, the Seahawks retired the number 12, meaning it could never be worn by any players; it was a symbolic act unprecedented in professional sports. In 2002, fans voted that the team’s traditional silver helmets be replaced by blue ones, marking the first time an NFL team had allowed any part of its uniform to be picked by the public. Kingdome crowds were so loud that visiting teams couldn’t hear their quarterbacks’ signals, prompting a 1989 league rule saying such disruptions would cost the home team a 5-yard penalty and a time out. (The rule proved to be too vague and was rarely enforced.) That crowd noise followed the Seahawks into their new stadium in 2002. In recognition of the home field advantage fans helped create, the Seahawks installed a flagpole above the south end zone in 2003 and made the raising of a 12th Man flag part of every pregame ritual. As the team got better, the noise got louder. In 2005, Seattle’s Super Bowl season, the visiting New York Giants were penalized for 11 false-starts, the product of their offensive linemen being unable to hear their quarterback calling signals just a few feet away. That prompted NFL scrutiny in 2006, with league officials monitoring the noise. The suspicion was that no uncovered stadium could be so loud without being enhanced electronically. But apparently it was. Heading into the 2012 season, the Seahawks had 75 consecutive sellouts, and the fans were still on their feet, roaring. Finding a Bargain On April 27, 2012, the second day of the annual NFL player draft, the Seahawks selected quarterback Russell Wilson from the University of Wisconsin. It was a controversial pick. Wilson was clearly a gifted athlete and natural leader, but at 5 feet, 10-5/8 inches, he was at least several inches shorter than ideal. Seventy-four players were drafted ahead of him. Schneider, who had scouted Wilson at Wisconsin, was convinced he was a special talent, however, and talked Carroll into making him Seattle's third-round pick. Besides Wilson being short, the selection was curious because just five weeks earlier the Seahawks had signed another quarterback, free agent Matt Flynn, to a three-year, $26 million contract. Presumably they considered Flynn their man, with Wilson slated for the role of understudy. It didn't work out that way. Wilson immediately impressed the coaches with how hard he studied to learn the team's offense and how he connected with teammates. He was uncommonly poised, focused, and confident. He ended every interview with "Go Hawks!," a dose of college enthusiasm rare among professional players and a sign of his leadership, even as a rookie. In three preseason games Wilson showed -- passing and running -- that he could ignite the offense in ways Flynn had not. Two weeks before the 2012 season opener, Carroll announced the rookie would be Seattle's starting quarterback. A Big Catch and a Near Miss The Seahawks had a 1-1 record when they hosted the Green Bay Packers in a nationally televised Monday night game. Because of a labor dispute with the regular on-field officials, the league was using replacement referees. The game came down to the final play, a longshot pass by Wilson into the end zone. A Packer defender caught the ball high in the air, but Seattle receiver Golden Tate (b. 1988) got both hands on it before either he or the defender hit the ground. The referee called the play a Seattle touchdown, good for a 14-12 Seattle victory. Much disputed by viewers around the country, that call was widely credited with ending the labor dispute. The regular officials returned before any more games were played. Despite Wilson's stellar performance in the first half of the season, the coaches tried to keep things simple for their rookie quarterback, limiting what they asked him to do. In that mode, the Seahawks were an average team. They had five losses in their first eleven games. But Wilson earned the coaches' trust in a dramatic overtime victory at Chicago, and from there the offense took off. Seattle averaged 50 or more points in back-to-back games, something no NFL team had done since 1950. The Seahawks followed that with 48 points in their next game. They ended the season with a five-game winning streak and a wildcard playoff berth. Wilson's season was historic. He tied the NFL record for most touchdown passes by a rookie (26). He was the first rookie ever to lead his team to an undefeated home record. His 100.0 passer rating -- a combination of accuracy, yards gained, touchdowns, and avoiding interceptions -- was a team record. The Seahawks entered the playoffs as one of the league's hottest teams, but because they finished second in their division, they had to play their post-season games on the road. They won at Washington 24-14 with Marshawn Lynch (b. 1986) tying the team post-season record with 132 yards rushing. And despite trailing 20-0 at halftime the next week in Atlanta, they appeared headed for victory there after Lynch scored a go-ahead touchdown with 31 seconds remaining. Instead they lost. With a conference-championship-game berth on the line, the Falcons completed two quick passes and kicked a winning field goal as time expired. Suddenly knocked out of the playoffs, the Seahawks were stunned and disheartened. Wilson, however, once again showed he was different. As he walked off the field with Carroll, the rookie already was saying he was excited by the team's prospects for 2013. Back to the Super Bowl While Wilson was proving to be a difference-maker on offense, it was the defense that was the Seahawks' true strength. Its leaders were in the secondary -- safeties Earl Thomas (b. 1989) and Kam Chancellor (b. 1988), and cornerback Richard Sherman (b. 1988) -- stars of the so-called Legion of Boom. After the last-second loss at Atlanta, Carroll identified Seattle's pass rush as an area of need. Schneider addressed that in the off-season by signing two top free agents -- versatile defensive linemen Michael Bennett (b. 1985) and Cliff Avril (b. 1986). From the beginning of his tenure as head coach, Carroll wanted a team built around defense and a tough running game, with a quarterback who could avoid mistakes and hurt opponents with unexpected long passes. Entering the 2013 season, the Seahawks had all that and were considered by many to be a top Super Bowl contender. They proved they were, shrugging off injuries and suspensions -- to defenders Bruce Irvin (b. 1987), Brandon Browner (b. 1984), and Walter Thurmond (b. 1987) for violations of the league's drug policy -- and storming to the division championship with 13 victories. That was the best record in the conference, which guaranteed that Seattle's playoff games leading to the Super Bowl would be at home in CenturyLink Field, where they were practically unbeatable. In a divisional playoff, the Seahawks defeated New Orleans 23-15 in wind and rain with Lynch rushing for 140 yards, a franchise post-season record. Their next opponent was archrival San Francisco, with a Super Bowl berth at stake. The game went down to the wire, and was settled only when Sherman leaped high in the end zone to tip a pass away from a 49ers receiver and to teammate Malcolm Smith (b. 1989). That interception, with 22 seconds remaining, sealed a 23-17 Seattle victory. For the first time in eight years and only the second time in the franchise's 37-year history, the Seahawks were headed to the Super Bowl. League Champions Super Bowl XLVIII was played in MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on February 2, 2014. Seattle's opponent was the American Football Conference champion Denver Broncos. It was a classic matchup: Those teams had led the NFL with 13 regular-season victories each; Seattle had the league's top-rated defense; and Denver had the top offense. In fact, Denver quarterback Peyton Manning (b. 1976) had set league records for both touchdown passes and passing yards. Odds makers considered Denver a slight favorite. On the very first play, the Broncos center hiked the ball before Manning was ready, and it went over his shoulder and into the end zone for a safety and a 2-0 Seattle lead. What quickly followed were a Seahawks field goal by Steven Hauschka (b. 1985) and a one-yard touchdown run by Lynch. Seattle was ahead 15-0 before Denver managed to gain a first down. The Broncos offense finally got rolling in the second quarter, but Avril hit Manning's arm has he tried to pass and the ball fluttered to Smith, who intercepted it and ran 63 yards for a Seahawks touchdown. That gave Seattle a 22-0 lead at halftime, an astonishing development for what was expected to be a close game. It got even more one-sided in an instant. Percy Harvin (b. 1988) returned the second-half kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown that effectively put the game out of Denver's reach. Only 12 seconds had elapsed since halftime, and the Seahawks were on top 29-0. Trying to catch up, Manning threw enough passes to set Super Bowl records for completions and passing yards, but the Broncos never came close. Wilson added touchdown passes to receivers Jermaine Kerse (b. 1990) and Doug Baldwin (b. 1988), and the final score was Seattle 43, Denver 8 -- one of the most lopsided outcomes in Super Bowl history. Celebration Time The victory gave Seattle its first professional sports championship since the Seattle Storm won a second Women's National Basketball Association title in 2010, and was the first by a men's team since the Sonics captured the NBA crown in 1979. Celebrations broke out in Pioneer Square, Capitol Hill, and other Seattle neighborhoods. The following Wednesday, February 5, 2014, Seahawks players, coaches, staff, executives, and owner Paul Allen rode from Seattle Center down Fourth Avenue to CenturyLink Field, showing the championship trophy to cheering fans packing the two-mile parade route in sub-freezing temperatures. The crowd was initially estimated at 700,000, a figure later revised downward, but still considered the biggest gathering in the city's history. About 50,000 were in CenturyLink Field, with another 27,000 in adjacent Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners baseball team, watching live television coverage of the parade on giant video screens. A post-parade rally at the football stadium included video highlights from the Super Bowl, player introductions, and speeches by team officials and key players. Both Carroll and Wilson praised the fans for their support and, because of the team being uncommonly young for a Super Bowl winner, raised the prospect of future championships. "We'll be back again. ... We are just getting warmed up, if you know what I'm talking about," Carroll said ("Victory Parade"). Early Struggles, Then a Big Surge Returning to the Super Bowl is difficult in the NFL. No team had done it in 10 years. The Seahawks seemed capable, but nonetheless had problems. They started the 2014 season with a nationally televised 36-16 win over the Green Bay Packers, but then lost three of their next five games, and abruptly traded Harvin, their highest paid wide receiver, for reasons never officially explained. Three straight victories followed, but then a humbling defeat at Kansas City left the Seahawks with a 6-4 record and doubts that they could repeat as division champions. A meeting of team leaders that Carroll called following the Kansas City loss seemed to refocus the team. Relying on Lynch's powerful running and a once-again dominating defense, the Seahawks won their remaining six regular-season games to finish with a 12-4 record, another division title, and home-field advantage for the playoffs. Their offense broke the franchise record for most yards per game, and their defense was statistically the league's best in 43 years. Collectively, the Seahawks looked ready to defend their league championship. Stirring Comeback, Crushing Defeat Beating the Carolina Panthers in the first playoff game was relatively easy. Beating Green Bay in the conference championship game required a historic comeback. The Packers took a 16-0 lead. Wilson threw four interceptions, just three fewer than he had thrown all season. The Packers were ahead 19-7 with less than four minutes remaining and a loss seemed likely, if not inevitable. But Wilson led the Seahawks to a touchdown, scoring on a one-yard run; Seattle's Chris Matthews (b.1989) recovered an onside kick; Lynch scored on a 24-yard run; and the Seahawks made a desperation two-point conversion for a 22-19 lead. Green Bay had time to kick a field goal, forcing the game into overtime, but the Seahawks got the ball first and quickly scored the winning touchdown on a 35-yard pass from Wilson to Jermaine Kearse (b. 1990). The 28-22 victory was the biggest comeback in Seahawks post-season history and the biggest in NFL championship game history, and it put Seattle back in the Super Bowl. Super Bowl XLIX was played February 1, 2015, in Glendale, Arizona, against the New England Patriots. The Seahawks were ahead by 10 points going into the fourth quarter, but Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (b. 1977) completed 13 of 15 passes in two long drives for touchdowns, giving New England a 28-24 lead with just two minutes remaining. The scene was set for another dramatic finish. Wilson connected with Lynch on a 31-yard pass and run and Kearse made a seemingly impossible catch for a gain of 33 yards. A Lynch run moved the ball to the Patriots 1 with 26 seconds to play. A Seahawks victory seemed all but assured. But then came a fateful decision. With the Patriots lined up to stop another run, Seattle's coaches called for a pass. Wilson threw toward Ricardo Lockette (b. 1986) at the goal line, but Patriot Malcolm Butler (b. 1990) intercepted. The Seahawks and their fans were stunned. Many questioned the decision to pass instead of giving the ball one more time to Lynch. But there was no undoing the outcome. Seattle's quest for another Lombardi Trophy had ended, 20 seconds early and one yard short. This essay made possible by: Seattle Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck with NFC championship trophy, Qwest Field, Seattle, January 22, 2006 Photo by Corky Trewin, Courtesy Seattle Seahawks Seattle Seahawks name announced, June 17, 1975 Courtesy The Seattle Times
i don't know
Today is the birthday of our Dear Leader, Barak Obama. How old is he?
Barack Obama Birthday: See the President's Changing Looks Barack Obama on August 15, 2009 Alex Brandon/AP Was he ever so young? Were we? Obama didn’t have much of a honeymoon – his first summer in office, if you’ll recall, was marked by large protests against his health care reform plan – but on the occasion of his 48th birthday, the president looked like the younger brother of the current Obama. 2010 Barack Obama on August 4, 2010 Win McNamee/Getty The late summer of 2010 was one of the more quarrelsome seasons in recent political history, with the furor over the Ground Zero mosque and a Florida pastor threatening to burn the Quran captivating the nation ahead of the Tea Party “shellacking” of the 2010 midterms. But all that was still in store for the 49-year-old Barack Obama as he gave a confident point to supporters on the White House lawn. 2011 Barack Obama on August 7, 2011 Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty The big 5-0! Perhaps it was the milestone, perhaps it was the first of many showdowns over the debt ceiling , but the president could only muster a slight wave to supporters as he entered the White House a few days after his birthday. 2012 Barack Obama on August 3, 2012 J. Scott Applewhite/AP A 51st birthday is never the most special of occasions (it’s … the 30th anniversary of your 21st birthday?) and that goes double in an election year. Obama celebrated with a game of golf and a quiet night in at Camp David , before hitting the campaign trail once again. 2013 Ron Sachs/AP As he entered his second term, the summer of 2013 must have seemed like a welcome respite for Obama. And it was, sort of, at least until the NSA Prism scandal and the George Zimmerman verdict took over the news cycle. It’s like we’re slowly watching the passion seep out of Obama’s eyes. 2014
49
There is a move afoot by the governor of the great state of New Mexico to issue a pardon to old west legend William H. Bonney. By what name is he more commonly known?
Barack Obama Birthday: See the President's Changing Looks Barack Obama on August 15, 2009 Alex Brandon/AP Was he ever so young? Were we? Obama didn’t have much of a honeymoon – his first summer in office, if you’ll recall, was marked by large protests against his health care reform plan – but on the occasion of his 48th birthday, the president looked like the younger brother of the current Obama. 2010 Barack Obama on August 4, 2010 Win McNamee/Getty The late summer of 2010 was one of the more quarrelsome seasons in recent political history, with the furor over the Ground Zero mosque and a Florida pastor threatening to burn the Quran captivating the nation ahead of the Tea Party “shellacking” of the 2010 midterms. But all that was still in store for the 49-year-old Barack Obama as he gave a confident point to supporters on the White House lawn. 2011 Barack Obama on August 7, 2011 Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty The big 5-0! Perhaps it was the milestone, perhaps it was the first of many showdowns over the debt ceiling , but the president could only muster a slight wave to supporters as he entered the White House a few days after his birthday. 2012 Barack Obama on August 3, 2012 J. Scott Applewhite/AP A 51st birthday is never the most special of occasions (it’s … the 30th anniversary of your 21st birthday?) and that goes double in an election year. Obama celebrated with a game of golf and a quiet night in at Camp David , before hitting the campaign trail once again. 2013 Ron Sachs/AP As he entered his second term, the summer of 2013 must have seemed like a welcome respite for Obama. And it was, sort of, at least until the NSA Prism scandal and the George Zimmerman verdict took over the news cycle. It’s like we’re slowly watching the passion seep out of Obama’s eyes. 2014
i don't know
Now displayed at the National Air and Space Museum, what was the name of the B-29, piloted by Colonel Paul Tibbets, that dropped the first atomic bomb?
Boeing B-29 Superfortress "Enola Gay" | National Air and Space Museum National Air and Space Museum Boeing B-29 Superfortress "Enola Gay" Boeing B-29 Superfortress "Enola Gay" Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Navigator Station in the Enola Gay Van Kirk’s navigator station in the Enola Gay. Paul Tibbet’s pilot’s position is on the other side of the bulkhead.  Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing's B-29 Superfortress was the most sophisticated propeller-driven bomber of World War II, and the first bomber to house its crew in pressurized compartments.  The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay is now on display at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. This exhibition was on display in Gallery 103 from June 28, 1995 to May 17, 1998. Enola Gay Assembly at Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center The wings of the Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay are reunited with the fuselage for the first time since 1960 by National Air and Space Museum restoration specialists at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, April 10, 2003.  Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay at the Udvar-Hazy Center Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay on display in the Boeing Aviation Hangar at the National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Enola Gay at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center The historic Boeing B-29 Enola Gay is shown here just after being restored and re-assembled in 2003. The airplane, which received the most extensive restoration in the museum's history, is on display at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Panorama Panoramic view inside the Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay. Display Status: This object is on display in the World War II Aviation (UH) exhibition at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA. SummaryLong Description Collection Item Summary: Boeing's B-29 Superfortress was the most sophisticated propeller-driven bomber of World War II and the first bomber to house its crew in pressurized compartments. Although designed to fight in the European theater, the B-29 found its niche on the other side of the globe. In the Pacific, B-29s delivered a variety of aerial weapons: conventional bombs, incendiary bombs, mines, and two nuclear weapons. On August 6, 1945, this Martin-built B-29-45-MO dropped the first atomic weapon used in combat on Hiroshima, Japan. Three days later, Bockscar (on display at the U.S. Air Force Museum near Dayton, Ohio) dropped a second atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan. Enola Gay flew as the advance weather reconnaissance aircraft that day. A third B-29, The Great Artiste, flew as an observation aircraft on both missions. Collection Item Long Description: Boeing's B-29 Superfortress was the most sophisticated, propeller-driven, bomber to fly during World War II, and the first bomber to house its crew in pressurized compartments. Boeing installed very advanced armament, propulsion, and avionics systems into the Superfortress. During the war in the Pacific Theater, the B-29 delivered the first nuclear weapons used in combat. On August 6, 1945, Colonel Paul W. Tibbets, Jr., in command of the Superfortress Enola Gay, dropped a highly enriched uranium, explosion-type, "gun-fired," atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. Three days later, Major Charles W. Sweeney piloted the B-29 Bockscar and dropped a highly enriched plutonium, implosion-type atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan. Enola Gay flew as the advance weather reconnaissance aircraft that day. On August 14, 1945, the Japanese accepted Allied terms for unconditional surrender. In the late 1930s, U. S. Army Air Corps leaders recognized the need for very long-range bombers that exceeded the performance of the B-17 Flying Fortress. Several years of preliminary studies paralleled a continuous fight against those who saw limited utility in developing such an expensive and unproven aircraft but the Air Corps issued a requirement for the new bomber in February 1940. It described an airplane that could carry a maximum bomb load of 909 kg (2,000 lb) at a speed of 644 kph (400 mph) a distance of at least 8,050 km (5,000 miles). Boeing, Consolidated, Douglas, and Lockheed responded with design proposals. The Army was impressed with the Boeing design and issued a contract for two flyable prototypes in September 1940. In April 1941, the Army issued another contract for 250 aircraft plus spare parts equivalent to another 25 bombers, eight months before Pearl Harbor and nearly a year-and-a-half before the first Superfortress would fly. Among the design's innovations was a long, narrow, high-aspect ratio wing equipped with large Fowler-type flaps. This wing design allowed the B-29 to cruise at high speeds at high altitudes but maintained comfortable handling characteristics during slower airspeeds necessary during takeoff and landing. More revolutionary was the size and sophistication of the pressurized sections of the fuselage: the flight deck forward of the wing, the gunner's compartment aft of the wing, and the tail gunner's station. For the crew, flying at altitudes above 18,000 feet became much more comfortable as pressure and temperature could be regulated in the crew work areas. To protect the Superfortress, Boeing designed a remote-controlled, defensive weapons system. Engineers placed five gun turrets on the fuselage: a turret above and behind the cockpit that housed two .50 caliber machine guns (four guns in later versions), and another turret aft near the vertical tail equipped with two machine guns; plus two more turrets beneath the fuselage, each equipped with two .50 caliber guns. One of these turrets fired from behind the nose gear and the other hung further back near the tail. Another two .50 caliber machine guns and a 20-mm cannon (in early versions of the B-29) were fitted in the tail beneath the rudder. Gunners operated these turrets by remote control--a true innovation. They aimed the guns using computerized sights, and each gunner could take control of two or more turrets to concentrate firepower on a single target. Boeing also equipped the B-29 with advanced radar equipment and avionics. Depending on the type of mission, a B-29 carried the AN/APQ-13 or AN/APQ-7 Eagle radar system to aid bombing and navigation. These systems were accurate enough to enable relatively accurate bombing through cloud layers that completely obscured the target. The B-29B was equipped with the AN/APG-15B airborne radar gun sighting system mounted in the tail to assist in providing accurate defense against enemy fighters attacking at night. B-29s also routinely carried as many as twenty different types of radios and navigation devices. The first XB-29 took off at Boeing Field in Seattle on September 21, 1942. By the end of the year the second aircraft was ready for flight. Fourteen service-test YB-29s followed as production began to accelerate. Building this advanced bomber required massive logistics. Boeing built new B-29 plants at Renton, Washington, and Wichita, Kansas, while Bell built a new plant at Marietta, Georgia, and Martin built one in Omaha, Nebraska. Both Curtiss-Wright and the Dodge automobile company vastly expanded their manufacturing capacity to build the bomber's powerful and complex Curtiss-Wright R-3350 turbo supercharged engines. The program required thousands of sub-contractors but with extraordinary effort, it all came together, despite major teething problems. By April 1944, the first operational B-29s of the newly formed 20th Air Force began to touch down on dusty airfields in India. By May, 130 B-29s were operational. In June, 1944, less than two years after the initial flight of the XB-29, the U. S. Army Air Forces (AAF) flew its first B-29 combat mission against targets in Bangkok, Thailand. This mission (longest of the war to date) called for 100 B-29s but only 80 reached the target area. The AAF lost no aircraft to enemy action but bombing results were mediocre. The first bombing mission against the Japanese main islands since Lt. Col. "Jimmy" Doolittle's raid against Tokyo in April 1942, occurred on June 15, again with poor results. This was also the first mission launched from airbases in China. With the fall of Saipan, Tinian, and Guam in the Mariana Islands chain in August 1944, the AAF acquired airbases that lay several hundred miles closer to mainland Japan. Late in 1944, the AAF moved the XXI Bomber Command, flying B-29s, to the Marianas and the unit began bombing Japan in December. However, they employed high-altitude, precision, bombing tactics that yielded poor results. The high altitude winds were so strong that bombing computers could not compensate and the weather was so poor that rarely was visual target acquisition possible at high altitudes. In March 1945, Major General Curtis E. LeMay ordered the group to abandon these tactics and strike instead at night, from low altitude, using incendiary bombs. These firebombing raids, carried out by hundreds of B-29s, devastated much of Japan's industrial and economic infrastructure. Yet Japan fought on. Late in 1944, AAF leaders selected the Martin assembly line to produce a squadron of B-29s codenamed SILVERPLATE. Martin modified these Superfortresses by removing all gun turrets except for the tail position, removing armor plate, installing Curtiss electric propellers, and modifying the bomb bay to accommodate either the "Fat Man" or "Little Boy" versions of the atomic bomb. The AAF assigned 15 Silverplate ships to the 509th Composite Group commanded by Colonel Paul Tibbets. As the Group Commander, Tibbets had no specific aircraft assigned to him as did the mission pilots. He was entitled to fly any aircraft at any time. He named the B-29 that he flew on 6 August Enola Gay after his mother. In the early morning hours, just prior to the August 6th mission, Tibbets had a young Army Air Forces maintenance man, Private Nelson Miller, paint the name just under the pilot's window. Enola Gay is a model B-29-45-MO, serial number 44-86292. The AAF accepted this aircraft on June 14, 1945, from the Martin plant at Omaha (Located at what is today Offut AFB near Bellevue), Nebraska. After the war, Army Air Forces crews flew the airplane during the Operation Crossroads atomic test program in the Pacific, although it dropped no nuclear devices during these tests, and then delivered it to Davis-Monthan Army Airfield, Arizona, for storage. Later, the U. S. Air Force flew the bomber to Park Ridge, Illinois, then transferred it to the Smithsonian Institution on July 4, 1949. Although in Smithsonian custody, the aircraft remained stored at Pyote Air Force Base, Texas, between January 1952 and December 1953. The airplane's last flight ended on December 2 when the Enola Gay touched down at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. The bomber remained at Andrews in outdoor storage until August 1960. By then, concerned about the bomber deteriorating outdoors, the Smithsonian sent collections staff to disassemble the Superfortress and move it indoors to the Paul E. Garber Facility in Suitland, Maryland. The staff at Garber began working to preserve and restore Enola Gay in December 1984. This was the largest restoration project ever undertaken at the National Air and Space Museum and the specialists anticipated the work would require from seven to nine years to complete. The project actually lasted nearly two decades and, when completed, had taken approximately 300,000 work-hours to complete. The B-29 is now displayed at the National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Data Source
Enola Gay
Margaretha Geertruida Zelle MacLeod, born on August 7, 1876, was executed by a French firing squad for passing secrets to the Germans while performing as an exotic dancer under what stage name?
B-29 (Enola Gay) 44-86292 | Warbirds Wiki | Fandom powered by Wikia B-29 (Enola Gay) 44-86292 Displayed B-29 MO Martin-Omaha The B-29 known as ENOLA GAY is a Silverplate " (atomic bomb carrier) conversion. National Air and Space Museum / Paul Garber Restoration and Storage Facility , Maryland. 509th Composite Group aircraft. It is a Boeing B-29 Superfortress bomber , named after Enola Gay Tibbets, mother of the pilot, then- Colonel (later Brigadier General ) Paul Tibbets . On 6 August 1945, during the final stages of World War II, it became the first aircraft to drop an atomic bomb as a weapon of war. The bomb, code-named " Little Boy ", was targeted at the city of Hiroshima , Japan, and caused extensive destruction. The Enola Gay gained additional attention in 1995 when the cockpit and nose section of the aircraft were exhibited during the bombing's 50th anniversary at the National Air and Space Museum (NASM) of the Smithsonian Institution in downtown Washington, D.C. The exhibit was changed due to a controversy over original historical script displayed with the aircraft. Since 2003, the entire restored B-29 has been on display at NASM's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center . Contents Edit The Enola Gay (B-29-45-MO, AAF Serial Number 44-86292, Victor number 82) was built by the Glenn L. Martin Company (now Lockheed Martin ) at its Bellevue, Nebraska , plant, at what is now known as Offutt Air Force Base , and was one of 15 B-29s with the " Silverplate " modifications necessary to deliver atomic weapons, which included an extensively modified bomb bay with pneumatic doors, special propellors, modified engines and the deletion of protective armor and gun turrets. Enola Gay was personally selected by Colonel Paul W. Tibbets, Jr. , commander of the 509th Composite Group, on May 9, 1945, while still on the assembly line . The aircraft was accepted by the USAAF on May 18, 1945 and assigned to the 393d Bombardment Squadron, Heavy , 509th Composite Group . Crew B-9 (Captain Robert A. Lewis , aircraft commander) took delivery of the bomber and flew it from Omaha to the 509th's base at Wendover Army Air Field , Utah on 14 June 1945. Thirteen days later, the aircraft left Wendover for Guam , where it received a bomb bay modification and flew to North Field, Tinian on 6 July. It was originally given the Victor (squadron-assigned identification) number "12," but on 1 August, was given the circle R tail markings of the 6th Bomb Group as a security measure and had its Victor changed to "82" to avoid misidentification with actual 6th BG aircraft. During July of that year, after the bomber flew eight training missions and two combat missions to drop pumpkin bombs on industrial targets at Kobe and Nagoya , Enola Gay was used on 31 July on a rehearsal flight for the actual mission. The partially-assembled Little Boy combat weapon L-11 was contained inside a 41” x 47” x 138” wood crate weighing that was secured to the deck of the USS Indianapolis . Unlike the six U-235 target discs, which were later flown to Tinian on three separate aircraft arriving 28 and 29 July, the assembled projectile with the nine U-235 rings installed was shipped in a single lead-lined steel container weighing that was securely locked to brackets welded to the deck of Captain Charles McVay’s quarters.Both the L-11 and projectile were dropped off at Tinian on 26 July 1945. Enola Gay returning from it's Hiroshima mission, entering hard-stand. It is in its 6th BG livery, victor number 82 visible on fuselage just forward of the tail fin. On 5 August 1945, during preparation for the first atomic mission, pilot Colonel Paul Tibbets who assumed command of the aircraft, named the B-29 aircraft after his mother, Enola Gay Tibbets (1893–1983), who had been named for the heroine of a novel . According to Gordon Thomas and Max Morgan-Witts , regularly assigned aircraft commander Robert Lewis was unhappy to be displaced by Tibbets for this important mission, and became furious when he arrived at the aircraft on the morning of 6 August to see it painted with the now famous nose art. Tibbets himself, interviewed on Tinian later that day by war correspondents, confessed that he was a bit embarrassed at having attached his mother's name to such a fateful mission. The Hiroshima mission had been described by Gordon Thomas and Max Morgan Witts in Enola Gay book as tactically flawless, and Enola Gay returned safely to its base on Tinian to great fanfare on the base. The Enola Gay was accompanied by two other B-29s, Necessary Evil which was used to carry scientific observers, and as a camera plane to photograph the explosion and effects of the bomb and The Great Artiste instrumented for blast measurement. The first atomic bombing was followed three days later by another B-29 (Bockscar) (piloted by Major Charles W. Sweeney ) which dropped a second nuclear weapon, " Fat Man ", on Nagasaki . The Nagasaki mission, by contrast, had been described as tactically botched, although the mission had met its objectives. The crew encountered a number of problems in execution, and Bockscar had very little fuel by the time it landed on Okinawa. On that mission, Enola Gay, flown by Crew B-10 (Capt. George Marquardt, aircraft commander, see Necessary Evil for crew details), was the weather reconnaissance aircraft for Kokura. Mission personnel
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What singer/songwriter's backup band is known as the Heartbreakers?
Tom Petty - Music on Google Play Tom Petty About the artist Thomas Earl Petty is an American musician, singer, songwriter, multi instrumentalist and record producer. He is best known as the lead singer of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, but is also known as a member and co-founder of the late 1980s supergroup the Traveling Wilburys, and his early band Mudcrutch. Petty has recorded a number of hit singles with the Heartbreakers and as a solo artist, many of which are mainstays on adult contemporary and classic rock radio. His music has been classified as rock and roll, heartland rock, and even stoner rock. His music has become popular among younger generations. In his career, Petty has sold more than 80 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. In 2002 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 1 $10.49 Hypnotic Eye is the 13th studio album by American rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, released on July 29, 2014, by Reprise Records. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, bec... 1 1 $11.49 Mojo is the 12th studio album by American rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, released on June 15, 2010 on CD and June 29 on BD. It is Petty's first album with the Heartbreakers in eight yea... 1 1 $9.49 Highway Companion is the third solo studio album by American singer-songwriter Tom Petty. It was released on July 25, 2006, and charted at #4 on the Billboard 200 album chart. The album was produce... 1 1 $9.49 The Last DJ is the eleventh studio album by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The tracks "The Last DJ", "Money Becomes King", "Joe", and "Can't Stop the Sun" are attacks on the greediness of the mus... 1 1 $9.49 Echo is the tenth studio album by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. First released in April 1999, the album reached number 10 on the Billboard 200 aided by the singles "Free Girl Now", "Swingin'" an... 1 1 $9.49 Songs and Music From the Motion Picture "She's the One" is the ninth studio album by American rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, first released in August 1996. The album served as the sound... 1 1 $9.49 Playback is a box set compilation by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, released in 1995. It contains popular album tracks, B-sides, previously unreleased outtakes, and early songs by Petty's previou... 1 1 $9.49 Wildflowers is the second solo studio album by American musician Tom Petty, released on November 1, 1994. The album was the first released by Petty after signing a contract with Warner Bros. Record... 1 1 $5.99 Into the Great Wide Open is the eighth studio album by American rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, first released in 1991. The album was the band's last with MCA Records. The album was the ... 1 1 $7.99 Full Moon Fever is the debut solo studio album by Tom Petty, released on April 24, 1989 by MCA Records. It features contributions from members of his backing band the Heartbreakers, notably Mike Ca... 1 John Mellencamp 0 John J Mellencamp, also known as John Cougar Mellencamp, is an American musician, singer-songwriter, painter, and actor. He is known for his catchy, populist brand of heartland rock, which emphasiz... 0 Mudcrutch 0 Mudcrutch is an American southern and country rock band from Gainesville, Florida; best known for being the band that introduced Tom Petty to fame. They were initially active in the early 1970s, th... 0 Traveling Wilburys 0 The Traveling Wilburys were a British-American supergroup consisting of Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, and Tom Petty. The band recorded two albums, the first in 1988 and the s... 0 Bruce Springsteen 0 Bruce Frederick Joseph Springsteen is an American singer-songwriter. He is best known for his work with the E Street Band. Nicknamed "The Boss", Springsteen is widely known for his brand of poetic ... 0 Neil Young 0 Neil Percival Young, OC OM, is a Canadian singer-songwriter, musician, producer, director and screenwriter. Young began performing in a group covering Shadows instrumentals in Canada in 1960. In 19... 0 0 About the artist Robert Clark "Bob" Seger is an American singer-songwriter, guitarist and pianist. As a locally successful Detroit-area artist, he performed and recorded as Bob Seger and the Last ... 0 The Rolling Stones 0 The Rolling Stones are an English rock band formed in London, England in 1962. The original line-up consisted of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Brian Jones, Ian Stewart, Bill Wyman and Charlie Watts.... 0 Joe Walsh 0 Joseph Fidler "Joe" Walsh is an American singer-songwriter, composer, multi-instrumentalist and record producer. In a career spanning more than 40 years, Walsh has been a member of five successful ... 0 John Fogerty 0 John Cameron Fogerty is an American musician, singer and songwriter, early in his career best known as the lead singer, lead guitarist and principal songwriter for the band Creedence Clearwater Rev... 0 Jackson Browne 0 Clyde Jackson Browne is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold over 18 million albums in the United States. Coming to prominence in the 1970s, Browne has written and recorded son... 0 0 Warren William Zevon was an American rock singer-songwriter and musician. Zevon's compositions include "Werewolves of London", "Lawyers, Guns and Money", "Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner" and "... 0 Steve Miller Band 0 Steven Haworth "Steve" Miller is an American guitarist and singer-songwriter who began his career in blues and blues rock and evolved to a more pop-oriented sound which, from the mid-1970s through ... 0 The Band 0 The Band was a Canadian-American roots rock group, originally consisting of four Canadians—Rick Danko, Garth Hudson, Richard Manuel, and Robbie Robertson —and one American, Levon Helm. The members ... 0 Eric Clapton 0 Eric Patrick Clapton, CBE, is an English rock and blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He is the only three-time inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: once as a solo artist and separately... 0 Don Henley 0 Donald Hugh "Don" Henley is an American singer-songwriter, producer, and drummer, best known as a founding member of the Eagles before launching a successful solo career. Henley was the drummer and... 0 Van Morrison 0 Sir George Ivan Morrison, OBE, known as Van Morrison, is a Northern Irish singer and songwriter with a reputation for being at once stubborn, idiosyncratic, and sublime. His studio albums Astral We... 0
Tom Petty
Operation Desert Storm was the name given to the U.N. authorized attempt to oust Iraq from what country they illegally occupied?
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream (2007) - IMDb IMDb There was an error trying to load your rating for this title. Some parts of this page won't work property. Please reload or try later. X Beta I'm Watching This! Keep track of everything you watch; tell your friends. Error Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream ( 2007 ) 3h 59min "Runnin' Down A Dream," a film directed by cinema legend Peter Bogdanovich, is the story of one of America's great rock and roll bands told as never before. Director: From $9.99 (SD) on Amazon Video ON DISC a list of 25 titles created 05 Feb 2011 a list of 40 titles created 20 Dec 2011 a list of 25 titles created 04 Jun 2012 a list of 34 titles created 25 Jun 2015 a list of 48 titles created 30 Nov 2015 Title: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream (2007) 8.7/10 Want to share IMDb's rating on your own site? Use the HTML below. You must be a registered user to use the IMDb rating plugin. The life and times of the super successful American soft-rock band, Eagles. Stars: Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Don Felder A rare and unique assembly of some of the greatest drummers in the world. Explosive talent, passion, humour and irresistible personality come together in a magical setting when seven ... See full summary  » Director: John Walker A documentary that celebrates Rick Hall, the founder of FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and the signature sound he developed in songs such as "I'll Take You There", "Brown Sugar", and "When a Man Loves a Woman". Director: Greg 'Freddy' Camalier An addiction to gambling dims baseball legend Pete Rose's star. Director: Peter Bogdanovich They were the Grand Funk of Glam and the NY Dolls of Metal. Some considered Twisted Sister a joke, others called them the greatest bar band in the world. While microcosm of Punk/New Wave ... See full summary  » Director: Andrew Horn A celebration of the musical work of a group of session musicians known as "The Wrecking Crew", a band that provided back-up instrumentals to such legendary recording artists as Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys and Bing Crosby. Director: Denny Tedesco A documentary on the life and films of director John Ford. Director: Peter Bogdanovich A documentary on Arnel Pineda, who was plucked from YouTube to become the new singer for the rock & roll band, Journey. Director: Ramona S. Diaz A documentary on Levon Helm, a founding member of The Band, at home in Woodstock in the midst of creating his first studio album in 25 years. Director: Jacob Hatley An in-depth look at the Canadian rock band Rush , chronicling the band's musical evolution from their progressive rock sound of the '70s to their current heavy rock style. Directors: Sam Dunn, Scot McFadyen Stars: Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart Compelling character study, revolving around Jack Flowers (Ben Gazzara), an American hustler trying to make his fortune in 1970s Singapore in small time pimping. He dreams of building a ... See full summary  » Director: Peter Bogdanovich Called up for jury duty, Richard Dice finds his first crush and only real, but unrequited love, on trial for murder. Richard desperately tries to prove Mollys innocence while untangling a ... See full summary  » Director: Peter Bogdanovich Edit Storyline "Runnin' Down A Dream," a film directed by cinema legend Peter Bogdanovich, is the story of one of America's great rock and roll bands told as never before. 14 October 2007 (USA) See more  » Also Known As: Untitled Tom Petty Documentary See more  » Company Credits An Absolute Must-See for Tom Petty Fans 16 October 2007 | by kartmania (United States) – See all my reviews I've always loved Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, but like many casual fans, I had a tendency to underrate them. This 3 1/2 hr documentary should go a long way to putting them up there where they belong in the rock pantheon. Bogdanovich gives a warm-hearted and thorough review of the band's thirty-year history. The personal parts of the story are neither glossed over nor sugar-coated, but mercifully they are not allowed to hijack the main theme: Petty's brilliant song-writing and the band's masterful musicianship. I am not, as a rule, a big fan of rockumentaries, but this one is a real gem. Put it on your holiday wish-list! 24 of 25 people found this review helpful.  Was this review helpful to you? Yes
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‘Half a league, half a league, Half a league onward, All in the valley of Death Rode the six hundred. ‘Forward, the Light Brigade! Charge for the guns’ he said: Into the valley of Death Rode the six hundred.’ wrote what famed English poet, who was born on August 6, 1809?
The Charge of the Light Brigade - Poems | Academy of American Poets Academy of American Poets The Academy of American Poets is the largest membership-based nonprofit organization fostering an appreciation for contemporary poetry and supporting American poets. For over three generations, the Academy has connected millions of people to great poetry through programs such as National Poetry Month, the largest literary celebration in the world; Poets.org, the Academy’s popular website; American Poets, a biannual literary journal; and an annual series of poetry readings and special events. Since its founding, the Academy has awarded more money to poets than any other organization. browse poems & poets sign up to receive a new poem-a-day in your inbox sign up read this poet's poems Born on August 6, 1809, in Somersby, Lincolnshire, England, Alfred Tennyson is one of the most well-loved Victorian poets. Tennyson, the fourth of twelve children, showed an early talent for writing. At the age of twelve he wrote a 6,000-line epic poem. His father, the Reverend George Tennyson, tutored his sons in classical and modern languages. In the 1820s, however, Tennyson's father began to suffer frequent mental breakdowns that were exacerbated by alcoholism. One of Tennyson's brothers had violent quarrels with his father, a second was later confined to an insane asylum, and another became an opium addict. Tennyson escaped home in 1827 to attend Trinity College, Cambridge. In that same year, he and his brother Charles published Poems by Two Brothers. Although the poems in the book were mostly juvenilia, they attracted the attention of the "Apostles," an undergraduate literary club led by Arthur Hallam. The "Apostles" provided Tennyson, who was tremendously shy, with much needed friendship and confidence as a poet. Hallam and Tennyson became the best of friends; they toured Europe together in 1830 and again in 1832. Hallam's sudden death in 1833 greatly affected the young poet. The long elegy In Memoriam and many of Tennyson's other poems are tributes to Hallam. In 1830, Tennyson published Poems, Chiefly Lyrical and in 1832 he published a second volume entitled simply Poems. Some reviewers condemned these books as "affected" and "obscure." Tennyson, stung by the reviews, would not publish another book for nine years. In 1836, he became engaged to Emily Sellwood. When he lost his inheritance on a bad investment in 1840, Sellwood's family called off the engagement. In 1842, however, Tennyson's Poems in two volumes was a tremendous critical and popular success. In 1850, with the publication of In Memoriam, Tennyson became one of Britain's most popular poets. He was selected Poet Laureate in succession to Wordsworth . In that same year, he married Emily Sellwood. They had two sons, Hallam and Lionel. At the age of 41, Tennyson had established himself as the most popular poet of the Victorian era. The money from his poetry (at times exceeding 10,000 pounds per year) allowed him to purchase a house in the country and to write in relative seclusion. His appearance—a large and bearded man, he regularly wore a cloak and a broad brimmed hat—enhanced his notoriety. He read his poetry with a booming voice, often compared to that of Dylan Thomas . In 1859, Tennyson published the first poems of Idylls of the Kings, which sold more than 10,000 copies in one month. In 1884, he accepted a peerage, becoming Alfred Lord Tennyson. Tennyson died on October 6, 1892, and was buried in Westminster Abbey.
Alfred, Lord Tennyson
In what nursery rhyme does the monkey chase the weasel?
The Charge of the Light Brigade ANALYSIS OF A POEM AND ITS HISTORICAL BACKGROUND The Charge of the Light Brigade Alfred, Lord Tennyson, c.1880 Poes�a Inglesa Siglos XIX-XX Curso 2005-2006 Profesor: Vicente For�s Alumno: Alfredo Carbonell Rico The Charge of the Light Brigade Alfred, Lord Tennyson, c.1880 1� Half a league, half a league, 2� Half a league onward, 3� All in the valley of Death 4� Rode the six hundred. 5� "Forward the Light Brigade ! 6� Charge for the guns!" he said . 7� Into the 8� Rode the six hundred. 9� Forward, the Light Brigade!" 10Was there a man dismay'd? 11Not tho' the soldier knew 12Some one had blunder'd . 13Theirs not to make reply, 14Theirs not to reason why, 15Theirs but to do and die. 16Into the 18 Cannon to right of them, 19Cannon to left of them, 20Cannon in front of them 21Volley'd and thunder'd; 22Storm'd at with shot and shell, 23Boldly they rode and well, 24Into the jaws of Death, 25Into the mouth of hell 26Rode the six hundred. 27Flash'd all their sabres bare, 28Flash'd as they turn'd in air 29Sabring the gunners there, 33Right thro' the line they broke; 34Cossack and Russian 37Then they rode back, but not, 38Not the six hundred. 39Cannon to right of them, 40Cannon to left of them, 41Cannon behind them 43Storm'd at with shot and shell, 44While horse and hero fell, 45They that had fought so well 46Came thro' the jaws of Death, 47Back from the mouth of hell, 48All that was left of them, 49Left of six hundred. 50When can their glory fade? 51O the wild charge they made! 52All the world wonder'd. 53Honour the charge they made! 54Honour the Light Brigade, The text is part of the Internet Modern History Sourcebook . �The Sourcebook is a collection of public domain and copy-permitted texts for introductory level classes in modern European and World history. Source: The text was scanned by Prof. J. S. Arkenberg, who also modernized the text. Added by Marjie Bloy Ph.D., Senior Research Fellow, National (1) �Alfred Lord Tennyson, A Brief Biography� Ed George P. Landow (2) �Principles of British Foreign Policy� Ed George P. Landow � Copyright 1995-2004 by Dr. Vicente For�s Valencia From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales All the research was made on the 14th of January 2006 at 16:30 pm       The poem that we are going to analyse is titled �The Charge of the Light Brigade�. As we can easily see it is going to deal with a military event that, as we will see later on, took place in the Crimea War fought between Britain Russia . This lyrical work by Alfred Tennyson, also called Lord Tennyson is composed by fifty-five verses divided into six stanzas with 8, 9, 9, 12, 11 and six verses each. The rhyme is not a classical one such as the ABBA type, for it is produced mainly by the repetition of words at the end of the verse (l. 18 to 20, 39 to 41) and alliterations (l. 13 to 15, 27 to 29, 43 to 45) The language used in the poem is very simple and clear. In a clear reference to the events that he is describing, the poet makes use of a semantic field that describes the massacre of a military unit. Therefore, we can find the words �Death� (l. 3, 7, 16, 24, 46), �Brigade� (l. 5, 9, 54), �Cannon� (18, 19, 20, 39, 40 41), or �Sabre� (27, 35) amongst others. The grammatical person of the poem is the third one, as we can easily see in the use of the pronouns �Them� (l. 18, 19, 20, 39, 40, 41) and �They� (23, 28, 37, 45, 51, 53). Obviously, the purpose of the use of this lyrical device is due to the narration that the poet is doing of a past event. This poem is full of very strong and powerful images, as we can guess that the poet is trying to affect the reader�s feelings towards this war event. These images, that define both the action and the setting of the battle, have a straight equivalent to the meaning of the poem. Therefore, in the first stanza, Lord Tennyson is describing the location of the battle but he is also telling the reader how this episode begun, even with some supposed quotations (l. 5, 6). In the second stanza the writer tells us about how the English Army prepared the battle in a very critical way, for the soldiers had no choice but go to death (l. 13 to 16). In the third stanza the poet describes again the location of the battle but now he introduces the figure of the enemy, personalised in the �Cannons� (l. 18, 19, 20) and the sounds they produce (l. 21, 22). In the fourth stanza the defeat of the Cavalry is told in terms of a complete defeat and massacre (l. 36, 37, 38). The fifth stanza tells us about the fatal consequences of the disaster, with human casualties included (l. 44, 48, 49). The sixth and last stanza reveals what the poet thinks about the soldiers who took part in the battle. Lord Tennyson reveals the admiration for them and asks everybody to honour the suicidal charge they were forced to make. Personally, I have really enjoyed both the reading and the analysing of the poem, for it shows a very simple and clear vocabulary and structure and a straightforward meaning. I also think that the poet perfectly transmits to the reader how the event was. He achieves it through a perfect use of the lyrical devices explained before. Alfred Tennyson was born August 6th, 1809, at Somersby, Lincolnshire, and died on October 6, 1892, at the age of 83 (1) Therefore, we can assume that as long as the Crimea War was contemporary to the poet, it had a clear effect in the writers� society at that time for even in 1881 , Rudyard Kipling wrote a poem in response, entitled The Last of the Light Brigade, which attempted to shame the British public by depicting the difficult conditions suffered by the survivors of the Light Brigade. (5) Tennyson wrote the poem only a few minutes after reading an account of the battle in The Times, according to his grandson Sir Charles Tennyson . It immediately became hugely popular, even reaching the troops in Crimea , where it was distributed in pamphlet form. (5) First of all, I would like to point out that the Crimea War is a consequence of the Victorian Imperialism. Great Britain during Victoria 's reign was not just a powerful island nation. It was the center of a global empire that fostered British contact with a wide variety of other cultures, though the exchange was usually an uneven one. By the end of the nineteenth century, nearly one-quarter of the earth's land surface was part of the British Empire, and more than 400 million people were governed by Great Britain . However nominally Great Britain seized territories in order to increase its own holdings and enhance its prestige, to secure trade routes, to obtain raw materials such as sugar, spices, tea, tin, and rubber, and to procure a market for its own goods. Colonialism involves the settling of those territories and the transformation � the Victorians would have said reformation � of the social structure, culture, government, and economy of the people found there. But in general Great Britain was able to justify its expansion into other peoples lands by claiming a civilizing mission based on its own moral, racial, and national superiority. (3) Britain had an increasing sensitivity towards Russia and the 'Eastern Question' Turkey -- the 'sick man of Europe' -- got weaker and the 'Russian bear' became more of a threat in the Straits and the Mediterranean . British sensitivity was enhanced because of economic reasons: trade in the Mediterranean and the overland route to India Turkey . This situation eventually led to the Crimean War (2) The Crimean War lasted from 28 March 1854 until 1856 and was fought between Imperial Russia and an alliance of the United Kingdom , France , the Ottoman Empire (to some extent), and Piedmont-Sardinia . (4) The Charge of the Light Brigade was an ill-advised cavalry charge , led by Lord Cardigan , which occurred during the Battle of Balaclava on October 25 , 1854 during the Crimean War . (5) The charge was made by the Light Brigade of the British cavalry , under the command of Major General the Earl of Cardigan . Together with the Heavy Brigade, these units were the main British cavalry force at the battle. Overall command of the cavalry resided with the Earl of Lucan . Lucan received an order from the army commander Lord Raglan stating that "Lord Raglan wishes the cavalry to advance rapidly to the front, follow the enemy, and try to prevent the enemy carrying away the guns. Horse artillery may accompany. French cavalry is on your left. Immediate." The order was drafted by Brigadier Airey and was carried by Captain Louis Edward Nolan , who may have carried further oral instructions. (5) The Light Brigade was able to engage the Russian forces at the end of the valley and force them back from the redoubt, but were soon forced to retire. (5) There is a persistent myth that the brigade was completely destroyed, which is not true. However, the unit did suffer terribly, with 118 men killed, 127 wounded, and 362 horses lost; after regrouping only 195 men were still with horses. With all this research, it is clearly demonstrated that the war events did have a direct effect on the decision of Lord Tennyson in the writing of the poem shown above.  
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What company advertises "We bring good things to life."?
THE MEDIA BUSINESS: ADVERTISING; G.E. to Spend $100 Million Promoting Itself As Innovative - The New York Times The New York Times Business Day |THE MEDIA BUSINESS: ADVERTISING; G.E. to Spend $100 Million Promoting Itself As Innovative Search Business Day | THE MEDIA BUSINESS: ADVERTISING THE MEDIA BUSINESS: ADVERTISING; G.E. to Spend $100 Million Promoting Itself As Innovative Continue reading the main story After almost a quarter-century, General Electric will no longer ''bring good things to life.'' It is taking the risky step of replacing the familiar corporate slogan with one meant to laud its innovations in areas far afield from prosaic products like refrigerators and night lights. On Sunday, the New York office of BBDO Worldwide, the General Electric agency since 1920, will introduce the theme ''Imagination at work.'' The campaign will present offbeat examples of imagination's aftermath, like what would have happened had a modern-day G.E. jet engine been strapped onto the airplane the Wright brothers flew at Kitty Hawk, N.C., in 1903. The goal of the aggressive overhaul, to be supported this year with more than $100 million worth of television, print and online advertising, is to play up the conglomerate's efforts in realms like medical technology, robotics, media and financial services. The change is also intended to reflect a re-emphasis on research and big long-term ideas under the new G.E. chief executive, Jeffrey R. Immelt. ''We bring good things to life'' first appeared in 1979, predating the appointment of Mr. Immelt's high-profile predecessor, John F. Welch Jr., under whom G.E. flourished until hitting some rough waters in 2001. Advertisement Continue reading the main story Mr. Immelt played a major role in making the change, said Judy L. Hu, general manager for corporate advertising and marketing communications at G.E. in Fairfield, Conn. But, she added, such a weighty decision was made to reflect G.E.'s evolving vision, not to help him stamp his own persona on the company. '' 'We bring good things to life' is a great line and speaks to the benefits we bring, and I was hesitant to move away from it,'' said Ms. Hu, who joined G.E. last summer from General Motors. ''But we needed a new articulation that is part mission, part vision and part strategy.'' Research among consumers showed that the slogan being retired primarily invoked lighting and appliances, she added. Those areas now account for only 6 percent to 7 percent of the revenue of G.E., according to the company. Analysts and corporate identity consultants are divided on the wisdom of relegating ''We bring good things to life'' -- one of the most-recognized themes of its kind -- to the Madison Avenue version of Valhalla. There the slogan will join the likes of previous G.E. themes, including ''Progress is our most important product'' and ''Live better electrically.'' Some worried that General Electric was abandoning decades of building its corporate brand image, a foolhardy endeavor at a time consumers are bombarded with more advertising than ever. ''I'm surprised they felt they couldn't breathe new life into the current theme when 'Imagination at work' seems to be a less differentiating way of saying the same thing,'' said John Lister, chairman of Lister Butler in New York, a corporate- identity-consulting company. Michael Watrous, president and chief executive at Straightline International in New York, another consultant on corporate and brand identities, said G.E.'s top executives ''were going down the wrong road.'' ''We know there has been a change of management and we know the company wants to move on,'' Mr. Watrous said. ''But it's our feeling the equity G.E. has in 'We bring good things to life' is very solid, and there's an opportunity to build on what the company already has.'' Advertisement In fact, Ms. Hu and executives at BBDO New York, part of the Omnicom Group, described the new approach as doing just that. Please verify you're not a robot by clicking the box. Invalid email address. Please re-enter. You must select a newsletter to subscribe to. Sign Up Privacy Policy ''Based on the heritage of 'We bring good things,' '' said Michael Patti, vice chairman and senior executive creative director at BBDO New York, ''we want to capture the can-do spirit of the company going forward, that there's nothing G.E. won't try to accomplish things, to make things happen.'' ''Jeff Immelt wants to say, 'G.E. makes products that make people go, ''Wow,'' ' '' he added. Some analysts and consultants agreed. ''Most advertisers change campaigns more often than you or I change underwear,'' said Gary Stibel, principal at the New England Consulting Group in Westport, Conn., ''and that's why more advertising is not as effective as it was before.'' '' 'Imagination at work' is certainly something G.E. has a right to say,'' he added, ''but it has mighty big shoes to fill.'' Mr. Stibel also said that the new campaign and slogan would allow G.E. to address the challenges it faces on many fronts. For example, the company has had to deal with a disappointing decline in its share price and negative publicity about Mr. Welch's retirement benefits and divorce, and also needs to articulate creative visions for its broadcast and cable television operations like NBC, CNBC, MSNBC and Bravo. ''G.E., for the first time in many years, is being questioned,'' Mr. Stibel said. ''So perhaps it's time to make a dramatic move, without walking away from its legacy.'' The initial commercials in the campaign, which will start appearing during the NBC presentation of the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, seek to walk that fine line, using humor to energize their pitching. One, centered on the company's aviation products, re-imagines the first flight of the Wright brothers a century ago. The plane leaves the earth at breathtaking speed, thanks to a G.E. engine, then morphs into a present-day jet climbing skyward. A second commercial seeks to demonstrate a General Electric product that offers comprehensive medical records to doctors at the sites of emergencies. The service is likened to a brainy clerk who can find one person's medical records dating back decades in a gigantic room filled with boxes of charts and files. That scene evokes the final moments of ''Citizen Kane'' and ''Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.'' Advertisement Continue reading the main story All the spots end with quick shots of numerous G.E. products and logos, like the NBC peacock, a jet engine, a heating coil from a range and a credit card, which conclude with the traditional G.E. rounded logo, called the meatball, and the theme. The print and online ads take a similar tack. Newspaper and magazine ads, which are to begin running Monday, use a fanciful, Monty Python-esque image of more than a century's worth of G.E. products emerging from the brain of Thomas A. Edison. In addition to banner ads, also starting to appear Monday, computer users will be able to draw doodles and share them with friends by sending e-mail messages. The online part of the campaign is being produced by Atmosphere, the BBDO interactive agency. The fate of ''Imagination at work'' is important not just for G.E., but for BBDO as well, because two top executives who were recently promoted to new responsibilities at the agency were involved in its creation and development. One is Andrew Robertson, now chief executive at BBDO North America and president at BBDO Worldwide. The other is Ted Sann, chairman and chief creative officer at BBDO New York and vice chairman and chief creative officer at BBDO Worldwide. ''The idea is to get the spirit of the company to the front and the scale of the company to the back,'' Mr. Robertson said of the purpose of the new theme. Mr. Sann said: ''I worked on the original 'we bring good things' campaign, and it was for housewares, appliances. It later became a corporate campaign, showing things like how G.E. helped invent night baseball. Here, too, there was a message from the company that there needed to be a change. We have to constantly refresh our communication.''
General Electric
What syndicated TV tabloid show, hosted by the former mayor of Cincinnati, focuses on troubled or dysfunctional families, and has been voted “the Worst TV Show Ever Made” by TV Guide?
20 Corporate Brand Logo Evolution | InstantShift 20 Corporate Brand Logo Evolution Posted in Inspiration , Showcases January 29th, 2009 By DKumar M. 336 Comments Advertisement Have you ever wonder how the first Apple logo looks in 30 years back? Did you know Volkswagen was Hitler’s idea? Or how the IBM logo changes over the time? Or where the Mercedes-Benz Brand And The Three-Pointed Star logo came from? As we already know that Logo is the identities that are fundamental to building a brand and communicating with the target audience. Many well-known corporate brand changes their logo to archive the perfect identification because identity’s creation is not an occasional activity, but a permanent one. Below we listed 20 Corporate Brand Logo Evolution with their fascinating stories linked to their current official site. Let’s take a look at the Interesting stories behind the logos of some of the most popular brands in the world. Be sure to let us know if I have missed anything! You may be interested in the following related articles as well. Don’t forget to subscribe to our RSS-feed and follow us on Twitter — for recent updates. Corporate Brand Logo Evolution 01. Apple It is one of the biggest consumer electronics and Software Company, best known for products like Macintosh, iPod and iphone. Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne had together setup Apple in 1976, to sell their hand-built computer Apple I. They had offered their product to HP first but were declined by them. I think HP would still be regretting this today. The road to success wasn’t easy for Apple, and Wayne liquidated his share in the company for a mere $ 800. After the launch of Apple II in 1977, things started to look up for Apple and we all know what heights the company has reached since then. Apple II was successful mainly because it had colored graphics. Great and simple design, has always been the USP (Unique Selling Proposition) for Apple, and their logo is no exception. When Apple was started, the logo was a complicated picture of Isaac Newton sitting under a tree. This had been designed by Jobs and Wayne, with the inscription: “Newton … A Mind Forever Voyaging Through Strange Seas of Thought … Alone.” Frankly, I don’t think it was just a coincidence that Apple had slow sales during this period. However, Steve Jobs hired Rob Janoff to simplify the logo, which turned out to be a great idea. Rob created the ‘Rainbow Apple’ which was the logo for company till 1998. There are many rumors as to why Rob had chosen to create such a logo. One of them says that the Apple was a tribute to Newton (discovery of gravity from an Apple), and since the USP for Apple at that time was colored graphics, it had the rainbow colors. Another explanation exists that the bitten apple pays homage to the Mathematician Alan Turing, who committed suicide by eating an apple he had laced with cyanide. Turing is regarded as the father of computers. The rainbow colors of the logo are rumored to be a reference to the rainbow flag, as homage to Turing’s homosexuality. Janoff, however, said in an interview that though he was mindful of the “byte/bite” pun (Apple’s slogan back then: “Byte into an Apple”), he designed the logo as such to “prevent the apple from looking like a cherry tomato.” When Apple launched the new iMac in 1998, they changed their logo to a monochromatic apple logo, almost identical to the rainbow logo. Now, the Apple logo comes with nice gradient chrome silver design. It is one of the most recognized brand symbols in the world today, and the shape is what identifies the company more than the color. Official Link 02. Shell Back in 1900, when the company was started the logo was a realistic and simple shell which lies flat on the ground. This was a pectin or scallop shell, but today the company has a logo which is bold, colorful and much more simplistic. The evolution of the logo began after 1915, when rendering enabled the company to reproduce its identity easily. This is visible in the 1930 logo for the company. When the company started a project in California, it added the red and yellow colors to the symbol. The colors help Shell to stand out. Additionally, these are the colors of Spain, where many Californian settlers were born, which might have helped the company to create an emotional bond with the people. With the advent of internet and fax machines over the later years, it became necessary for the company to simplify their logo, which would prevent it from being distorted in small images. The 1971 logo designed by Raymond Loewy is very simple as compared to the earlier logos. This has helped the company because this logo is more memorable and recognizable, accountable to the simplicity of the logo. The 1971 logo is still used by the company albeit with minor changes, but it has become so recognizable that it often appears without the company name now. Official Link 03. Xerox The Xerox Company used to be known as the Haloid Company almost 100 years ago. But in 1938, Chester Carlson invented a technique called xerography which we today call the photocopy technique. Unfortunately no one was willing to invest in his invention, and many big giants like IBM, GE, RCA and others decided not to finance this invention. But Haloid Company decided to go with Chester and made the first photocopying machine named Haloid Xerox 14. As can be seen in their logos, the original Haloid word which was prominent in the company’s logo before 1961 was completely replaced by Xerox due to the immense success of this idea. They retained almost the same logo from 1961 to 2004. But in 2004 there was a problem with the Xerox books and it tried to reinvent itself with a new logo. People associate the company only with photocopy machines, and that has been a major problem for Xerox. The company changed its logo in 2008 to get away from this stereotyped image, by changing the font of the word. They also added a ball which has a stylish X instead of their ‘boring’ X in earlier times According to Anne M. Mulcahy , Xerox’s chief, that little piece of art represents the connection to customers, partners, industry and innovation. Official Link 04. BMW BMW or Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (Bavarian Motor Works) was originally founded as an aircraft company. The aircrafts manufactured were painted with the colors of the Bavarian flag, which is the color of BMW logo. Another explanation is that when the pilot used to sit in the plane he would see alternating segments of white and blue due to rotation the plane propeller (blue being the sky). The major business of BMW was to supply planes to the German army during World War I. But after the war they were forced to change their business. It made railway brakes, before making motorized bicycle, motorcycles and cars. The logo itself hasn’t changed a lot during the years, but now has a more stylish look due to the different gradients. The unchanged logo has made it easier for people to remember and has given the company more recognition. Official Link 05. Nike Nike probably got the best deal amongst all companies when Caroline Davidson designed its logo for just $35 in 1971. The main part of the logo hasn’t really changed with time. However, I don’t understand why they waited for 7 years before they realized that the text and the swoosh were overlapping each other. As the brand gained recognition, the company name was dropped from the logo, which made it more simplistic and memorable. The company has different variations of this logo for its various departments like Skate, Soccer etc. Official Link 06. IBM As you would observe from the logos above that IBM was earlier known as The International Time Recording Company (ITR), whose major products were mechanical time recorders, invented and patented by Willard L. Bundy in 1888. So in the earlier periods the logo of the company had ITR inscribed on it. Later in 1911, ITR was merged with the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company, which is why you will see that both ITR and CTR are there in the 1911 logo. In 1924, the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company adapted the name International Business Machines Corporation. The ornate, rococo letters that formed the “CTR” logo were replaced by the words “Business Machines” in more contemporary sans-sarif type, and in a form intended to suggest a globe, girdled by the word “International.” In 1947, IBM decided to drop the globe from its logo, which was by then quite familiar amongst the people. The logo was not the only change in 1947; it was accompanied by a change in business from the punched-card tabulating business to computers. The typeface of this logo was called Beton Bold. In 1956, before Thomas J. Watson, Sr died he appointed Tom Watson, Jr. as the CEO. Tom Watson, Jr. decided to project the beginning of a new era in the company, for that he changed the company’s logo as well as the actions. Paul Rand designed the new logo which represented that the changes in the company would be subtle and will not disrupt the continuity. Also, the new logo looked more solid, grounded and balanced. Another change in the logo was designed by Paul Rand which had stripes instead of the solid font. It depicted ‘speed and dynamism’. Since, then the logo has more or less remained the same, and the design has been recognized and replicated all over the world. Official Link 07. Canon The company had always wanted a global perspective, and the logos reflected the same as early as 1934. A specialized advertising designer had created the logo which included typeface never seen before in Europe or North America. The first camera launched by the company in 1934, was named as Kwanon, after the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The logo included the wordings and a picture of the goddess with 1000 arms and flames. As the years went by, like all other logos we have seen above, the company strived to make the logo as simple and memorable as possible. The logo had only been trademarked in 1935, and after that a lot of designing work went into making the logo more balanced. After 1956, the logo hasn’t been changed, but the designing effort is clearly visible in their simple but classic logo. Official Link 08. Google The clarity of thought is visible in the company’s logo right from the very beginning, when in 1996 two Stanford University computer science graduate students Larry Page and Sergey Brin built the search engine. The name of the search engine is derived from Googol (meaning one followed by 100 zeros). Google’s first logo was created by Sergey Brin, after he taught himself to use the free graphic software GIMP. Later, an exclamation mark mimicking the Yahoo! logo was added. In 1999, Stanford’s Consultant Art Professor Ruth Kedar designed the Google logo that the company uses today. Official Link 09. Kodak Interestingly, Kodak was the first company to integrate its name and looks into one symbol in 1907. After 1935, Kodak predominantly used yellow and red colors and the complete name of the company. First time the Kodak name was completely written in the logo in 1935, which began the use of yellow and red colors as well. In 1960, they tried to show a flip page as a logo, but was changed to a box and graphic “K” element in 1971. I think the logo in 1971 was quite trendy, but it might have been a little complex. Retaining the 1971 concept, there was a slight variation in the font in 1987. The new font looked contemporary. Again, like other companies, Kodak decided to simplify their logo in 1996, and removed the boxes. The red color gives a more brighter and structured feel of the company. In 2006, again a slight variation was made in the logo with a rounded ‘a’ and ‘d’, to give a contemporary look. Official Link 10. Microsoft The Microsoft story began in 1975, when Bill Gates and his friend Paul Allen coded the first computer language for a PC and named it BASIC. Soon they named their partnership as Micro-Soft which explains the first logo of the company. They changed the logo in that year itself and dropped the hyphen too. For the next 12 years, the logo had a distinctive O. The employees called this as “Blibbet”. It is said that at that time, the Microsoft cafeteria even had a double cheeseburger named “”Blibbet Burger”. When a new logo came on in 1987, there was a campaign within the company to “Save the Blibbet”. But, this couldn’t stop the company from adopting a new logo. The logo designed by Scott Baker, came to be known as “the Pacman logo” due to the distinctive cut in the O. In 1994, they integrated their tagline ‘Where do you want to go today?’ within the logo. This was widely mocked and the company kept trying different taglines like People Ready, Start Something, Making it Easier etc. The new 2008 logo has all the text in Italics (including the tagline), but the look of the logo has remained pretty much the same. Basically, the company is so well renowned already, that I don’t think the logo needs to change, since people already recognize and connect with it worldwide. 11. Volkswagen Volkswagen means ‘People’s car’ in German. The history of the company is tied with Adolf Hitler. Before the rise of Hitler, the German economy was in a very bad shape; as a result people couldn’t afford to buy cars. In 1933, Hitler raised the idea of an inexpensive car in the Auto show. In 1934, Ferdinand Porsche met with Hitler to design the car. Hitler gave him all the specifications of the car and Porsche promised to deliver the design. In 1937, the Gesellschaft zur Vorbereitung des Deutschen Volkswagens mbH was created (it became simply Volkswagenwerk GmbH a year later). In 1938, Hitler opened a state funded Volkswagen factory in Walburg. It was suppose to produce commercial cars, but it was used to churn out military cars. It was only later found that Hitler had intended to use the Porsche car as a military vehicle only, which could carry 3 men and a machine gun. After the WWII, Britishers took over the company. They renamed the car as Beetle. Surprisingly all the car makers like Fiat and Ford declined to take ‘free control’ of the Volkswagen factory. So, it was returned to the German government, and went on to become one of the world’s bestselling cars ever. The first logo was designed by Franz Xavier Reimspiess, a Porsche employee during an office logo design competition. The main part of the logo hasn’t changed much, but understandably after the WWII, they got rid of the design around the circle which seems to be inspired from the Nazi flag. I love the colors that were added in 2000, to the logo which was built after WWII, it depicts a positive change in the company and the ability to adapt to the new millennium. Official Link 12. MasterCard In 1966, seventeen bankers formed a federation for the reciprocal acceptance of their credit cards. They called this federation as Interbank and hence, the first 1966 logo. The ‘i’ was used to identify the participating members of Interbank Card Association. In 1969, the name was changed to Master Charge. The new logo had the two familiar intersecting circles which make sense when we think about the interbank card business. Also, the ‘i’ was retained at the bottom to show continuity and also to make it easy for people to recognize their earlier familiar logo. Finally, in 1979, the name MasterCard was adopted and they lost the ‘i’ from the logo. In 1990, bold colors were adopted which also made it easier to recognize the 23 horizontal bars between the two circles, which I think denoted the idea of multiple simultaneous interbank relationships. The logo looks more contemporary and simple, with an italic, sans-serif typeface. In 1996, a more prominent font replaces the old font, and the number of bars was also reduced, resulting in a simple and powerful logo. The Brand Mark’s visibility, recognition, and overall brand image are improved, with new features including larger lettering highlighted with a drop shadow, fewer interlocking bars within the red and yellow circles, and a new dark blue background for use on decals and signage. Official Link 13. Mozilla Firefox An open source web browser, created by Dave Hyatt and Blake Ross, was first of all named as Phoenix, which is visible in their first logo in 2002. Due to some trademark issues, the name had to be changed to Firebird, but the name was chosen so that they would be able to retain the same logo. Unfortunately, this name also had trademark issues because of existing software. Then, they finally got lucky and chose the name Firefox, which has become one of the favorite and most used browser worldwide. In 2003, the now famous logo was designed by professional interface designer John Hicks. The logo depicted a Firefox engulfing the whole world, which also signifies the global reach that the company strived for. There has been a minor change in the logo since then, with the colors of the continents using a lighter blue color, just to differentiate them better from the oceans. Official Link 14. Pepsi Today, one of the biggest soft drinks company, was first started by Caleb Bradham in 1890’s. Initially named as Brad’s drink the name was quickly changed to Pepsi-Cola, which is visible in the first 1898 logo. Finally in 1903, the name was trademarked and hasn’t been changed till date. In the early years, Brad made custom logos for the brand as it became more famous. In 1933, the company was bought by Loft, Inc. The company changed the bottle size from 6 to 12 oz. and came up with the ‘Refreshing and Healthful’ logo. However, the major breakthrough in the Pepsi logo design came in 1940’s. Walter Mack, the CEO of Pepsi came up with the idea of a new bottle design, with a crown having the Pepsi logo. The ‘Pepsi Globe’ emerged when USA was in WWII, and to support the country’s war efforts, Pepsi had a blue, red and white logo. This logo became hugely popular, and went on to be the identifier for the company. As a result, in 1950 and 1962, this bottle cap with the swirling blue and red became prominent in the company logo. During the 1960’s when it became even more popular, the script was changed from the curly red, and the main attraction was on the bottle cap in the logo. We see the first appearance of the Pepsi Globe instead of the bottle cap in 1973. The typeface was made smaller so as to fit in the globe. The Pepsi Globe was “boxed in”, with a red bar coming in from the left and a light-blue bar coming in from the right. In 1991, the typeface was moved from inside the globe. The red bar was lengthened and the typeface came on the top of the globe. In 1998, the white background in the logo was replaced by the blue color, which also resulted in dropping the red horizontal band. The globe now had 3D graphic and larger than earlier versions. It might be that since, Pepsi and the globe touch each other for the first time in the logo, the name ‘the Pepsi Globe’ was given to the logo. After 1998, it seems that Pepsi had decided to give the globe more prominence than the script itself. So, the globe came on top of the script in 2003, and in their current logo they have done away with the script altogether. Official Link 15. LG LG was formed from two different companies named Lucky (chemical cosmetic company, 1947) and Goldstar (radio manufacturing plant, 1958). Though, these were different companies they were essentially owned by one person. In 1995, Lucky Goldstar was renamed to LG Electronics. Actually, LG is a chaebol (a South Korean conglomerate), so there’s a whole range of LG companies that also changed their names, such as LG Chemicals, LT Telecom, and even a baseball team called the LG Twins. These companies all adopted the “Life is Good” tagline you often see alongside its logo. LG denies that their name now stands for Lucky Goldstar. They’re just “LG.” Official Link 16. Mercedes-Benz The Mercedes-Benz was formed by the merger of two car companies – DMG (Daimler-Motored-Gesellschaft, founded by Gottlieb Daimler) and Benz & Cie, founded by Karl Benz. Both the companies were similar in their work and were situated in close proximity. It was after the World War I, when the German economy was shattered, that both these companies decided to from a syndicate in 1924, and then finally merge in 1926, called Diamler-Benz. In 1902, the logo for Mercedes was nothing more than the simple company name. However, it was changed to a 3 pointed star in 1909. The origin of this star came from a postcard by Diamler, where he had drawn a 3 pointed star which represented ‘making vehicles in land water and sky’. After 1926, a new symbol for Mercedes-Benz came into picture, where the original logo of both the companies was merged into one. It combined the 3 pointed star of Mercedes and the laurel wreath of Benz. Over the years, the symbol has been improved vastly in design and simplicity. It has been recognized as a symbol representing luxury and top tier cars. Official Link 17. General Electric The company has a great history. It was formed in 1892 by the merger of Edison Electric Light Company (founded by Thomas Edison to sell his invention, the light bulb) and Thomson-Houston Electric Company. The basic logo font face is still quite similar to what it was in 1892. Over time, a circle engulfing the company name has been added to the logo, which might be due to the increasing global presence and vision of the company. The current logo, which was designed by Wolff Olins, adds blue color to the logo instead of the black color which had been used in all the previous logos. Accompanied with the logo change was also a change in the tagline of the company from “We bring good things to life” to “Imagination at work”. Official Link 18. Nokia ‘Nokia’ in Finnish means means a dark, furry animal we now call the Pine Marten weasel. However, this has little to do with the current business and brand image. The origin of the company name, can rather be attributed to the setting up of the wood pulp mill (set up by Knut Fredrik Idestam), on the banks of Nokianvirta river in the town of Nokia. The Nokia Corporation was formed as a merger of Finnish Rubber Works (which also used a Nokia brand), the Nokia Wood Mill, and the Finnish Cable Works in 1967. The company has sold a variety of products in the past including television, shoes, car tires and others. The evolution and the meaning of the logo is unclear due to the changing business over the years. Official Link 19. Ford Henry Ford used to work for Thomas Edison. He founded two companies before settling on Ford. His first company went bankrupt after just two years, and he left the second company after just one year. However, the second company became Cadillac later on. His third company, founded in 1902, was called Ford & Malcomson, Ltd. He was unable to pay the bills for parts in his third company, but some investors agreed to put money in the company, and it was renamed as Ford Motor Co. This is the company name in the first logo of 1903. The 1909 logo, which has a similar font as today’s logo was borrowed from Childe Harold Wills, who had made this font for his business card. In 1912, the Ford logo was given a complete makeover, as compared to the earlier simplistic design. When a car was launched in 1927, called Model A, the famous blue oval was introduced in the logo. This was the shape and color, on which all future Ford logos have been made. The company has experimented with different shape going from ellipse to circle, and even a diamond like shape in 1957. The 1976 logo was essentially, the last major change in the symbol, and is very similar to their current logo. Finally, in 2003, the company released a new logo, which came to be known as “Centennial Blue Oval”. Official Link 20. Wal-Mart The company has tried out various colors and variation of the word Walmart over the years. In 1962, when Sam Walton started, the company, the logo had simply the word spelled in a very basic design. The logo was changed in 1964, when a hyphen was added and the color was also changed from blue to black. This came to be known as the “Frontier Font Logo”. The 1968 logo shown here is the discount city logo, which was mainly used for uniforms, in-store signing etc, but it was never used to advertise or even in annual reports. The 1981 logo changed the curly font to a more solid font, giving the company a more stable, established and balanced look. The hyphen in this logo was replaced by the star in 1992, and the familiar blue color of the logo returned for the first time after the company’s inception. Walmart is probably one of the few companies, who have tried so many logos, but their current logo is more like the original logo, other than any other intermediate logo. The font differs a little from the original and is indeed more stylish, but the ‘Walmart’ word without a break appears for the first time after 1962. They have kept the star from 1992, but moved it to the end. Official Link Find something Missing? Is your favorite Logo Evolution not on the list? Share it with us in the comments, along with the link if you have any. Some Detailed Logo History References! If you like to read some interesting Corporate Brand Logo Evolutions in details the refer the following list.
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Which vehicle, according to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, is most likely to be stolen, a position of honor it's held for 6 of the last 7 years?
Wed, 11 Jan 2017 17:09:15 +0000 Toyota Highlander earns top IIHS award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/toyota-highlander-earns-top-iihs-award-011117.html <h3>The vehicle&#39;s front crash prevention system earned a superior rating</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">January 11, 2017</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="31259" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Toyota_Highlander_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />A superior-rated front crash prevention system andacceptable-rated headlights have earned the 2017 Toyota Highlanderthe <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's</a> (IIHS) top award.</p> <p>Unlike most TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners, which only meet the front crash prevention and headlight criteria when they are equipped with optional features, the Highlander qualifies for the award with standard equipment.</p> <p>In IIHS track tests of the 2017 system, the midsize SUV avoided a collision in the 12 mph test. In the 25 mph test, it avoided a collision in 4 out of 5 runs and slowed 21 mph the fifth time.</p> <p>The new standard front crash prevention system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets criteria set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.</p> <p>To qualify for 2017 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five IIHS crashworthiness tests -- small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints -- as well as an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention and an acceptable or good headlight rating.</p> James Limbach IIHS: Most child booster seats do a fine job https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-most-child-booster-seats-do-a-fine-job-111716.html <h3>That doesn&#39;t mean there aren&#39;t problems, though</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">November 17, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="29765" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Booster_seat_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />Child seat manufacturers have finally gotten the hang of it.</p> <p>Out of 53 new models evaluated by the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a>, (IIHS) 48 earn the top rating of BEST BET. That means they're likely to provide good belt fit for a 4 to 8 year-old in almost any car, minivan, or SUV.</p> <p>By comparison, when the IIHS first started rating boosters in 2008, only a quarter of those evaluated earned the BEST BET designation.</p> <h2>Problems persist</h2> <p>However, several seats that dont do their job and are rated Not Recommended can still be found on store shelves. Among them are two brand new models from Dorel Juvenile.</p> <p>Parents looking for a safe option for kids who have outgrown seats with built-in harnesses have more choices than ever, said IIHS Senior Research Engineer Jessica Jermakian. Unfortunately, we cant declare total victory because manufacturers continue to sell subpar boosters.</p> <p>Of the 53 new seats, the Cosco Easy Elite and the Cosco Highback 2-in-1 DX -- both made by Dorel -- are rated Not Recommended. Three others, the Britax Parkway SGL in backless mode, the Lil Fan Club Seat 2-in-1 in highback mode, and the Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120are rated Check Fit, meaning they may work for some children in some vehicles. The remaining new seats are BEST BETs.</p> <p>All told, there are 118 BEST BETs among currently available boosters, including old models. Additionally, there are nine GOOD BETs (seats that provide acceptable belt fit in most vehicles), 27 Check Fit, and five Not Recommended.</p> <h2>A range of prices</h2> <p>Top-rated boosters are available in all different price ranges. Of the boosters introduced this year, the most affordable is the Harmony Big Boost Deluxe, available at Walmart for less than $25.</p> <p>The most expensive is the $330 Graco 4Ever All-in-1 with Safety Surround, a rear-facing infant seat that converts first to a forward-facing child restraint and then to a booster as the child grows.</p> <p>Complete ratings may be found at <a href="http://www.iihs.org/" target="_blank">www.iihs.org/</a>.</p> James Limbach Most pickup trucks in the dark when it comes to headlight ratings https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/most-pickup-trucks-in-the-dark-when-it-comes-to-headlight-ratings-102516.html <h3>Seven of eight vehicles tested got poor ratings</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">October 25, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="29045" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Pickup_truck_headlights_Photo_c_Dennis_Cox_-_Fotolia_large.jpg" style="undefined" />When it comes to throwing sufficient light on the subject, most pickup trucks don't get the job done.</p> <p>According to the <a href="http://www.iihs.org/" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS), all four small late-model pickups and three out of seven large vehicles that were evaluated got poor ratings.</p> <p>In fact, only one large pickup -- the Honda Ridgeline -- is available with good-rated headlights, though all but the most expensive trim levels come with poor ones.</p> <p>Pickups are the third vehicle category to be put through the IIHS headlight evaluations. <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards#iihs-time-to-turn-on-the-headlights" target="_blank">Midsize cars</a> were the first, followed by <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-most-small-suv-headlights-rate-poor-071216.html" target="_blank">small SUVs</a>.</p> <p>"These latest ratings follow the same disappointing pattern as the other groups," says Matthew Brumbelow, an IIHS senior research engineer. "As vehicle safety has improved in recent years, this important equipment has been overlooked."</p> <h2>How they are tested</h2> <p>In the IIHS evaluations, engineers measure how far light is projected from a vehicle's low beams and high beams as the vehicle travels straight and on curves. Glare from low beams for oncoming drivers also is measured.</p> <p>There are 23 possible headlight combinations for the 11 trucks evaluated. Fourteen of them have excessive glare, contributing to their poor ratings. A vehicle cannot earn a rating better than marginal if it produces too much glare in any of the five test scenarios.</p> <h2>How'd we do?</h2> <p>A bright spot in the ratings is the headlight system on the Ridgeline's RTL-E and Black Edition trims. The LED projector low beams provide fair to good visibility on most approaches, with inadequate visibility only on the gradual left curve.</p> <p>High-beam assist, a feature that automatically switches on high beams if no other vehicles are present, makes up for some of the deficiencies of the low beams.</p> <p>The GMC Sierra has acceptable-rated headlights available on certain trims. Other versions earn a marginal or poor rating.</p> <p>The two kinds of headlights available on the Nissan Titan both earn a marginal rating. The Ram 1500 has marginal headlights on certain trim levels, while others have poor ones.</p> <p>The Ford F-150, the centerpiece of the best-selling F-Series line, is among the poorest performers. Both the base halogen and the optional LED low beams provide inadequate visibility in all test scenarios, including both sides of the straightaway, on sharp curves in both directions and on gradual curves in both directions.</p> <p>The headlights with the worst visibility are on the Chevrolet Colorado. The halogen reflector low beams on the pickup's base trim illuminate to only 123 feet on the right side of the straightaway. In contrast, the Ridgeline LED low beams illuminate to 358 feet.</p> <p>IIHS is incorporating headlights into the criteria for its highest award, TOP SAFETY PICK+. To qualify for the 2017 award, vehicles will need good or acceptable headlights.</p> James Limbach An IIHS top safety award for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/an-iihs-top-safety-award-for-the-mercedes-benz-c-class-100416.html <h3>The midsize luxury car aced the battery of tests</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">October 4, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="28367" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016_Mercedes-Benz_C-Class_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />And the winner is...</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> ( IIHS) has bestowed its TOP SAFETY PICK+ award on the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.</p> <p>The award came as the midsize luxury car earned good ratings in all five of the Institute's crashworthiness evaluations -- small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints.</p> <p>The vehicle also has a standard front crash prevention system that earns an advanced rating. An additional, optional system boosts the car's front crash prevention rating to superior.</p> <p>The C-Class was redesigned for 2015, but IIHS only recently evaluated it for crashworthiness. The car's structure held up well in the challenging small overlap test with maximum intrusion into the occupant compartment of just 4 inches.The earlier generation of the C-Classhad intrusion of 20 inches at the footrest and earned a marginal rating.</p> <p>The roof strength test also yielded notable results. The C-Class was found to have a strength-to-weight ratio of 7, among the highest ever registered.A ratio of 4 or higher is required for a good rating. Roof strength is important for protection in a rollover crash.</p> <p>To qualify for 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five IIHS crashworthiness tests and an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> James Limbach IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award goes to the 2017 Kia Sedona https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-top-safety-pick-award-goes-to-the-2017-kia-sedona-100316.html <h3>Optional automatic braking technology made the difference</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">October 3, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="28316" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2017-Kia-Sedona_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />The addition of optional automatic braking technology has qualified the 2017 Kia Sedona for the highest award from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS).</p> <p>Like earlier models, the minivan earned good ratings across the board in IIHS crashworthiness evaluations. The addition of autobrake boosts its front crash prevention rating from basic to superior.</p> <p>In IIHS track tests at 12 mph and 25 mph, a Sedona equipped with the new front crash prevention system avoided collisions. The system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests.</p> <p>It also must earn an advanced or superior rating forfront crash prevention.</p> James Limbach New Buick SUV takes top IIHS safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/new-buick-suv-takes-top-iihs-safety-award-092816.html <h3>It&#39;s the first Chinese-built vehicle that IIHS has tested</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">September 28, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="28211" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Buick_Envision_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />A new midsize SUV from Buick has qualified for the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.</p> <p>The Envision -- the first Chinese-built vehicle that IIHS has tested as part of its consumer ratings -- earned good ratings across the board for crashworthiness.</p> <h2>Two braking systems offered</h2> <p>The vehicle is available with Front Automatic Braking, an advanced-rated front crash prevention system that's optional for both 2016 and 2017 models.</p> <p>A different system -- Forward Collision Alert -- earns a basic rating. Forward Collision Alert is standard on all 2016 Envisions not equipped with autobrake but is optional on 2017 models.</p> <p>In the IIHS 12-mph track test, the Envision with the autobrake system avoided a collision. In the 25-mph test, its impact speed was reduced by 9 mph.</p> <p>The system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests.</p> <p>It also must earn an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> James Limbach Cadillac's new SUV earns top IIHS safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/cadillacs-new-suv-earns-top-iihs-safety-award-092616.html <h3>The vehicle performed well in all five safety tests</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">September 26, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="28142" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Cadillac_XT5_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />The new 2017 Cadillac XT5 midsize luxury SUV has been awarded the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety'</a>s (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.</p> <p>In addition to earning good ratings in all five of the Institute's crashworthiness evaluations, the midsize luxury SUV -- when equipped with optional front crash prevention -- received a superior or advanced rating, depending on the package selected.</p> <h2>Varying braking packages offered</h2> <p>When equipped with both Front Automatic Braking and Low-Speed Front Automatic Braking, the XT5 earns a superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> <p>In the 12 mph IIHS track test, it consistently avoided a collision. In the 25 mph test, it avoided a collision in four out of five runs and slowed but didn't stop completely in the fifth.</p> <p>When equipped with low-speed autobrake only, the XT5 earns an advanced rating. It avoided a collision in the 12 mph test, while in the 25 mph test, the impact speed was cut by 9 mph.</p> <p>Both front crash prevention packages also include forward collision warning that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests. It also must have an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach Chrysler Pacifica earns top IIHS safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/chrysler-pacifica-earns-top-iihs-safety-award-092116.html <h3>It&#39;s the first minivan to do so</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">September 21, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="28025" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Chrysler_Pacifica_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />The Chrysler Pacifica, which replaces the Town & Country, is the first minivan to earn the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.</p> <p>The newly introduced vehicle has good ratings in the IIHS five crashworthiness tests. However, the good rating in the small overlap front test applies only to Pacificas manufactured after August, when changes were made to prevent the driver door from opening during a small overlap crash. Before those improvements were made, the door was torn from its hinges and came open at the front.</p> <h2>Major improvements</h2> <p>Fiat Chrysler strengthened the upper hinge and reinforced the joint between the door hinge pillar and inner body panel in front of the pillar. When the vehicle was tested a second time, the door remained attached and closed -- resulting in a good rating. In contrast, the Town & Country was rated poor for small overlap protection, due to severe intrusion into the driver space.</p> <p>The Pacifica is available with an optional front crash prevention system, which earns a superior rating. In IIHS track tests at 25 mph and 12 mph, the vehicle avoided collisions. The system also gets credit for a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests.</p> <p>It also must have an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach IIHS finds improvement in child seat installation hardware https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-finds-improvement-in-child-seat-installation-hardware-090216.html <h3>Most models are now rated good or acceptable</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">September 2, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="15844" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/LATCH_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />What a difference a year makes.</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) says it's now a lot easier to secure your child in a late-model vehicle than it was just 12 months ago.</p> <p>In the institute's LATCH ease-of-use ratings of child seat installation hardware in vehicles for<a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-rates-latch-hardware-in-vehicles-for-ease-of-use" target="_blank">June 2015</a>, the majority of the 102 vehicles rated were poor or marginal. This year, a total of 170 current models were evaluated, and most were good or acceptable. In fact, three models -- the Audi Q7, the Lexus RX, and the Toyota Prius -- earn the top rating of good+, a distinction that no vehicle achieved last year.</p> <p>LATCH, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, is intended to make it easier for caregivers to install child restraints properly. Child restraints installed with LATCH are more likely to be put in correctly than restraints installed using the vehicle safety belt, IIHS research has shown. A properly installed, age-appropriate child restraint can protect a child much better in a crash than a safety belt alone.</p> <p>"Frustrating child seat installations have become a familiar rite of parenthood," said Jessica Jermakian, an IIHS senior research engineer. "Unfortunately, these frustrations lead to mistakes that can have real consequences in the event of a crash. We're pleased to see automakers taking this issue seriously and making improvements in response to our ratings."</p> <h2>The ratings</h2> <p>In the IIHS ratings system, LATCH hardware is considered good if it meets the following criteria:</p> <ul> <li>The lower anchors are no more than inch deep within the seat bight or slightly deeper if there is open access around them.</li> <li>The lower anchors are easy to maneuver around. This is defined as having a clearance angle greater than 54 degrees.</li> <li>The force required to attach a standardized tool representing a child seat connector to the lower anchors is less than 40 pounds.</li> <li>Tether anchors are on the vehicle's rear deck or on the top 85 percent of the seatback. They shouldn't be at the very bottom of the seatback, under the seat, on the ceiling, or on the floor.</li> <li>The area where the tether anchor is found doesn't have any other hardware that could be confused for the tether anchor. If other hardware is present, then the tether anchor must have a clear label located within 3 inches of it.</li> </ul> <p>To earn a good rating, two LATCH positions in the second row must meet all five criteria, and a third tether anchor must meet both tether criteria. The good+ rating is for vehicles that meet the criteria for a good rating and provide additional LATCH-equipped seating positions.</p> <p>The good+ designation is intended to encourage manufacturers to give parents greater flexibility when seating children in a vehicle.</p> <h2>Vehicle ratings</h2> <p>Here's how the vehicles that were tested are rated:</p> <table class="newsTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 1px 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(0, 204, 0);">GOOD+</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Audi Q7</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lexus RX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Prius</td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 1px 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(0, 204, 0);">GOOD</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Audi A4</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">BMW 5 series</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mercedes-Benz GL-Class</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Audi A6</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mercedes-Benz C-Class</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class</td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">BMW 2 series</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mercedes-Benz E-Class</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volkswagen Passat</td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 51);">ACCEPTABLE</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Acura ILX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Flex</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lexus GX 460</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Acura MDX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford Focus hatchback</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Lincoln MKX</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Acura RDX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Focus sedan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lincoln MKZ</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Audi A3</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford Taurus</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mazda 3 hatchback</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Audi Q3</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">GMC Terrain</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mazda 3 sedan</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">BMW X1</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">GMC Yukon XL</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mazda CX-3</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Buick Enclave</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda Accord sedan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mazda CX-5</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Buick Encore</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Honda Civic sedan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mazda CX-9</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Cadillac XT5</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda Civic coupe</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mini Cooper Countryman</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Cruze Limited</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Honda Odyssey</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mitsubishi Outlander</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Equinox</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda Pilot</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mitsubishi Outlander Sport</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Impala</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">2017 Hyundai Elantra</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Juke</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Malibu Limited</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Hyundai Santa Fe</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Nissan Maxima</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Spark</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Murano</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Tahoe</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Hyundai Tucson</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Nissan Pathfinder</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Traverse</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Hyundai Veloster</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Versa</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Trax</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Jeep Cherokee</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Avalon</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chrysler 300</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Jeep Compass</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Camry</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chrysler Town & Country</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Jeep Patriot</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Corolla</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Dodge Challenger</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Kia Forte</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Sienna<br /> built after 3/16</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Dodge Dart</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Kia Optima</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volkswagen Golf</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Dodge Durango</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Kia Sedona</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Volkswagen Tiguan</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Dodge Grand Caravan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Kia Sorento</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volvo S60</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford Edge</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Kia Soul</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Volvo V60</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Expedition</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Kia Sportage</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volvo XC90</td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford Explorer</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Lexus ES 350<br /> built after 8/15</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">MARGINAL</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Acura TLX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">2017 Ford Fusion</td> <td class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; float: none !important;">Nissan Quest</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Audi Q5</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Mustang</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Nissan Rogue</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">BMW 3 series</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">GMC Acadia</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Sentra</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">BMW X3</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda Accord coupe</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ram 1500 crew cab</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">BMW X5</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Honda CR-V</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ram 1500 extended cab</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Buick Envision</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda HR-V</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Scion FR-S</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Buick LaCrosse</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Hyundai Accent sedan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Scion iA</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Cadillac CTS</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Hyundai Genesis</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Subaru Crosstrek</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Cadillac Escalade ESV</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Hyundai Sonata</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Subaru Forester</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Cadillac SRX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Infiniti QX60</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Subaru Impreza</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Camaro</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Jeep Grand Cherokee</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Subaru Legacy</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Malibu</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Jeep Renegade</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Subaru Outback</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ext. cab</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Jeep Wrangler 2-door</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Subaru WRX</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Sonic</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Jeep Wrangler 4-door</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota 4Runner</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Suburban</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Kia Rio</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Highlander</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Chevrolet Volt</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lexus CT 200h</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Prius c</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chrysler 200</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Lexus IS</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Prius v<br /> built after 1/16</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Chrysler Pacifica<br /> built after 8/2016</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lexus NX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota RAV4</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Dodge Charger</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Lexus RC</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Tundra crew cab<br /> built after 4/2016</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Dodge Journey</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lincoln Navigator</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Tundra extended cab<br /> built after 2/2016</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Fiat 500X</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mazda 6</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Volkswagen CC</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford C-Max Hybrid</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mini Cooper</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volkswagen Jetta</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">2017 Ford Escape</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Altima</td> <td class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; float: none !important;">Volvo XC60</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford F-150 crew cab</td> <td class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Nissan Frontier crew cab</td> <td class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"></td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford F-150 extended cab</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Leaf</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">POOR</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew cab</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">GMC Sierra 1500 crew cab</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Infiniti QX50</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Fiesta hatchback</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Hyundai Accent hatchback</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Subaru BRZ</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;"><span class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Ford Fiesta sedan</span></td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;"><span class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Infiniti Q70</span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> James Limbach Improved small overlap rating earns Hyundai Elantra IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/improved-small-overlap-rating-earns-hyundai-elantra-iihs-top-safety-pick-072716.html <h3>The rating applies only to vehicles built after March</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">July 27, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="26323" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2017_Hyundai_Elantra_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />Across-the-board good ratings for crashworthiness -- including in the challenging small overlap test -- have earned the redesigned Hyundai Elantra the top award from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS)</p> <p>The redesigned 2017 Elantra also has an available front crash prevention system that earned a superior rating.</p> <p>The small vehicle's good small overlap rating is an improvement over the previous generation, which rated acceptable. The earlier model's structure did not fare well in the test. Maximum intrusion into the occupant space was nine inches. In the new Elantra, it's only 2 inches.</p> <p>The good rating applies only to 2017 Elantras built after March, when additional modifications were made. Those changes included strengthening the junction between the door sill and the hinge pillar and modifying the frontal airbag.</p> <p>The Elantra's optional front crash prevention system avoided a collision in the Institute's 12 mph track test. In the 25 mph test, the car's impact speed was cut by an average of 22 mph. The system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests. It also must have an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach IIHS: Most small SUV headlights rated as poor https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-most-small-suv-headlights-rate-poor <h3>Only a a handful received an acceptable rating</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">July 12, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="25798" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Headlights_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />Disappointing results from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safetys</a> (IIHS) headlight evaluations, as not one small SUV out of 21 tested earned a good rating. Furthermore, only four are available with acceptable-rated headlights.</p> <p>There are 47 different headlight combinations available among the 21 vehicles. More than two-thirds of them are rated poor, making the group even more deficient when it comes to lighting than the midsize cars that were the first to be <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-time-to-turn-on-the-headlights-033016.html" target="_blank">rated earlier this year</a>.</p> <p>Headlight performance in todays vehicles varies widely. Government standards are based on laboratory tests which, according to IIHS, dont accurately gauge performance in real-world driving. About half of traffic deaths occur either in the dark or around dawn or dusk.</p> <p>As with midsize cars, the IIHS evaluations of small SUVs showed that a vehicles price tag doesnt correspond to the quality of headlights. More modern lighting types, including high-intensity discharge (HID),LED lamps, and curve-adaptive systems, which swivel in the direction of steering, also are no guarantee of good performance.</p> <p>Manufacturers arent paying enough attention to the actual on-road performance of this basic equipment, said IIHS Senior Research Engineer Matthew Brumbelow. Were optimistic that improvements will come quickly now that weve given automakers something to strive for.</p> <p>For 2017, vehicles will need good or acceptable headlights in order to qualify for the Institutes highest award, TOP SAFETY PICK+.</p> <p>While studies have pointed to advantages for advanced lighting systems, the IIHS rating system doesnt favor one type of technology over the other. Instead, it simply measures the amount of usable light provided by low beams and high beams as vehicles travel on straightaways and curves.</p> <h2>Conducting the test</h2> <p>Engineers evaluate headlights on the IIHS Vehicle Research Centers track after dark. A special device is used to measure how far the light is projected as the vehicle is driven on five approaches: traveling straight, a sharp left curve, a sharp right curve, a gradual left curve and a gradual right curve.</p> <p>Glare from low beams for oncoming drivers is also measured in each scenario. A vehicle with excessive glare on any of the approaches cant earn a rating higher than marginal.</p> <p>The only type of technology given an explicit nod in the ratings is high-beam assist, which automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles. Vehicles can earn extra credit for this feature because of its potential to increase low rates of high-beam use.</p> <h2>Best and worst</h2> <p>The best-performing headlights in the small SUV group belong to a new model, the Mazda CX-3, and are available on its Grand Touring trim. They are curve-adaptive LED lights with optional high beam assist. The low beams perform well on both right curves and fairly well on the straightaway and sharp left curve; however, they provide inadequate light on the gradual left curve. The high beams perform well on most approaches.</p> <p>The other vehicles available with acceptable headlights are the Ford Escape, the Honda CR-V, and theHyundai Tucson. None of the three are curve-adaptive, and only the Escape has high-beam assist. Still,all of them provide fair or good illumination in most scenarios.</p> <p>The worst headlights among the small SUVs belong to a different Honda -- the new-for-2016 HR-V.The illumination provided by the HR-Vs halogen low beams and high beams is inadequate on all fourcurves and on the straightaway. The HR-V is one of 12 small SUVs that cant be purchased with anything other than poor-rated headlights.</p> <p>For those vehicles available with higher-rated headlights, consumers need to make sure theyre gettingthe right ones. For example, the Tucsons acceptable headlight combination is available on the SUVs Limited version, but the headlights on other trim levels of the Tucson earn a poor rating. Even the Limited, when equipped with curve-adaptive headlights, earns a poor rating because of excessive glare.</p> <p>Seventeen of the rated SUV headlight combinations have unacceptable glare. They include all types of lights -- halogen, HID, and LED -- and none of the headlight types is more likely than the others to have excessive glare. Three of the 17 fell short of an acceptable rating on the basis of glare alone.</p> <p>Glare issues are usually a result of poorly aimed headlights, said Brumbelow. SUV headlights are mounted higher than car headlights, so they generally should be aimed lower. Instead, many of them are aimed higher than the car headlights weve tested so far.</p> <p>IIHS plans to conduct headlight tests on pickups next.</p> James Limbach IIHS considers safety test with focus on passenger protection https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-considers-safety-test-with-focus-on-passenger-protection <h3>As it stands now, there isn&#39;t much</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">June 24, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="25285" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/small-overlap_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />A new safety test may be in the works at the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) -- one that would rate passenger-side protection as part of the small overlap crash test.</p> <p>While drivers can expect to be protected well in a front crash involving the left corner of the vehicle, a new study shows that good protection doesn't always extend across the front seat to the passengers sitting next to them.</p> <p>The Institute conducted 40 mph passenger-side small overlap tests on seven small SUVs with good driver-side small overlap ratings. Only one -- the 2016 Hyundai Tucson -- performed at a level corresponding to a good rating; the others ran the gamut from poor to acceptable.</p> <p>"This is an important aspect of occupant protection that needs more attention," said Becky Mueller, an IIHS senior research engineer and the lead author of the study. "More than 1,600 right-front passengers died in frontal crashes in 2014."</p> <p>Thus, the IIHS is considering a passenger-side rating as part of its TOP SAFETY PICK criteria.</p> <h3>Driver-side only</h3> <p>IIHS currently conducts its tests for front ratings with a driver dummy and with the barrier overlapping the driver side. The reason is simple: every vehicle on the road has a driver, but there isn't always a passenger riding along.</p> <p>"It's not surprising that automakers would focus their initial efforts to improve small overlap protection on the side of the vehicle that we conduct the tests on," said David Zuby, IIHS executive vice president and chief research officer. "In fact, we encouraged them to do that in the short term if it meant they could quickly make driver-side improvements to more vehicles. As time goes by, though, we would hope they ensure similar levels of protection on both sides."</p> <h3>Protection differences</h3> <p>The recent passenger-side tests show how big the differences can be. In the group of small SUVs that was tested, most didn't perform as well when they were crashed into a barrier on the right side instead of the left. That was even true of models that appeared symmetrical after removing bumper covers and other external components.</p> <p>"When structural improvements are visible only on the driver side, there are large differences in performance," Mueller says. "But the inverse is not true. Some vehicle structures look the same on both sides, but they don't perform the same. That's why we can't rely on visual analysis but need to monitor this issue and possibly begin rating vehicles for passenger-side protection."</p> <p>The IIHS passenger-side small overlap testing program could start next year and make it a requirement for one of its safety awards as early as 2018.</p> James Limbach Audi A4 named winner of top IIHS award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/audi-a4-named-winner-of-top-iihs-award-060216.html <h3>A redesign enhanced many occupant protections</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">June 2, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="24426" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Audi_A4_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />By offering good protection in a small overlap front crash and a superior-rated, standard front crash prevention system, the redesigned Audi A4 has earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ award from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS).</p> <p>The luxury midsize car rated poor in the small overlap evaluation in its previous generation. In that test, the structure didn't hold up, with intrusion into the driver's space reaching 11 inches at the footwell and the instrument panel.</p> <p>Additionally, the steering column moved toward the driver and to the right, and the dummy's head slipped off the left side of the airbag. The driver door opened, which would put the driver at risk of ejection in a real crash.</p> <h3>Changes make the difference</h3> <p>On the other hand, the 2017 A4 had maximum intrusion of only 3 inches at the footrest. The dummy's head hit the front airbag and stayed there until rebound.</p> <p>Like its predecessor, the 2017 model earns good ratings in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests.</p> <p>The redesigned model has a superior-rated, standard front crash prevention system -- a step up from the advanced-rated system that was only available as an option on earlier models. In the 12 mph IIHS track test, the vehicle avoided a collision. In the 25 mph track test, impact speed was reduced by an average of 22 mph. The system also has a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>A different, optional front crash prevention system available on the A4 also earns a superior rating.</p> <p>To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must have good ratings in all five crashworthiness tests and an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach Redesigned BMW X1 earns top IIHS award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#redesigned-bmw-x1-earns-top-iihs-award <h3>The vehicle also offers an optional front crash prevention system</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">May 27, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="24288" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016__BMW_X1_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />BMW tweaked its 2016 X1 model and walked away with the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's</a> (IIHS) top award for safety.</p> <p>The key was earning a good small overlap rating. The driver's space was maintained reasonably well in the test, with maximum intrusion of about 4 inches at the lower door hinge pillar and at the instrument panel.</p> <p>In the test of the previous version, intrusion reached 16 inches at the footwell, trapping the dummy's right foot.</p> <p>Like its predecessor, the new X1 earns good ratings in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests.</p> <h3>Optional front crash prevention system</h3> <p>The X1's newly available front crash prevention system earns an advanced rating from IIHS. In track tests at 12 mph, impact speed was reduced by an average of 10 mph.</p> <p>In the 25 mph tests, impact speed was reduced by 7 mph. The system includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must have good ratings in all five crashworthiness tests and an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach Muscle cars come up short in IIHS safety tests https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#muscle-cars-come-up-short-in-iihs-safety-tests <h3>None qualify for a TOP SAFETY PICK award</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">May 24, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="24159" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Muscle_Car_c_gorbovoi81_-_Fotolia_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />The term muscle car conjures up images of performance, speed, and power. Safety? You would think these behemoths would offer all the protections you need. But, as the song goes, it ain't necessarily so.</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) recently ran three top sports coupes through their tests and found that none of them racked up the scores necessary for a TOP SAFETY PICK award.</p> <p>The Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, and Ford Mustang took part in the full battery of crashworthiness evaluations, with the Mustang comingclosest to earning TOP SAFETY PICK. The Camaro missed the mark in one category and lacks an available front crash prevention system. The Challenger is most in need of improvement.</p> <p>To qualify for the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK, vehicles must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations and have a basic-rated front crash prevention system.</p> <h3>How they stack up</h3> <p>The Camaro, Challenger and Mustang earn good ratings for occupant protection in a moderate overlap front crash, as well as a side impact.</p> <p>In the small overlap front test -- the newest and toughest IIHS crashworthiness evaluation -- the Camaro earns a good rating, the Mustang earns an acceptable rating, and the Challenger is rated as marginal.</p> <p>"The Mustang is just one good rating away from earning TOP SAFETY PICK," IIHS President Adrian Lund pointed out. "Its small overlap rating holds it back."</p> <p>The small overlap test replicates what happens when a vehicle runs off the road and hits a tree or pole or clips another vehicle that has crossed the center line. It is an especially challenging test because it involves a vehicle's outer edges, which aren't well-protected by the crush-zone structures.</p> <p>The Challenger wasn't up to the challenge of the small overlap test. Extensive intrusion into the lower occupant compartment limited the driver's survival space and resulted in a poor rating for structure and for leg/foot protection. Measures taken from the dummy indicate a high likelihood of serious lower leg injuries.</p> <p>In contrast, survival space for the driver in the Camaro was well-maintained, and the risk of injuries to the dummy's legs and feet was low. The Camaro was redesigned for the 2016 model year.</p> <p>"The Camaro's safety cage is built to resist intrusion in a small overlap crash, and that's good news for Camaro drivers," Lund says.</p> <p>The Camaro and Mustang earn good ratings for head restraints and seats to protect against neck injuries in rear crashes. The Challenger's head restraints are rated as acceptable.</p> <p>The Mustang earns a good rating for roof strength, and the Camaro and Challenger earn acceptable ratings.</p> <h3>Consumer inquiries</h3> <p>IIHS doesn't typically crash-test sports cars, as they make up a small share of the consumer market. However, IIHS engineers decided to evaluate these models with optional V-8 engines because they are big sellers in their class, and consumers often ask how they would perform in crash tests.</p> <p>Insurance data pointsto high losses for sports cars. As a group, they have the highest losses among passenger vehicles for crash damage repairs under collision coverage, data from the Highway Loss Data Institute shows. Collision coverage insures against physical damage to the at-fault policyholder's vehicle in a crash.</p> <p>"Given that sports cars have high crash rates, it's especially important that they offer the best occupant protection possible in a crash," Lund concluded.</p> James Limbach IIHS releases results of large pickup truck safety tests https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-releases-results-of-large-pickup-truck-safety-tests <h3>Only the Ford F-150 earned a top safety rating for small overlap protection</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">April 12, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="22721" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Ford_F-150_Exteded_Cab_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />The results are in for the new round of crash tests conducted by the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS), and three out of seven large pickup trucks evaluated earned an acceptable or higher rating for occupant protection in a small overlap front crash.</p> <p>Two body styles of each 2016 model-year pickup(crew cab and extended cab)were included in the tests.Crew cabs have four full doors and two full rows of seating. Extended cabs have two full front doors, two smaller rear doors and compact second-row seats.</p> <h3>Top marks for Ford</h3> <p>By improving the 2016 model F-150 SuperCab, Ford clinched a good rating in the small overlap crash test --up from the 2015 models marginal rating. The F-150 is the only large pickup in the latest test group to earn the test's top rating. It joins the F-150 SuperCrew in earning a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK award when equipped with Fords optional basic-rated forward collision warning system.</p> <p>Ford is leading the way among large pickup manufacturers when it comes to protecting people in a range of crashes and offering technology to warn drivers of imminent frontal crashes, said Raul Arbelaez, vice president of the IIHS Vehicle Research Center. We commend Ford for taking last years test results to heart and upgrading protection for SuperCab occupants in small overlap crashes.</p> <p>Vehicles that earn a basic rating for front crash prevention in addition togood ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK. To qualify for 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five crashworthiness tests and an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> <h3>The also-rans</h3> <p>Differences were observed in performance between the extended-cab and crew-cab versions of two other pickups. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab and the Toyota Tundra Double Cab both earned an acceptable rating for occupant protection in a small overlap crash. Survival space for the driver in these extended-cab pickups was maintained reasonably well overall, contributing to their acceptable ratings for structure.</p> <p>The story was different for the larger crew cabs. The Silverado 1500 Crew Cab and the Tundra CrewMax earned a marginal rating in the small overlap front test. Both models had considerable intrusion into the occupant compartment that compromised survival space for the driver.</p> <p>Ratings for both of the Silverado pickups extend to their GMC Sierra 1500 twins.</p> <p>The worst-performing pickups in the small overlap test are the Ram 1500 Crew Cab and the Ram 1500 Quad Cab. Both earned a marginal rating overall and a poor rating for structure. The force of the crash pushed the door-hinge pillar, instrument panel, and steering column back toward the driver dummy. In the Ram Crew Cab test, the dummys head contacted the front airbag but rolled around the left side as the steering column moved to the right, allowing the head to approach the intruding windshield pillar.</p> <p>IIHS plans to test the redesigned 2016 Nissan Titan and Honda Ridgeline later this year. The 2015 Titan Crew Cab is rated as good in the moderate overlap front test, acceptable for roof strength, and good for head restraints. The Ridgeline was last sold as a 2014 model. It earns good ratings in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations.</p> James Limbach Improvements earn Toyota Prius top safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards#improvements-earn-toyota-prius-top-safety-award <h3>An improved front crash prevention system made the difference</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">March 31, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="22361" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016_Prius_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />Acing the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's</a> (IIHS) small overlap front test has helped the 2016 Toyota Prius earn the organization's TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. Additionally, the small hybrid's optional front crash prevention system has improved to earn a superior rating.</p> <p>To qualify for the top IIHS award, vehicles have to get good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests, and must have an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> <p>The previous generation of the Prius had good ratings in four of the five crashworthiness tests, but rated only acceptable for small overlap protection because its structure didn't hold up well in the test.</p> <h3>Significant improvements</h3> <p>In contrast, the 2016 Prius had maximum intrusion of just two inches at the upper door-hinge pillar and at the brake and parking brake pedals. The dummy's movement was well-controlled, and measures taken from the dummy showed a low risk of injury in a crash of the same severity.</p> <p>The optional front crash prevention system has improved over what was available on the previous model. The new Prius avoided collisions in both the 12 mph and 25 mph IIHS track tests. It also has a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> James Limbach IIHS: Time to turn on the headlights https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards#iihs-time-to-turn-on-the-headlights <h3>New ratings show most need improvement</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">March 30, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="22304" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Auto_headlights__codrupsiho_-_Fotolia_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />The headlights are probably thelast thing you think about when deciding which new car to buy.</p> <p>However, a new report from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) suggests you may want to move that up on your list of priorities</p> <p>According to the first-ever headlight ratings conducted by the IIHS, the Toyota Prius v is the only midsize car out of 31 evaluated to earn a good rating. The best available headlights on 11 cars earn an acceptable rating, while nine only reach a marginal rating. Ten of the vehicles can't be purchased with anything other than poor-rated headlights.</p> <p>"If you're having trouble seeing behind the wheel at night, it could very well be your headlights and not your eyes that are to blame," said David Zuby, IIHS executive vice president and chief research officer.</p> <h3>More doesn't always mean better</h3> <p>The car's price tag is no guarantee of decent headlights. Many of the poor-rated headlights belong to luxury vehicles.</p> <p>Among the 44 headlight systems earning a poor rating, the halogen lights on the BMW 3 series are the worst. A driver with those headlights would have to be going 35 mph or slower to stop in time for an obstacle in the travel lane. A better choice for the same car is an LED curve-adaptive system with high-beam assist, a combination that rates marginal.</p> <p>Curve-adaptive systems don't always lead to better ratings. The Cadillac ATS, Kia Optima, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class all earn poor ratings even when equipped with adaptive low and high beams.</p> <p>In the case of the Optima, a big problem is glare. Its curve-adaptive system provides better visibility than its non-adaptive lights, but produces excessive glare for oncoming vehicles on all five low beam approaches.</p> <h3>How headlights are evaluated</h3> <p>Headlights are evaluated on the track after dark at the IIHS Vehicle Research Center. A special device measures the light from both low beams and high beams as the vehicle is driven on five different approaches: traveling straight, a sharp left curve, a sharp right curve, a gradual left curve, and a gradual right curve.</p> <p>Glare for oncoming vehiclesis also measured from low beams in each scenario to make sure it isn't excessive.</p> <h3>How they did</h3> <h2 style="margin: 18px 0px 0.4em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: 600; font-size: 1.2em; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); text-align: justify;">2016 midsize cars<br /> Best available headlight system for each model</h2> <div class="span-3 prepend-top" style="margin: 1.5em 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; width: 110px; line-height: 22.2772px; text-align: justify;"> <table class="SRTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(0, 204, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; float: none !important;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: uppercase;">GOOD</span></th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(0, 204, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/toyota/prius-v-4-door-wagon" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Toyota Prius v</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td colspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="span-3 prepend-top" style="margin: 1.5em 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; width: 110px; line-height: 22.2772px; text-align: justify;"> <table class="SRTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; float: none !important;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: uppercase;">ACCEPTABLE</span></th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/audi/a3-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Audi A3</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/honda/accord-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Honda Accord 4-door</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/infiniti/q50-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Infiniti Q50</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/lexus/es-350-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Lexus ES</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/lexus/is-250-350-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Lexus IS</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/mazda/6-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Mazda 6</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/nissan/maxima-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Nissan Maxima</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/subaru/outback-4-door-wagon" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Subaru Outback</a><br /> <span class="smalltext" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">(built after Nov. 2015)</span></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/volkswagen/cc-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Volkswagen CC</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/volkswagen/jetta-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Volkswagen Jetta</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/volvo/s60-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Volvo S60</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="span-3 prepend-top" style="margin: 1.5em 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; width: 110px; line-height: 22.2772px; text-align: justify;"> <table class="SRTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; float: none !important;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: uppercase;">MARGINAL</span></th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/acura/tlx-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Acura TLX</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/audi/a4-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Audi A4</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/bmw/2-series-2-door-coupe" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">BMW 2 series</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/bmw/3-series-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">BMW 3 series</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/chrysler/200-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Chrysler 200</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/ford/fusion-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Ford Fusion</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/lincoln/mkz-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Lincoln MKZ</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/subaru/legacy-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Subaru Legacy</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/toyota/camry-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Toyota Camry</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td colspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="span-3 last prepend-top" style="margin: 1.5em 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; width: 110px; line-height: 22.2772px; text-align: justify;"> <table class="SRTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; float: none !important;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: uppercase;">POOR</span></th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/buick/verano-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Buick Verano</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/cadillac/ats-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Cadillac ATS</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/chevrolet/malibu-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Chevrolet Malibu</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/chevrolet/malibu-limited-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Chevrolet Malibu Limited</a><br /> <span class="smalltext" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">(fleet model)</span></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/hyundai/sonata-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Hyundai Sonata</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/kia/optima-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Kia Optima</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/mercedes/c-class-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Mercedes-Benz C-Class</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/mercedes/cla-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Mercedes-Benz CLA</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/nissan/altima-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Nissan Altima</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/volkswagen/passat-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Volkswagen Passat</a></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in">(Graph via IIHS)</p> James Limbach Redesigned Audi Q7 earns TOP SAFETY PICK+ award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#redesigned-audi-q7-earns-top-safety-pick-award <h3>The vehicle&#39;s standard front crash prevention system got a superior rating</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">February 26, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="21250" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2017_Audi_Q7_IIHS_large.jpg" />A superior rating for its standard front crash prevention system has earned the redesigned 2017 Audi Q7 a TOP SAFETY PICK+ award from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS).</p> <p>The large luxury SUV also received good ratings in all five of the IIHS crashworthiness tests.</p> <p>The IIHS doesn't routinely test large SUVs, and the Q7 is the first to be put through the challenging small overlap front crash test, which was introduced in 2012. The Q7 was tested because Audi nominated it for TOP SAFETY PICK+ and paid for the vehicles used.</p> <p>In 2016, vehicles qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ if they have good ratings in all five crashworthiness evaluations -- small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraints, as well as an available front crash prevention system.</p> <p>If the system earns a basic rating, the vehicle qualifies for TOP SAFETY PICK. The "plus" is awarded to vehicles with an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> <p>In the front crash prevention evaluation, the Q7 avoided a collision in the 12 mph track test. In the 25 mph test, the vehicle's speed was cut by an average of 23 mph. The system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> James Limbach Toyota Highlander earns Top IIHS safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/toyota-highlander-earns-top-iihs-safety-award-022516.html <h3>It&#39;s the second year in a row for the vehicle</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">February 25, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="21217" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016_Toyota_Highlander_IIHS_large.jpg" />Toyota's 2016 Highlander has earned a good rating in the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's</a> (IIHS) small overlap front test -- improving from acceptable -- to clinch a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.</p> <p>Last year's model was also a TOP SAFETY PICK+, but the criteria for the award wastightened for 2016. Previously, an acceptable rating for small overlap protection was enough, but now a good rating is required. Toyota made structural modifications to improve small overlap performance for 2016.</p> <p>During the test of the 2016 Highlander, the dummy's movement was better controlled than in the test of the earlier model. The head hit the front airbag, which stayed in front of the dummy until rebound. The dummy in the previous test slid off the airbag's left side.</p> <p>To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in all five crashworthiness evaluations -- small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints.</p> <p>TOP SAFETY PICK winners also have an available front crash prevention system that earns a basic rating; vehicles earning the "plus" have an advanced or superior rating. The Highlander's optional front crash prevention is rated advanced.</p> James Limbach Front crash prevention technology works well https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#front-crash-prevention-technology-works-well <h3>An IIHS study finds autobrake has slashed police-reported rear-end crashes</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">January 29, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="20423" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Crash_prevention_IIHSjpg_large.jpg" />In the first study of its kind, the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) has found vehicles equipped with front crash prevention are much less likely to rear-end other vehicles.</p> <p>Systems with automatic braking reduce rear-end crashes by about 40% on average, while forward collision warning alone cuts them by 23%, the study found. The autobrake systems also greatly reduce injury crashes.</p> <p>If all vehicles had been equipped with autobrake that worked as well as the systems studied, there would have been at least 700,000 fewer police-reported rear-end crashes -- 13% of police-reported crashes overall -- in 2013.</p> <p>"The success of front crash prevention represents a big step toward safer roads," says David Zuby, IIHS chief research officer. "As this technology becomes more widespread, we can expect to see noticeably fewer rear-end crashes. The same goes for the whiplash injuries that often result from these crashes and can cause a lot of pain and lost productivity."</p> <h3>Still optional -- for now</h3> <p>Front crash prevention is steadily becoming more prevalent, but in most cases it is offered as optional equipment. That may soon change, however. In September, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)and IIHS announced an agreement in principle with automakers to make autobrake standard on all models.</p> <p>Using police reports allows researchers to identify front-to-rear crashes in order to gauge front crash prevention systems' effectiveness specifically for the type of collision they are designed to address.</p> <h3>The study</h3> <p>For the study, researchers looked at police-reported rear-end crashes in 22 states during 2010-14 involving Acura, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Subaru, and Volvo vehicles with optional front crash prevention.</p> <p>The crash rates of vehicles equipped with the technology were compared with the crash rates of the same models without front crash prevention. Individual vehicles with the technology were identified using trim level information or, in some cases, lists of vehicle identification numbers supplied by the manufacturers.</p> <p>A separate analysis of City Safety, Volvo's standard low-speed autobrake system, was conducted by comparing the S60 model with other midsize luxury four-door cars and the XC60 with other midsize luxury SUVs. Unlike the City Safety-equipped Volvos, none of the comparison vehicles had standard front crash prevention.</p> <p>Only rear-end crashes in which the study and comparison models struck other vehicles were considered. Crashes in which those vehicles were struck from behind but didn't strike a vehicle in front were left outsince front crash prevention wouldn't be expected to prevent them.</p> <p>The analyses show that forward collision warning alone reduces rear-end crashes by 23%, while forward collision warning with autobrake reduces them by 39%. The reduction for City Safety is 41%.</p> <p>The study also shows that autobrake reduces injuries. The rate of rear-end crashes with injuries decreases by 42% with forward collision warning with autobrake and 47% with City Safety. Forward collision warning alone is associated with a 6% decrease in rear-end injury crashes, though that finding isn't statistically significant.</p> <p>"Even when a crash isn't avoided, systems that have autobrake have a good chance of preventing injuries by reducing the impact speed," says Jessica Cicchino, the study's author and the IIHS vice president for research. "Still, it's surprising that forward collision warning didn't show more of an injury benefit, given that the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) has found big reductions in injury claims with the feature."</p> <h3>Caveats</h3> <p>One difficulty in studying optional front crash prevention systems is that they often are packaged with other crash avoidance technologies. For example, all of the study vehicles except for some Honda Accords and most of the City Safety-equipped Volvos had adaptive cruise control. Adaptive cruise control works like regular cruise control but uses sensors to track the vehicle in front to maintain a safe following distance.</p> <p>It is possible that some of the observed benefit for front crash prevention systems in avoiding rear-end collisions is actually a result of adaptive cruise control. However, unlike front crash prevention, drivers must activate adaptive cruise control every time they use it, and the feature generally isn't used for all types of driving.</p> <p>Lane departure warning was packaged with front crash prevention on the Hondas, Subarus, and some Volvos included in the study, but it is unlikely to have affected rear-end crashes.</p> <h3>Speed a factor</h3> <p>Cicchino performed an additional analysis of City Safety vehicles to see how the effect of the system varied depending on a road's speed limit. The study vehicles had a version of City Safety that works at speeds up to 19 mph. (A newer version works at speeds up to 30 mph.)</p> <p>Despite its speed limitation, City Safety had the biggest effect on roads with speed limits of 40-45 mph. The equipped Volvos rear-ended other vehicles 54% less frequently than comparable vehicles on those roads. The reduction was 39% on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less and 25% on roads with speed limits of 50 mph or higher.</p> <p>"At first blush it's surprising that this low-speed system was most effective on 40-45 mph roads," Cicchino said. "However, these roads tend to have many traffic lights, which reduce actual travel speeds in places. In addition, City Safety can come into play whenever there is congestion on a higher-speed road."</p> James Limbach Four vehicles added to IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ honor roll https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#four-vehicles-added-to-iihs-top-safety-pick-honor-roll <h3>Honda, Hyundai, Lexus, and Nissan are the big winners</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">January 15, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="19928" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/TOP_SAFETY_PICK_2016_IIHS_1_large.jpg" />Just one month after the initial crop of 48 TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners was <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/nearly-50-vehicles-earn-iihs-top-safety-award-121015.html" target="_blank">announced</a>, the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) has added another four vehicles to the winner's circle.</p> <p>The latest to earn the designation are the Honda Civic 4-door, Hyundai Sonata, Lexus RX, and Nissan Altima.</p> <p>The requirements for TOP SAFETY PICK+ were tightened for 2016. Now, winners must earn good ratings in each of the Institute's five crashworthiness tests and have an available front crash prevention system earning an advanced or superior rating.</p> <p>Those that meet the crashworthiness criteria but have only a basic-rated front crash prevention system qualify for the second-tier award -- TOP SAFETY PICK.</p> <h3>How they performed</h3> <p>The Civic, Sonata, RX, and Altima all come with superior-rated optional front crash prevention systems. In IIHS track tests, the first three vehicles avoided collisions at 12 mph and 25 mph. The Altima avoided a collision at 12 mph, while in the 25 mph test its impact speed was cut by 10 mph. All four systems include a warning function that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>The Civic 4-door, a small car, and the RX, a midsize luxury SUV, were both redesigned for 2016. The 2015 Civic had qualified for TOP SAFETY PICK under the old criteria, while the previous generation of the RX had never been tested in the small overlap front crash.</p> <p>The Sonata and the Altima, both midsize cars, were 2015 award winners. Both had their structure improved to raise their small overlap front ratings from acceptable to good. Previously, vehicles could qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ with an acceptable rating in the small overlap front test.</p> <p>In the case of the Sonata, the improvements were made after production for the 2016 model year had already begun. The award applies only to Sonatas built after October.</p> <p>Consumers can find a vehicle's manufacture date on the certification label typically located on or near the driver door.</p> James Limbach Nearly 50 vehicles earn IIHS top safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#nearly-50-vehicles-earn-iihs-top-safety-award <h3>Small overlap crash protection, front crash prevention were the keys </h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">December 10, 2015</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="18816" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016_Safety_awards_iihs_large.jpg" />The <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) has named 48 vehicles as recipients of its TOP SAFETY PICK+ for earning good ratings in all five crashworthiness evaluations and an advanced or higher rating for front crash prevention.</p> <p>An additional 13 models qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK.</p> <p>We asked auto manufacturers to do more this year to qualify for our safety awards, and they delivered, said Adrian Lund, IIHS president. For the first time, a good rating in the challenging small overlap front crash test is a requirement to win, in addition to an available front crash prevention system. How that system rates determines whether a vehicle will earn TOP SAFETY PICK+ or TOP SAFETY PICK.</p> <h3>Tougher standards</h3> <p>The baseline requirements for both awards are good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests, as well as a standard or optional front crash prevention system.</p> <p>The 48 winners of the plus award have a superior- or advanced-rated front crash prevention system with automatic braking capabilities. These vehicles must stop or slow down without driver intervention before hitting a target in tests at 12 mph, 25 mph, or both.</p> <p>Models with a basic-rated front crash prevention system, which typically only issues a warning and doesnt brake, qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK.</p> <p>IIHS inaugurated TOP SAFETY PICK in the 2006 model year to help consumers home in on vehicles with the best safety performance. The TOP SAFETY PICK+ accolade was introduced in 2012 to recognize vehicles that offer an advanced level of safety.</p> <p>Last year when IIHS announced the initial winners of the 2015 awards, 33 models qualified for TOP SAFETY PICK+ and 38 qualified for TOP SAFETY PICK. The ranks then grew to 51 TOP SAFETY PICK+ and 48 TOP SAFETY PICK winners. IIHS releases ratings as it evaluates new models, adding to the ranks of winners throughout the year.</p> <h3>Redesign does the trick</h3> <p>The 2016 winners circle includes some redesigned models with improved frontal crash protection and autobrake features, which help to prevent or mitigate certain frontal crashes.</p> <p>The 2016 Nissan Maxima and Volkswagen Passat, for example, earn good ratings in the small overlap front test, while earlier models were rated acceptable. Nissan also improved occupant protection in rear crashes and rollovers, boosting the Maximas head restraints and seats rating from marginal to good and its roof strength rating from acceptable to good.</p> <p>The Maximas optional front crash prevention system is rated superior, and the Passats is rated advanced. Both midsize cars earn the plus award.</p> <p>The Chrysler 200 is the only domestic model to qualify for a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. One other vehicle from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles -- the Fiat 500X -- earns the Institutes highest award for 2016.</p> <p>Ford has just one winning model this year, the F-150 SuperCrew, which earns TOP SAFETY PICK. The large pickup is the only Ford with a good small overlap rating.</p> <h3>Some don't measure up</h3> <p>A number of previous winners are missing from the new lists, including many small and midsize cars. Last year, vehicles with an acceptable small overlap rating could qualify for either award if their other four crashworthiness ratings were good.</p> <p>An available front crash prevention system was required only for TOP SAFETY PICK+ and not TOP SAFETY PICK. More than 20 winners of the 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK award and four plus-award winners dont qualify under the 2016 criteria.</p> <p>The Toyota Highlander and Sienna, for example, are available with an advanced-rated autobrake system, but less-than-good ratings in the small overlap front test put the midsize SUV and minivan out of contention for a 2016 accolade. The pair earned 2015 plus awards.</p> <p>Lack of an available front crash prevention system is the issue with several vehicles with good small overlap ratings. The Audi Q3, for example, no longer qualifies for TOP SAFETY PICK because it doesnt have front crash prevention.</p> <p>IIHS wasnt able to test the autobrake systems on the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (formerly the M-Class), Nissan Rogue, and Nissan Sentra in time for this initial release of winners. These TOP SAFETY PICKs may be upgraded to TOP SAFETY PICK+ following IIHS tests.</p> <p>The M-Class earned a 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK+ and is rated superior for front crash prevention. The Rogue and Sentra earned 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK awards.</p> <p>Consumers who purchased a winning 2015 model that doesnt qualify this year neednt worry that their vehicles are now less safe, said Lund. As vehicles continue to improve, however, we think its important to recognize that progress and encourage further advances by making our ratings more stringent. This years winners are certainly safer than the vehicles that earned our first TOP SAFETY PICK awards 10 years ago.</p> <h3>Greater availability of Autobrake</h3> <p>Among the TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners, there are 31 models with an available superior-rated front crash prevention system and 17 models with an advanced rating.</p> <p>The Scion iA, a TOP SAFETY PICK+ winner, is the first low-priced car with a standard autobrake system. With a base price of about $16,000, the iA is rated advanced for front crash prevention and is the only minicar to earn a 2016 IIHS award. Besides the iA, autobrake is standard on just a few luxury vehicles. These include all Volvo models, some Mercedes-Benz models, and the Acura RLX.</p> <p>More automakers are expected to make autobrake standard equipment in the near future under a voluntary agreement being developed by automakers, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the IIHS.</p> <p>Ask for autobrake and forward collision warning features when youre out shopping for a new vehicle, Lund said. Look for good ratings in IIHS evaluations and at least 4 of 5 stars from NHTSA. And remember that larger, heavier vehicles offer the best protection in a crash.</p> James Limbach IIHS booster seat ratings hold good news for parents https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-booster-seat-ratings-hold-good-news-for-parents <h3>Twenty of 23 seats earn the highest safety rating</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">November 10, 2015</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="17907" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Booster_rating.IIHS_large.jpg" />Back in 2008, the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> began rating boosters seats -- and the results were disappointing to say the least: Most models failed to consistently provide good belt fit, the main purpose of a booster.</p> <p>What a difference seven years makes. All new models evaluated by IIHS now provide good or acceptable fit for typical 4-to-8year-olds in most cars, minivans, and SUVs.</p> <p>Of 23 new models evaluated, 20 earn the highest rating of BEST BET, meaning they are likely to provide good belt fit for a child in almost any car, minivan, or SUV.</p> <p>Another three models are rated GOOD BETs, meaning they provide acceptable fit in most vehicles. No new models were in the Not Recommended category, nor are there any with the Check Fit designation, which identifies seats that may work for some children in some vehicles.</p> <p>Our ratings have succeeded in getting child seat manufacturers to prioritize belt fit when they design boosters, said Jessica Jermakian, IIHS senior research scientist. The large number of BEST BETs on the market now makes it easier for parents to shop for a seat that will work for their child in virtuallyany vehicle.</p> <h3>The need for boosters</h3> <p>Booster seats are designed for kids who have outgrown harness-equipped restraints. Children ages 4-8 are 45% less likely to sustain injuries in crashes if they are in boosters than if they are using safety belts alone. Boosters serve as an important bridge until children are large enough for vehicle safety belts to fit properly by themselves. For some kids, thats not until age 12.</p> <p>Until then, booster seats should be used to make safety belts fit correctly. Correct fit means the belt lies flat across a childs upper thighs, not across the soft abdomen, and the shoulder belt crosses snugly over the middle of a childs shoulder.</p> <p>The IIHS online ratings (<a href="http://iihs.org/boosters" target="_blank">iihs.org/boosters</a>) include many models that were evaluated in past years and are still on the market. Including the 2015 crop, as well as carryover models, there currently are 82 BEST BETs and eight GOOD BETs. Six boosters are Not Recommended, and 31 are in the Check Fit category.</p> <p>We hope manufacturers will move quickly to redesign or end production of the Not Recommended boosters and also phase out Check Fit seats and replace them with BEST BETs that perform their job reliably, Jermakian says.</p> <h3>Variety of options</h3> <p>Top-rated boosters come in a variety of forms. Highback boosters have built-in shoulder belt guides, and their additional structure often makes it easier for children transitioning out of harness-equipped restraints to sit properly. Many manufacturers tout enhanced side impact protection on their highbackseats, though IIHS doesnt evaluate those claims.</p> <p>Backless boosters come with an attached clip to position the shoulder belt. Its important to look at how the shoulder belt fits on a child and to use the clip if it doesnt fall across the middle of the shoulder.</p> <p>The new seats for 2015 include seven dual-use models. Each of them counts twice in the evaluations, with a separate rating for highback and backless modes.</p> <p>As in earlier years, several are combination or 3-in-1 seats, which start out as harness-equipped restraints and can be converted to boosters when the child outgrows the harness.</p> <p>One recent improvement to combination and 3-in-1 seats is the addition of a place to stow harness straps when they are not in use. This allows parents to use the seat as a booster without having to remove the harness completely.</p> <p>The least expensive booster in the new crop is the Little Tikes Backless Booster, available at Walmart for $13. The Evenflo Platinum Evolve --a 3-in-1 seat that can be used as a forwardfacing restraint, highback booster, and backless booster --and the Safety 1st Grow and Go --which can be used as a rear-facing restraint, forward-facing restraint, and a booster --each sell for about $170.</p> <h3>New names, new designs</h3> <p>One big manufacturer, Britax, has no new or redesigned seats this year, but the names of its existing models have changed. The Frontier 90 highback is now the Frontier Clicktight, the Pinnacle 90 highback is the Pinnacle Clicktight, and the Pioneer 70 highback is simply the Pioneer. All three are BEST BETs. The Britax Parkway SG and Parkway SGL, both dual-use boosters that are BEST BETs in highback mode and Check Fit in backless mode, also are carried over.</p> <p>The BubbleBum, an inflatable booster designed for portability, has a redesigned lap-belt guide intended to be easier to use. Like the earlier version, which still is on the market, the new one is a BEST BET.</p> <p>There are 23 new models of booster seats for 2015, including 20 BEST BET boosters, and 3 GOOD BETs. There are no new models in the Check Fit or Not Recommended categories.</p> <p>BEST BET</p> <ul> <li>BubbleBum (backless)</li> <li>Chicco KidFit (backless mode)</li> <li>Chicco KidFit (highback mode)</li> <li>Diono Cambria (backless mode)</li> <li>Diono Cambria (highback mode)</li> <li>Eddie Bauer Storage Booster (backless)</li> <li>Evenflo Advanced Transitions (backless mode)</li> <li>Evenflo Advanced Transitions (highback mode)</li> <li>Evenflo Platinum Evolve (backless mode)</li> <li>Evenflo Platinum Evolve (highback mode)</li> <li>Graco Atlas 65 (highback)</li> <li>Graco Tranzitions (backless mode)</li> <li>Graco Tranzitions (highback mode)</li> <li>Harmony Defender 360 (backless mode)</li> <li>Harmony Defender 360 (highback mode)</li> <li>Jan Montecarlo R1 (highback)</li> <li>Lil Fan Box Seat (backless)</li> <li>Little Tikes Highback Booster (backless mode)</li> <li>Little Tikes Highback Booster (highback mode)</li> <li>Little Tikes Backless Booster (backless)</li> </ul> <p>GOOD BET</p> <ul> <li>Cybex Solution M-Fix (highback)</li> <li>Cybex Solution Q2-Fix (highback)</li> <li>Safety 1st Grow and Go (highback)</li> </ul> James Limbach IIHS corrects erroneous booster seat ratings https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-corrects-erroneous-booster-seat-ratings <h3>The group&#39;s BEST BET awards have been rescinded</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">October 19, 2015</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="17165" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/booster-correction_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />We goofed. That's the upshot of an announcement by the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) that it's revising its booster seat ratings for 2014.</p> <p>Two models of boosters -- the Eddie Bauer Deluxe Highback 65 and Safety 1st Summit 65 -- were awarded a BEST BET designation in error. These seats, which can be used either with internal harnesses or as boosters, should have been designated as Not Recommended.</p> <p>Consumers are advised not to purchase these seats for use as boosters. However, IIHS says there is no problem with either of them when used with the internal harness.</p> <p>The purpose of a booster seat is to make a vehicle safety belt, which is designed for an adult, fit a child correctly. Correct fit means the belt lies flat across a child's upper thighs, not across the soft abdomen, and the shoulder belt crosses snugly over the middle of a child's shoulder.</p> <h3>Booster concerns</h3> <p>The concern about the Eddie Bauer Deluxe Highback 65 and Safety 1st Summit 65, both manufactured by Dorel Juvenile, is that while the shoulder belt crosses the child's body at the middle of the shoulder, it is positioned too far forward. In that position, the shoulder belt would be less effective in a crash.</p> <p>IIHS evaluates boosters using a test dummy representing an average-size six-year-old. Engineers measure how safety belts fit the dummy in each of the tested boosters under four conditions that span the range of safety belt configurations in vehicle models. Based on these measurements, a seat is designated a BEST BET, GOOD BET, Check Fit, or Not Recommended to reflect the likelihood that the booster will work in any vehicle.</p> <p>The original booster rating protocol called for measuring only the shoulder belts lateral position. It didn't take into account whether the shoulder belt was close enough to the dummy's body.</p> <p>During preparations for the 2014 booster ratings release, the protocol was changed to limit the distance allowed between a reference point on the dummy's chest and the shoulder belt to one (1) centimeter. If the belt is within that distance of the chest, it will be close enough to the shoulder to provide good crash protection. Booster manufacturers were informed of the revised protocol.</p> <p>However, the Eddie Bauer Deluxe Highback 65 and Safety 1st Summit 65, though new for 2014, were mistakenly evaluated according to the old protocol. The gap between the chest reference point and the shoulder belt with these two boosters is more than one (1) centimeter in all of the Institute's test conditions.</p> <p>This was discovered only recently, when the seats were re-evaluated as part of a research study. Since then, IIHS has re-evaluated every booster seat listed in the ratings and currently on the market and has not encountered the problem on any others.</p> <p>Children who have outgrown the weight or height limit for the harness should continue to use the seats as boosters if no other booster is available. Parents are advised to purchase a different seat that provides better belt fit as soon as possible.</p> <p>BEST BET boosters can cost as little as $20. Until a replacement can be obtained, a child for whom an adult safety belt doesn't yet fit properly is better off using any booster than none at all.</p> James Limbach
Cadillac Escalade
What cocktail, named for a Scottish folk hero, consists of Scotch, Sweet vermouth, with a dash of Angostura bitters?
Wed, 11 Jan 2017 17:09:15 +0000 Toyota Highlander earns top IIHS award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/toyota-highlander-earns-top-iihs-award-011117.html <h3>The vehicle&#39;s front crash prevention system earned a superior rating</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">January 11, 2017</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="31259" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Toyota_Highlander_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />A superior-rated front crash prevention system andacceptable-rated headlights have earned the 2017 Toyota Highlanderthe <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's</a> (IIHS) top award.</p> <p>Unlike most TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners, which only meet the front crash prevention and headlight criteria when they are equipped with optional features, the Highlander qualifies for the award with standard equipment.</p> <p>In IIHS track tests of the 2017 system, the midsize SUV avoided a collision in the 12 mph test. In the 25 mph test, it avoided a collision in 4 out of 5 runs and slowed 21 mph the fifth time.</p> <p>The new standard front crash prevention system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets criteria set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.</p> <p>To qualify for 2017 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five IIHS crashworthiness tests -- small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints -- as well as an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention and an acceptable or good headlight rating.</p> James Limbach IIHS: Most child booster seats do a fine job https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-most-child-booster-seats-do-a-fine-job-111716.html <h3>That doesn&#39;t mean there aren&#39;t problems, though</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">November 17, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="29765" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Booster_seat_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />Child seat manufacturers have finally gotten the hang of it.</p> <p>Out of 53 new models evaluated by the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a>, (IIHS) 48 earn the top rating of BEST BET. That means they're likely to provide good belt fit for a 4 to 8 year-old in almost any car, minivan, or SUV.</p> <p>By comparison, when the IIHS first started rating boosters in 2008, only a quarter of those evaluated earned the BEST BET designation.</p> <h2>Problems persist</h2> <p>However, several seats that dont do their job and are rated Not Recommended can still be found on store shelves. Among them are two brand new models from Dorel Juvenile.</p> <p>Parents looking for a safe option for kids who have outgrown seats with built-in harnesses have more choices than ever, said IIHS Senior Research Engineer Jessica Jermakian. Unfortunately, we cant declare total victory because manufacturers continue to sell subpar boosters.</p> <p>Of the 53 new seats, the Cosco Easy Elite and the Cosco Highback 2-in-1 DX -- both made by Dorel -- are rated Not Recommended. Three others, the Britax Parkway SGL in backless mode, the Lil Fan Club Seat 2-in-1 in highback mode, and the Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120are rated Check Fit, meaning they may work for some children in some vehicles. The remaining new seats are BEST BETs.</p> <p>All told, there are 118 BEST BETs among currently available boosters, including old models. Additionally, there are nine GOOD BETs (seats that provide acceptable belt fit in most vehicles), 27 Check Fit, and five Not Recommended.</p> <h2>A range of prices</h2> <p>Top-rated boosters are available in all different price ranges. Of the boosters introduced this year, the most affordable is the Harmony Big Boost Deluxe, available at Walmart for less than $25.</p> <p>The most expensive is the $330 Graco 4Ever All-in-1 with Safety Surround, a rear-facing infant seat that converts first to a forward-facing child restraint and then to a booster as the child grows.</p> <p>Complete ratings may be found at <a href="http://www.iihs.org/" target="_blank">www.iihs.org/</a>.</p> James Limbach Most pickup trucks in the dark when it comes to headlight ratings https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/most-pickup-trucks-in-the-dark-when-it-comes-to-headlight-ratings-102516.html <h3>Seven of eight vehicles tested got poor ratings</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">October 25, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="29045" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Pickup_truck_headlights_Photo_c_Dennis_Cox_-_Fotolia_large.jpg" style="undefined" />When it comes to throwing sufficient light on the subject, most pickup trucks don't get the job done.</p> <p>According to the <a href="http://www.iihs.org/" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS), all four small late-model pickups and three out of seven large vehicles that were evaluated got poor ratings.</p> <p>In fact, only one large pickup -- the Honda Ridgeline -- is available with good-rated headlights, though all but the most expensive trim levels come with poor ones.</p> <p>Pickups are the third vehicle category to be put through the IIHS headlight evaluations. <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards#iihs-time-to-turn-on-the-headlights" target="_blank">Midsize cars</a> were the first, followed by <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-most-small-suv-headlights-rate-poor-071216.html" target="_blank">small SUVs</a>.</p> <p>"These latest ratings follow the same disappointing pattern as the other groups," says Matthew Brumbelow, an IIHS senior research engineer. "As vehicle safety has improved in recent years, this important equipment has been overlooked."</p> <h2>How they are tested</h2> <p>In the IIHS evaluations, engineers measure how far light is projected from a vehicle's low beams and high beams as the vehicle travels straight and on curves. Glare from low beams for oncoming drivers also is measured.</p> <p>There are 23 possible headlight combinations for the 11 trucks evaluated. Fourteen of them have excessive glare, contributing to their poor ratings. A vehicle cannot earn a rating better than marginal if it produces too much glare in any of the five test scenarios.</p> <h2>How'd we do?</h2> <p>A bright spot in the ratings is the headlight system on the Ridgeline's RTL-E and Black Edition trims. The LED projector low beams provide fair to good visibility on most approaches, with inadequate visibility only on the gradual left curve.</p> <p>High-beam assist, a feature that automatically switches on high beams if no other vehicles are present, makes up for some of the deficiencies of the low beams.</p> <p>The GMC Sierra has acceptable-rated headlights available on certain trims. Other versions earn a marginal or poor rating.</p> <p>The two kinds of headlights available on the Nissan Titan both earn a marginal rating. The Ram 1500 has marginal headlights on certain trim levels, while others have poor ones.</p> <p>The Ford F-150, the centerpiece of the best-selling F-Series line, is among the poorest performers. Both the base halogen and the optional LED low beams provide inadequate visibility in all test scenarios, including both sides of the straightaway, on sharp curves in both directions and on gradual curves in both directions.</p> <p>The headlights with the worst visibility are on the Chevrolet Colorado. The halogen reflector low beams on the pickup's base trim illuminate to only 123 feet on the right side of the straightaway. In contrast, the Ridgeline LED low beams illuminate to 358 feet.</p> <p>IIHS is incorporating headlights into the criteria for its highest award, TOP SAFETY PICK+. To qualify for the 2017 award, vehicles will need good or acceptable headlights.</p> James Limbach An IIHS top safety award for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/an-iihs-top-safety-award-for-the-mercedes-benz-c-class-100416.html <h3>The midsize luxury car aced the battery of tests</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">October 4, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="28367" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016_Mercedes-Benz_C-Class_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />And the winner is...</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> ( IIHS) has bestowed its TOP SAFETY PICK+ award on the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.</p> <p>The award came as the midsize luxury car earned good ratings in all five of the Institute's crashworthiness evaluations -- small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints.</p> <p>The vehicle also has a standard front crash prevention system that earns an advanced rating. An additional, optional system boosts the car's front crash prevention rating to superior.</p> <p>The C-Class was redesigned for 2015, but IIHS only recently evaluated it for crashworthiness. The car's structure held up well in the challenging small overlap test with maximum intrusion into the occupant compartment of just 4 inches.The earlier generation of the C-Classhad intrusion of 20 inches at the footrest and earned a marginal rating.</p> <p>The roof strength test also yielded notable results. The C-Class was found to have a strength-to-weight ratio of 7, among the highest ever registered.A ratio of 4 or higher is required for a good rating. Roof strength is important for protection in a rollover crash.</p> <p>To qualify for 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five IIHS crashworthiness tests and an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> James Limbach IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award goes to the 2017 Kia Sedona https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-top-safety-pick-award-goes-to-the-2017-kia-sedona-100316.html <h3>Optional automatic braking technology made the difference</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">October 3, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="28316" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2017-Kia-Sedona_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />The addition of optional automatic braking technology has qualified the 2017 Kia Sedona for the highest award from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS).</p> <p>Like earlier models, the minivan earned good ratings across the board in IIHS crashworthiness evaluations. The addition of autobrake boosts its front crash prevention rating from basic to superior.</p> <p>In IIHS track tests at 12 mph and 25 mph, a Sedona equipped with the new front crash prevention system avoided collisions. The system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests.</p> <p>It also must earn an advanced or superior rating forfront crash prevention.</p> James Limbach New Buick SUV takes top IIHS safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/new-buick-suv-takes-top-iihs-safety-award-092816.html <h3>It&#39;s the first Chinese-built vehicle that IIHS has tested</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">September 28, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="28211" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Buick_Envision_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />A new midsize SUV from Buick has qualified for the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.</p> <p>The Envision -- the first Chinese-built vehicle that IIHS has tested as part of its consumer ratings -- earned good ratings across the board for crashworthiness.</p> <h2>Two braking systems offered</h2> <p>The vehicle is available with Front Automatic Braking, an advanced-rated front crash prevention system that's optional for both 2016 and 2017 models.</p> <p>A different system -- Forward Collision Alert -- earns a basic rating. Forward Collision Alert is standard on all 2016 Envisions not equipped with autobrake but is optional on 2017 models.</p> <p>In the IIHS 12-mph track test, the Envision with the autobrake system avoided a collision. In the 25-mph test, its impact speed was reduced by 9 mph.</p> <p>The system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests.</p> <p>It also must earn an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> James Limbach Cadillac's new SUV earns top IIHS safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/cadillacs-new-suv-earns-top-iihs-safety-award-092616.html <h3>The vehicle performed well in all five safety tests</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">September 26, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="28142" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Cadillac_XT5_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />The new 2017 Cadillac XT5 midsize luxury SUV has been awarded the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety'</a>s (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.</p> <p>In addition to earning good ratings in all five of the Institute's crashworthiness evaluations, the midsize luxury SUV -- when equipped with optional front crash prevention -- received a superior or advanced rating, depending on the package selected.</p> <h2>Varying braking packages offered</h2> <p>When equipped with both Front Automatic Braking and Low-Speed Front Automatic Braking, the XT5 earns a superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> <p>In the 12 mph IIHS track test, it consistently avoided a collision. In the 25 mph test, it avoided a collision in four out of five runs and slowed but didn't stop completely in the fifth.</p> <p>When equipped with low-speed autobrake only, the XT5 earns an advanced rating. It avoided a collision in the 12 mph test, while in the 25 mph test, the impact speed was cut by 9 mph.</p> <p>Both front crash prevention packages also include forward collision warning that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests. It also must have an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach Chrysler Pacifica earns top IIHS safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/chrysler-pacifica-earns-top-iihs-safety-award-092116.html <h3>It&#39;s the first minivan to do so</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">September 21, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="28025" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Chrysler_Pacifica_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />The Chrysler Pacifica, which replaces the Town & Country, is the first minivan to earn the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.</p> <p>The newly introduced vehicle has good ratings in the IIHS five crashworthiness tests. However, the good rating in the small overlap front test applies only to Pacificas manufactured after August, when changes were made to prevent the driver door from opening during a small overlap crash. Before those improvements were made, the door was torn from its hinges and came open at the front.</p> <h2>Major improvements</h2> <p>Fiat Chrysler strengthened the upper hinge and reinforced the joint between the door hinge pillar and inner body panel in front of the pillar. When the vehicle was tested a second time, the door remained attached and closed -- resulting in a good rating. In contrast, the Town & Country was rated poor for small overlap protection, due to severe intrusion into the driver space.</p> <p>The Pacifica is available with an optional front crash prevention system, which earns a superior rating. In IIHS track tests at 25 mph and 12 mph, the vehicle avoided collisions. The system also gets credit for a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests.</p> <p>It also must have an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach IIHS finds improvement in child seat installation hardware https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-finds-improvement-in-child-seat-installation-hardware-090216.html <h3>Most models are now rated good or acceptable</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">September 2, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="15844" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/LATCH_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />What a difference a year makes.</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) says it's now a lot easier to secure your child in a late-model vehicle than it was just 12 months ago.</p> <p>In the institute's LATCH ease-of-use ratings of child seat installation hardware in vehicles for<a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-rates-latch-hardware-in-vehicles-for-ease-of-use" target="_blank">June 2015</a>, the majority of the 102 vehicles rated were poor or marginal. This year, a total of 170 current models were evaluated, and most were good or acceptable. In fact, three models -- the Audi Q7, the Lexus RX, and the Toyota Prius -- earn the top rating of good+, a distinction that no vehicle achieved last year.</p> <p>LATCH, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, is intended to make it easier for caregivers to install child restraints properly. Child restraints installed with LATCH are more likely to be put in correctly than restraints installed using the vehicle safety belt, IIHS research has shown. A properly installed, age-appropriate child restraint can protect a child much better in a crash than a safety belt alone.</p> <p>"Frustrating child seat installations have become a familiar rite of parenthood," said Jessica Jermakian, an IIHS senior research engineer. "Unfortunately, these frustrations lead to mistakes that can have real consequences in the event of a crash. We're pleased to see automakers taking this issue seriously and making improvements in response to our ratings."</p> <h2>The ratings</h2> <p>In the IIHS ratings system, LATCH hardware is considered good if it meets the following criteria:</p> <ul> <li>The lower anchors are no more than inch deep within the seat bight or slightly deeper if there is open access around them.</li> <li>The lower anchors are easy to maneuver around. This is defined as having a clearance angle greater than 54 degrees.</li> <li>The force required to attach a standardized tool representing a child seat connector to the lower anchors is less than 40 pounds.</li> <li>Tether anchors are on the vehicle's rear deck or on the top 85 percent of the seatback. They shouldn't be at the very bottom of the seatback, under the seat, on the ceiling, or on the floor.</li> <li>The area where the tether anchor is found doesn't have any other hardware that could be confused for the tether anchor. If other hardware is present, then the tether anchor must have a clear label located within 3 inches of it.</li> </ul> <p>To earn a good rating, two LATCH positions in the second row must meet all five criteria, and a third tether anchor must meet both tether criteria. The good+ rating is for vehicles that meet the criteria for a good rating and provide additional LATCH-equipped seating positions.</p> <p>The good+ designation is intended to encourage manufacturers to give parents greater flexibility when seating children in a vehicle.</p> <h2>Vehicle ratings</h2> <p>Here's how the vehicles that were tested are rated:</p> <table class="newsTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 1px 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(0, 204, 0);">GOOD+</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Audi Q7</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lexus RX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Prius</td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 1px 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(0, 204, 0);">GOOD</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Audi A4</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">BMW 5 series</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mercedes-Benz GL-Class</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Audi A6</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mercedes-Benz C-Class</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class</td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">BMW 2 series</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mercedes-Benz E-Class</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volkswagen Passat</td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 51);">ACCEPTABLE</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Acura ILX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Flex</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lexus GX 460</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Acura MDX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford Focus hatchback</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Lincoln MKX</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Acura RDX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Focus sedan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lincoln MKZ</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Audi A3</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford Taurus</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mazda 3 hatchback</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Audi Q3</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">GMC Terrain</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mazda 3 sedan</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">BMW X1</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">GMC Yukon XL</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mazda CX-3</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Buick Enclave</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda Accord sedan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mazda CX-5</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Buick Encore</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Honda Civic sedan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mazda CX-9</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Cadillac XT5</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda Civic coupe</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mini Cooper Countryman</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Cruze Limited</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Honda Odyssey</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mitsubishi Outlander</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Equinox</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda Pilot</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mitsubishi Outlander Sport</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Impala</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">2017 Hyundai Elantra</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Juke</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Malibu Limited</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Hyundai Santa Fe</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Nissan Maxima</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Spark</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Murano</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Tahoe</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Hyundai Tucson</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Nissan Pathfinder</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Traverse</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Hyundai Veloster</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Versa</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Trax</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Jeep Cherokee</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Avalon</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chrysler 300</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Jeep Compass</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Camry</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chrysler Town & Country</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Jeep Patriot</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Corolla</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Dodge Challenger</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Kia Forte</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Sienna<br /> built after 3/16</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Dodge Dart</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Kia Optima</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volkswagen Golf</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Dodge Durango</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Kia Sedona</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Volkswagen Tiguan</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Dodge Grand Caravan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Kia Sorento</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volvo S60</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford Edge</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Kia Soul</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Volvo V60</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Expedition</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Kia Sportage</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volvo XC90</td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford Explorer</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Lexus ES 350<br /> built after 8/15</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">MARGINAL</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Acura TLX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">2017 Ford Fusion</td> <td class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; float: none !important;">Nissan Quest</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Audi Q5</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Mustang</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Nissan Rogue</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">BMW 3 series</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">GMC Acadia</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Sentra</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">BMW X3</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda Accord coupe</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ram 1500 crew cab</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">BMW X5</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Honda CR-V</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ram 1500 extended cab</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Buick Envision</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Honda HR-V</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Scion FR-S</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Buick LaCrosse</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Hyundai Accent sedan</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Scion iA</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Cadillac CTS</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Hyundai Genesis</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Subaru Crosstrek</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Cadillac Escalade ESV</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Hyundai Sonata</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Subaru Forester</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Cadillac SRX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Infiniti QX60</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Subaru Impreza</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Camaro</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Jeep Grand Cherokee</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Subaru Legacy</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Malibu</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Jeep Renegade</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Subaru Outback</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ext. cab</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Jeep Wrangler 2-door</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Subaru WRX</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Chevrolet Sonic</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Jeep Wrangler 4-door</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota 4Runner</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Suburban</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Kia Rio</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Highlander</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Chevrolet Volt</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lexus CT 200h</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Prius c</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chrysler 200</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Lexus IS</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Prius v<br /> built after 1/16</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">2017 Chrysler Pacifica<br /> built after 8/2016</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lexus NX</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota RAV4</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Dodge Charger</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Lexus RC</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Toyota Tundra crew cab<br /> built after 4/2016</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Dodge Journey</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Lincoln Navigator</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Toyota Tundra extended cab<br /> built after 2/2016</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Fiat 500X</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Mazda 6</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Volkswagen CC</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford C-Max Hybrid</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Mini Cooper</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Volkswagen Jetta</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">2017 Ford Escape</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Altima</td> <td class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; float: none !important;">Volvo XC60</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford F-150 crew cab</td> <td class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Nissan Frontier crew cab</td> <td class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"></td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Ford F-150 extended cab</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Nissan Leaf</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> <tr class="bottomborder" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; text-transform: uppercase; float: none !important; background-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">POOR</th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew cab</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">GMC Sierra 1500 crew cab</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;">Infiniti QX50</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Ford Fiesta hatchback</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Hyundai Accent hatchback</td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: top; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Subaru BRZ</td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;"><span class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Ford Fiesta sedan</span></td> <td class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: top; float: none !important;"><span class="alignTop" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Infiniti Q70</span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> James Limbach Improved small overlap rating earns Hyundai Elantra IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/improved-small-overlap-rating-earns-hyundai-elantra-iihs-top-safety-pick-072716.html <h3>The rating applies only to vehicles built after March</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">July 27, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="26323" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2017_Hyundai_Elantra_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />Across-the-board good ratings for crashworthiness -- including in the challenging small overlap test -- have earned the redesigned Hyundai Elantra the top award from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS)</p> <p>The redesigned 2017 Elantra also has an available front crash prevention system that earned a superior rating.</p> <p>The small vehicle's good small overlap rating is an improvement over the previous generation, which rated acceptable. The earlier model's structure did not fare well in the test. Maximum intrusion into the occupant space was nine inches. In the new Elantra, it's only 2 inches.</p> <p>The good rating applies only to 2017 Elantras built after March, when additional modifications were made. Those changes included strengthening the junction between the door sill and the hinge pillar and modifying the frontal airbag.</p> <p>The Elantra's optional front crash prevention system avoided a collision in the Institute's 12 mph track test. In the 25 mph test, the car's impact speed was cut by an average of 22 mph. The system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests. It also must have an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach IIHS: Most small SUV headlights rated as poor https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-most-small-suv-headlights-rate-poor <h3>Only a a handful received an acceptable rating</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">July 12, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="25798" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Headlights_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />Disappointing results from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safetys</a> (IIHS) headlight evaluations, as not one small SUV out of 21 tested earned a good rating. Furthermore, only four are available with acceptable-rated headlights.</p> <p>There are 47 different headlight combinations available among the 21 vehicles. More than two-thirds of them are rated poor, making the group even more deficient when it comes to lighting than the midsize cars that were the first to be <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/iihs-time-to-turn-on-the-headlights-033016.html" target="_blank">rated earlier this year</a>.</p> <p>Headlight performance in todays vehicles varies widely. Government standards are based on laboratory tests which, according to IIHS, dont accurately gauge performance in real-world driving. About half of traffic deaths occur either in the dark or around dawn or dusk.</p> <p>As with midsize cars, the IIHS evaluations of small SUVs showed that a vehicles price tag doesnt correspond to the quality of headlights. More modern lighting types, including high-intensity discharge (HID),LED lamps, and curve-adaptive systems, which swivel in the direction of steering, also are no guarantee of good performance.</p> <p>Manufacturers arent paying enough attention to the actual on-road performance of this basic equipment, said IIHS Senior Research Engineer Matthew Brumbelow. Were optimistic that improvements will come quickly now that weve given automakers something to strive for.</p> <p>For 2017, vehicles will need good or acceptable headlights in order to qualify for the Institutes highest award, TOP SAFETY PICK+.</p> <p>While studies have pointed to advantages for advanced lighting systems, the IIHS rating system doesnt favor one type of technology over the other. Instead, it simply measures the amount of usable light provided by low beams and high beams as vehicles travel on straightaways and curves.</p> <h2>Conducting the test</h2> <p>Engineers evaluate headlights on the IIHS Vehicle Research Centers track after dark. A special device is used to measure how far the light is projected as the vehicle is driven on five approaches: traveling straight, a sharp left curve, a sharp right curve, a gradual left curve and a gradual right curve.</p> <p>Glare from low beams for oncoming drivers is also measured in each scenario. A vehicle with excessive glare on any of the approaches cant earn a rating higher than marginal.</p> <p>The only type of technology given an explicit nod in the ratings is high-beam assist, which automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles. Vehicles can earn extra credit for this feature because of its potential to increase low rates of high-beam use.</p> <h2>Best and worst</h2> <p>The best-performing headlights in the small SUV group belong to a new model, the Mazda CX-3, and are available on its Grand Touring trim. They are curve-adaptive LED lights with optional high beam assist. The low beams perform well on both right curves and fairly well on the straightaway and sharp left curve; however, they provide inadequate light on the gradual left curve. The high beams perform well on most approaches.</p> <p>The other vehicles available with acceptable headlights are the Ford Escape, the Honda CR-V, and theHyundai Tucson. None of the three are curve-adaptive, and only the Escape has high-beam assist. Still,all of them provide fair or good illumination in most scenarios.</p> <p>The worst headlights among the small SUVs belong to a different Honda -- the new-for-2016 HR-V.The illumination provided by the HR-Vs halogen low beams and high beams is inadequate on all fourcurves and on the straightaway. The HR-V is one of 12 small SUVs that cant be purchased with anything other than poor-rated headlights.</p> <p>For those vehicles available with higher-rated headlights, consumers need to make sure theyre gettingthe right ones. For example, the Tucsons acceptable headlight combination is available on the SUVs Limited version, but the headlights on other trim levels of the Tucson earn a poor rating. Even the Limited, when equipped with curve-adaptive headlights, earns a poor rating because of excessive glare.</p> <p>Seventeen of the rated SUV headlight combinations have unacceptable glare. They include all types of lights -- halogen, HID, and LED -- and none of the headlight types is more likely than the others to have excessive glare. Three of the 17 fell short of an acceptable rating on the basis of glare alone.</p> <p>Glare issues are usually a result of poorly aimed headlights, said Brumbelow. SUV headlights are mounted higher than car headlights, so they generally should be aimed lower. Instead, many of them are aimed higher than the car headlights weve tested so far.</p> <p>IIHS plans to conduct headlight tests on pickups next.</p> James Limbach IIHS considers safety test with focus on passenger protection https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-considers-safety-test-with-focus-on-passenger-protection <h3>As it stands now, there isn&#39;t much</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">June 24, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="25285" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/small-overlap_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />A new safety test may be in the works at the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) -- one that would rate passenger-side protection as part of the small overlap crash test.</p> <p>While drivers can expect to be protected well in a front crash involving the left corner of the vehicle, a new study shows that good protection doesn't always extend across the front seat to the passengers sitting next to them.</p> <p>The Institute conducted 40 mph passenger-side small overlap tests on seven small SUVs with good driver-side small overlap ratings. Only one -- the 2016 Hyundai Tucson -- performed at a level corresponding to a good rating; the others ran the gamut from poor to acceptable.</p> <p>"This is an important aspect of occupant protection that needs more attention," said Becky Mueller, an IIHS senior research engineer and the lead author of the study. "More than 1,600 right-front passengers died in frontal crashes in 2014."</p> <p>Thus, the IIHS is considering a passenger-side rating as part of its TOP SAFETY PICK criteria.</p> <h3>Driver-side only</h3> <p>IIHS currently conducts its tests for front ratings with a driver dummy and with the barrier overlapping the driver side. The reason is simple: every vehicle on the road has a driver, but there isn't always a passenger riding along.</p> <p>"It's not surprising that automakers would focus their initial efforts to improve small overlap protection on the side of the vehicle that we conduct the tests on," said David Zuby, IIHS executive vice president and chief research officer. "In fact, we encouraged them to do that in the short term if it meant they could quickly make driver-side improvements to more vehicles. As time goes by, though, we would hope they ensure similar levels of protection on both sides."</p> <h3>Protection differences</h3> <p>The recent passenger-side tests show how big the differences can be. In the group of small SUVs that was tested, most didn't perform as well when they were crashed into a barrier on the right side instead of the left. That was even true of models that appeared symmetrical after removing bumper covers and other external components.</p> <p>"When structural improvements are visible only on the driver side, there are large differences in performance," Mueller says. "But the inverse is not true. Some vehicle structures look the same on both sides, but they don't perform the same. That's why we can't rely on visual analysis but need to monitor this issue and possibly begin rating vehicles for passenger-side protection."</p> <p>The IIHS passenger-side small overlap testing program could start next year and make it a requirement for one of its safety awards as early as 2018.</p> James Limbach Audi A4 named winner of top IIHS award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/audi-a4-named-winner-of-top-iihs-award-060216.html <h3>A redesign enhanced many occupant protections</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">June 2, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="24426" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Audi_A4_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />By offering good protection in a small overlap front crash and a superior-rated, standard front crash prevention system, the redesigned Audi A4 has earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ award from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS).</p> <p>The luxury midsize car rated poor in the small overlap evaluation in its previous generation. In that test, the structure didn't hold up, with intrusion into the driver's space reaching 11 inches at the footwell and the instrument panel.</p> <p>Additionally, the steering column moved toward the driver and to the right, and the dummy's head slipped off the left side of the airbag. The driver door opened, which would put the driver at risk of ejection in a real crash.</p> <h3>Changes make the difference</h3> <p>On the other hand, the 2017 A4 had maximum intrusion of only 3 inches at the footrest. The dummy's head hit the front airbag and stayed there until rebound.</p> <p>Like its predecessor, the 2017 model earns good ratings in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests.</p> <p>The redesigned model has a superior-rated, standard front crash prevention system -- a step up from the advanced-rated system that was only available as an option on earlier models. In the 12 mph IIHS track test, the vehicle avoided a collision. In the 25 mph track test, impact speed was reduced by an average of 22 mph. The system also has a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>A different, optional front crash prevention system available on the A4 also earns a superior rating.</p> <p>To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must have good ratings in all five crashworthiness tests and an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach Redesigned BMW X1 earns top IIHS award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#redesigned-bmw-x1-earns-top-iihs-award <h3>The vehicle also offers an optional front crash prevention system</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">May 27, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="24288" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016__BMW_X1_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />BMW tweaked its 2016 X1 model and walked away with the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's</a> (IIHS) top award for safety.</p> <p>The key was earning a good small overlap rating. The driver's space was maintained reasonably well in the test, with maximum intrusion of about 4 inches at the lower door hinge pillar and at the instrument panel.</p> <p>In the test of the previous version, intrusion reached 16 inches at the footwell, trapping the dummy's right foot.</p> <p>Like its predecessor, the new X1 earns good ratings in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests.</p> <h3>Optional front crash prevention system</h3> <p>The X1's newly available front crash prevention system earns an advanced rating from IIHS. In track tests at 12 mph, impact speed was reduced by an average of 10 mph.</p> <p>In the 25 mph tests, impact speed was reduced by 7 mph. The system includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must have good ratings in all five crashworthiness tests and an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> James Limbach Muscle cars come up short in IIHS safety tests https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#muscle-cars-come-up-short-in-iihs-safety-tests <h3>None qualify for a TOP SAFETY PICK award</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">May 24, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="24159" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Muscle_Car_c_gorbovoi81_-_Fotolia_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />The term muscle car conjures up images of performance, speed, and power. Safety? You would think these behemoths would offer all the protections you need. But, as the song goes, it ain't necessarily so.</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) recently ran three top sports coupes through their tests and found that none of them racked up the scores necessary for a TOP SAFETY PICK award.</p> <p>The Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, and Ford Mustang took part in the full battery of crashworthiness evaluations, with the Mustang comingclosest to earning TOP SAFETY PICK. The Camaro missed the mark in one category and lacks an available front crash prevention system. The Challenger is most in need of improvement.</p> <p>To qualify for the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK, vehicles must earn good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations and have a basic-rated front crash prevention system.</p> <h3>How they stack up</h3> <p>The Camaro, Challenger and Mustang earn good ratings for occupant protection in a moderate overlap front crash, as well as a side impact.</p> <p>In the small overlap front test -- the newest and toughest IIHS crashworthiness evaluation -- the Camaro earns a good rating, the Mustang earns an acceptable rating, and the Challenger is rated as marginal.</p> <p>"The Mustang is just one good rating away from earning TOP SAFETY PICK," IIHS President Adrian Lund pointed out. "Its small overlap rating holds it back."</p> <p>The small overlap test replicates what happens when a vehicle runs off the road and hits a tree or pole or clips another vehicle that has crossed the center line. It is an especially challenging test because it involves a vehicle's outer edges, which aren't well-protected by the crush-zone structures.</p> <p>The Challenger wasn't up to the challenge of the small overlap test. Extensive intrusion into the lower occupant compartment limited the driver's survival space and resulted in a poor rating for structure and for leg/foot protection. Measures taken from the dummy indicate a high likelihood of serious lower leg injuries.</p> <p>In contrast, survival space for the driver in the Camaro was well-maintained, and the risk of injuries to the dummy's legs and feet was low. The Camaro was redesigned for the 2016 model year.</p> <p>"The Camaro's safety cage is built to resist intrusion in a small overlap crash, and that's good news for Camaro drivers," Lund says.</p> <p>The Camaro and Mustang earn good ratings for head restraints and seats to protect against neck injuries in rear crashes. The Challenger's head restraints are rated as acceptable.</p> <p>The Mustang earns a good rating for roof strength, and the Camaro and Challenger earn acceptable ratings.</p> <h3>Consumer inquiries</h3> <p>IIHS doesn't typically crash-test sports cars, as they make up a small share of the consumer market. However, IIHS engineers decided to evaluate these models with optional V-8 engines because they are big sellers in their class, and consumers often ask how they would perform in crash tests.</p> <p>Insurance data pointsto high losses for sports cars. As a group, they have the highest losses among passenger vehicles for crash damage repairs under collision coverage, data from the Highway Loss Data Institute shows. Collision coverage insures against physical damage to the at-fault policyholder's vehicle in a crash.</p> <p>"Given that sports cars have high crash rates, it's especially important that they offer the best occupant protection possible in a crash," Lund concluded.</p> James Limbach IIHS releases results of large pickup truck safety tests https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-releases-results-of-large-pickup-truck-safety-tests <h3>Only the Ford F-150 earned a top safety rating for small overlap protection</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">April 12, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="22721" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Ford_F-150_Exteded_Cab_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />The results are in for the new round of crash tests conducted by the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS), and three out of seven large pickup trucks evaluated earned an acceptable or higher rating for occupant protection in a small overlap front crash.</p> <p>Two body styles of each 2016 model-year pickup(crew cab and extended cab)were included in the tests.Crew cabs have four full doors and two full rows of seating. Extended cabs have two full front doors, two smaller rear doors and compact second-row seats.</p> <h3>Top marks for Ford</h3> <p>By improving the 2016 model F-150 SuperCab, Ford clinched a good rating in the small overlap crash test --up from the 2015 models marginal rating. The F-150 is the only large pickup in the latest test group to earn the test's top rating. It joins the F-150 SuperCrew in earning a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK award when equipped with Fords optional basic-rated forward collision warning system.</p> <p>Ford is leading the way among large pickup manufacturers when it comes to protecting people in a range of crashes and offering technology to warn drivers of imminent frontal crashes, said Raul Arbelaez, vice president of the IIHS Vehicle Research Center. We commend Ford for taking last years test results to heart and upgrading protection for SuperCab occupants in small overlap crashes.</p> <p>Vehicles that earn a basic rating for front crash prevention in addition togood ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK. To qualify for 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five crashworthiness tests and an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> <h3>The also-rans</h3> <p>Differences were observed in performance between the extended-cab and crew-cab versions of two other pickups. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab and the Toyota Tundra Double Cab both earned an acceptable rating for occupant protection in a small overlap crash. Survival space for the driver in these extended-cab pickups was maintained reasonably well overall, contributing to their acceptable ratings for structure.</p> <p>The story was different for the larger crew cabs. The Silverado 1500 Crew Cab and the Tundra CrewMax earned a marginal rating in the small overlap front test. Both models had considerable intrusion into the occupant compartment that compromised survival space for the driver.</p> <p>Ratings for both of the Silverado pickups extend to their GMC Sierra 1500 twins.</p> <p>The worst-performing pickups in the small overlap test are the Ram 1500 Crew Cab and the Ram 1500 Quad Cab. Both earned a marginal rating overall and a poor rating for structure. The force of the crash pushed the door-hinge pillar, instrument panel, and steering column back toward the driver dummy. In the Ram Crew Cab test, the dummys head contacted the front airbag but rolled around the left side as the steering column moved to the right, allowing the head to approach the intruding windshield pillar.</p> <p>IIHS plans to test the redesigned 2016 Nissan Titan and Honda Ridgeline later this year. The 2015 Titan Crew Cab is rated as good in the moderate overlap front test, acceptable for roof strength, and good for head restraints. The Ridgeline was last sold as a 2014 model. It earns good ratings in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations.</p> James Limbach Improvements earn Toyota Prius top safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards#improvements-earn-toyota-prius-top-safety-award <h3>An improved front crash prevention system made the difference</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">March 31, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="22361" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016_Prius_IIHS_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />Acing the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's</a> (IIHS) small overlap front test has helped the 2016 Toyota Prius earn the organization's TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. Additionally, the small hybrid's optional front crash prevention system has improved to earn a superior rating.</p> <p>To qualify for the top IIHS award, vehicles have to get good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests, and must have an available front crash prevention system that earns an advanced or superior rating.</p> <p>The previous generation of the Prius had good ratings in four of the five crashworthiness tests, but rated only acceptable for small overlap protection because its structure didn't hold up well in the test.</p> <h3>Significant improvements</h3> <p>In contrast, the 2016 Prius had maximum intrusion of just two inches at the upper door-hinge pillar and at the brake and parking brake pedals. The dummy's movement was well-controlled, and measures taken from the dummy showed a low risk of injury in a crash of the same severity.</p> <p>The optional front crash prevention system has improved over what was available on the previous model. The new Prius avoided collisions in both the 12 mph and 25 mph IIHS track tests. It also has a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> James Limbach IIHS: Time to turn on the headlights https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards#iihs-time-to-turn-on-the-headlights <h3>New ratings show most need improvement</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">March 30, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="medium alignright" data-id="22304" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Auto_headlights__codrupsiho_-_Fotolia_medium.jpg" style="undefined" />The headlights are probably thelast thing you think about when deciding which new car to buy.</p> <p>However, a new report from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) suggests you may want to move that up on your list of priorities</p> <p>According to the first-ever headlight ratings conducted by the IIHS, the Toyota Prius v is the only midsize car out of 31 evaluated to earn a good rating. The best available headlights on 11 cars earn an acceptable rating, while nine only reach a marginal rating. Ten of the vehicles can't be purchased with anything other than poor-rated headlights.</p> <p>"If you're having trouble seeing behind the wheel at night, it could very well be your headlights and not your eyes that are to blame," said David Zuby, IIHS executive vice president and chief research officer.</p> <h3>More doesn't always mean better</h3> <p>The car's price tag is no guarantee of decent headlights. Many of the poor-rated headlights belong to luxury vehicles.</p> <p>Among the 44 headlight systems earning a poor rating, the halogen lights on the BMW 3 series are the worst. A driver with those headlights would have to be going 35 mph or slower to stop in time for an obstacle in the travel lane. A better choice for the same car is an LED curve-adaptive system with high-beam assist, a combination that rates marginal.</p> <p>Curve-adaptive systems don't always lead to better ratings. The Cadillac ATS, Kia Optima, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class all earn poor ratings even when equipped with adaptive low and high beams.</p> <p>In the case of the Optima, a big problem is glare. Its curve-adaptive system provides better visibility than its non-adaptive lights, but produces excessive glare for oncoming vehicles on all five low beam approaches.</p> <h3>How headlights are evaluated</h3> <p>Headlights are evaluated on the track after dark at the IIHS Vehicle Research Center. A special device measures the light from both low beams and high beams as the vehicle is driven on five different approaches: traveling straight, a sharp left curve, a sharp right curve, a gradual left curve, and a gradual right curve.</p> <p>Glare for oncoming vehiclesis also measured from low beams in each scenario to make sure it isn't excessive.</p> <h3>How they did</h3> <h2 style="margin: 18px 0px 0.4em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: 600; font-size: 1.2em; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); text-align: justify;">2016 midsize cars<br /> Best available headlight system for each model</h2> <div class="span-3 prepend-top" style="margin: 1.5em 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; width: 110px; line-height: 22.2772px; text-align: justify;"> <table class="SRTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(0, 204, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; float: none !important;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: uppercase;">GOOD</span></th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(0, 204, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/toyota/prius-v-4-door-wagon" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Toyota Prius v</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td colspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="span-3 prepend-top" style="margin: 1.5em 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; width: 110px; line-height: 22.2772px; text-align: justify;"> <table class="SRTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; float: none !important;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: uppercase;">ACCEPTABLE</span></th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/audi/a3-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Audi A3</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/honda/accord-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Honda Accord 4-door</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/infiniti/q50-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Infiniti Q50</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/lexus/es-350-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Lexus ES</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/lexus/is-250-350-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Lexus IS</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/mazda/6-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Mazda 6</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/nissan/maxima-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Nissan Maxima</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/subaru/outback-4-door-wagon" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Subaru Outback</a><br /> <span class="smalltext" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">(built after Nov. 2015)</span></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/volkswagen/cc-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Volkswagen CC</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/volkswagen/jetta-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Volkswagen Jetta</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 255, 51); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/volvo/s60-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Volvo S60</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="span-3 prepend-top" style="margin: 1.5em 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; width: 110px; line-height: 22.2772px; text-align: justify;"> <table class="SRTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; float: none !important;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: uppercase;">MARGINAL</span></th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/acura/tlx-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Acura TLX</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/audi/a4-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Audi A4</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/bmw/2-series-2-door-coupe" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">BMW 2 series</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/bmw/3-series-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">BMW 3 series</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/chrysler/200-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Chrysler 200</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/ford/fusion-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Ford Fusion</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/lincoln/mkz-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Lincoln MKZ</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/subaru/legacy-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Subaru Legacy</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/toyota/camry-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Toyota Camry</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td colspan="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div class="span-3 last prepend-top" style="margin: 1.5em 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; width: 110px; line-height: 22.2772px; text-align: justify;"> <table class="SRTableNoStripe" style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; width: auto; background-color: transparent;"> <tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: bottom; text-align: left; line-height: 1.3em; float: none !important;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; text-transform: uppercase;">POOR</span></th> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/buick/verano-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Buick Verano</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/cadillac/ats-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Cadillac ATS</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/chevrolet/malibu-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Chevrolet Malibu</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/chevrolet/malibu-limited-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Chevrolet Malibu Limited</a><br /> <span class="smalltext" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">(fleet model)</span></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/hyundai/sonata-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Hyundai Sonata</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/kia/optima-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Kia Optima</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/mercedes/c-class-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Mercedes-Benz C-Class</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/mercedes/cla-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Mercedes-Benz CLA</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/nissan/altima-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Nissan Altima</a></td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14.8515px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 10px 4px 5px; border-width: 0px 0px 0px 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-style: inherit; font-size: 0.9em; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/volkswagen/passat-4-door-sedan" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 13.3663px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(26, 84, 148);">Volkswagen Passat</a></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in"></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in">(Graph via IIHS)</p> James Limbach Redesigned Audi Q7 earns TOP SAFETY PICK+ award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#redesigned-audi-q7-earns-top-safety-pick-award <h3>The vehicle&#39;s standard front crash prevention system got a superior rating</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">February 26, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="21250" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2017_Audi_Q7_IIHS_large.jpg" />A superior rating for its standard front crash prevention system has earned the redesigned 2017 Audi Q7 a TOP SAFETY PICK+ award from the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS).</p> <p>The large luxury SUV also received good ratings in all five of the IIHS crashworthiness tests.</p> <p>The IIHS doesn't routinely test large SUVs, and the Q7 is the first to be put through the challenging small overlap front crash test, which was introduced in 2012. The Q7 was tested because Audi nominated it for TOP SAFETY PICK+ and paid for the vehicles used.</p> <p>In 2016, vehicles qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ if they have good ratings in all five crashworthiness evaluations -- small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraints, as well as an available front crash prevention system.</p> <p>If the system earns a basic rating, the vehicle qualifies for TOP SAFETY PICK. The "plus" is awarded to vehicles with an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention.</p> <p>In the front crash prevention evaluation, the Q7 avoided a collision in the 12 mph track test. In the 25 mph test, the vehicle's speed was cut by an average of 23 mph. The system also includes a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> James Limbach Toyota Highlander earns Top IIHS safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/toyota-highlander-earns-top-iihs-safety-award-022516.html <h3>It&#39;s the second year in a row for the vehicle</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">February 25, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="21217" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016_Toyota_Highlander_IIHS_large.jpg" />Toyota's 2016 Highlander has earned a good rating in the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's</a> (IIHS) small overlap front test -- improving from acceptable -- to clinch a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.</p> <p>Last year's model was also a TOP SAFETY PICK+, but the criteria for the award wastightened for 2016. Previously, an acceptable rating for small overlap protection was enough, but now a good rating is required. Toyota made structural modifications to improve small overlap performance for 2016.</p> <p>During the test of the 2016 Highlander, the dummy's movement was better controlled than in the test of the earlier model. The head hit the front airbag, which stayed in front of the dummy until rebound. The dummy in the previous test slid off the airbag's left side.</p> <p>To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in all five crashworthiness evaluations -- small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints.</p> <p>TOP SAFETY PICK winners also have an available front crash prevention system that earns a basic rating; vehicles earning the "plus" have an advanced or superior rating. The Highlander's optional front crash prevention is rated advanced.</p> James Limbach Front crash prevention technology works well https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#front-crash-prevention-technology-works-well <h3>An IIHS study finds autobrake has slashed police-reported rear-end crashes</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">January 29, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="20423" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Crash_prevention_IIHSjpg_large.jpg" />In the first study of its kind, the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) has found vehicles equipped with front crash prevention are much less likely to rear-end other vehicles.</p> <p>Systems with automatic braking reduce rear-end crashes by about 40% on average, while forward collision warning alone cuts them by 23%, the study found. The autobrake systems also greatly reduce injury crashes.</p> <p>If all vehicles had been equipped with autobrake that worked as well as the systems studied, there would have been at least 700,000 fewer police-reported rear-end crashes -- 13% of police-reported crashes overall -- in 2013.</p> <p>"The success of front crash prevention represents a big step toward safer roads," says David Zuby, IIHS chief research officer. "As this technology becomes more widespread, we can expect to see noticeably fewer rear-end crashes. The same goes for the whiplash injuries that often result from these crashes and can cause a lot of pain and lost productivity."</p> <h3>Still optional -- for now</h3> <p>Front crash prevention is steadily becoming more prevalent, but in most cases it is offered as optional equipment. That may soon change, however. In September, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)and IIHS announced an agreement in principle with automakers to make autobrake standard on all models.</p> <p>Using police reports allows researchers to identify front-to-rear crashes in order to gauge front crash prevention systems' effectiveness specifically for the type of collision they are designed to address.</p> <h3>The study</h3> <p>For the study, researchers looked at police-reported rear-end crashes in 22 states during 2010-14 involving Acura, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Subaru, and Volvo vehicles with optional front crash prevention.</p> <p>The crash rates of vehicles equipped with the technology were compared with the crash rates of the same models without front crash prevention. Individual vehicles with the technology were identified using trim level information or, in some cases, lists of vehicle identification numbers supplied by the manufacturers.</p> <p>A separate analysis of City Safety, Volvo's standard low-speed autobrake system, was conducted by comparing the S60 model with other midsize luxury four-door cars and the XC60 with other midsize luxury SUVs. Unlike the City Safety-equipped Volvos, none of the comparison vehicles had standard front crash prevention.</p> <p>Only rear-end crashes in which the study and comparison models struck other vehicles were considered. Crashes in which those vehicles were struck from behind but didn't strike a vehicle in front were left outsince front crash prevention wouldn't be expected to prevent them.</p> <p>The analyses show that forward collision warning alone reduces rear-end crashes by 23%, while forward collision warning with autobrake reduces them by 39%. The reduction for City Safety is 41%.</p> <p>The study also shows that autobrake reduces injuries. The rate of rear-end crashes with injuries decreases by 42% with forward collision warning with autobrake and 47% with City Safety. Forward collision warning alone is associated with a 6% decrease in rear-end injury crashes, though that finding isn't statistically significant.</p> <p>"Even when a crash isn't avoided, systems that have autobrake have a good chance of preventing injuries by reducing the impact speed," says Jessica Cicchino, the study's author and the IIHS vice president for research. "Still, it's surprising that forward collision warning didn't show more of an injury benefit, given that the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) has found big reductions in injury claims with the feature."</p> <h3>Caveats</h3> <p>One difficulty in studying optional front crash prevention systems is that they often are packaged with other crash avoidance technologies. For example, all of the study vehicles except for some Honda Accords and most of the City Safety-equipped Volvos had adaptive cruise control. Adaptive cruise control works like regular cruise control but uses sensors to track the vehicle in front to maintain a safe following distance.</p> <p>It is possible that some of the observed benefit for front crash prevention systems in avoiding rear-end collisions is actually a result of adaptive cruise control. However, unlike front crash prevention, drivers must activate adaptive cruise control every time they use it, and the feature generally isn't used for all types of driving.</p> <p>Lane departure warning was packaged with front crash prevention on the Hondas, Subarus, and some Volvos included in the study, but it is unlikely to have affected rear-end crashes.</p> <h3>Speed a factor</h3> <p>Cicchino performed an additional analysis of City Safety vehicles to see how the effect of the system varied depending on a road's speed limit. The study vehicles had a version of City Safety that works at speeds up to 19 mph. (A newer version works at speeds up to 30 mph.)</p> <p>Despite its speed limitation, City Safety had the biggest effect on roads with speed limits of 40-45 mph. The equipped Volvos rear-ended other vehicles 54% less frequently than comparable vehicles on those roads. The reduction was 39% on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less and 25% on roads with speed limits of 50 mph or higher.</p> <p>"At first blush it's surprising that this low-speed system was most effective on 40-45 mph roads," Cicchino said. "However, these roads tend to have many traffic lights, which reduce actual travel speeds in places. In addition, City Safety can come into play whenever there is congestion on a higher-speed road."</p> James Limbach Four vehicles added to IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ honor roll https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#four-vehicles-added-to-iihs-top-safety-pick-honor-roll <h3>Honda, Hyundai, Lexus, and Nissan are the big winners</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">January 15, 2016</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="19928" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/TOP_SAFETY_PICK_2016_IIHS_1_large.jpg" />Just one month after the initial crop of 48 TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners was <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/nearly-50-vehicles-earn-iihs-top-safety-award-121015.html" target="_blank">announced</a>, the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) has added another four vehicles to the winner's circle.</p> <p>The latest to earn the designation are the Honda Civic 4-door, Hyundai Sonata, Lexus RX, and Nissan Altima.</p> <p>The requirements for TOP SAFETY PICK+ were tightened for 2016. Now, winners must earn good ratings in each of the Institute's five crashworthiness tests and have an available front crash prevention system earning an advanced or superior rating.</p> <p>Those that meet the crashworthiness criteria but have only a basic-rated front crash prevention system qualify for the second-tier award -- TOP SAFETY PICK.</p> <h3>How they performed</h3> <p>The Civic, Sonata, RX, and Altima all come with superior-rated optional front crash prevention systems. In IIHS track tests, the first three vehicles avoided collisions at 12 mph and 25 mph. The Altima avoided a collision at 12 mph, while in the 25 mph test its impact speed was cut by 10 mph. All four systems include a warning function that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria.</p> <p>The Civic 4-door, a small car, and the RX, a midsize luxury SUV, were both redesigned for 2016. The 2015 Civic had qualified for TOP SAFETY PICK under the old criteria, while the previous generation of the RX had never been tested in the small overlap front crash.</p> <p>The Sonata and the Altima, both midsize cars, were 2015 award winners. Both had their structure improved to raise their small overlap front ratings from acceptable to good. Previously, vehicles could qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ with an acceptable rating in the small overlap front test.</p> <p>In the case of the Sonata, the improvements were made after production for the 2016 model year had already begun. The award applies only to Sonatas built after October.</p> <p>Consumers can find a vehicle's manufacture date on the certification label typically located on or near the driver door.</p> James Limbach Nearly 50 vehicles earn IIHS top safety award https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#nearly-50-vehicles-earn-iihs-top-safety-award <h3>Small overlap crash protection, front crash prevention were the keys </h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">December 10, 2015</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="18816" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/2016_Safety_awards_iihs_large.jpg" />The <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) has named 48 vehicles as recipients of its TOP SAFETY PICK+ for earning good ratings in all five crashworthiness evaluations and an advanced or higher rating for front crash prevention.</p> <p>An additional 13 models qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK.</p> <p>We asked auto manufacturers to do more this year to qualify for our safety awards, and they delivered, said Adrian Lund, IIHS president. For the first time, a good rating in the challenging small overlap front crash test is a requirement to win, in addition to an available front crash prevention system. How that system rates determines whether a vehicle will earn TOP SAFETY PICK+ or TOP SAFETY PICK.</p> <h3>Tougher standards</h3> <p>The baseline requirements for both awards are good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests, as well as a standard or optional front crash prevention system.</p> <p>The 48 winners of the plus award have a superior- or advanced-rated front crash prevention system with automatic braking capabilities. These vehicles must stop or slow down without driver intervention before hitting a target in tests at 12 mph, 25 mph, or both.</p> <p>Models with a basic-rated front crash prevention system, which typically only issues a warning and doesnt brake, qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK.</p> <p>IIHS inaugurated TOP SAFETY PICK in the 2006 model year to help consumers home in on vehicles with the best safety performance. The TOP SAFETY PICK+ accolade was introduced in 2012 to recognize vehicles that offer an advanced level of safety.</p> <p>Last year when IIHS announced the initial winners of the 2015 awards, 33 models qualified for TOP SAFETY PICK+ and 38 qualified for TOP SAFETY PICK. The ranks then grew to 51 TOP SAFETY PICK+ and 48 TOP SAFETY PICK winners. IIHS releases ratings as it evaluates new models, adding to the ranks of winners throughout the year.</p> <h3>Redesign does the trick</h3> <p>The 2016 winners circle includes some redesigned models with improved frontal crash protection and autobrake features, which help to prevent or mitigate certain frontal crashes.</p> <p>The 2016 Nissan Maxima and Volkswagen Passat, for example, earn good ratings in the small overlap front test, while earlier models were rated acceptable. Nissan also improved occupant protection in rear crashes and rollovers, boosting the Maximas head restraints and seats rating from marginal to good and its roof strength rating from acceptable to good.</p> <p>The Maximas optional front crash prevention system is rated superior, and the Passats is rated advanced. Both midsize cars earn the plus award.</p> <p>The Chrysler 200 is the only domestic model to qualify for a 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. One other vehicle from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles -- the Fiat 500X -- earns the Institutes highest award for 2016.</p> <p>Ford has just one winning model this year, the F-150 SuperCrew, which earns TOP SAFETY PICK. The large pickup is the only Ford with a good small overlap rating.</p> <h3>Some don't measure up</h3> <p>A number of previous winners are missing from the new lists, including many small and midsize cars. Last year, vehicles with an acceptable small overlap rating could qualify for either award if their other four crashworthiness ratings were good.</p> <p>An available front crash prevention system was required only for TOP SAFETY PICK+ and not TOP SAFETY PICK. More than 20 winners of the 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK award and four plus-award winners dont qualify under the 2016 criteria.</p> <p>The Toyota Highlander and Sienna, for example, are available with an advanced-rated autobrake system, but less-than-good ratings in the small overlap front test put the midsize SUV and minivan out of contention for a 2016 accolade. The pair earned 2015 plus awards.</p> <p>Lack of an available front crash prevention system is the issue with several vehicles with good small overlap ratings. The Audi Q3, for example, no longer qualifies for TOP SAFETY PICK because it doesnt have front crash prevention.</p> <p>IIHS wasnt able to test the autobrake systems on the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (formerly the M-Class), Nissan Rogue, and Nissan Sentra in time for this initial release of winners. These TOP SAFETY PICKs may be upgraded to TOP SAFETY PICK+ following IIHS tests.</p> <p>The M-Class earned a 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK+ and is rated superior for front crash prevention. The Rogue and Sentra earned 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK awards.</p> <p>Consumers who purchased a winning 2015 model that doesnt qualify this year neednt worry that their vehicles are now less safe, said Lund. As vehicles continue to improve, however, we think its important to recognize that progress and encourage further advances by making our ratings more stringent. This years winners are certainly safer than the vehicles that earned our first TOP SAFETY PICK awards 10 years ago.</p> <h3>Greater availability of Autobrake</h3> <p>Among the TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners, there are 31 models with an available superior-rated front crash prevention system and 17 models with an advanced rating.</p> <p>The Scion iA, a TOP SAFETY PICK+ winner, is the first low-priced car with a standard autobrake system. With a base price of about $16,000, the iA is rated advanced for front crash prevention and is the only minicar to earn a 2016 IIHS award. Besides the iA, autobrake is standard on just a few luxury vehicles. These include all Volvo models, some Mercedes-Benz models, and the Acura RLX.</p> <p>More automakers are expected to make autobrake standard equipment in the near future under a voluntary agreement being developed by automakers, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the IIHS.</p> <p>Ask for autobrake and forward collision warning features when youre out shopping for a new vehicle, Lund said. Look for good ratings in IIHS evaluations and at least 4 of 5 stars from NHTSA. And remember that larger, heavier vehicles offer the best protection in a crash.</p> James Limbach IIHS booster seat ratings hold good news for parents https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-booster-seat-ratings-hold-good-news-for-parents <h3>Twenty of 23 seats earn the highest safety rating</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">November 10, 2015</span> <p><img alt="Photo" data-id="17907" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/Booster_rating.IIHS_large.jpg" />Back in 2008, the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> began rating boosters seats -- and the results were disappointing to say the least: Most models failed to consistently provide good belt fit, the main purpose of a booster.</p> <p>What a difference seven years makes. All new models evaluated by IIHS now provide good or acceptable fit for typical 4-to-8year-olds in most cars, minivans, and SUVs.</p> <p>Of 23 new models evaluated, 20 earn the highest rating of BEST BET, meaning they are likely to provide good belt fit for a child in almost any car, minivan, or SUV.</p> <p>Another three models are rated GOOD BETs, meaning they provide acceptable fit in most vehicles. No new models were in the Not Recommended category, nor are there any with the Check Fit designation, which identifies seats that may work for some children in some vehicles.</p> <p>Our ratings have succeeded in getting child seat manufacturers to prioritize belt fit when they design boosters, said Jessica Jermakian, IIHS senior research scientist. The large number of BEST BETs on the market now makes it easier for parents to shop for a seat that will work for their child in virtuallyany vehicle.</p> <h3>The need for boosters</h3> <p>Booster seats are designed for kids who have outgrown harness-equipped restraints. Children ages 4-8 are 45% less likely to sustain injuries in crashes if they are in boosters than if they are using safety belts alone. Boosters serve as an important bridge until children are large enough for vehicle safety belts to fit properly by themselves. For some kids, thats not until age 12.</p> <p>Until then, booster seats should be used to make safety belts fit correctly. Correct fit means the belt lies flat across a childs upper thighs, not across the soft abdomen, and the shoulder belt crosses snugly over the middle of a childs shoulder.</p> <p>The IIHS online ratings (<a href="http://iihs.org/boosters" target="_blank">iihs.org/boosters</a>) include many models that were evaluated in past years and are still on the market. Including the 2015 crop, as well as carryover models, there currently are 82 BEST BETs and eight GOOD BETs. Six boosters are Not Recommended, and 31 are in the Check Fit category.</p> <p>We hope manufacturers will move quickly to redesign or end production of the Not Recommended boosters and also phase out Check Fit seats and replace them with BEST BETs that perform their job reliably, Jermakian says.</p> <h3>Variety of options</h3> <p>Top-rated boosters come in a variety of forms. Highback boosters have built-in shoulder belt guides, and their additional structure often makes it easier for children transitioning out of harness-equipped restraints to sit properly. Many manufacturers tout enhanced side impact protection on their highbackseats, though IIHS doesnt evaluate those claims.</p> <p>Backless boosters come with an attached clip to position the shoulder belt. Its important to look at how the shoulder belt fits on a child and to use the clip if it doesnt fall across the middle of the shoulder.</p> <p>The new seats for 2015 include seven dual-use models. Each of them counts twice in the evaluations, with a separate rating for highback and backless modes.</p> <p>As in earlier years, several are combination or 3-in-1 seats, which start out as harness-equipped restraints and can be converted to boosters when the child outgrows the harness.</p> <p>One recent improvement to combination and 3-in-1 seats is the addition of a place to stow harness straps when they are not in use. This allows parents to use the seat as a booster without having to remove the harness completely.</p> <p>The least expensive booster in the new crop is the Little Tikes Backless Booster, available at Walmart for $13. The Evenflo Platinum Evolve --a 3-in-1 seat that can be used as a forwardfacing restraint, highback booster, and backless booster --and the Safety 1st Grow and Go --which can be used as a rear-facing restraint, forward-facing restraint, and a booster --each sell for about $170.</p> <h3>New names, new designs</h3> <p>One big manufacturer, Britax, has no new or redesigned seats this year, but the names of its existing models have changed. The Frontier 90 highback is now the Frontier Clicktight, the Pinnacle 90 highback is the Pinnacle Clicktight, and the Pioneer 70 highback is simply the Pioneer. All three are BEST BETs. The Britax Parkway SG and Parkway SGL, both dual-use boosters that are BEST BETs in highback mode and Check Fit in backless mode, also are carried over.</p> <p>The BubbleBum, an inflatable booster designed for portability, has a redesigned lap-belt guide intended to be easier to use. Like the earlier version, which still is on the market, the new one is a BEST BET.</p> <p>There are 23 new models of booster seats for 2015, including 20 BEST BET boosters, and 3 GOOD BETs. There are no new models in the Check Fit or Not Recommended categories.</p> <p>BEST BET</p> <ul> <li>BubbleBum (backless)</li> <li>Chicco KidFit (backless mode)</li> <li>Chicco KidFit (highback mode)</li> <li>Diono Cambria (backless mode)</li> <li>Diono Cambria (highback mode)</li> <li>Eddie Bauer Storage Booster (backless)</li> <li>Evenflo Advanced Transitions (backless mode)</li> <li>Evenflo Advanced Transitions (highback mode)</li> <li>Evenflo Platinum Evolve (backless mode)</li> <li>Evenflo Platinum Evolve (highback mode)</li> <li>Graco Atlas 65 (highback)</li> <li>Graco Tranzitions (backless mode)</li> <li>Graco Tranzitions (highback mode)</li> <li>Harmony Defender 360 (backless mode)</li> <li>Harmony Defender 360 (highback mode)</li> <li>Jan Montecarlo R1 (highback)</li> <li>Lil Fan Box Seat (backless)</li> <li>Little Tikes Highback Booster (backless mode)</li> <li>Little Tikes Highback Booster (highback mode)</li> <li>Little Tikes Backless Booster (backless)</li> </ul> <p>GOOD BET</p> <ul> <li>Cybex Solution M-Fix (highback)</li> <li>Cybex Solution Q2-Fix (highback)</li> <li>Safety 1st Grow and Go (highback)</li> </ul> James Limbach IIHS corrects erroneous booster seat ratings https://www.consumeraffairs.com/insurance-institute-for-highway-safety-tests-and-awards?page=2#iihs-corrects-erroneous-booster-seat-ratings <h3>The group&#39;s BEST BET awards have been rescinded</h3> <div class="author">By James Limbach <a rel="author" href="https://plus.google.com/108313189172419209224?rel=author"><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png" alt="" width="16" height="16"/></a> of <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/">ConsumerAffairs</a></div> <span class="date">October 19, 2015</span> <p><img alt="Photo" class="large aligncenter" data-id="17165" src="https://media.consumeraffairs.com/files/cache/news/booster-correction_IIHS_large.jpg" style="undefined" />We goofed. That's the upshot of an announcement by the <a href="http://www.iihs.org" target="_blank">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety</a> (IIHS) that it's revising its booster seat ratings for 2014.</p> <p>Two models of boosters -- the Eddie Bauer Deluxe Highback 65 and Safety 1st Summit 65 -- were awarded a BEST BET designation in error. These seats, which can be used either with internal harnesses or as boosters, should have been designated as Not Recommended.</p> <p>Consumers are advised not to purchase these seats for use as boosters. However, IIHS says there is no problem with either of them when used with the internal harness.</p> <p>The purpose of a booster seat is to make a vehicle safety belt, which is designed for an adult, fit a child correctly. Correct fit means the belt lies flat across a child's upper thighs, not across the soft abdomen, and the shoulder belt crosses snugly over the middle of a child's shoulder.</p> <h3>Booster concerns</h3> <p>The concern about the Eddie Bauer Deluxe Highback 65 and Safety 1st Summit 65, both manufactured by Dorel Juvenile, is that while the shoulder belt crosses the child's body at the middle of the shoulder, it is positioned too far forward. In that position, the shoulder belt would be less effective in a crash.</p> <p>IIHS evaluates boosters using a test dummy representing an average-size six-year-old. Engineers measure how safety belts fit the dummy in each of the tested boosters under four conditions that span the range of safety belt configurations in vehicle models. Based on these measurements, a seat is designated a BEST BET, GOOD BET, Check Fit, or Not Recommended to reflect the likelihood that the booster will work in any vehicle.</p> <p>The original booster rating protocol called for measuring only the shoulder belts lateral position. It didn't take into account whether the shoulder belt was close enough to the dummy's body.</p> <p>During preparations for the 2014 booster ratings release, the protocol was changed to limit the distance allowed between a reference point on the dummy's chest and the shoulder belt to one (1) centimeter. If the belt is within that distance of the chest, it will be close enough to the shoulder to provide good crash protection. Booster manufacturers were informed of the revised protocol.</p> <p>However, the Eddie Bauer Deluxe Highback 65 and Safety 1st Summit 65, though new for 2014, were mistakenly evaluated according to the old protocol. The gap between the chest reference point and the shoulder belt with these two boosters is more than one (1) centimeter in all of the Institute's test conditions.</p> <p>This was discovered only recently, when the seats were re-evaluated as part of a research study. Since then, IIHS has re-evaluated every booster seat listed in the ratings and currently on the market and has not encountered the problem on any others.</p> <p>Children who have outgrown the weight or height limit for the harness should continue to use the seats as boosters if no other booster is available. Parents are advised to purchase a different seat that provides better belt fit as soon as possible.</p> <p>BEST BET boosters can cost as little as $20. Until a replacement can be obtained, a child for whom an adult safety belt doesn't yet fit properly is better off using any booster than none at all.</p> James Limbach
i don't know
According to English folklore, and William Shakespeare in A Midsummer Night's Dream, what is the elf called Robin Goodfellow better known as?
Puck Through The Ages: The History of a Hobgoblin The History of a Hobgoblin Written by Allen W. Wright One of the most popular characters in English folklore of the last thousand years has been the faerie, goblin, devil or imp known by the name of Puck or Robin Goodfellow. The Welsh called him Pwca, which is pronounced the same as his Irish incarnation Phouka, Pooka or Puca. These are far from his only names. Parallel words exist in many ancient languages - puca in Old English, puki in Old Norse, puke in Swedish, puge in Danish, puks in Low German, pukis in Latvia and Lithuania -- mostly with the original meaning of a demon, devil or evil and malignant spirit ... Because of this similarity it is uncertain whether the original puca sprang from the imaginative minds of the Scandinavians, the Germans or the Irish. -Gillian Edwards, Hobgoblin and Sweet Puck p.143 Indeed, Pouk was a typical medieval term for the devil. For example, Langland once called Hell "Pouk's Pinfold." And the Phouka was sometimes pictured as a frightening creature with the head of an ass. Truly a devil to behold. The Welsh Pwca also did not match our modern conception of dainty tinkerbell fairies. According to Louise Imogen Guiney, a peasant drew the Pwca as "a queer little figure, long and grotesque, and looked something like a chicken half out of his shell". As a shape-shifter, Puck has had many appearances over the years. He's been in the form of animals, like how the Phouka can become a horse, eagle or ass. He's been a rough, hairy creature in many versions. One Irish story has him as an old man. He's been pictured like a brownie or a hobbit. In a 1785 painting by William Blake , he looks like Pan from Greek mythology. In a 1841 painting by Richard Dadd , Puck looks like an innocent child. And a modern cartoon show portrays him as a silver-haired elf. Puck used his shape-shifting to make mischief. For example, the Phouka would turn into a horse and lead people on a wild ride, sometimes dumping them in water. The Welsh Pwca would lead travels with a lantern and then blow it out when they were at the edge of a cliff. Being misled by a Puck (sometimes the legends speak of Pucks, Pookas and Robin Goodfellows in the plural) was known in the Midlands as being "pouk-ledden." That's a lot like the phrase Pixy-led, which described a similar action on the part of the Somerset faeries known as pixies. Some believe the term Pixy is derived from Puck. Yet another expression for being lost is "Robin Goodfellow has been with you tonight." There's a reference to this at least as early as 1531. Robin Goodfellow is one of the faeries known as hobgoblins or just hobs. Hob is a short form for the name Robin or Robert ("the goblin named Robin".) Robin itself was a medieval nickname for the devil. Robin Goodfellow was not only famous for shape-shifting and misleading travellers. He was also a helpful domestic sprite much like the brownies. He would clean houses and such in exchange for some cream or milk. If offered new clothes, he'd stop cleaning. There are stories of the Phouka and Pwca doing similar deeds. Ironically, Reginald Scot wrote in 1584 that belief in Robin Goodfellow was not as strong as it had been a century earlier. In fact, Robin was about to get some big breaks in Renaissance show business. There's a record for a Robin Goodfellow ballad in 1588. And a little less than a decade later, William Shakespeare gave his Puck the name and nature of the more benevolent Robin Goodfellow. However, Shakespeare's Puck is more closely tied to the fairy court than most Pucks or Robin Goodfellows. Here's a long quotation from A Midsummer Night's Dream. It's from a meeting between Puck and one of Titania's fairies. I think it sums up Robin Goodfellow's nature better than I could. FAIRY Either I mistake your shape and making quite, Or else you are that shrewd and knavish sprite Called Robin Goodfellow. Are not you he That frights the maidens of the villagery, Skim milk, and sometimes labour in the quern, And bootless make the breathless housewife churn, And sometime make the drink to bear no barm, Mislead night-wanders, laughing at their harm? Those that Hobgoblin call you, and sweet Puck, You do their work, and they shall have good luck. Are you not he? I am that merry wanderer of the night. I jest to Oberon, and make him smile When I a fat and bean-fed horse beguile, Neighing in likeness of a filly foal; And sometime lurk I in a gossip's bowl In very likeness of a roasted crab, And when she drinks, against her lips I bob And on her withered dewlap pour the ale. The wisest aunt, telling the saddest tale, Sometime for three-foot stool mistaketh me; Then slip I from her bum, down topples she, And 'tailor' cries, and falls into a cough; And then the whole quire hold their hips and laugh, And waxen in their mirth, and neeze, and swear A merrier hour was never wasted there. -- A Midsummer Night's Dream, Act II, scene i Having Shakespeare as a publicist certainly did not hurt Puck or Robin Goodfellow's career. Prior to Shakespeare, who may have been influenced by the Welsh Pwca, Puck and Robin Goodfellow were considered separate creatures. Now they are considered the same creature. A Midsummer Night's Dream remains one of Shakespeare's most performed plays. Perfect for a forest-like setting, this classic is performed every summer in parks around the world. Robin Goodfellow appeared in more plays around 1600. And there were many 17th century broadside ballads about him. Click here to see two of these ballads. In these ballads, Robin Goodfellow is the son of Oberon, the fairy king, and a mortal woman. He pulls pranks, shape-shifts into various animals and the foolish fire known as the Will O' The Wisp, gets into trouble and does the kind of thing described in Shakespeare's play. Robin's trademark laugh is "Ho Ho Ho!" One 1628 ballad song may have written by Shakespeare's drinking buddy, the great Jacobean (in the reign of James I, the king after Elizabeth I) playwright Ben Jonson. And Ben Jonson certainly knew his tricksters. The Puck-Hairy or Robin-Goodfellow is a character in his unfinished Robin Hood play, The Sad Shepherd. There may be a connection between Robin Hood and Robin Goodfellow. Many Pagans feel Robin Hood was originally a faerie or Pagan God. I think that case is overstated, as there is little magic in the earliest Robin Hood tales. But still, the two Robins have some things in common. Both had a penchant for giving travellers a hard time. Puck was a shape-shifter, and Robin Hood a master of disguise. And Gillian Edwards notes that the Goodfellow in Robin Goodfellow's name could either mean a boon companion or thief. "If you were one of Hood's archers and looked upon him as a boon companion, or the Sheriff of Nottingham and pursued him as a thief, you might consider him equally well-named Robin Goodfellow." Since the Robin Goodfellow ballads appear later than the Robin Hood ones, it's possible that the faerie may have taken his name from the outlaw -- not the other way around. (For more information on Robin Hood, please visit my Robin Hood website .) Even though after Shakespeare fairies seemed more dainty and inoffensive than their heroic or demonic medieval forms, Puck and Robin Goodfellow still had their critics. Puritans, like Robert Burton, felt fairies were devils, including "Hobgoblins, & Robin Goodfellows". In his Anatomy of Melancholy , Burton writes "Terrestrial devils, are those Lares, Genii , Faunes, Satyrs, Wood-nymphs, Foliots, Fairies, Robin Goodfellowes , Trulli, etc. which as they are most conversant with men, so they do them most harme." (Quoted in A Dictionary of Fairies by Katharine Briggs, p.53) But the hobgoblin so despised by 17th century Puritans became a much-beloved figure in children's literature in our own century thanks to Rudyard Kipling. Two English children, Dan and Una, were performing a simplified version of A Midsummer Night's Dream, when Puck, the last of the People of the Hills (he is offended by the term, fairy) appeared before them. Kipling used to play A Midsummer Night's Dream with his own children. In a series of popular stories collected in Puck of Pook's Hill (1906) and Rewards and Fairies (1910), Puck delighted Dan and Una with tales, and visitors, from England's past. Kipling's Puck was very critical of the common image of fairies at the beginning of the 20th century, which Puck said were made up things. "Can you wonder that the People of the Hills don't care to be confused with that painty-winged, wand-waving, sugar-and-shake-your-head set of impostors? Butterfly wings, indeed!" This Puck was "the oldest Old Thing in England" and immune to many of the traditional fairy weaknesses. 'By Oak, Ash and Thorn,' cried Puck, taking off his blue cap, 'I like you too. Sprinkle plenty of salt on the biscuit, Dan, and I'll eat it with you. That'll show you the sort of person I am. Some of us' -- he went on, with his mouth full -- 'couldn't abide Salt, or Horse-shoes over a door, or Mountain-ash berries, or Running Water, or Cold Iron, or the sound of Church bells. But I'm Puck!' Puck continues to pop up in popular culture. For example, the six-foot tall invisible rabbit in the classic Jimmy Stewart film Harvey is said to be a Pooka. Of course, there are several movie and television versions of A Midsummer Night's Dream. A 14-year old Mickey Rooney made a very cherubic Puck in the 1935. And Stanley Tucci played a much-older, somewhat wearier Puck in the 1999 film. And if being a movie star didn't give Puck a swelled head, having a moon named after him must have. The tenth moon of Uranus was discovered in 1985. It's named Puck. In Raymond E. Feist's novel Faerie Tale, Puck appears as one of a variety of characters haunting upstate New York. It's possible that the true Puck in the story is Ariel, a fellow Shakespearean fairy (this one from The Tempest) and another moon of Uranus. One of Ariel's shape-changing alter-egos is Wayland Smith, a legendary blacksmith and a character in Puck of Pook's Hill. Jacky Rowan, the heroine of Canadian author Charles de Lint's contemporary fantasy novel, Jack the Giant-Killer is referred to as a puck. And in the sequel, Drink Down the Moon, we meet Jemi Pook, a young female sax player, who is the newest Pook of Puxill, the Faerie realm which overlaps the Ottawa-area Vincent Massey Park. One of the characters, noting the similarity to Kipling's book, wondered which had come first. (These novels are collected in Jack of Kinrowan.) The Shakespearean Puck was sighted in de Lint's fictional city of Newford, in the short story collection The Ivory and the Horn. The connection with Robin Hood is still strong. Puck shows up as a silent and cryptic figure in Clayton Emery's 1988 novel Tales of Robin Hood, now retitled The Beasts of Sherwood. And in Parke Godwin's Sherwood, Robin takes his name from the forest sprite. His mother even calls him Puck-Robin. One of the stranger Pucks has been Eugene Milton Judd aka Puck, a member of the Canadian superhero team Alpha Flight. This gruff yet good-natured former mercenary is named for both the Shakespearean imp and the hockey puck. His acrobat stunts fit both types of Pucks. But whoever could ever see the Puck of legend with the boxer's cauliflower ear that the Marvel Comics' Puck has? In 2004, a new Puck has joined a revamped Alpha Flight - this one is teenage Asian girl. Hobgoblin is the name of another Marvel Comics character, one of Spider-Man's foes. A more mythological Puck has appeared in DC Comics/Vertigo's dark fantasy series The Sandman. His first appearance is in issue 19, where he and the other real faeries are invited to attend the first performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream. With a hedgehog-like appearance, this Puck has some of the darker elements of the legend. For example, upon hearing the Shakespearean passage quoted above, the real Peaseblossom comments, "'I am that merry wanderer of the night'? I am that giggling-dangerous-totally-bloody-psychotic-menance-to-life and limb, more like it." At the end of the comic, the faeries prepared to the depart the mortal realm for good. Auberon asks Puck to hurry along. What, leave, my lord? When there are mortals to confusticate and vex? Go you all. Your Puck will stay -- the last hobgoblin in a dreary world. Ho ho ho! -- Neil Gaiman, Sandman #19, A Midsummer Night's Dream. That issue was the first and only comic book to win the World Fantasy Award for Best Short Story. It was much deserved, and Puck made further appearances in the comic series. And that trickster's appearances aren't limited to North American comics. The magazine Puck (from 1920-1936 by Amalgamated Press) featured a trio of tiny tricksters, Puck, Pot and Pan by Joe Hardman. In the Korean comics - called manhwa or manwha, similar to Japanese manga - of the 1990s and 21st century, our rascal faerie appears again, well sort of. In the North American translations of Faeries' Landing by You Hyun (published by Tokyopop), the impish antlered and donkey-eared, sex-driven young man from Avalon who started the trouble is named Goodfellow. The European faerie references apparently come from adapting the original and similar Korean concepts to terms that would be more familiar to Western audiences. Puck is also a recurring character in the Disney cartoon Gargoyles. The role is voiced by Brent Spiner (Data on Star Trek: The Next Generation) with the appropriate wit and sarcasm. This Puck also has a secret identity for most of the series as the corporate bad guy's faithful servant, voiced superbly by Jeff Bennett. As Puck observes of all the parts a trickster has played, never before has he been the straight man. The Disney Puck has a surprisingly large fan following. There are many websites dedicated to the trickster and his matter-of-fact alter ego, Owen. Some of them are churches. A church to Puck? I wonder what the Puritans would have thought. Concerning Hobbits -- and Harry: Dob, like Hob and Robin, was a short-form of Robert. So, Dobby the House-Elf from J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter novels takes his name from the hobgoblin-related legends as well. He certainly has some of the features of legendary hobs and hobgoblins. And if we are speaking of hobs, what about J.R.R. Tolkien's most famous creations -- hobbits? Undoubtedly, the Bagginses, Gamgees, Tooks and Brandybucks from Tolkien's 20th century novels (and 21st century films), The Hobbit and The Lord of Rings, must be distant cousins of the hobgoblin. Puck or Robin Goodfellow has had a long and colourful past. And judging from his recent appearances, he has a long and colourful future ahead of him too. If you're interested in books and videos featuring Puck and related characters, please visit A Hobgoblin's Bookstore . The following books were a great help in writing this page. Briggs, Katharine, A Dictionary of Fairies, Penguin Books, London, 1977. Edwards, Gillian, Hobgoblin and Sweet Puck, Bles, London, 1974. Guiney, Louise Imogen, Brownies and Bogles, D. Lothrop Company, Boston, 1888. Gifford, Dennis, The Encyclopedia of Comic Characters, Longman, 1986. (For information on Puck, Pot and Pan of the British comics. Information about North American comics was gained from my own comic collection, and a reader of this site tipped me off about the Korean Faeries' Landing series. (C) Text Copyright 1997 - 2013, Allen W. Wright "The Welsh Puck" and "The Irish Pooka" are by Edmund H. Garrett and appear in Louise Imogen Guiney's 1888 book, Brownies and Bogles. Woodcut Images are taken from various collections of old English ballads. Puck (C) Marvel Characters, Inc. 1997, art by Scott Clark Puck (C) DC Comics Inc. 1997, art by Charles Vess Puck from Gargoyles (C) BuenaVista Television, 1997. Stanley Tucci as Puck (C) Fox Searchlight Pictures, 1999. The use of the images from DC and Marvel Comics, Fox Searchlight and Disney are in no way intended to infringe on their copyright of the artwork. They are used without permission for purposes of review or comment under the "fair use" provisions. This page is in no way affiliated with those companies. Copyright All text, unless otherwise noted, and title graphics - © copyright Allen W. Wright, 1997-2009. Adrian Morningstar as Puck from the 2002 CanStage Dream in High Park. Photography by David Hawe. Ued with the kind permission of CanStage. "The Welsh Puck" and "The Irish Pooka" are by Edmund H. Garrett and appear in Louise Imogen Guiney's 1888 book, Brownies and Bogles. Woodcut Images are taken from various collections of old English ballads. Puck (C) Marvel Characters, Inc. 1997, art by Scott Clark Puck (C) DC Comics Inc. 1997, art by Charles Vess Puck from Gargoyles (C) BuenaVista Television, 1997. Stanley Tucci as Puck (C) Fox Searchlight Pictures, 1999. The use of the images from DC and Marvel Comics, Fox Searchlight and Disney are in no way intended to infringe on their copyright of the artwork. They are used without permission for purposes of review or comment under the "fair use" provisions. This page is in no way affiliated with those companies.
Puck
Public Law 62-5, which was passed on August 8, 1911 set the membership of the House of Representatives to what number?
A midsummer night's dream by Peter Laurie - issuu issuu A Midsummer Nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dream By William Shakespeare Caribbean Student Edition By Peter Laurie 1 This Caribbean Student Edition Š Peter Laurie 2 â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is characteristic of its author that he should have chosen this fanciful dreamplay through which to announce for the first time in overt and unmistakable fashion the conviction that underlies every one of his supreme Tragedies: that this world of sense in which we live is but the surface of a vaster unseen world by which the actions of men are affected or overruled.â&#x20AC;? Harold C. Goddard The Meaning of Shakespeare, 1951 3 p5 p6     Why study Shakespeare? William Shakespeare: His life and work The Age of Shakespeare: Early Modern England The Theatre in Shakespeare’s time  Analysis: A Midsummer Night’s Dream          What is a play? What is a comedy? A Caribbean approach to the play Plot and dramatic structure Characters in conflict Themes and symbols Language Sources The play in performance A Midsummer Night’s Dream ............................... p 49 (with glossary, running commentary and stage directions) Suggested Student Activities .........................................p 240 Bibliography ................................................................ p 241 4 Preface Yet another edition of A Midsummer Night’s Dream? To be honest, it’s my favourite Shakespeare play. It’s his funniest comedy and one of his masterpieces. It deals with a perennial concern of humans everywhere: how can you tell what is real and what is an illusion (think The Matrix)? But it’s also a hilarious comedy, with two of the most farcical scenes in the history of the theatre. Unfortunately, too many stage productions fail to rise to the level of Shakespeare’s humour, because the producers and actors are overawed by Shakespeare: he is such a formidable icon of ‘high culture’. There’s another reason. Because of his eminent literary status Shakespeare is the most misunderstood writer. So I wanted to show that Shakespeare was first and foremost a superb entertainer and a master of stagecraft: writer, actor, manager and part theatre owner. The theatre in Shakespeare’s time was a highly popular form of entertainment that was considered a disreputable activity, somewhat like calypso ‘tents’ in the Caribbean originally were. Indeed the London theatres were usually in the ‘red light’ district. Shakespeare became filthy rich from the theatre, something for which some academic critics have never forgiven him. That, and not having been to Oxford or Cambridge. Plays were not then considered ‘literature’: they were ‘low culture’, like calypso. Shakespeare’s plays were filled with obscene sexual double entendres. For example, in the title of his play Much Ado about Nothing, the Elizabethan audience understood perfectly that ‘nothing’ was slang for the female genitalia. Most students’ introduction to Shakespeare has, unfortunately, been one of summarising the ‘characters’ and memorising speeches. This makes no sense. So my commentary on Dream tries to understand it in dramatic terms as a set of conflicts between characters that will be resolved by the end of the play. To this end, I examine the stagecraft Shakespeare used to write his play. In addition to an extensive glossary of unfamiliar words along with a running commentary on the action, I have included (at the side of the text) detailed suggested stage directions throughout to show students of Shakespeare and the theatre what might be possible ways of interpreting and staging the play. Another reason I like this play is that it contains, contrary to what many critics claim, strong and determined women, who greatly influence the course of events. This edition is dedicated mainly to students, especially Caribbean students. I realised several years ago that Dream lent itself readily to a Caribbean cultural interpretation. The chaotic and wild actions that take place in the wood outside Athens during a midsummer’s night (Acts 2 to 4) are akin to what might happen during a Caribbean carnival, where people temporarily abandon the social restraints that normally govern their lives, and surrender themselves to the ecstatic possession of music and dance (and other things). So we develop the theme of carnival as a way of understanding Dream. We suggest that the fairies be seen as creatures of the Caribbean folkloric world of spirits, and that the music and dance which are an integral part of the play be portrayed as Caribbean music and dance appropriate to a carnival-type celebration. And in all of this we try to show why this is one of the most hilarious plays ever written. If you’re going to stage it, try the outdoors (in the dry season). This permits greater freedom of action and is the ideal environment for this magical play. We hope everyone will enjoy this edition of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 5 Introduction Why Study Shakespeare? Why study Shakespeare? Simply because he’s the best. He’s the best playwright in any language. He’s the best writer in the English language. He gives us unexpected insights into life. He depicts the suffering and joy, the hopes and fears we all experience. He explores human relationships and the moral problems they lead to. He also keeps nudging us to ask what it is we value in ourselves and others? Why are we here? What is it all about? Most important of all, he makes us see that our common humanity is far more important than the national, ethnic, religious and other differences of circumstance that divide us. In one sense Shakespeare is very much our contemporary: he lived in a time of shattering upheaval, when many certainties seemed to have been swept away, much like our own times. In his plays he manages to capture and convey the excitement and dread of what it means to live in the bewildering space between a known past and a murky future. The true genius of Shakespeare lies in his ability to transcend his time: he was not bound by the conventions of patriarchal hierarchy and absolutist tyranny (the English monarchy). Since Shakespeare wrote at the turn of the 17th century when the English language was in a state of flux his language is often archaic. Yet it is lively, vigorous, seductive, magnificent. In this edition of Midsummer Night’s Dream we provide not only a glossary for unusual and difficult words, but also a running explanation, including stage directions, of all the action. Think of reading Shakespeare as like learning to ride a bicycle. At first it’s hard. But not only does it quickly become easy (look, Ma, no hands!) when you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll soon be doing wheelies. Most of all Shakespeare is a magnificent entertainer. The English theatre of the 16 th and 17th centuries was nothing like the theatre of today. It was more like a calypso tent. It was the most popular form of mass entertainment. The typical audience at a theatre was some two or three thousand, largely middle and working class people, eating, drinking and occasionally heckling. It took a lot of skill to please that section of the audience while at the same time appealing to the more sophisticated and educated upper class elite also in attendance. Most important, Shakespeare was a master of stagecraft. In reading Shakespeare we must always remember that his plays were meant to be performed. This is not to say we can’t enjoy reading them. Indeed some of his plays were printed during Shakespeare’s life and were intended to be read; but they truly only come alive in performance. While we cherish Shakespeare’s poetry and his psychological insights, we also marvel at his mastery of choreographic detail that calls for a complex deployment of actors on stage throughout the course of a play. There is much more action in a Shakespearean play than most people realise. 6 In this study edition of A Midsummer Night’s Dream we treat the play throughout as a script of a play meant to be performed. Remember that play texts were not considered ‘literature’ in Shakespeare’s time. Indeed we encourage students to be constantly concerned with how each scene might be staged. The words in the play are not meant to be recited or declaimed like poetry; they are meant to be spoken. Moreover we place the play in the social context of literature, which is not just for solitary enjoyment but also for the connections it helps us make with other people. Literature — indeed all art — offers us a way to share imaginatively in the entire range of human feeling over the ages. This is an extraordinary gift that allows us to have a bigger, richer take on our own selves and the social reality with which we are, for better or worse, entangled. Literature (and Shakespeare in particular) lets us see ourselves anew; helps us understand how we fit within the larger scheme of things; pushes us to grow intellectually, emotionally and spiritually. There are two apparently contradictory things every student must bear in mind when reading or seeing Shakespeare. First, he presents us with issues that have always concerned humanity. He forces us to rethink our most basic assumptions about topics such as: war, religion, politics, social justice, growing up, courtship, sexuality, and, of course, art itself. In this sense, therefore, Shakespeare’s works embody truths that are both eternal and universal. In studying them we study matters that have always been of concern to human beings. Second, a play by Shakespeare is also what we bring to it. It invites us, especially in the staging and performance of the play, to connect our own lives and cultural experiences with the experience of the text. For example, no person living today can respond to a reading or viewing of Othello, The Tempest, or The Merchant of Venice, without bringing to those plays our collective historical memories of the Jewish and African Holocausts and the long history of racism and colonialism inflicted on many peoples. And there is no reason why we should not. The truth is that each generation reinterprets Shakespeare for itself, producing new meanings that did not, could not, hitherto exist. We shall see how we bring out new meanings in A Midsummer Night’s Dream by imagining it set in the context of a Caribbean carnival. To sum up, why study Shakespeare? Because, through his brilliant insights into the human condition and his superb craftsmanship, he touches chords in our hearts that allow us to place our own private feelings and experiences in the context of his plays. In so doing we recognize that they are not exclusive to ourselves but shared by all other human beings across the ages. 7 William Shakespeare: His life and work So little is known about the life of the world’s greatest dramatist, that every five years or so, someone publishes a book arguing that it was not William Shakespeare who wrote these magnificent plays but someone else – usually an Oxford or Cambridge educated aristocrat. This is largely due to a snobbery that cannot accept that such a literary genius could have come from humble middle class beginnings and received only a secondary education, as was the case with our William. These critics also are suspicious of the fact that Shakespeare became fabulously wealthy from the theatre: you are not supposed to grow rich from art. Family life Though scholars are unsure of the exact date of Shakespeare’s birth, records indicate that his parents, Mary and John Shakespeare, baptized him on April 26, 1564, in the small English town of Stratford-upon-Avon. Because common practice was to baptize infants a few days after they were born, scholars generally recognize April 23, 1564, as Shakespeare’s birthday. Coincidentally, April 23 is the day upon which Shakespeare would die 52 years later. William was the third of Mary and John’s eight children and the first of four sons. Some commentators suggest that Shakespeare may have been born and raised a Catholic, but while this is likely there is no factual evidence for it. Shakespeare’s father, John Shakespeare, worked as a glove-maker, a moneylender, and a dealer in wool and grain. He also pursued public office and achieved a variety of posts including bailiff, Stratford’s highest elected position, equivalent to a small town’s mayor. In 1596, the College of Heralds granted the Shakespeare family a coat of arms at the petition of William, by now a successful playwright in London. Childhood and education Based on his father’s local prominence, scholars speculate that Shakespeare most likely attended King’s New School in Stratford. While at secondary school, Shakespeare would have studied Latin; reciting and reading the works of classical Roman authors such as Plautus, Terence, Ovid, Seneca, and Horace. Traces of these authors’ works can be seen in his dramatic texts. Shakespeare did not attend university. Wife and children Shakespeare’s adult life is better documented. In November 1582, at the age of 18, he married 26-year-old Anne Hathaway from the nearby village of Shottery. The disparity in their ages, coupled with the fact that they baptized their first daughter, Susanna, only six months later in May 1583, has caused a great deal of modern speculation about the nature of their relationship. However, sixteenth century conceptions of marriage differed from modern notions. Though all marriages needed to be performed before a member of the clergy, many at the time believed that a couple could establish a legitimate relationship by exchanging vows in front of witnesses. Two years later, in February 1585, Shakespeare baptized his twins Hamnet and Judith. Hamnet would die at the age of 11 when Shakespeare was mainly living away from his family in London. 8 For seven years after the twins’ baptism, the records remain silent on Shakespeare. At some point, he travelled to London and became involved with the theatre, at first as an actor, then subsequently as a playwright-actor and manager-owner. The plays: On stage and in print The next mention of Shakespeare comes in 1592 by a university wit named Robert Greene when Shakespeare apparently was already a rising actor and playwright for the London stage. Greene, no longer a successful playwright, tried to warn other university wits about Shakespeare. He wrote: For there is an upstart crow, beautified with our feathers, that with his “Tiger’s heart wrapped in a player’s hide” supposes he is as well able to bombast out a blank verse as the best of you, and, being an absolute Johannes Factotum, is in his own conceit the only Shakescene in a country. What Greene’s statement shows us is that Shakespeare’s reputation for poetry had reached enough of a prominence to provoke the envy of a failing competitor. During his early years in the theatre, he primarily wrote history plays, with his romantic comedies emerging in the 1590s. In 1593, the government closed London’s theatres due to an outbreak of the bubonic plague. Publication history suggests that during this closure, Shakespeare may have written his two narrative poems, Venus and Adonis, published in 1593, and The Rape of Lucrece, published in 1594. These are the only two works that Shakespeare seems to have helped into print. Stage success When the theatres reopened in 1594, Shakespeare joined the theatrical company the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, as actor, principal writer, and shareholder. Shakespeare hit his stride in the next two years with a great burst of innovative plays: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Love’s Labour’s Lost, Romeo and Juliet, King John, Richard the Second, The Merchant of Venice and The First Part of Henry the Fourth. Even at this early stage in his career, Shakespeare was a financial and popular success. In 1596, he was able to secure a coat of arms for his family and in 1597 he bought New Place, one of the two largest houses in Stratford. In 1597, the lease expired on the Lord Chamberlain’s playhouse, called The Theatre. Because the owner of The Theatre refused to renew the lease, the acting company was forced to perform at various playhouses until the 1599 opening of the now famous Globe Theatre, which was literally built with lumber from The Theatre (The Globe, later destroyed by fire, was reconstructed on the same site in London in 1997). Already an actor and a playwright, Shakespeare was now becoming a “Company Man.” This new status allowed him to share in the profits of the theatre rather than merely getting paid for his plays, some of which publishers were beginning to release in quarto format. Indeed Shakespeare became extraordinarily wealthy from the theatre. Publications A quarto was a small, inexpensive book typically used for leisure books such as plays; the term itself indicates that the printer folded the paper four times. The modern day equivalent of a quarto would be a paperback. In contrast, the first collected works of Shakespeare were in folio format, which means that the printer folded each sheet only once. Scholars call the collected edition of Shakespeare’s works the First Folio. A folio was a larger and more 9 prestigious book than a quarto, and printers generally reserved the format for works such as the Bible. No evidence exists that Shakespeare participated in the publication of any of his plays. Two members of Shakespeare’s theatre company, The King’s Men, printed the First Folio seven years after Shakespeare’s death. Generally, playwrights wrote their works to be performed on stage, and publishing them was an innovation at the time. Shakespeare probably would not have thought of them as books in the way we do. In fact, as a principal investor in the acting company (which purchased the play as well as the exclusive right to perform it), he may not have even thought of them as his own, but as belonging to the company. Shakespeare’s name also appears as a major investor in the 1608 acquisition of an upscale indoor theatre known as the Blackfriars. His peak From 1598 to 1606 Shakespeare created most of his masterpieces: comedies like As You like It and Twelfth Night, and great tragedies like Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, and Macbeth. Final days The last period of Shakespeare’s career consists primarily of romances or tragicomedies such as The Winter’s Tale, Pericles, and The Tempest. He also collaborated on a couple of plays with contemporary dramatist John Fletcher, even possibly coming out of retirement, which scholars believe began sometime in 1613, to work on The Two Noble Kinsmen (1613–1614). Three years later, Shakespeare died on April 23, 1616. Seven years after Shakespeare’s death, John Heminges and Henry Condell, fellow members of the King’s Men, published his collected works. In their preface, they claimed that they were publishing the true versions of Shakespeare’s plays partially as a response to the previous quarto printings of eighteen of his plays, most of these with multiple printings. This Folio contains thirty-six plays to which scholars generally add Pericles and The Two Noble Kinsmen. This volume of Shakespeare’s plays began the process of creating Shakespeare not only as England’s national poet but also as a monumental figure whose plays would continue to captivate the imagination of the world. Chronology of Shakespeare’s plays 1590–1591 The Two Gentlemen of Verona, The Taming of the Shrew 1591 2 Henry VI, 3 Henry VI 1592 1 Henry VI, Titus Andronicus 1592–1593 Richard III, Venus and Adonis 1593–1594 The Rape of Lucrece 1593–1603 Sonnets 1594 The Comedy of Errors 1594–1595 Love’s Labour’s Lost 1595 Richard II, Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream 1595–1596 Love’s Labour’s Won (This manuscript was lost.) 1596 King John 1596–1597 The Merchant of Venice, 1 Henry IV 1597–1598 The Merry Wives of Windsor, 2 Henry IV 1598 Much Ado About Nothing 1598–1599 Henry V 10 1599 Julius Caesar 1599–1600 As You Like It 1600–1601 Hamlet 1601 Twelfth Night or What You Will 1602 Troilus and Cressida 1603 Measure for Measure 1603–1604 A Lover’s Complaint, Othello 1604–1605 All’s Well That Ends Well 1605 Timon of Athens 1605–1606 King Lear 1606 Macbeth, Antony and Cleopatra 1607 Pericles 1608 Coriolanus 1609 The Winter’s Tale 1610 Cymbeline 1611 The Tempest 1612–1613 Cardenio (with John Fletcher; this manuscript was lost.) 1613 All is True (Henry VIII) 1613–1614 The Two Noble Kinsmen (with John Fletcher) Significant dates in Shakespeare’s Life 1564 Gypsies expelled from England; William Shakespeare born 1576 Dutch rebellion against Spanish rule; James Burbage builds The Theatre, London’s first purpose-built theatre, in Shoreditch 1581 Laws against Catholics passed; Worcester’s Theatre Company plays at Stratford-uponAvon 1582 Plague in London; 18 year old Shakespeare marries 26 year old Ann Hathaway 1583 Rebellion in Ireland; birth of Susanna, daughter to Ann and William 1585 War with Spain; birth of twins, Hamnet and Judith, to Ann and William; Shakespeare leaves Stratford for London (?) 1587 Mary Queen of Scots beheaded by Elizabeth I; Philip Henslowe builds The Rose theatre on Bankside 1588 Spanish Armada defeated; Shakespeare now in the London theatre (?) 1592 Successful English attacks on Spanish Treasure fleet; London theatres closed because of the plague 1593 Church attendance (Anglican) made compulsory; Christopher Marlowe murdered; Shakespeare’s narrative poem Venus and Adonis is published 1594 Two plots on Queen Elizabeth’s life; rebellion in Ireland; Lord Chamberlain’s Company founded 1595 War abroad, unrest at home; the Swan theatre built 1596 Essex destroys Spanish fleet; coat of arms granted to Shakespeare’s father John; food shortages; Hamnet dies 1598 Rebellion in Ireland 1599 Essex fails to put down Irish rebellion; the Globe theatre built 1600 East India Company founded; Hamlet 11 1601 Essex’s rebellion and execution; death of John Shakespeare 1603 Death of Queen Elizabeth and accession of James I to the throne; Shakespeare’s last recorded stage performance, in Ben Jonson’s Sejanus; Lord Chamberlain’s Company becomes The King’s Men; a major outbreak of the plague in London 1604 Catholic priests banished 1605 Gunpowder Plot with Guy Fawkes; Shakespeare makes land purchases in Stratford 1606 Expedition to colonise Virginia 1607 Defeated Irish earls flee to the continent; Susanna Shakespeare marries John Hall; 1608 Conflict between king and parliament; the King’s Men lease the indoor Blackfriars Theatre; outbreak of plague 1610 Parliament petitions the king with ‘Grievances’ 1611 Parliament dismissed by King James; Scots Protestants settled on Catholic land in Ulster; translation of the Bible authorised by King James; Shakespeare now living mostly in Stratford? 1613 The Two Noble Kinsmen written by Shakespeare and John Fletcher; the Globe theatre burns down 1616 Susanna Shakespeare marries Thomas Quiney; William Shakespeare dies 12 The Age of Shakespeare: Early Modern England Shakespeare’s plays still have meaning for us today. At the same time, we must remember that Shakespeare’s culture differed greatly from our own, so we must try to understand the world he lived in order to better appreciate his plays. This section helps you do just that. Shakespeare lived during a period in England’s history that people have generally referred to as the Renaissance. The term renaissance, meaning rebirth, refers to this period of European history in which there was a flourishing of the arts, philosophy and science based on the humanistic revival of classical (Greco-Roman) scholarship. Other people use the terms Elizabethan and Jacobean when referring to periods of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. These terms cover the reigns of Elizabeth I (1558– 1603) and James I (1603–1625). The problem with these terms is that they are primarily political, and do not cover large spans of time. Scholars are now beginning to replace Renaissance with the term Early Modern when referring to this era. The term Early Modern acknowledges that during this period many of the foundations of our modern culture were laid down. Critics still disagree about the exact dates of the period, but generally it runs from the middle of the fifteenth century to the middle of the eighteenth century. Thus Shakespeare’s life and work falls squarely within the Early Modern period. This period was a period of transition between the certainties of the medieval era and the new world that scholarship and scientific discovery were revealing. It was thus a period of rapid change or even upheaval, very similar to the one we are now living through. People could no longer be certain of anything. This ambiguity is reflected in Shakespeare’s plays. The very concept of the universe was changing. Up to the 16th century people lived in a universe that had been charted by the 2 nd century Greco-Roman thinker Ptolemy. He maintained that the earth stood at the centre of the universe, with the sun and the planets circling the earth. Then in 1543, Nicolaus Copernicus, a Polish mathematician and astronomer, published his theory of the cosmos in which the sun stood at the centre and the planets revolved around it. Though this cosmological theory appeared before Shakespeare’s birth, people only started to change their views after 1610, when the Italian astronomer Galileo used his telescope to confirm Copernicus’s theory. This major shift in how the universe was viewed had enormous intellectual and cultural consequences. Universal hierarchy Closely related to Ptolemy’s hierarchical view of the universe was a hierarchical conception of the Earth (sometimes referred to as the Great Chain of Being). According to this view God existed at the top, followed by the angels, men, women, animals, plants, and rocks. Elements and humours The belief in a hierarchical scheme of existence created a reassuring sense of order in a world that was changing rapidly. This hierarchy was supported by the widely held belief that everything in the universe was composed of four different elements: earth, air, water, and fire. These four elements were associated with four qualities of being: hot, cold, moist, and dry, in different combinations with the elements: air was hot and moist; water was cold and moist; earth was cold and dry; and fire was hot and dry. 13 More important, people believed that the human body contained all four elements in the form of humours—blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile—each of which corresponded to an element. Shakespeare’s contemporaries also believed that the humours determined personality and temperament. If a person’s dominant humour was blood, he was considered light-hearted. If dominated by yellow bile (or choler), that person was irritable. The dominance of phlegm led a person to be dull and kind. And if black bile prevailed, he was melancholy or sad. Thus, people of Early Modern England often used the humours to explain behaviour and emotional outbursts. Throughout Shakespeare’s plays, he uses the concept of the humours to define and explain various characters. Humanism At the heart of the Renaissance was the notion of humanism: that there was a universal human nature; that human life was inherently valuable; and that a civilized human existence required the cultivation of virtue, philosophy and the arts and sciences. The aim of humanists, like the Italian Petrarch (1304-1374), the Dutchman Erasmus (1466-1563) the author of The Praise of Folly (1509), and the Englishman Thomas More (1478-1535), author of Utopia (1516), was to recover the values of the classical learning of ancient Greece and Rome and reconcile them with Christian values. They believed that although humans had the capacity to behave in barbaric and evil ways, they also had the capacity to improve themselves through education and the cultivation of virtue. As a result of their efforts, many of the classical writers, like Ovid, Cicero, Virgil, Plautus and Terence, were translated into English in the 16th century and the teaching of rhetoric became widespread. Shakespeare was clearly influenced by humanism, and his knowledge of the classical authors is evident in all his plays. Politics Thirty years before Shakespeare was born, Henry VIII (he who was notorious for having two of his six wives’ heads chopped off), had nationalised the possessions of the Roman Catholic Church and created the Church of England, of which he was Supreme Head. Elizabeth I (1558–1603) His daughter, Elizabeth I, was queen for most of Shakespeare’s lifetime. The early part of her reign was a time of relative peace and stability. She largely completed the process begun by her father and grandfather (Henry VII) of centralising authority and breaking the power of the feudal lords. Although Elizabeth’s monarchy was one of absolute supremacy, parliament, already wellestablished in England, reserved some powers, such as the authority to levy taxes, for itself. Elizabeth tried to take the path of moderation on religion. She allowed Catholics to practice their religion in private as long as they outwardly appeared Anglican and remained loyal to the throne. Elizabeth I lived in a society that restricted women from possessing any political or personal autonomy and power. As queen, Elizabeth violated and called into question many of the prejudices and practices against women. In a way, her society forced her to “overcome” her sex in order to rule effectively. Although her position did nothing to increase the status of women in England, her strength and boldness perhaps served as a prototype for some of Shakespeare’s more powerful women, such as Hermia in Dream. 14 Elizabeth remained unmarried throughout her 45-year reign, partially by styling herself as the Virgin Queen, despite having lovers including her favourite the Earl of Leicester. Her refusal to marry and her habit of hinting and promising marriage with suitors both foreign and domestic helped Elizabeth maintain internal and external peace. Not marrying allowed her to retain her independence, but it left the succession of the English throne in question. In 1603, on her deathbed, she named James VI, King of Scotland and son of her cousin Mary, as her successor. In the last decade of her reign bad harvests, increasing poverty and social unrest made England a much less peaceful place. Nevertheless, under her reign England was swiftly transforming herself into a dominant sea power and an emerging colonial empire. Elizabeth was succeeded in 1603 by King James VI of Scotland. James I (1603–25) When he assumed the English crown, James VI of Scotland became James I of England. Like Elizabeth, James was a strong believer in the divine right of kings and their absolute authority. James had a more autocratic style than Elizabeth and faced opposition from Catholic rebels (the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, for instance) and from the Puritans (protestant fundamentalists) in parliament. He and his son Charles I (1625–49) tried to exercise absolute power. This ultimately led to a rift between the court (which also started to have Catholic sympathies) and parliament. This rift would eventually escalate into the Civil War that would erupt during the reign of James’s son, Charles I. Another political conflict of this era was occasioned by English imperialism in Ireland. From 1536, Henry VIII decided to conquer Ireland and bring it under crown control so the island would not become a base for future rebellions or foreign invasions of England. Irish resistance to English power continued throughout Shakespeare’s life. Political power in Ireland rested entirely in the hands of a Protestant Ascendancy minority, while Catholics and members of dissenting Protestant denominations suffered severe political and economic privations at the hands of the Penal Laws. The Irish Parliament was abolished in 1801 in the wake of the republican United Irishmen Rebellion and Ireland became an integral part of a new United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland under the Act of Union. The English domination and colonisation of Ireland were completed during the reigns of Elizabeth and James I, after several brutal conflicts. However, the English were not successful in converting the Catholic Irish to the Protestant religion and the brutal methods used by the crown (including resorting to martial law) to bring the country under English control heightened resentment of English rule. During Shakespeare’s lifetime Ireland was in a state of continual rebellion. Religion In 1527 Henry VIII sought an annulment of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, on the grounds that she had failed to provide him with a male heir. (Only one of their children, Mary, lived past infancy.) The pope denied Henry’s petitions for an annulment, forcing him to divorce Catherine without the Church’s approval in 1533. The following year, the Pope excommunicated Henry VIII, but Parliament confirmed his divorce and the legitimacy of his new marriage through the Act of Succession. The same year, 1534, Parliament passed the Act of Supremacy, which appointed Henry the “Supreme Head of the Church in England.” Henry continued persecuting both Catholics who remained loyal to Rome as well as the more radical Protestant reformers. 15 During the reign of Henry’s successor, Edward VI, Archbishop Thomas Cranmer established the Anglican Church (Church of England) through his 42 articles of religion. He also wrote the first Book of Common Prayer in 1549. This became the official text for Anglican services in England. Catholics continued to be persecuted until 1553, when Edward was succeeded by Mary, the Catholic daughter of Catherine of Aragon. The reign of Mary brought Catholicism back to England again. She persecuted Protestants in large numbers, earning her the nickname Bloody Mary. Elizabeth restored Anglicanism when she took the throne in 1558. She tried to lessen religious tension, but it lingered in the form of continued persecution and strong opposition from Catholics who refused to accept the Church of England, fundamentalist Protestants, and more moderate Anglicans. Such religious division forced ordinary English people to choose between sharply contrasting forms of religious belief and practice. Some scholars think that Shakespeare was a secret Catholic, but there is no hard evidence for this. The Protestant fundamentalists, who would become supreme in Parliament under Oliver Cromwell (in 1647 they actually banned the celebration of Christmas!), tried their best to prohibit the merrymaking that went along with the popular seasonal festivals associated with traditional Catholicism – festivals like Christmas, May Day and Midsummer’s Day. Shakespeare made much of popular festivity in his plays, especially Dream. Society Early Modern England was divided roughly into two social classes: the aristocrats (or nobility) and everyone else. The primary distinctions between these two classes were ancestry, wealth, and power. Simply put, the aristocrats were the only ones who possessed all three. This was a period of great hardship for many people. In the countryside class divisions were still pronounced. Men and women alike worked on the land, either as servants or daylabourers. Those able to rent land were known as husbandmen; and if they could also afford to employ servants and labourers, yeomen. Above yeomen were the gentry and the aristocracy, whose incomes came mostly from the land they owned. While a person’s place in society was still largely determined by inheritance and birth, changes in the ownership of land after the dissolution of the monasteries, the arrival of new wealth from the New World, and the rise of capitalism were beginning to shift the foundations of business and society. So this was also a time of new social mobility. There was a growing merchant class that was making its wealth from commerce and the skilled professions. Shakespeare himself used the considerable wealth gained from the theatre to move into the lower ranks of the aristocracy by securing a coat of arms for his family. The rise of individuals through business undermined the notion that a person was born into a particular class and must remain there. Many did still feel that you should remain within your social class, where God had placed you. In fact, the social mobility of those in the theatre was often used against them by their critics, along with the accusation that actors should not go on stage disguised as their social superiors. 16 Under the 1597 Poor Law, ‘masterless men’ could be classed as vagabonds and sentenced to be whipped and then returned to their home parish. Despite the risk, around 6,000 people a year entered London looking for work. Shakespeare would have witnessed the social and cultural signs of unusual economic distress; and he might even have noticed how frequently artisans, like the ‘mechanicals’ (workmen) in Dream, were featured in the more public and violent protests. The status of women The legal status of women did not allow them much public or private autonomy. English society functioned on a system of patriarchy and hierarchy, which meant that men controlled society beginning with the individual family. The idea of marrying for love was fairly new. And though life was shorter, most men and women of the time delayed marriage until their mid-twenties The practice of primogeniture—a system of inheritance that passed all of a family’s wealth through the first male child—accompanied this system of patriarchy. Thus women did not generally inherit their family’s wealth and titles. In the absence of a male heir, some women, such as Queen Elizabeth, did. But after women married they lost almost all of their already limited legal rights, such as the right to inherit, to own property, and to sign contracts. Furthermore, women did not generally receive an education outside of the home and could not enter certain professions, including acting. Instead, society continued to relegate women to the domestic sphere of the home. In all likelihood, Elizabeth I would have lost much of her power and authority if she had married; hence her determination to remain single, despite her advisors efforts to marry her off. London life In the sixteenth century, London, though small compared to modern cities, was the largest city in Europe, with a population of about 200,000 inhabitants in the city and surrounding suburbs. London was a crowded city without a sewer system, which facilitated epidemics such as the bubonic plague. In addition, crime rates were high in the city due to inefficient law enforcement and the lack of street lighting. Despite these drawbacks, London was the cultural, political, and social heart of England. As the home of the monarch and most of England’s trade, London was a bustling metropolis. Not surprisingly, a young Shakespeare moved to London to begin his professional career. Conclusion Shakespeare, then, was born into an England caught up in change between a medieval feudal system, ruled by the aristocracy, and an emerging modern capitalist system with a rising merchant class. The theatre of Shakespeare’s day was a product of a society in a state of transition. The feudal world of loyalty to your lord in an unchanging society dominated by religion was giving way to a modern and increasingly ‘secular ‘society (in which religion no longer governed people’s lives as completely as before). This society was characterised both by acquisitive individuality (where people seek to make themselves rich, and put their own welfare before that of those around them) and by constant technological and political change. All these competing forces are evident in Shakespeare’s plays From the mid-sixteenth to the mid-seventeenth century, England, like most of Europe, was plagued by moral, religious and economic problems, cultural and political crises. 17 At the same time, science was developing, and people like Copernicus, Galileo and Francis Bacon demonstrated that observation and experiment could explain much more about the natural world. Copernicus’ proof that the earth revolved around the sun was known in England at this time, suggesting that man was no longer at the centre of the universe. There was also a small group of ‘sceptical intellectuals’ who saw their task as questioning everything, with a view to discarding worn-out beliefs. One such thinker, the Frenchman Michel de Montaigne (1533–92), was read by many, including Shakespeare himself. But most of all this was a literary golden age and Shakespeare was its crown jewel. 18 The Theatre in Shakespeare’s Time The Setting The two most important things to bear in mind about the theatre in Shakespeare’s time was that it was (a) a highly disreputable activity located in a seedy suburb of London (what we would now call a ‘red light’ district), surrounded by brothels and bear-baiting locales, and (b) it was a wildly popular entertainment, with anywhere from one to three thousand people attending the performance of a play. In other words Shakespearean theatre was a far cry from the theatre of today which tends to cater to a small cultured elite. If anything the theatre of that time was more akin to Caribbean calypso tents when they first started. The theatre provided a form of entertainment that could be socially upsetting, since it offered a place for all ‘masterless’ men and vagabond persons to meet and enjoy themselves. The interesting thing, though, was that the theatre at that time also appealed to a cultured elite and was thus able to straddle social classes. The theatre depended upon the thousands of Londoners willing to pay a penny or more, day in, day out, to see plays performed. For that reason, every play staged was written with a popular audience in mind. Shakespeare’s timing was fortunate. When he arrived in London in the late 1580s public theatrical performance by professional actors in purpose-built theatres was an emerging commercial enterprise looking for talent and as hungry for content as today's television and Internet. English society of the time valued popular entertainment and celebrated many festive holidays with singing, dancing, and theatricals. The theatre therefore filled a need once met by Catholic ritual. English theatre emerged out of the liturgical plays of the twelfth and thirteenth centuries and continued to show the influence of the ritual both of religion and popular festivals, like Midsummer. The explosion of theatre construction and the formation of professional acting companies in London in the last two decades of the 16th century were unprecedented. The tremendous popularity of the new London playhouses represented a commercial and artistic opportunity that perfectly suited the expressive gifts of the talented and ambitious newcomer from Stratford. The construction in London in 1576 of the first of many English public theatres, the establishment of large resident playing companies with star actors, the regular performance of plays in the capital six days a week before large paying audiences, and the consequent need for a great number of plays which would attract an audience of various tastes, provided for the first time a thriving market-place for plays. We must remember that a play in the circumstances of the time was a fluid text - a work continuously in progress. Shakespeare’s plays were written and rewritten throughout their productions, taking different forms on different days in response to censorship, changes in venue and theatre personnel, and audience reactions. A play in those days was not considered literature: it was a text for performance. Besides, there was no copyright law in Britain until 1709. Shakespeare’s texts, then, were brought into the literary marketplace as objects of entertainment. The theatre, as an enterprise, was risky, vulgar and immoral. All those involved in it were suspect. Many of Shakespeare’s fellow playwrights—Christopher Marlowe, Thomas Kyd, 19 Thomas Nashe, Ben Jonson, and Thomas Dekker, among others—were imprisoned as a result of their writing. The suspicions of the political and religious authorities about the theatre centred primarily on the nature of representation. If monarchs and nobles could be subject to representation, it raised the question of whether their identities were fixed or whether they themselves might be playing a role. In other words theatrical representation was seen as potentially subversive. Hence the theatre was viewed by many as a scandal and an outrage—a controversial phenomenon that religious and civic authorities continuously tried to outlaw. In 1572, in fact, players were defined as vagabonds—criminals subject to arrest, whipping, and branding unless they were “liveried” servants of an aristocratic household. The Theatre Companies In 1567 the first purpose-built theatre in London, the Red Lion, was founded in Stepney, a suburb of London. In 1576 James Burbage, the brother of the famous actor, Richard Burbage, erected The Theatre in the suburb of Shoreditch. His rival Philip Henslowe opened The Rose across the river in Southwark in 1587, next door to three of the largest brothels in the area. The Swan was built nearby in 1595, then The Globe in 1599, fashioned from timbers of the original Theatre. By the turn of the century, when the Fortune had been established, the city of London was ringed with playhouses located in the suburbs just outside its jurisdiction. The theatre companies operated in a crowded, competitive market; some prospered but several failed, largely due to the hostility of the civic authorities, who saw the playhouses as a civic nuisance - a potential for riotous assembly, for prostitution and pickpocketing, for the transmission of infectious diseases and - no less dangerous - dissident ideas. Shakespeare’s company was the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, founded in 1594, under the patronage of the Queen’s Chamberlain (the senior official in charge of court entertainments). By the end of the decade they were established as London’s leading troupe, performing at the newly built The Globe. On 19 May 1603, King James appointed the Chamberlain’s Men as ‘His Majesty’s Players’. Nine actors, including Shakespeare and Burbage were named. From then on Shakespeare’s company was called the King’s Men. They played frequently at court, for which they were rewarded handsomely. A company’s core comprised eight to ten ‘sharers’: performers, and sometimes writers, who bought into the company and shared its profits. Shakespeare was a shareholder in the King’s Men, who were also the majority owners of The Globe. With up to 2,500 play-goers a day at The Globe, there was much money to be made. The company was later able to expand into the more upscale Blackfriars Theatre. Companies performed six days a week in the public playhouses, putting on a different play each day. A new play would be added every two weeks or so, with more popular plays repeated and others abandoned. The demand for new plays was high and playwrights often collaborated in teams or reworked others’ material. The Shakespearean Stage The Globe, as the name suggests, was either circular or octagonal (the modern reconstruction is a twenty-sided polygon) and could house up to three thousand spectators, which, even by 20 today's standards, is a large building. Because of its size, as well as the fact that it was open air (it did not have a roof) an actor had to have very good voice projection. Performance started at two o’clock in the afternoon. In winter, at the height of the theatrical season, a play would end at half-past four or five. The stage was essentially an empty space. It was a 'platform stage,' jutting out from the rear of the theatre and allowing the audience views from the front and the two sides. There was no front curtain. Actors entered and left via the side of the stage. There was no lighting; performances could take place only in daylight hours. There was no scenery (backdrops, and so on). There were virtually no on-stage props, and those that were used had mainly symbolical meanings. This absence of physical objects placed a premium on speech and gesture to convey a sense of time and place. Strict realism was neither intended nor, under the circumstances, possible. Costumes (which belonged to and were provided by the individual actors) were very elaborate. As in most pre-modern and very hierarchical societies, clothing was the distinctive mark of who and what a person was. Women were not permitted on the professional stage. All female parts were acted by boys. There was no director who was artistically in charge of a play. A prompter, hidden to the audience, but visible to the actors, managed the entrances and exits, arranged the basic blocking on the stage, and saw to it that the timing was right during performance. He often carried a baton and indicated which actor was to speak. Rehearsals seem to have been largely group affairs; we know next to nothing of the dynamics involved or from what sort of texts individual actors worked. However, we do know that, probably because Shakespeare’s England was largely an oral culture, actors learned their parts quickly and retained them intact for years. The Audience: who went to see the plays? In 1600, almost 20% of those living within reach of London’s theatres were regular playgoers. A good number of playgoers would have been relatively uneducated: clerks, artisans, apprentices, and women. A theatre audience, like most of the population of Shakespeare’s England, was largely made up of illiterates. But these illiterates had a keen appreciation of plays. Not being able to read and write had nothing to do with intelligence or an appreciation of language, narrative, and characterization. A skilled London worker would earn about six shillings (30p) a week. The penny entrance fee for ‘the pit’ was cheap entertainment. At the same time the audience also contained ambassadors, noblemen, foreign travellers, gentlemen and ladies, students and representatives of all classes. There were three main sections of the audience. In front of the stage was the yard or pit. The yard was the cheapest place from which to view a play. Spectators who purchased admission to the yard were known as groundlings and had to stand throughout the whole performance. There were then three levels of tiered (stadium-like) seating surrounding the yard and stage. The theatrical experience was not as it is today. As it was performed in full daylight, spectators could see one another as clearly as they could the actors, and vice versa. Audience reactions to events on stage would have been an integral part of the spectacle. Wealthier spectators in the galleries could not avoid seeing those in the pit, who were in fact clustered at the focal point of the building. Groundlings could see those in the galleries, and could move around the pit during the play to get different perspectives. 21 In Shakespeare’s time people were much more used than we are to listening to long and (to us) demanding passages of speech. Because most of them could not read their ability to take in spoken language had to be more developed than ours. The Performance: putting on a play The creation of a play in Shakespeare’s time was much more of a collaborative process than today. The company usually commissioned the play, often suggested the subject and provided the plot. The text thus produced was a working model and usually changed during rehearsal. Shakespeare’s plays were not written to be read; they were meant to be performed by actors on a stage before audiences. Shakespeare therefore would have thought of his words as they would be spoken by actors he knew. Moreover actors were broadly typecast (king, lover, braggart, old man, clown/fool and so on), and parts were written specifically with them in mind. When Shakespeare sat down to write a play, it was with the capabilities of this accomplished group in mind. Hamlet would not have been the same if Shakespeare had not written the title role for Richard Burbage. Similarly, when William Kempe, the actor who played the part of the fool in Shakespeare’s company, left and was replaced by the actor Robert Armin, Shakespeare started writing different parts for the fool to suit the change in personality of the actor. Plays were staged six days a week and changed every day, with popular ones being recycled, but there was no ‘run’ of any play for several days. This was repertory theatre, regularly repeating popular plays and introducing some new ones all the time. Playwrights also lacked modern legal protections such as copyright laws to enforce ownership of the scripts they sold. Nevertheless, as Shakespeare’s reputation grew and as he was one of the shareholders in his own company, he would no doubt have enjoyed greater control over his scripts. 22 Analysis: A Midsummer Night’s Dream Introduction In our analysis of Dream we make some significant departures from most commentators and it is best that we indicate what these are up front, while going into detail later on in this introduction. We see the conflictive relationship between Theseus and Hippolyta as much more complex than usually portrayed and argue that she civilises him in the course of the play; we argue that the conflict between Oberon and Titania is, unknown consciously to either, about the desire for parenthood; we suggest that Demetrius in fact still deeply loves Helena although he wishes to marry her best friend Hermia; we maintain that while Lysander loves Hermia he secretly has the ‘hots’ for her best friend Helena; we stress that the conflict between Quince and Bottom is one of the key conflicts in the play; we suggest that Titania, under the influence of the love drug, has the ‘hots’ for Bottom but he is scared out of his wits and into erectile dysfunction, so they never consummate; we suggest that Hermia and her patriarchal tyrant of a father, Egeus, are reconciled at the end; we maintain that the upper class audience watching the hilarious Pyramus and Thisbe play put on by the lower class characters in Act V, begin by sneering but end up participating joyfully in what is a harmonious celebration of community. But most of all we see this play as about strong, determined women who civilise immature men. What is a play? There are two essential elements in a play: conflict and subtext. Without conflict there is no drama. Dramatic conflict is usually presented in the form of a character wanting something or someone that she or he can’t get, because there are obstacles in the way. Subtext is what is going on below the surface and is not expressed directly by any of the characters (a character may say something but mean the opposite; or characters may appear to be talking about one thing, but in fact are talking about another). You may often have heard two close friends or a married couple arguing about, say, social or political issues; but if you listen closely you will soon realise that they are arguing about their own relationship. A good playwright manages to capture this dual track conflict, creating a disparity between the meaning of the words spoken and the hidden motives and suppressed desires of a character. This leads to a multi-layered drama with loads of tension. In Dream the subtext to the quarrel between Oberon and Titania is their strong desire to be parents to an adopted Indian boy, but they are unable to express this openly. One of the best modern plays in which subtext is present throughout is Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (made into a good film with Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton). Subtext is also a way of subtly inserting social or philosophical commentary into a play. In Dream Shakespeare seeks to explore the difference between reality and illusion by showing (a) that they are not always easily distinguishable, and (b) that sometimes a little illusion helps us cope with reality. There is another element of drama that is almost as important as the preceding two: the backstory. By ‘backstory’ we mean what went on prior to the action on the stage that led to the point at which the drama begins. In Dream backstory plays an important role. The play 23 begins with Theseus and Hippolyta discussing their upcoming wedding. Theseus is mad to get her in bed. We learn that he had won her in battle (talk about a trophy wife!). Indeed in one famous stage production she was brought on snarling in a cage. But we recognise something has changed: Theseus was a notorious womaniser, but maybe now Hippolyta is starting to civilise him. There is an important backstory to the four lovers. Why did Lysander woo Hermia in the secretive way he did? Why did Demetrius switch his affections from Helena to Hermia? What is his relationship to Hermia’s father Egeus, that might explain why Egeus favours him so much? How did Theseus know of Demetrius’ previous love for Helena? These are all relevant questions about the backstory to which hints are given in the first scene of the first act. Another backstory is what exactly happens to Theseus and Hippolyta between Act 1 and the end of Act 4, when he is more humanised and she is no longer resentful and angry? Another element of drama is irony. Irony is one of the most effective ways of capturing the complex nature of human emotions arising from conflicting impulses or motives. Verbal irony occurs when a character says or does something that has at least two different meanings: the obvious surface meaning and a second implied meaning which may be quite different from the first. Dramatic irony is when the audience knows something that the character or characters on stage don’t. Dream is laced with dramatic irony, because the audience in many situations knows much more than the characters know. A case in point: the four lovers cannot see the fairies/spirits that the audience can. Also, in Act 3, neither Hermia nor Helena are aware that Lysander and Demetrius are drugged out of their minds with the magical love juice, but the audience does. Similarly when Puck puts the love juice in Lysander’s eyes, thinking he is Demetrius, the audience knows better. Neither is Bottom in Act 3 aware that he has been changed into an ass by Puck, so he doesn’t understand why his fellow workmen are freaking out, and says that they are trying to make an ass of him. Shakespeare is a master of all elements of drama. While plays are written in acts, from a one-act play to a five-act play (as is usual with Shakespeare), the structure of the play is normally in three parts. Shakespearean comedy typically has a tripartite structure: an opening exposition which reveals the predicament; a longer central part in which complications occur (usually confusion and mixed identities); and the final part in which the conflicts are resolved and order is restored, based on the paradox that in order to find oneself, one has to lose oneself. The first part or exposition sets up the action by letting the audience know what the conflict or conflicts are. For example in Dream the exposition in Act 1 and Act 2 introduces the conflict between Theseus, the head of state of Athens, and Hippolyta, the Amazon queen, (he wants to marry her whom he won by force of arms and wants sex with her now; she wants to wait four days until their wedding); the conflict between Hermia, an Athenian lady, and her father Egeus (she wants to marry Lysander, an Athenian gentleman; he wants her to marry Demetrius, another Athenian gentleman); the conflict between Helena, an Athenian lady and Demetrius (she loves him; he loves Hermia), the conflict between the Athenian workmen, Quince and Bottom, (both of them want to control how the Pyramus and Thisbe play will be staged), and the conflict between the fairy king Oberon and the fairy queen Titania (he wants the Indian boy she has adopted). Note also that the play usually starts at the point of attack (a specific stage in the story of the play). In Dream, Theseus has already captured Hippolyta and is four days away from marrying her. Furthermore in the first part of 24 the play we find the inciting incident, the event that occurs to trigger the conflict. In Dream’s case it is Egeus’ demand that Hermia marry Demetrius or die! The second part (Acts 2, 3 and 4) shows the conflicts growing more serious and ever more complicated as increasing obstacles are put in the way of the character’s getting what they want. A classic instance in Dream is Puck’s putting the magical love juice in the wrong man’s (Lysander’s) eyes, thus leading him to leave Hermia and lust after Helena. The third part (Acts 4 and 5) resolves the conflict. The third part is divided, as is normal, into two parts: the climax when the play reaches its dramatic peak (in a tragedy the hero/heroine is usually killed or suffers a loss; in a comedy girl gets boy or vice versa; and the denouement ( French for untying) where everything is explained and accounted for. After the emotional excitement of the climax, the denouement lets the audience come down slowly. In Dream the climax comes at the end of Act 4, when all the conflicts are resolved. The denouement is the staging of the Pyramus and Thisbe play in Act 5, which parodies the previous action in the play and brings the audience back to earth from the dream–like sequences in the wood with one of the best pieces of farce in the history of the theatre. In order for a play to work successfully, the words of the playwright must be translated on stage into action. A play is essentially a script for action. It is something meant to be performed on stage in front of an audience. When reading a play we only take in one impression at a time. In the theatre, however, we respond to the words, the way the actors move, their expressions and the tone of their voices, not to mention the sound effects, lighting, scenery, and so on. All of these elements and more have been carefully chosen and refined by the team effort of actors, director, playwright, designers, and technicians. Moreover in Shakespeare’s plays the text alone cannot be a sufficient guide to action. There are always critically important non-verbal actions that non-speaking characters in any scene take. Dream is full of them. What you have to ask is what actions are consistent with the text and the backstory to the text. Characters in a drama always want something from other characters. It is up to the actors (and the director) to figure out what that is. What this means is that a play can have as many ‘meanings’ as there are performances. Shakespeare’s plays are no exception. Dream has had many brilliant and original stage interpretations over the years. There is, unfortunately, a tendency to see Shakespeare’s plays as consisting of lines of beautiful poetry to be recited or declaimed. This is largely because Shakespeare is such a classic icon of English literature. But this will often result in static and boring performances of Shakespeare’s plays totally lacking in dramatic action. Students acting Shakespeare must speak the language, as strange as it is, as if trying to convey the meaning to other actors or to the audience. Talk; don’t declaim. Pause, pause and pause again; and emphasise. Use your natural Caribbean accent. Bend Shakespeare to your own tongue. Try to think of the characters you are portraying as modern persons with whom you can identify. That way, despite the strangeness of the language, you will manage to convey to an audience what the emotions are that the characters are feeling or repressing. Oh, and don’t stay still. In addition there are very few stage directions in Shakespeare’s plays (and most of these are later editorial insertions) compared with what you might find in a modern playwright like George Bernard Shaw or David Mamet. Effective dramatization of the piece is dependent on stage directions; those bits of information which tell us when, where and how to move on 25 stage, the gestures we are to make, how we speak and act and so on – the conventions of drama. These are usually supplied by the author, the director and the actors themselves. In this edition of Dream we have included elaborate stage directions (beside the text, NOT inserted in the text) so that students might see what are some of the possibilities for staging the play, including non-verbal communication. This is especially important in Dream, which offers broad scope for interpreting the text by allowing characters who are present but not speaking for long intervals to show their feelings and intentions in non-verbal ways (see, for example, our interpretation by stage directions of what Hippolyta is doing in Act 1, Scene 1, during the exchanges between Theseus, Egeus and Hermia). Please note that these are only suggestions and teachers and students can and should come up with their own interpretations. Students should also look at the text for implicit stage directions. But it is important for students to realise that the play and all the elements in it (character, themes, conflict, rhythm and so on) require constant interpretation. So when we study Dream we must look at all the possibilities for meanings on the theatre stage that the script opens up. That’s why the play should ideally be read as a teacher/student group activity in which the focus is how could we stage this or that part of the script. A common feature of Shakespeare’s plays is the actor-audience interaction. In a typical Shakespeare play we will find dialogue involving two or more characters who occasionally speak to the audience in ‘asides’ or soliloquies – one character alone on stage talking to the audience. So a great deal of the on-stage action tends to involve a direct recognition of the audience’s presence by the actors, something that is less common in modern drama. This may be surprising if you are not used to it, but the response expected from audiences was quite different from what is standard now. The aside is one of the common conventions of Shakespearean theatre. They are far more pervasive than we think, because the actual ‘asides’ that appear in the text of his plays are for the most part editorial insertions. But much of Shakespeare’s dialogue is intended to be addressed to the theatre audience. This was meant to involve the audience in the play, as well as to indicate when there was a difference between what a character was saying to another, and what he really meant. So student actors performing Shakespeare should always be aware of the audience and interact with it, especially in a comedy like Dream. Indeed if you are staging or rehearsing Dream, you should use every opportunity the text provides, not just to speak facing the audience, but also to actually speak to the audience. This is in keeping with the major theme of the play, reality vs. illusion (see below in the section on themes), the deeply comic tone of the play, the interaction between the workmen/actors and the stage audience to the putting on of the Pyramus and Thisbe play-within-a-play, and with the sense of Puck’s epilogue. What is a comedy? A comedy is a play that makes us laugh and ends happily. Comedy in Shakespeare's time had two basic models: the comedies of the Roman writers Plautus and Terence, and popular festivals that were filled with farce, dancing and singing. These festival occasions celebrated, fertility, community and life. These festivals often temporarily undermined the conventional social order, but restored it, reinvigorated, at the end. 26 Comedy moves from repressive order to liberating disorder to mature order (discussed in detail in the section on Themes below). A Shakespearian comedy ends with marriage and the reconciliation of the conflicts between characters (often parents and children). Yet Shakespeare, no respecter of genres, happily mixed elements from both comedy and tragedy in all his plays (is The Merchant of Venice a comedy or a tragedy?). Even in Dream there is a nuanced sense of darkness lurking beneath the light surface (the havoc that the conflict between Oberon and Titania is wreaking on nature; the ever-present danger of death for the lovers in the wood). Marriage is not simply a convention that allows for a happy ending. It also symbolises the harmonious incorporation of individuals into the community. By the end of the comedy marriage achieves the resolution of broader tensions that threaten the harmony of a society. Marriage is both an end and a beginning. It is the institution in which sexual desire becomes legitimised and channelled towards the procreation, raising and education of children. In other words, comedy is often about one or more young persons whose love meets an obstacle of some sort, as in Dream. It is Hermiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father who is threatening death to Hermia, according to the law of Athens, if she will not marry his choice, Demetrius. At the beginning this conflict seems both arbitrary and unresolvable, but is easily resolved at the end when Demetrius falls in love with Helena, thus allowing Hermia to marry her beloved Lysander. All the knots that are tied in the plot at the beginning are untied at the end in the comic denouement, so that the play can end with the revelry of the marriage feast, with its accompanying drinking, dancing, and the performance of the hilarious play-within-a-play, Pyramus and Thisbe, performed by Bottom and company. At the same time Shakespeare, being the genius that he is, infuses this light-hearted entertainment with one of the deepest philosophical questions that exist: what is the nature of reality; and how can we be sure we can distinguish it from illusion or dreams? Dream is the first great comedy of Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and one of his outstanding plays. It is certainly his funniest play, containing two of the greatest examples of farce in the history of the theatre: the confrontation of the four lovers in Act 3 Scene 2, and the staging of the Pyramus play by the workmen/mechanicals in Act 5. Unfortunately these scenes are sometimes not played as farce, because many persons think that it is undignified for a cultural icon like Shakespeare to be associated with knockabout physical humour. A Caribbean approach to the play The approach of this edition is to persuade you to study Dream as if you were going to produce the play for performance with a Caribbean twist. This, far from doing violence to the original play, is entirely appropriate: Dream lends itself to a Caribbean interpretation perfectly. Dream is both a play and also "play" in the sense of an entertainment saturated with the atmosphere of revelry and joy befitting a Midsummer night. When England had been Catholic, Midsummer, the day marking the summer solstice (when the sun is at its highest and the day is longest) had been a day of festive release, a time for young men and women to dance and flirt all day. Shakespeare constantly referenced popular rural festivity in his plays. The festival was still the product of a rural, popular culture whose seasonal rhythms were linked with the mysteries of natural fertility. 27 The three festivals of St. Valentine’s Day, May Day and Midsummer are interwoven in the central part of Dream, which takes place in the enchanted wood, framed by the beginning and end which take place in the city of Athens. The three festivals remained highly popular in the countryside in early modern England. These festivals symbolise three phases in the life cycle of a young person: choice of mate, courtship and marriage. And this is the process through which the young lovers pass in the wood. For Shakespeare and his contemporaries, the countryside lying outside the city walls was still the object of superstition and deep-rooted fears, but also of liberated erotic desires. Dream is, as its title says, a dream. Its action occurs mostly at night in what is an enchanted wood frequented by strange spirits (the fairies of the play), in an atmosphere of moonlight and shadows. More than any other night in the year, Midsummer night suggested enchantment and witchcraft. Its characters fall asleep and dream. And at the end Puck invites the audience to believe that they too have might fallen asleep and that all that has passed before them has been a dream. So Dream is primarily a festive comedy, related to the court masques, entertainments which involved music and dance, along with references to magic and metamorphosis. Indeed, the farcical performance in the last act of the Pyramus and Thisbe play by the Athenian workmen, is similar to the anti-masque, which formed the burlesque and realistic counterpart performed together with the masque itself. A festive comedy like Dream revels in a carnival spirit of liberty and irreverence, legitimating sexual desire that ultimately ends in companionate marriage. The green world of the wood outside Athens represents a mythical world where summer triumphs over winter and fertility prevails over sterility and death. At festival times, people do things they normally do not: they carry to the extreme behaviours that are usually inhibited by social constraints; they subvert patterns of daily social life. This is where carnival comes in. The functions of carnival in those societies that celebrate the festival is similar to these Shakespearean festivals. Carnival allows the upper and middle classes to let off steam and express themselves in ways they wouldn’t normally do. It also temporarily breaks down social and racial barriers. And it allows the lower classes to satirise the authority, institutions and practices of the upper classes while letting themselves go in a totally uninhibited manner. Carnival is a safety-valve of festive irreverence that functions as a temporary subversion of the established order, not so much to upset authority permanently but, on the contrary, to reinforce it. Carnival thus becomes a paint- and mud-spattered chaotic playfulness inaugurated in the dark of J’ouvert morning and extending to the las’ lap on the eve of Ash Wednesday. Caribbean carnivals emerged from the celebrations of freed slaves employing African cultural forms of masquerade, music and dance merged with the European carnival traditions brought to the Caribbean by the French and Spanish. Masquerade, music (especially drumming) and dance are essential elements of carnival, just as they are in the Shakespearean festivals. Masking and costuming allow one to change or disguise one’s identity, thus permitting greater freedom of action. One becomes anonymous or ‘transformed’ as do many of the characters in Dream. Music and dancing lead to a state of ecstasy in which one also becomes transformed. Music and dance are 28 particularly important in Dream: they not only entertain the audience, but also accompany the rites of love and restore harmony. Carnival also seeks to ally itself with forces either repressed by or outside of the society, whether characters like moko jumbies, midnight robbers, various devils, bats and other creatures, or sexuality in its most basic forms, free of social or gender inhibitions. To sum up, carnival not only challenges the prevailing social order, but also creates a socially acceptable and temporary escape from those norms. The festival represents a festive world of community celebrating the cyclical rhythms of nature. It asserts within the everyday constraints of urban existence an alternative rhythm of life. In Dream the events in the wood take on the semblance of a carnival atmosphere. It is a world of imagination, creativity and dreams, far removed from the rational order of Athens. It is the domain of night peopled with creatures of the spirit world. Hence we suggest that the costuming of the actors, especially those playing the ‘fairies’, should be similar to carnival costumes. And we suggest that the four lovers, from the time they enter the wood, wear face (eye) masks. We also suggest that carnival type music, especially drumming, be used as often as is appropriate. We suggest, perhaps more controversially, that Bottom’s transformation by Puck into an ass be understood as converting him into a beast of legendary sexual prowess and size as every Caribbean person would know. This in fact leads to a sustained funny and ironical situation in which the drugged Titania is lusting madly over the transformed Bottom, who totally bewildered and scared, is unable to rise to the occasion, and even when he recovers his wits is more interested in filling his belly. It is the carnival experience in the wood that leads to the resolution of the various conflicts. The magical transformation of Lysander, Demetrius, Titania and Bottom and the experiences they undergo while drugged/transformed lead them to see their situation in a new light. Even Hermia and Helena, who are not drugged, have such disorienting experiences, including almost coming to blows, that they too are ‘transformed’. And remember that Shakespeare invites us to speculate whether Oberon and Titania are but the subconscious or dream projections of Theseus and Hippolyta. Finally, Quince and the other workmen, scared by the transformation of Bottom into an ass, come to appreciate him more when he returns as himself. So the carnival experience of the night in the wood gives the characters undergoing it a new maturity as they understand more about themselves, so that they return to the rational order of Athens, renewed and reconciled. Carnival has succeeded. Nothing satisfies as much as extravagant or temporarily permitted prohibited behaviour. Indeed some of the carnival atmosphere carries over into the night of the weddings in Athens when Theseus chooses the farcical Pyramus and Thisbe, which mocks romantic love, as the entertainment of the wedding feast. The wood comes to Athens. Plot and dramatic structure There are five inter-connected plots and five sources of dramatic conflict in Dream. First is the upcoming wedding of Theseus, the head of the city state of Athens, to Hippolyta, the Queen of the Amazons, a legendary nation of all-female warriors. The impending marriage of Theseus and Hippolyta actually forms a framing action for the entire play. Theseus, who won his bride-to-be in battle, is eager to bed Hippolyta but she has got him to agree that they should wait four days for the new moon, when they will marry. This is both 29 practical – the end of her monthly menstrual period, and religious/cultic – the new moon brings blessings. Indeed you have to wonder whether she is keen to marry him or whether she has been coerced or has struck a deal (I will marry you in return for …?). Remember that these are two strong and determined personalities. Will anything happen in those four days to make or break the happiness of this couple? In one profound sense this play is about arranged marriages (which are still with us today) as opposed to marriages of love between two persons. Hippolyta is furious that Theseus supports the demand of Hermia’s father, Egeus, that Hermia should either marry his choice of husband, Demetrius, or be put to death. Will she and Theseus be reconciled in time for the wedding? This plot is the driving force for the other plots. It acts as a framing device: all the other plots/conflicts must be resolved before the wedding of Theseus and Hippolyta (in four days’ time). It is because of the wedding that the fairies/spirits have gathered in the wood (to bless the wedding); it is also why the workmen are rehearsing their play in the wood; and it is Theseus’ demand of Hermia to obey her father or die or become a nun that sends the four lovers into the wood. The second plot arises from the desire of Hermia, a young Athenian noblewoman, to marry Lysander, a young Athenian nobleman, with whom she is in love. Her father, Egeus, however, wants her to wed his choice, Demetrius, another young Athenian nobleman, with whom he has presumably made a financial arrangement. He asks Theseus to enforce the law of Athens that says that if a woman refuses to wed the man of her father’s choice she shall be put to death. Theseus says he has no choice but to enforce the law: she must either marry Demetrius or die, and then adds another option, live a life of chastity as a nun in a convent. Theseus’ action sends Hippolyta into a silent rage. Hermia is determined she will not marry Demetrius. Can anything save her from her terrible fate? The third plot complicates this second plot, in that the same Demetrius used to court Hermia’s best friend, Helena, another Athenian young noblewoman, who still loves him madly. Can Demetrius be persuaded to change his mind and marry Helena, thus leaving Hermia free to marry Lysander? Or will Helena too face a life of misery? The fourth plot concerns the efforts of ordinary Athenian workmen, -‘the mechanicals’, as Shakespeare calls them - who have this absurd ambition to stage a famous play about two ill-starred lovers, Pyramus and Thisbe, as the entertainment on the occasion of Theseus’ wedding. If their play gets chosen as the official entertainment for the wedding night they will be handsomely paid. Quince, their leader, and Bottom, their ‘star actor’, and company have no acting or theatrical talent and are in way over their heads. Moreover, although Quince has been chosen to direct the play (presumably because he is the most educated/senior of them?), Bottom, his ‘star actor’ wants to run the show. Will the workmen actually get to put on the play and how will it be received? And who will run the show: Quince or Bottom? The fifth and final plot arises from a conflict between Oberon, the king of the woodland fairies (spirits of the forest), who wants as his attendant an Indian boy (why? What might be the backstory to that?) that Titania, the queen of the fairies, adopted. She adamantly refuses. This conflict between the two leaders of the spirit world is throwing nature out of joint and leading to natural disasters. How will this conflict be resolved? 30 Shakespeare cleverly links the action of this plot with the other plots, by arranging for the four lovers and the workmen to go to the wood outside Athens. How does the action move to the wood? Lysander tells Hermia he has an aunt who lives in the wood and that he and Hermia can flee there and seek asylum against the harsh law of Athens and also get married. Of course once they get into the wood Lysander says he has lost his way and we never hear any more about his aunt. Does she really exist or did Lysander simply want to get Hermia into the wood? Then they stupidly tell Helena of their plans to go into the wood and she stupidly tells Demetrius, who she knows will follow Hermia and she will follow Demetrius. Is Helena’s real motive to get Demetrius into the wood? The workmen also decide to rehearse their play in the privacy of the wood, because they don’t want bystanders stealing their theatrical ideas (this was common in Shakespeare’s time when no copyright existed). Act 1 and Act 2, Scene 1 comprise the exposition that sets up the five plots and the conflicts. But it is during Acts 2, 3 and 4, when the action takes place in the enchanted wood outside of Athens, that the plots are linked by the humans and the fairies/spirits bumping into each other. Indeed from Act 2 Scene 2 to Act 4 Scene 1 is one continuous action comprising the plot complications. Students putting on the play have to decide where the intermission should come (probably in Act 4 after the confrontation of the four lovers), ignoring the conventional division into five acts. Oberon’s assistant, Puck (you might think of Oberon as a mafia don with Puck as his hit man/consigliere), is told to put the magical love juice into Demetrius’ eyes (it causes you to fall in love with the first thing you see), but he puts it in Lysander’s eyes by mistake, and Lysander falls out of love with Hermia and in love with Helena. This leads to endless confusion and much farcical hilarity among the four lovers. Oberon, meanwhile, to take revenge on Titania for not giving him the Indian boy, puts the love juice in her eyes in order that she might fall in love with a wild beast of the forest. Unfortunately, Puck, acting out of his own love of mischief, converts Bottom, who, along with the other workmen, is rehearsing in the wood, into a donkey (or at least gives him an ass’ head). So Titania falls in love with an ass in every sense of the word. The climax comes when all these carnivalesque confusions between the lovers are sorted out happily by Oberon instructing Puck to put a counter drug on Lysander which restores his love for Hermia, while Demetrius, (who remains drugged for the rest of his life?), continues to love Helena. When Egeus realises that Demetrius no longer loves his daughter Hermia, he is reduced to silence. Meanwhile, Oberon has asked Titania for the Indian boy, whom she happily gives up since she is love with an ass, and then when she is restored to her normal self, she realises that she and Oberon can happily share the Indian boy. Indeed in Act 5, in the final scene, we suggest in the stage directions that Oberon and Titania come on stage holding the Indian boy between them as a symbol of their reconciliation (there is nothing in the text to rule this out). The conflict between Quince and Bottom is resolved when Bottom is transformed into an ass, thereby scaring his fellow workmen –even those who believed he was figuratively speaking an ass – and goes missing in action. Eventually Bottom, in his own human form, rejoins his group, who are so relieved to see him, that they forgive him for being such an annoying know-it-all and learn to love him. 31 After the climax in the two scenes of Act 4, all conflicts are resolved and the entire Act 5 is devoted to the dénouement, which takes the form of the workmen’s staging of the Pyramus and Thisbe play before Theseus and Hippolyta and the four, now married, lovers at the wedding feast. This is the most farcical scene in the history of the theatre, and so captivates the married spectators that, although they begin by sneering at it, are eventually drawn into it and thoroughly enjoy themselves. So everything ends happily for everyone, as it should in a comedy. The play-within-a-play serves the function of presenting a farcical satire or burlesque of all that has gone before, bringing everything to a happy concord. Characters in Conflict Drama is based on conflict and its resolution, usually between characters but sometimes within one character. Characters in a play do not stand alone as separate individuals, so it is pointless trying to describe their ‘character’ traits in isolation. They only make sense within the action of the play and in relation to the other characters in conflict (always ask yourself what one character wants from another). So it is the relationships between characters that really matter. Dream has several main characters, so there is no clear protagonist or antagonists, as in, say, Othello or Hamlet. This is not unusual in Shakespeare’s comedies, which focus on social situations of conflict more than on conflicts within an individual, like Macbeth. The major characters in Dream can be divided into three sets: the Athenian upper class – Theseus, Hippolyta, Hermia, Lysander, Helena and Demetrius, (along with minor characters Egeus and Philostrate); the Athenian mechanicals or workmen: Bottom and Quince (along with minor characters Snug, Snout, Flute and Starveling); and the fairies/spirits: Oberon, Titania and Puck (along with the various minor attendants Peaseblossom, Cobweb, Moth, Mustardseed, and an unnamed Fairy). It is Shakespeare’s imagination that brings these discordant sets of characters into harmony. We shall describe the main characters in relation to what they want from others and the conflicts they are involved in. One point to note at the outset is this is a play about strong women (Shakespeare’s comedies tend to have strong women e.g. Rosalind in As You Like It): Hippolyta is the queen of a female warrior nation; she is no shrinking wallflower; Hermia is feisty and refuses to obey her father, preferring death or a life in a nunnery; Helena is determined to get Demetrius whatever happens; Titania is queen of the fairies/spirit underworld and opposes her husband Oberon who must resort to trickery/magic to get the Indian boy from her. There are periods in the play when the women are silent, but you should not be deterred by that. The actors should use every theatrical technique to have them show their attitudes through their body language and by getting them involved in the action. In our stage directions we suggest various ways of doing this, especially with Hippolyta in Act 1 Scene 1, and with Hermia and Helena in Act 5. Theseus and Hippolyta Both Theseus and Hippolyta are mature, strong and dominant characters. Theseus is the name of the legendary founder of the Greek city state of Athens. In the play he is assigned the role of Duke and ruler of Athens. He is a man with a wild and often brutal past. He recently defeated the Amazons, a nation of warrior women, and is taking their queen, Hippolyta, as his wife. She has consented (?) to marry him but has persuaded him to wait 32 until the end of the month when the new moon appears since that is a more favourable omen for a marriage (plus the end of her menstrual period). In the meantime she has denied him sex and at the beginning of the play he is quite antsy. Theseus is in many respects a typical patriarchal male. But over the course of the play he is changed into a more civilised person, even feminised (as Antony was by Cleopatra), which suggests that Hippolyta loves him and through her love makes him a better person. In the opening scene he complains how slowly time is passing and that he still has to wait another four days for the new moon. Then his mood changes and he tells Hippolyta that although he won her by force he is going to marry her in a different fashion – in other words he’s telling her that he will treat her with love and respect. Theseus in fact wants not only sex from Hippolyta but also a son. Can he get a warrior queen to be a mother? This is a woman who has never before submitted to a man. On top of this tension in their relationship, Egeus immediately comes and asks him to enforce the cruel and patriarchal law of Athens that says that if his daughter Hermia refuses to obey his instruction that she should marry the man of his choice, Demetrius, she should be put to death. While Theseus is sympathetic to Hermia who loves Lysander, as ruler Theseus believes he has to uphold the law. He comes up with a weak alternative for Hermia, become a nun for the rest of her life. She refuses to obey her father and says she would rather die than marry a man she doesn’t love. All this infuriates Hippolyta and thus threatens the peace of their upcoming marriage. Will Theseus resolve the conflict and become a better person by the end of the play? Will he manage to win over and civilise Hippolyta to marriage? What makes these questions interesting is that, after the opening scene, neither Theseus nor Hippolyta appears until near the end of the play. So obviously things are going on between them that the audience is not privy to. The director and the actors have to use their imagination to work out the implications of this offstage action. Hippolyta, the proud queen of the Amazons, has been defeated in battle by Theseus and must now become his wife. Her backstory as an Amazon queen tells us that the Amazon women did not accept the rule of men and never married. So how will Hippolyta come to terms with her marriage to Theseus? Clearly she will not submit to his will. She not only gets him to agree that the marriage should take place only at the new moon, but also will not have sex with him until they are married. She has also been trying to civilise Theseus and change him from a wild heroic warrior into a wise ruler and a responsible and respectful husband. As the play opens you can see that she has been having some success, since Theseus now assures her, after expressing his impatience to bed her, that when he marries he will be a different man. Then along comes Egeus with his death threat against Hermia, which Theseus as ruler has to uphold, thus making him come across as a tyrant. Will Hippolyta fail in her attempts to civilise Theseus and have to enter into a tension-filled marriage? The Four Lovers If Theseus’ and Hippolyta’s wedding is the frame of the play, the complex relationship between the four lovers is the core of the play. Indeed it is literally the core in that the famous farcical confrontation between the four lovers takes place in the very middle of the play. This relationship is structured by Shakespeare like an erotic quadrille dance. Dream 33 begins with the two men, Lysander and Demetrius, pursuing Hermia; in the middle of the play the two men change course and pursue Helena. The two women almost come to blows and destroy their friendship just as the two men almost kill each other (tragedy always lurks beneath the surface of this comedy). Then it is Puck, acting on Oberonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instructions, who sorts things out by bringing the two men to a state of emotional exhaustion. When they collapse, the two women come in and collapse too. Puck then pairs them off to lie beside each other. Thus at the climax of the play they are happily paired off in the way that the women always wanted. Commentators have often seen the four lovers as almost interchangeable, arguing that their characters are shallowly drawn. But this is to misunderstand what Shakespeare is trying to do. Of course they are not Macbeth and Hamlet, but they are sharply differentiated characters who want something from other characters. You also have to understand the critically important backstory. Then you also have to see the love juice drugging for what it is intended to be: not a simple technicality for creating humour, but a tool of psychological catharsis or liberation. The two male lovers must undergo a carnival-like experience in the wood before they can find their way to responsible love. And the women, although not drugged, must undergo disorienting experiences that bring to the surface emotions they have hitherto repressed. Act 5, in which the two female lovers do not speak, does not deny them a highly active non-verbal physical role. Hermia Hermia is the daughter of Egeus, an insensitive tyrant of a father. She is spunky and is unwilling to accept the marriage to Demetrius that her father Egeus has arranged for her. But Egeus goes further, demanding of Theseus (the head of state) that she be put to death if she does not obey him. She is prepared to die rather than marry anyone other than Lysander, whom she loves. When the latter urges her to elope with him the following night into the wood outside Athens, she agrees. She is not afraid of the dark, the wood or Lysander. She is a close friend and lifelong companion of Helena. Their friendship however is tinged with jealousy. Much of the humour in the verbal exchanges in the middle of the play stems from the physical comparison between Hermia and Helena. Hermia is short, somewhat plump, and dark-complexioned; Helena is tall, skinny and light-complexioned. Casting should take account of these differences. As a pair, Hermia and Helena symbolise midsummer when the bright day is very long and the dark night is very short. The conflict between them reflects the battle of day and night, a battle which reaches its turning point at midsummer in the wood. Hermia will in the wood undergo disorienting experiences that will lead here eventually to a greater emotional maturity. Hermia wants Lysander, but her father Egeus stands in the way. Will she get what she wants? And how will she do that? Helena Helena is more impetuous and sharp tongued than Hermia, but equally determined to get her own way. She loves Hermia as her best friend but has always been a little jealous of her. This is made worse when the man she loves, Demetrius, suddenly abandons her and persuades Egeus that he is the best match for Hermia (backstory: why did this happen? Was her father Nedar unimpressed with Demetrius and, if so, why? Or did the more financially interesting offer by Egeus of Hermia side track Demetrius?) So when in Act 3 Scene 2 both 34 men, under the influence of the aphrodisiacal love juice, fall madly in love with Helena, she rather enjoys the tables being turned on Hermia. Helena is responsible for some important plot twists that drive the action forward. Demetrius follows Hermia and Lysander into the woods because Helena pushes him in that direction. And it is because Oberon overhears Helena’s pathetic exchange with Demetrius that he sends Puck on his series of misdirected love-drug missions. Helena wants Demetrius who at the beginning of the play wants to marry Hermia. Moreover the Duke seems to agree that Hermia should marry Demetrius. But does Demetrius really love Hermia or does he in fact love Helena, but thinks Hermia a more financially satisfactory match? Will Helena overcome these obstacles and get him as her husband? Lysander Both Lysander and Demetrius are stereotypical and immature lovers, though Lysander is the more sympathetic of the two. Lysander wants Hermia, but Hermia’s father, Egeus, has chosen Demetrius for Hermia (why? Backstory!) In order to escape the harsh Athenian law, Lysander tells Hermia he has an aunt living in the wood outside Athens and they should flee there the following night and get married. When they run away Lysander gets lost in the wood and can’t find his aunt’s place and does not seem terribly worried. So was this all a stratagem for getting Hermia alone in the wood? But Hermia rebuffs his advances in the wood and tells him to wait until they are married. Of course the poor guy then gets a dose of the magical love juice from Puck and falls madly in love with Helena. We can interpret this as pure magic, but we can also see it in psychological terms as Lysander allowing a previously concealed lust for Helena (his beloved’s best friend – a not unusual situation) come to the surface so he can exorcise it and return to normal. So will Lysander get Helena, who does not love him, or will he return to his normal un-drugged self and get Hermia? Demetrius Demetrius is the less likeable of the two male lovers, that is, until he emerges from the deep sleep at the end of Act 4. He is arrogant, is unconcerned if Hermia dies unless she marries him, treats Helena like trash before he is drugged with the love juice, and has possibly entered into some deal with Hermia’s father Egeus. Backstory: Did Demetrius stop courting Helena, even though he continued to love her, because he thought, or was persuaded by Egeus, that Hermia would be a financially better marriage? In the end, however, he is the only one of the three drugged characters (he, Lysander and Titania) who does not have the love juice removed. What are we to make of this? Is this, as some have claimed, perhaps an oversight by Shakespeare? Or a necessary technicality to allow the play to end with everyone paired off? Certainly, at the end of the play he seems to be a better person. A close reading of the text, however, shows that it is Titania, urged on by Oberon, who casts the lovers into a deep sleep which annuls any effects of the love juice. It is from this deep sleep that Demetrius emerges as a more mature person. If we assume, as is permissible and reasonable, that Demetrius has abandoned Helena whom he truly loves because he thinks that a financially better match might be made with Hermia and her father Egeus, then we can interpret the administration of the love juice that makes him go back to Helena as a psychological catharsis that allows him to follow his deeper and better instincts and honour the one he truly loves. At the beginning of the play he wants Hermia, even though Helena, whom he had courted, loves him. Will he get Hermia? Or will Helena get him? Will he come to his senses and realise that his true love is actually Helena? 35 The Mechanicals/Workmen The mechanicals (workmen) are the bedrock of this play. Dream would float away if it were not anchored in the workmen and their absurd idea of entering the competition to present an entertainment, The most Lamentable Comedy and most Cruel Death of Pyramus and Thisbe, before the Duke and his bride on their wedding evening. It requires hutzpah to think they can compete against professional entertainers. They may be motivated by the financial reward they can expect to receive if their play is chosen, but there is something else that is driving them: their confidence in their skills as craftsmen whose work and products create the material base of Athenian society. They are the salt of the earth and Shakespeare recognises this. The entire fifth act is devoted to their performance of Pyramus, and it is one of the most brilliant and hilarious endings of any play. But the farce also serves to mock the escapades of the four lovers in the wood, as well as unite, temporarily, the upper and lower classes of Athens. Theseus and company, who constitute the stage audience for Pyramus, begin by patronising the ridiculous efforts of the workmen to put on this play, but end by joining in the general hilarity. And this may have been what inspired Theseus to choose the play as the entertainment for the evening, despite the advice of Philostrate and Hippolyta. Bottom Bottom the weaver is everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite character in Dream. He is the type that anyone from the Caribbean would easily recognise: the loudmouth know-it-all who is always bragging, and whom you can never get to shut up, but at the same time is the life and soul of the party. Bottom represents the grossest form of reality, and it is on this reality that Dream is woven. When he and his mates, other working class craftsmen, decide to stage Pyramus for Theseusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wedding party, they decide that Quince, the carpenter, should be the director (backstory: why?). But Bottom constantly challenges him, even though he knows less than Quince about the theatre or acting. Indeed Bottom wants to play every role in Pyramus. Then when he is transformed by Puck into a half-ass/half-man he is unaware of what has happened to him. When Titania in her drug-induced sexual frenzy crawls all over him he is scared out of his wits and cannot rise to the occasion. There is further irony in that Bottom tries to play the lover, Pyramus, in the little play, but when he is transformed into an ass by Puck and by chance Titania falls madly in love with him, he can do nothing. When Puck restores him to his normal self the only explanation he can come up with for his extraordinary adventures with the fairies/spirits is that he had a vision or was dreaming. Will Bottom manage to outwit Quince and steal the show? Quince We need to create a backstory to understand how Quince the carpenter became the director of Pyramus. Was he the choice of his workmates or was he self-appointed? Or had he seen a play before? Or was it he who came up with the idea of putting on Pyramus? Was it because he was the most educated and most senior? This latter suggestion probably makes sense. If so then it would be appropriate to present Quince as having absurd pretensions to produce a play. But Quinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pretensions quickly run up against Bottom, and the two carry on a feud throughout the rehearsals for the play. Will Quince manage to control Bottom? Will he manage to get the play staged in front of Theseus and Hippolyta? There is a lot of money at stake here. 36 The Fairies/Spirits The fairies/spirits are powerful forces that represent chaos and imagination; shape-shifters that merge and diverge, upholding the balance of the natural world. They control the dream world of the wood at night into which the lovers and the workmen are drawn. We suggest that these ‘fairies’ be portrayed as spirits of Caribbean folklore, having both benevolent and malevolent aspects to them. In many respects the events in the wood are orchestrated by Oberon with Puck’s assistance, so that you can think of Oberon as a theatre director directing a play within the woods. Oberon and Titania The characters of Oberon and Titania have been long seen as doubles of Theseus and Hippolyta, so much so that many performances of Dream have used the same two actors to play both couples. Some commentators have suggested that we interpret Oberon and Titania as dream projections of Theseus and Hippolyta, giving us insight into the subconscious emotions and desires of the latter two. If you agree with this, you can imagine Titania as Hippolyta both coming to terms with motherhood and her sexuality, as well as freeing themselves from male patriarchy and oppression. At the beginning of Act 2, Oberon, king of the fairies/spirits, whose domain is night and the wood, finds himself locked in conflict with his consort, Titania, queen of the fairies/spirits. She has adopted an Indian boy whose mother was her votaress (a worshipper) and who died in giving birth to the boy. According to Puck, not the most reliable of witnesses, she literally stole him away from his father, an Indian king (fairies were believed to steal young children away and leave an ugly fairy child or changeling in their place). But she adopted him not only because she loved his mother, but because she herself wanted to be a mother. When in Act 2, Scene 1, she tells Oberon that she would not give up the child for all of fairyland, she then reminisces about her friendship with the boy’s mother, when they used to jointly delight in the woman’s pregnancy. It is clear that Titania wished that she might have been pregnant too. But in any event she is determined that she will raise this boy. Now why does Oberon want the boy? Some have suggested that he is jealous in the sense that Titania is devoting so much love and time to the boy that she is neglecting him, Oberon. This indeed is borne out by Titania who says that she ‘has forsworn his bed and company’ (Act 2, Scene 1) - again another reflection of the doubling with Theseus and Hippolyta. But there may be another reason. It is possible that Oberon is the actual father of the child, and therefore he wants to share in the raising of his son. But even if we put that aside - since there is no textual evidence for such a suggestion - it is at least feasible, that Oberon wants to share in raising the adopted boy even if he is not the biological father. So the conflict between the two is essentially about the desire for and responsibilities of parenthood. The conflict about parenthood also relates to the conflict over marriage between Theseus and Hippolyta. This conflict between the king and queen of the spirit world has thrown nature out of joint, creating numerous natural disasters, as is illustrated by Titania's lengthy speech in Act 2 Scene 1. Will they be able to resolve the conflict and who will get to keep the Indian boy? We suggest that Oberon and Titania be represented on stage costumed as king and queen of a carnival masquerade band. 37 Puck The word puck or pook originally meant a mischievous demon and Robin Goodfellow was once a popular name for the Devil (indeed one might argue that Oberon is God and Puck Satan, who, according to Judaic but not Christian belief, is a provocative agent of God, as in the story of Job). Puck originated as a generic name in Old English for mischievous spirits, and evolved in the sixteenth century as a specific name for a 'shrewd and knavish sprite' (2.1.33) also known as Hobgoblin and Robin Goodfellow. Many of Puck's attributes in Dream were traditional - his mocking laughter 'Ho, ho, ho', (3.2.421), his broom to sweep 'behind the door', so helping housemaids who left milk for him (5.1.367-8), and his ability to take on any shape (2.1.4655). Puck is a kind of cosmic agent of confusion. He loves sowing confusion and seeing its results: “Shall we their fond pageant see?/Lord, what fools these mortals be!” (3.2.114–15) Puck is the height of imagination run wild, just as Bottom is the bottom of unimaginative reality. He is subordinate to Oberon who keeps him on a tight leash, but he is clearly chafing at the bit. His attitude to Oberon is sardonic and slightly rebellious when he can get away with it. When he has the opportunity to work his own will without Oberon’s instructions, he lets his mischievous instincts take over, as for example with the transformation of Bottom into an ass, and his shape-shifting with Demetrius and Lysander in Act 3. Puck’s conflict is with Oberon, from whom he wants a greater degree of freedom to do his own magic. Will he prevail over Oberon? Why does Shakespeare give the final speech (the epilogue) to Puck rather than Oberon? Hmmm. Interesting. We suggest that Puck be represented on stage as a potentially frightening Baron Samedi figure. Other Fairies/Spirits We suggest that the other spirits be represented on stage as carnival masquerade characters such as moko jumbies, midnight robbers, jab-jabs, bats and so on. Themes and Symbols The dominant theme of Dream is the difference between reality and illusion or, looked at from a different angle, order and disorder. This theme fascinated Shakespeare as it did other writers of his time such as the Spanish playwright Calderon de la Barca in his famous play Life is a Dream (1635), or the Spanish novelist Cervantes in his magnificent Don Quixote (1605). Or indeed, as it does novelists closer to our time like Franz Kafka’s The Trial (1925) or John Fowles’ The Magus (1966), Gabriel Garcia Marquez’ One Hundred Years of Solitude (1967), Salman Rushdie’s Midnight’s Children (1980 ), and the whole school of magical realism. But it goes back even further: to Plato the famous ancient Greek philosopher. In his allegory of the cave Plato imagines people chained in a cave facing a blank wall on which shadows are cast from a fire burning behind them. This is all they know and this is for them reality. But then imagine if they were released and taken out of the cave? What then is reality? While the appeal of this theme tends to be universal, for Shakespeare and his contemporaries it was particularly resonant because they lived in an age of upheaval. In no play did Shakespeare explore the confusion between reality and illusion so deeply as he did in 38 Dream. In fact the entire play is about the reconciliation between the two fundamental features of a life well lived: the Apollonian instinct for reasoned order and the Dionysian instinct for imaginative anarchy (Apollo is the Greek god of light and reason; Dionysus is the Greek god of the earth, wine, ecstasy and revelry). The distinction between the Apollonian and Dionysian is as ancient as humanity, but was given a new prominence by the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900), in his book The Birth of Tragedy. He saw these two opposing forces as central to artistic creation. The Apollonian represents moderation and rationality. The Dionysian represents liberated, ecstatic and creative power. The two opposed forces are essential to human psychological and social development, because order helps us to master the world and control our most selfish instincts in order to live in cooperation with our neighbours in society. But order alone can result in tyranny, repression, tunnel vision and slow decay. Anarchy on the other hand releases our imagination, emotions and intuition and allows us to get in touch with our subconscious and primal instincts. But anarchy can result in uncontrolled passions, rampant selfishness, chaos and the collapse of society. We could define the two opposites in several familiar ways: Apollo civilization nature In fact we see several of those opposites in Dream. The city of Athens is the place of order and rationality, which on occasion (the sentence passed on Hermia) can become repressive and tyrannical. The wood (night) outside of Athens, on the other hand, is the place where the forces of magic, imagination and spirituality reign; a place of the subconscious with its dreams and unrestrained sensuality, and where liberated eroticism is the norm, as we see 39 with the four lovers and Titania. Indeed, Titania and Oberon can be seen as the Dionysian side of Hippolyta and Theseus. The wood was also for Shakespeare and his contemporaries associated with the popular rural festivals like May Day and Midsummer, linked with the mysteries and the magic of natural fertility. The wood was regarded as a place of escape from the constraints of the law and of society, a place of change whether of gender, identity or both, and of interior transformation. Most of Dream takes place in the moonlit night of the wood, with the beginning in the daylight of Athens and the end in the night-time of Athens. It is in the night of the wood that the conflicts set up at the beginning of the play (conflicts between Theseus and Titania, Hermia and her father, Helena and Demetrius, Quince and Bottom, and Oberon and Titania) are worked out and ultimately resolved. Dream ends with the conventional marriages of comedy. But these marriages are not just the conventional happy ending to a comedy; they reconcile nature with nurture, reason with emotion, uninhibited sensuality with the demands of a stable society, and lead to the integration of the couples into the community. It is important to note that the order that is restored at the end of the play is qualitatively different from the order at the beginning. Think of it as a dialectic: thesis (order), antithesis (disorder), synthesis (new order). Which brings us to the second major theme: transformation. All the characters in the play are transformed, in the sense that they have reached a new level of maturity, which they could not have achieved without the effect of disordering experiences. Some are literally transformed. We see the transformation of Bottom into an ass and his restoration to human form. The ass, in Shakespeare’s time, is a many-sided beast, but the most important features of it are those of stupidity and lasciviousness (the ass was credited with being, proportionally, the best sexually endowed of all beasts). Bottom has always been an ass, and when he is transformed he still doesn’t know it. Titania is transformed from the dignified queen of the fairies/spirits into a raging slut under the power of the magical love juice, just as Lysander and Demetrius are transformed into lusting after Helena. The idea of human transformation into a beast is a staple of literature: just think of the fairy tale, Beauty and the Beast, Apuleius’ The Golden Ass, R.L. Stevenson’s Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde and the many stories about wolf men and vampires. The beast in all these cases represents a human reversion to the most selfish and cruel animal instincts, from which it must be ultimately rescued. At the same time, life is a series of transformations or rites of passage: from unborn child to infant; from children to teenagers; from teenagers (immature love) to adults (mature love); from old age to death. During these transformations it is sometimes necessary to break down the strict ‘policing’ of our innermost feelings to achieve true healing and personal reconciliation and integration. Everyone in Dream is transformed either physically or psychologically. The play shows what can happen when the rational order breaks down and the stability of identity is lost. The link between love, imagination, and reason, are central to the theme of transformation and change. Transformation is the very heart of Dream: for what we witness is the most important transformation in human life: the transformation from men and women in the throes of erotic love to the affirmation of love through commitment and responsibility, i.e. marriage or a stable relationship. 40 What then are we to make of the love juice that transforms? Well we can take it as a magical device which generates some plot twists and a lot of fun. Or we can also understand it in a psychological sense as allowing the character who is drugged to undergo a therapeutic erotic experience that allows him or her to come to a more mature understanding of their feelings. Let’s look at the three characters that are drugged by Oberon/Puck: Lysander, Demetrius and Titania. Lysander loves Hermia, but it is quite possible that he also has the ‘hots’ for her best friend, Helena (a not unusual situation). He has always repressed this feeling and before he and Hermia can enter into a mature stable relationship, he must bring it to the surface and confront it. This he does in the play under the influence of the drug. Demetrius has always loved Helena, but, as a man who cares a lot about money, he has denied his love for Helena and pursued Hermia with whose father, Egeus, he has a financial understanding. The drug allows him to recognise that his love for Helena is more real and more valuable than his love of money (Hermia). Titania, a very dignified queen of the spirit world, has some repressed desires for some basic animalistic sex. She is allowed under the influence of the drug to confront this (with poor Bottom transformed into an ass) and then return to normality after this catharsis. All this of course is speculative, but any interpretation of this play on the stage is speculative. You cannot possibly stage this play without an understanding of the several backstories (whichever you find most convincing). To rely on the ‘text’ alone is to have actors standing still on the stage declaiming Shakespearean poetry. Great stuff maybe, but not drama. A lot of the thematic exploration takes place around the notion of dreaming. Indeed the very title of the play gives us a clue, reinforced by Puck’s final speech to the audience, in which he tells them that if anything in the play you have seen offended you, just imagine that you fell asleep and the whole thing was a dream. Some of the characters in Dream have dreams of their own. Hermia has a frightening dream in which Lysander betrays her. Her dream turns out to be true - temporarily (Act 2, Scene 2). Bottom (Act 4, Scene 1) writes off his whole experience with Titania and the other fairies/spirits as a dream: “I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was. Man is but an ass if he go about to expound this dream.” This is ironical, because we know that Bottom’s experiences were ‘real’ within the terms of the play. When the lovers awake from their drugged and natural sleep in the wood, Demetrius says, “Are you sure we are awake? It seems to me that yet we sleep, we dream.” This is ironical because we know, though he doesn’t, that he has been altered by the love drug. All the other many references to dreams are metaphors, like wood, night and fairies, for the altered state of consciousness in which reason relaxes its grip and allows other powers and modes of perception to flood in with the imagination. Dreaming thus becomes truer than reality because it has this transforming power; it is part of the fertile world of the imagination. Theseus, in trying to come to terms with the strange experiences that the lovers said they had in the wood at night, seeks a rational psychological explanation: “The lover, the lunatic and the poet/are of imagination all compact.” And it is “imagination that “bodies forth the forms of things unknown”: i.e. it makes us at night think that a bush is a bear (Act 5, Scene 1). Yet Titania remains unconvinced by Theseus: she says she doesn’t know how to explain it, but something strange happened in the wood (Act 5, Scene 1) – and she is right. 41 The play-within-a-play, Pyramus and Thisbe, put on by workmen of Athens (the mechanicals) is a dominant feature of Dream, and rings the changes on reality vs. illusion. Pyramus parodies the actions of the lovers in Dream, and constantly raises questions about the nature of dramatic representation ( the workmen wonder whether the ‘audience’ of their play might be scared by the lion in it, and how they will let that audience know that it is not a real lion). But the play also has the effect of bringing everyone, nobles and workmen, together in a joint dance of celebration. Finally Puck’s epilogue addressed to the actual audience brings up directly the issue of illusion and reality: “If we shadows have offended./Think but this, and all is mended— /That you have but slumber'd here,/ While these visions did appear./ And this weak and idle theme/ No more yielding but a dream.” Indeed Shakespeare invites us to see a work of art as the realisation of the artist’s imagination or dream. But is it therefore less real? Do not dreams (the arts) influence us and even change our lives? Is not the playwright’s art akin to the magic of the fairies/spirits? In fact, theatre itself is an illusion in that it is merely a representation of reality. But is it not also a reality? So what is reality and what is illusion? This major theme of reality vs. illusion is closely linked to other themes and symbols in Dream. A question that Shakespeare constantly poses to us and explores in depth in Dream is what is the nature of love? Lysander’s remark that the ‘course of true love never did run smooth’ (Act , Scene 1) certainly applies all around: Act 1 Scene 1: Theseus is four days away from marrying Hippolyta whom he won in battle as a trophy bride but now hopes to marry ‘in another key’. There is the confusion of the four lovers that begins with Egeus' threat of death to his daughter Hermia if she does not wed his choice Demetrius; Hermia’s insistence that she wants Lysander; and then Helena’s determination to have Demetrius. Act 2 Scene 1: Oberon and Titania’s ‘marriage’ is threatened by their quarrel over who should have the Indian boy; Helena pesters Demetrius in the wood, and gets nowhere. Act 3 Scene 1 Titania, under the influence of the magical love juice, is struck with strong sexual desire for Bottom who has been transformed into a donkey. Act 3 Scene 2: Lysander falls in love with Helena on awakening with the love juice in his eyes: then Demetrius suffers the same fate, so that both men love Helena, just as in Act 1 they both loved Hermia. Then they are sorted out by Puck so that Demetrius and Helena love each other and Hermia and Lysander love each other, Act 4 Scene 1: Titania is returned to her normal self and harmony is restored between her and Oberon. Act 5 Scene 1: Three weddings and a fairy blessing bring all to a happy conclusion. All this topsy-turvy action raises the question of what is love? How does it differ from lust and infatuation, and whether you can trust your eyes.? Dream is packed with references to the eyes: Act 1 Scene 1: Hermia: 'I would my father look'd but with my eyes' Act 1 Scene 1: Helena: 'Things base and vile, holding no quantity,/Love can transpose to form and dignity./Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind/And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.' 42 Act 2 Scene 2: Lysander: 'Reason becomes the marshal to my will / And leads me to your eyes, where I o'erlook / Love's stories written in love's richest book' Act 3 Scene 2: Oberon: 'And then I will her charmed eye release / From monster's view, and all things shall be peace' Act 4 Scene 1: Hermia: 'Methinks I see these things with parted eye, / When every thing seems double' Act 5 Scene 1: Theseus: 'The poet's eye, in a fine frenzy rolling, / Doth glance from heaven to earth, from earth to heaven...' In Dream all the obstacles to, or diversions from, love are overcome and the play ends in three marriages, as well as a restored harmony between Oberon and Titania. Yet Shakespeare is not just using the comedic convention of marriage to bring the play to a conclusion; he sees marriage as legitimating erotic love. Yet his idea of marriage in this play is not the typical Elizabethan patriarchal notion of marriage; it is a much more equal affair in which the woman has a much greater say. Marriage, he is saying, works best, when the two persons have liberated their imagination previously. Shakespeare is contrasting immature love, governed both by unrestrained lust and absurd infatuation, with mature love, governed by responsibility, respect and reason. At the same time, you do not get to maturity without understanding the animal instincts and desires that are an essential part of you. So it is almost as if the moonlit night in the wood functions as a kind of magical or natural therapy in which all the participants must get in touch with their deepest feelings before they can reach the maturity necessary for marriage, which is the ultimate regulator of anarchic sexual desire. Shakespeare goes even further. He shows us in the scene between Helena and Demetrius in Act 2, Scene 1, when Demetrius is cruel to Helena, as well as in Act 3, Scene 2, where Lysander is cruel to Hermia, that the line between love and hate is hard to draw. You can easily hate passionately someone whom you also love passionately. Another related symbol is the moon, which is dominant throughout the play. What is interesting about it is that the moon is a highly ambiguous symbol. It takes on many meanings. For example: Act 1 Scene 1: Theseus: 'Four happy days bring in/Another moon' Act 1 Scene 1: Titania: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the moon, like to a silver bow / New bent in heaven.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Act 2 Scene 1: Oberon: 'I'll met by moonlight, proud Titania' Act 2 Scene 2: Titania: 'Therefore the moon, the governess of floods, / Pale in her anger, washes all the air...' Act 4 Scene 1: Oberon: 'We the globe can compass soon, / Swifter than the wandering moon' Act 5 Scene 1: Puck: 'Now the hungry lion roars, / And the wolf behowls the moon' The moon is a symbol both of chastity and fertility. The moon, because it waxes and wanes as it passes through the monthly cycle, symbolises both harmony, growth and renewal as well as disorder, fickleness, and inconstancy. By drawing upon the various allusions and associations that are connected with the moon, Shakespeare transforms the moon into a symbol that unifies the play's plots, characters, and themes. It is seen as a powerful symbolic force that determines and affects human behaviour and stresses the ritualistic nature of Dream. The moon as symbol also plays into the dominant theme of reality vs. illusion. Familiar things look different by moonlight; they are seen quite literally in a different light. 43 The wood, which is the backdrop for much of the play, had a strong symbolism for Shakespeare’s contemporaries. Forests were places full of mystery, where imagination and the subconscious run free, where rites of passage take place, where we can return to our primal selves. From the Roman poet Virgil to the Italian poet Dante to the modern American poet, Robert Frost (“The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,/ But I have promises to keep,/ And miles to go before I sleep,/ And miles to go before I sleep”), the forest has always had an appeal that was framed both in terms of death and renewal. The tradition of the sacred grove, associated with rites of passage, was widespread in many cultures. Even today many forests are recognised as much for their spiritual as for their ecological value. Entering the enchanted wood is a symbol of crossing the threshold: our souls entering the realm of death or the spiritual world to find the true meaning of life. This dark wood symbolises the hidden world of our subconscious. If we want to find our true selves we must enter the wood and emerge with a more grounded humanity. It is important in Dream that the wood outside Athens and the spirit creatures (fairies) who inhabit it be portrayed as somewhat sinister. For example, we learn from Titania that the natural world has been thrown out of joint by the conflict between her and Oberon, so it might be appropriate to have thunder and lightning effects as appropriate. The cause of the quarrel between Oberon and Titania is an Indian changeling boy. A changeling was, according to folklore, a child whom fairies changed or substituted for the real child they had stolen from human parents. In this case, however, the Indian boy seems to be the human child that Titania had stolen from his father because it was the son of an Indian woman who worshipped her and was her close friend. The woman had died in childbirth, and she wished to adopt the child as her own. But that is not clear. It’s possible that Oberon is the father of the child. There is nothing in the text that contradicts such a suggestion, and it would at least explain Oberon’s obsession to have the boy. Under the influence of the love juice Titania cedes the child to Oberon. Our own interpretation is that in the end perfect reconciliation between Oberon and Titania is achieved when they share the boy. Love is also in a sense transformative: when we love we usually idealise the object of our affections, and we ourselves are changed by love. As we noted, everyone in the play is transformed, which allows the play to end happily. Indeed Dream at one level is about the transformative power of drama, as Puck’s final speech makes clear. The works of the artist’s imagination transform mere words into a creation that not only has a life of its own but can profoundly influence and indeed change our own lives. Language Shakespeare wrote at a time when the English language was in a state of flux. Written English had not yet achieved standardization in spelling, syntax, or grammatical forms. There were no dictionaries of English to define words and prescribe spelling, pronunciation and meaning. Nor were there any grammars setting the rules by which sentences were to be constructed. Organized grammar texts would not appear until the 1700s. Shakespeare as a youth would have had no opportunity to study his own language systematically. As for new words, Shakespeare’s period was a time of great linguistic innovation. It was a time when education, scientific knowledge and contact with other cultures were all rapidly increasing. 44 Words from many other tongues were finding their way into the language. The vocabulary of English grew at a faster rate than at any time before or since. Indeed the language developed so quickly that by the early 1600s it was as different from the English spoken in 1500 as it is from the English spoken in Britain today. Shakespeare was himself an extender of the power and range of the English language: both a creator and a borrower of new words. Shakespeare is credited by the Oxford English Dictionary with the introduction of nearly 3,000 words into the language. Moreover Shakespeare loved to play with the sound and meaning of words. In addition he also uses with great skill Elizabethan rhetorical devices such as assonance, dissonance, changing stresses within the verse line, alliteration and punning rhymes. And he was a master of the double entendre and use of words with hidden sexual meanings that would be well known to his audience. No calypsonian today can come close to Shakespeare in this respect. If educational authorities understood the extent of his obscene word play, Shakespeare would be banned from all schools. Thank God for ignorance. But puns and double entendres are not just there for the laughs; they are part of Shakespeare’s obsession with what is illusion and what reality, in that they suggest that practically everything can have a double meaning. We know we can’t trust our eyes; but can we trust our ears? For the student of today reading Shakespeare, many of the words will seem strange, either because they are no longer in use or because they have different meanings today from what they had in Shakespeare’s time. It is because of the difficulty of understanding the text that this edition of Dream provides an extensive glossary explaining what unusual words and sometimes whole phrases mean. A further difficulty many students experience is that much of the language is in verse. Verse allowed Shakespeare to write lines with a poetic rhythm crafted for the stage. Shakespeare wrote extensively in blank verse which is unrhymed lines of iambic pentameter, which is a fancy way of saying ten-syllable lines that alternate unstressed and stressed syllables. Iambic refers to the stress patterns of the line. An iamb is an element of sound that consists of two beats—the first unstressed (da) and the second stressed (dum): da-dum-da-dum-da-dum-da-dum-da-dum. This comes close to the natural speaking rhythms of English: “The English language tends to work like this.” Shakespeare's verse is written either in blank verse (unrhymed) or in pairs of rhymed line endings (couplets). Shakespeare generally uses different types of language to differentiate the groups of characters: blank verse is associated with Theseus and Hippolyta in the courtly world; couplets with the lovers; lyrical measures with the fairy world; and prose with the workmen. Although Bottom talks to Titania in prose, she speaks in verse to him, a distinction which comically sustains the difference in rank between them. But even prose which has no formal rhythmic structure also has rhythm. Any accomplished orator today uses rhythm in her speeches. In Dream about thirty per cent of the language is in prose. So why did Shakespeare use verse? Partly because he was following tradition, and partly because blank verse raises speech above the ordinary without sounding artificial. But even rhymed verse had a theatrical purpose: it made lines easier to memorise. The difficulty of Shakespeare’s language, both through its archaic nature and its use of verse, often has the effect of distancing it from the student. In addition there can be a difference in 45 the order of words. Because word position is so integral to English, the student reader will find unfamiliar word arrangements confusing, even difficult to understand. Since Shakespeare’s plays are poetic dramas, he often shifts from the normal sequence of words to the unusual to make the line conform to the desired poetic rhythm. Often, too, Shakespeare employs unusual word order to afford a character his or her own specific style of speaking. Hence there is a temptation for the student to memorise the lines and recite or declaim them like poetry. This won’t work in drama. These plays were meant to be performed and the language to be spoken. The student should therefore always, when reading or performing Dream, start by recognising that you are communicating, not just verbally but also emotionally, using your whole body. If you just use words to communicate your feelings they will fall flat. So you have to figure out what the character whose lines you are reading wishes to communicate either to another character or characters or to the audience. That way the words will come alive. So please NEVER learn lines without understanding what they mean in every sense of the word. And please, Caribbean students, DON’T try to speak with an English accent. If it’s an upper class character use the standard Caribbean version of your language; if it’s a lower class character use your broad local accent without lapsing into dialect. Sources Shakespeare drew upon many elements from earlier literature and folklore in writing Dream. Indeed, of all his plays, this has the most varied sources. It is one of the few plays he wrote in which you could say that the plot was original. He combined seemingly discordant plot elements (the Athenian court, the fairy/spirit world, the Athenian workmen) into a magnificent harmonious whole. Shakespeare did not simply re-tell other people’s stories; he chose details from them and reworked them to serve his own creative purpose. The most significant source is Ovid's long poem , Metamorphoses, the English translation of which was published in 1567 by Arthur Golding. Ovid was Shakespeare’s favourite source. Among the stories in this poem was that of Pyramus and Thisbe. Ovid's tale of the lovers was a popular subject, having already been treated by Chaucer in his Legend of Good Women. The story of Theseus and Hippolyta is found in Chaucer’s The Knight’s Tale and in Plutarch’s Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans. The idea of a quarrelling king and queen of the fairies probably also comes from Chaucer— from The Merchant’s Tale—but Shakespeare creatively linked the two stories by inventing relationships between Oberon and Hippolyta and Titania and Theseus. Shakespeare took the name Oberon from the romance Huon of Bordeaux (published in the 1530s). The character of Puck comes from English folklore, as do the fairies. Bottom and the other mechanicals/workmen are Shakespeare’s own invention, no doubt based on his own experience. The idea that Bottom’s head could be turned into that of an ass was far from new. Again, Ovid’s Metamorphoses was an inspiration to Shakespeare. It includes the story of King Midas, who is punished by being given an ass’s ears. The classical story of Apuleius being turned into an ass was also well known at the time Shakespeare was writing: The Golden Ass had been translated by William Aldington in 1566 and ran to several editions, including one in 1596. 46 The wearing of animal masks had long been part of the folk traditions surrounding the celebration of country festivals in Britain. Transformations into asses and other animals are among the misdeeds of witchcraft listed by Reginald Scot in The Discoverie of Witchcraft (1584). Scot also describes a mischievous domestic fairy named Robin Goodfellow. Pucks and hobgoblins were still certainly feared in popular culture. Many ballads and pamphlets survive from Shakespeare's period, illustrated with woodcuts of devilish-looking spirits. Shakespeare takes Titania, the name of his Fairy Queen, from Ovid's Metamorphoses where it means Titan's daughter and is used to refer to various divinities, such as the huntress and moon goddess, Diana, and Circe, the transformer of men into swine. Oberon and Titania take sides in their support respectively for Hippolyta and Theseus, but Shakespeare richly develops the basic idea by having them accuse the other of being a lover of Hippolyta, and Theseus respectively; by inventing their quarrel over the Indian boy; and by providing them with a train of fairies and adding Puck. The invention of the Indian changeling boy as the source of conflict between Oberon and Titania was a stroke of genius. It allowed the playwright to use irony in showing how neither Oberon nor Titania fully understand what they are quarrelling about. Although Shakespeare used many different sources, the most notable feature of Dream is the dramatist's inventiveness, brilliantly fusing scattered elements from legend, folklore and earlier books into a whole that remains as fresh and original now as when it was composed. The play in performance Dream has been one of the most widely produced plays of Shakespeare, and has inspired many modern directors to stage imaginative and diverse productions. Dream became, as the critic William Henry III observed in the mid-1980s, "a summit that virtually every worldclass director seeks to scale." Many of these modern innovative productions have been inspired by the works of three theatre theorists who had a profound influence on the way Shakespeare was read and played in the twentieth century: Antonin Artaud's The Theatre and Its Double (first published in 1938 and translated into English in 1958), Jan Kott's Shakespeare Our Contemporary (published in Polish and French in 1962 and in English in 1964), and Bertolt Brecht's Berliner Ensemble productions, along with his manifesto, Short Organum for the Theatre (first published in German in 1949 and in English in 1964). In 1966 the American director John Hancock created a startlingly off-beat version of Dream. Hippolyta was portrayed as an African American woman in animal skins, brooding in a black bamboo cage. In the forest, the fairies were puppet insects, hairy bats, cobwebs, and dolls with wings, operated on strings from poles. Helena was performed in drag by a sixfoot-four-inch male actor in a blond wig, putting Helena's relationship with the other three lovers in a new light and disrupting the conventional romantic symmetry of the quartet. One of the truly revolutionary productions of Dream was the 1970 production by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), directed by the British director Peter Brook. The stage was a blank white box and the fairies engaged in juggling, tumbling and performed on trapezes. Brook, following Kott, emphasized Titaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sexual attraction to the legendary well-hung ass. As Kott wrote, "From antiquity up to the Renaissance the ass was credited with the strongest sexual potency and among all the quadrupeds was supposed to have the longest and hardest phallus." 47 Brookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production was an international success playing in over thirty cities across the world, and probably seen by more theatre audiences than any single theatrical production of a Shakespeare play before or since. It was indisputably the most influential Shakespearean production in the latter half of the twentieth century and the most discussed. Another path-breaking production was Canadian director Robert Lepage's 1992 setting of the play - at the National theatre in London - on a muddy bank around a pool. In the first scene, Philostrate pushed a hospital bed around the pool, bearing Theseus and Hippolyta and the young lovers dreaming, apparently, beneath the single bare light bulb that hung above the set. The pool later became Titania's bower. The four lovers' quarrels in the wood turned into "mud wrestling and group sex" on the muddy bank. Audiences in the front rows were given raincoats to protect them from the splatter. The fairies were dressed in black, with blue faces. Puck, played by contortionist Angela Laurier, scuttled about the stage on her hands, with her legs folded over her shoulders. Clinging to Bottom's back, this Puck provided his ass's ears with her legs. The fairies provided the rest of the "forest" by placing chairs in the pool. At the end of the forest sequence, the lovers showered off their mud and dressed in dry white clothes, apparently cleansed of their dirty dreams. Another extraordinary production was that of British director Tim Supple, who opened a boisterous, boldly sexual version in Chennai, India in 2006 before touring it across India and abroad. This featured seven different Indian dialects (plus English), and a cast of jugglers, acrobats and musicians from across the Subcontinent. These radically different productions show there are many ways to interpret a play. No doubt Dream will continue to inspire many other novel productions. 48 A Midsummer’s Night Dream List of Characters The Athenian Court Theseus Duke and leader of Athens, engaged to Hippolyta Hippolyta Queen of the Amazons, engaged to Theseus Egeus Athenian nobleman, Hermia’s father, who wants her to wed Demetrius Philostrate Theseus’ Master of the Revels The Lovers Hermia Egeus’ daughter, in love with Lysander Helena in love with Demetrius Lysander in love with Hermia Demetrius Egeus’ choice of husband for Hermia; previously loved Helena but now Hermia The Mechanicals (Athenian workmen) who wish to stage a play for Theseus’s wedding Nick Bottom a weaver who plays the part of Pyramus in the play Peter Quince a carpenter who directs the play and plays the Prologue Francis Flute a bellows-mender who plays the part of Thisbe Tom Snout a tinker who plays the part of Wall Robin Starveling a tailor who plays the part of Moonshine Snug a joiner who plays the part of Lion The Fairies (Spirits of the Underworld) Oberon King of the fairies Titania Queen of the fairies Puck (a.k.a. Robin Goodfellow) Oberon’s trickster assistant Peaseblossom Cobweb } Titania’s attendants Moth Mustardseed A Fairy in Titania’s service 49 1.1 Act 1, Scene 1, Athens: the Palace of THESEUS THESEUS Now, fair Hippolyta, our nuptial hour1 Draws on apace2; four happy days bring in Another moon3: but, O, methinks4, how slow This old moon wanes! She lingers5 my desires, Like to a step-dame6 or a dowager7 Long withering out a young man’s revenue8. HIPPOLYTA Four days will quickly steep themselves in night9; Four nights will quickly dream away the time10; And then the moon, like to a silver bow11 New-bent in heaven, shall behold the night Of our solemnities.12 THESEUS Go, Philostrate, Stir up the Athenian youth to merriments; Awake the pert 13and nimble spirit of mirth; Turn melancholy forth to funerals14; The pale companion is not for our pomp15. Exit PHILOSTRATE Hippolyta, I woo'd thee with my sword16, And won thy love, doing thee injuries17; But I will wed thee in another key18, With pomp, with triumph and with revelling19. 1 Wedding day quickly 3 The new moon 4 It seems to me 5 Puts off the fulfillment of my desire 6 stepmother 7 Wealthy widow 8 Wasting a young man’s inheritance 9 Will quickly become night 10 We’ll quickly dream four nights away 11 The new crescent moon is shaped like a bow 12 Will look down on our wedding ceremony 13 Lively 14 Let sadness accompany funerals 15 We want no long-faced people at our wedding 16 I pursued you with force 17 Won you by victory in battle 18 But I’ll marry you in different circumstances 19 With public rejoicing and celebrations 2 Stage Directions 5 10 15 Hippolyta, the Amazon Queen, a powerful woman and superb archer, is on stage alone with her bow practising (the arrows can be imaginary).Theseus enters talking quietly to Philostrate, sees her, stops and admires her from behind. Then, taking out his stick, he playfully sneaks up on her. Theseus is dying to have sex with Hippolyta. He goes to tap her on her bottom with his stick, (the men carry sticks in a sheath on their backs) but without turning around, she flicks his stick away with her bow stick. During the following dialogues they carry on a balletic stick fight. Every time he tries to get close and embrace her, she fends him off playfully but firmly with her stick, which he parries. This is a highly charged erotic, playful and bantering scene between the two. Theseus summons Philostrate who has been discreetly lurking in the background. When he addresses her after Philostrate leaves, at the word ‘but’ he sheathes his stick, and goes down on his knee, conceding that he will not now force his will on Hippolyta but will wait patiently until they are united in marriage. She raises him up and they are about to kiss erotically when they are interrupted by Egeus. Theseus is annoyed by the interruption. His ‘thanks’ to Egeus is sarcastic. 50 1.1 Act 1, Scene 1. Summary Theseus, the Duke of Athens, and Hippolyta, the Queen of the Amazons, are to be married in four days. Egeus comes to complain to Theseus about his daughter Hermia, who wants to marry Lysander, whom she loves, and refuses to marry his choice, Demetrius. Egeus asks Theseus to support his right by law to enforce his will on his daughter or have her executed. Theseus tries to persuade Hermia to do as her father wants. She refuses. He gives her until his wedding (four days) to agree or face death or a life of celibacy as a nun. Lysander and Hermia decide to run away from Athens and get married. They plan to meet the following night in the wood outside Athens. Hermia’s best friend, Helena, who loves Demetrius, is told about their plan. She decides to tell Demetrius what Hermia is doing and to follow him when he follows Hermia. Commentary Act 1, as in most plays, is exposition: it begins at a point of attack where the action is already well advanced (the wedding of Theseus and Hippolyta is only four days away); sets up the conflicts that will develop; and introduces the characters in the play. In this play there is no real protagonist: no Hamlet, Othello or Macbeth. Note the economy of words used to inform us that Theseus and Hippolyta were enemies. The play begins with a scene between Theseus and Hippolyta, who do not appear again until Act 4. In Act 5 their wedding is celebrated. This first plot raises the first conflict: the proposed wedding of two dominant, strong and previously opposed persons, whose marriage will only succeed if the tensions between them are resolved and differences reconciled. It is this plot which drives everything else in the play. The plot involving Theseus and Hippolyta is therefore a framing action for the entire play. It stands outside the world of dream, enchantment, and love entanglements, suggesting the sphere of practical everyday reality to which the resolution of all the conflicts must return, although transformed. Theseus, Duke of Athens, defeated in battle the Amazons, a legendary nation of powerful all-female warriors, and took their queen, Hippolyta, as his trophy bride (backstory: why? Because she was a virgin? Or the most powerful woman in the world? Or a suitable woman to give him a male heir?) Theseus was legendary for his pursuit of women. So the relationship between Theseus and Hippolyta is complex. Indeed, in one stage production, Hippolyta was brought on stage in a cage, snarling. Don’t forget that she is a powerful woman who has never submitted to a man before. We can assume (backstory) that they have had some time together in Athens to sort out their relationship, although there is still a lot of tension. Note Theseus’ emphasis on time passing slowly and Hippolyta’s emphasis on time passing quickly. On the other hand it seems as though she is gradually having a civilizing influence on him. Moreover a properly observed ritual of marriage brings responsibility and respect. Nevertheless, Theseus is impatient to possess her sexually and she is keeping him on a tight leash. The highly charged eroticism between Theseus and Hippolyta overflows into all the other actions in the play. The question that Bottom later asks of Pyramus, ”Is he a lover or a tyrant?’, applies to Theseus as well. Why are they waiting until the new moon? It was believed that this was an auspicious time for a wedding, especially for conception. In fact all activities involving growth, from cultivating crops to cutting hair, were regarded as best carried out under a new moon. Moreover the end of the lunar cycle was associated with female menstruation. Sex during menstruation was believed to produce monsters. The Amazons worshipped the moon. The moon has a huge symbolic significance in this play. At the same time it is an ambiguous symbol. The moon also has a ‘lunatic’ effect on people, provoking them to act erratically. The moon is associated with the divine feminine, since in many tribal societies the feminine cycles were linked to the phases of the moon. The moon is also the goddess of chastity. Thematically Athens is the place of order and rationality, which on occasion (the sentence passed on Hermia) can become tyrannical. The wood (night) represents the subconscious with its dreams and unrestrained sensuality. 51 1.1 Enter EGEUS, HERMIA, LYSANDER, and DEMETRIUS EGEUS Happy be Theseus, our renowned20 duke! 20 THESEUS Thanks, good Egeus: what's the news with thee? EGEUS Full of vexation21 come I, with complaint22 Against my child, my daughter Hermia. Stand forth, Demetrius. My noble lord, This man hath my consent to marry her. 25 Stand forth, Lysander: and my gracious duke, This man hath bewitch'd the bosom23 of my child; Thou, thou, Lysander, thou hast given her rhymes, And interchanged love-tokens with my child: Thou hast by moonlight at her window sung, 30 With feigning voice verses of feigning love24, And stolen the impression of her fantasy25 With bracelets of thy hair, rings, gawds26, conceits27, Knacks,28 trifles, nosegays29, sweetmeats30, messengers Of strong prevailment in unharden'd youth31: 35 32 With cunning hast thou filch'd my daughter's heart, Turn'd her obedience, which is due to me, To stubborn harshness33: and, my gracious duke, Be it so she34; will not here before35 your grace Consent to marry with Demetrius, 40 36 I beg the ancient privilege of Athens, As she is mine, I may dispose of her37: Which shall be either to this gentleman Or to her death38, according to our law Immediately provided in that case39. 45 20 Famous or legendary Anger or distress 22 Formal grievance 23 Won her love by casting a magic spell 24 Softly singing fake love songs 25 You’ve turned her head 26 Cheap flashy gifts 27 Fancy things 28 Knick-knacks 29 flowers 30 Sweets/chocolates 31 Things which can influence an impressionable young woman 32 Stolen 33 Making her stubborn rather than obedient to me 34 If it turns out 35 In Your Grace’s presence 36 Legal right 37 Since she is my daughter I have the right to decide her fate 38 She will either marry this gentleman or die 39 That applies to this situation 21 During the dialogue with Egeus, Hippolyta says nothing but her body language shows she disapproves of what is going on. Egeus enters angrily dragging Hermia by her hand, with Demetrius striding arrogantly behind him. Lysander brings up the rear downcast and sullen. As he approaches, Hippolyta steps forward, stops Egeus, and releases Hermia from his grasp. Hermia stands proudly with her head in the air. Hermia should be played by an actor who is short and dark complexioned, just as Helena should be played by an actor who is tall and light complexioned, since much of the humour in Act 3 derives from the contrast between the two. On mention of his name Demetrius struts forward smiling. Hermia shoots him a look that could kill. On mention of his name Lysander steps forward grimly. Hermia steps towards him as he also steps toward her, but her father pulls her back. During the account of Lysander’s wooing of her, Hermia and Lysander exchange infatuated looks, grins and other signs unseen by Egeus. Hippolyta smiles sympathetically. Egeus works himself into a self-righteous wrath, raising his voice. He pauses dramatically after ‘gentleman’. On pronouncing the word ‘death’ there is a hush. At that point, Hippolyta lets fly an arrow (imaginary) that makes everyone jump. Theseus sees that she is livid. 52 1.1 Commentary Here is the second plot and conflict (the first being the conflict between Theseus and Hippolyta over their upcoming marriage). This conflict between Hermia’s wish to marry Lysander and her father’s insistence that she marry Demetrius with whom he has come to an arrangement, places a stumbling block between the two lovers: one that can potentially lead to her death. This conflict also introduces the theme of the patriarchal order of the city (Athens) by day, and the female disorder and freedom of the wood by night. The law of Athens is harsh (as indeed was the law of Elizabethan England), giving a father the right to impose his will, however unjust, on his wife and daughter (but, hold on! Even today in many societies daughters have to accept the arranged marriages of their fathers, thus making Shakespeare’s time not too far removed from our own). Egeus’ suggestion that Lysander bewitched Hermia was a typical male reaction in Elizabethan society against independent women who dared to speak their love (compare with Desdemona declaring her love for the black general, Othello, causing her father Brabantio to declare her bewitched). The audience quickly realises that Egeus is a pompous, arrogant, insensitive man. Their sympathies, therefore, now lie with Hermia and Lysander. But Shakespeare makes Egeus go in a few lines from a ranting father to a drastically threatening one. Remember that during this scene although Hippolyta remains silent every gesture of her body, every look, shows she sides with Hermia against Egeus and Theseus. Egeus’ speech draws a sharp contrast between the portrait he paints of young lovers dotingly courting each other and the threat of death he will exact if that love persists. The mention of ‘death’ in the penultimate line of his speech casts a pall over everything and introduces a sombre note which will unleash the critical action of the flight to the wood. The major theme of the play is introduced in Egeus’ speech: what is real and what is illusion? Egeus accuses Lysander of winning Hermia’s love by bewitching her; that his love is a mere pretence aided and abetted by poetry, moonlight and sentimental gifts i.e. just a romantic illusion. Note that the moon here is associated by Egeus with deception. Backstory: why has Lysander courted Hermia secretly? Did their love for each other start after Egeus had arranged the marriage with Demetrius or had it been going on before? Had Lysander sought permission from Egeus and been refused? Why did Egeus choose Demetrius? As Lysander says a little farther on he is a match for Demetrius in nobility of birth, status and wealth and prospects. What’s going on? The director and actors should try to sort out these issues before staging the play. We suggest that Demetrius who had courted Helena, abandoned her to seek an arranged marriage with Hermia for financial reasons, although he still loves Helena. Lysander had probably been rejected by Egeus so he had no recourse but to secretly woo Hermia. 53 Stage Directions 1.1 THESEUS What say you, Hermia? be advised40 fair maid: To you your father should be as a god; One that composed your beauties41, yea, and one To whom you are but as a form in wax By him imprinted42 and within his power To leave the figure or disfigure it43. Demetrius is a worthy gentleman. 50 HERMIA So is Lysander. THESEUS In himself he is; But in this kind, wanting your father's voice44, The other must be held the worthier. 55 HERMIA I would45 my father look'd but with my eyes. THESEUS Rather your eyes must with his judgment look. HERMIA I do entreat46 your grace to pardon me. I know not by what power I am made bold, Nor how it may concern my modesty47, In such a presence here 48to plead my thoughts; But I beseech your grace that I may know The worst that may befall me 49in this case, If I refuse to wed Demetrius. THESEUS Either to die the death or to abjure For ever the society of men.50 40 Think carefully Gave you your beauty 42 You are a figure he has stamped in wax 43 To let it be or destroy it 44 But in this case, since he does not have your father’s support 45 Wish 46 Beg 47 Harm my reputation for modesty 48 In such distinguished company 49 Happen to me 50 Give up all contact with men 41 60 65 Even Theseus is shocked. Hippolyta gives Egeus a sharp look. Hermia instinctively moves to the only other woman present. Hippolyta puts her arm around her protectively. Theseus is in a quandary: he has just promised not to impose his will on Hippolyta but to ‘wed her in another key’. Now he is being asked to force the will of Egeus and Demetrius on Hermia. As the ruler of Athens he is bound to uphold the law, but personally he is sympathetic to the cause of love. How will he get out of this sticky situation? He wriggles and wriggles: on the one hand, on the other hand, reluctant to decide. He is well aware that Hippolyta is watching him. First he tries unconvincingly and stutteringly to persuade Hermia to change her mind. He is no match, however, for Hermia’s feistiness and courage. Hermia moves right up to Theseus, kneels in respect, but confronts him boldly. Theseus gives her his hand and raises her up. Theseus comes up with an alternative to death: become a nun for life. Maybe he is off the hook. 54 1.1 Commentary During this entire scene, Hippolyta is watching Theseus like a hawk (she still has her bow with her). She thought from what Theseus had told her that he was going to woo her in ‘another (less patriarchal) key’; but maybe this arrogant dictatorial way is the way of Athens in which Theseus must not only rule but also conduct his marital relationship (backstory: did they discuss the nature of their relationship within marriage, including whether they would have children?) Theseus is torn with an inner conflict: caught between a rock and a hard place. As head of the city state of Athens he must rationally uphold the law; as someone who is madly in love and is to be married in four days’ time, and who has sworn to be kinder to Hippolyta, he emotionally sides with Hermia and Lysander. He is therefore looking for any way of getting out of his difficult situation, especially as he is all too aware that his bride-to-be has him under intense scrutiny. Although Hippolyta remains silent during these exchanges her body language speaks volumes. Hermia’s bold, but respectful, speaking of her mind has been considered highly unusual for the Elizabethans. As a young woman she should be silent and withdrawn in the presence of male authority figures (does she gather strength from Hippolyta?) and should certainly accept the marriage her father arranged for her. We see that Hermia is feisty and outspoken. This will be all the more apparent in the famous confrontation between her and Helena in Act 3. Shakespeare delighted in showing women pressing against patriarchal restraints. In this exchange between Theseus and Hermia we see the continued development of the major theme of the play: in this case the conflict between seeing as perception and seeing as critical judgment. Can we trust our eyes or do they sometimes, or even always, deceive us? What is reality and what is illusion? How do we know whether we are awake or dreaming? Shakespeare will ring the changes on this multifaceted theme throughout the play. Theseus most delicately attempts to persuade Hermia, first, to marry as she has been told to, but if not, then at least to live as a nun. Hermia declares, as emphatically as she can, that she will not marry Demetrius. Acting as a wise ruler, but also as a man now somehow personally involved in the lovers’ situation, Theseus counsels her to “Take time to pause”. 55 1.1 Therefore, fair Hermia, question your desires; Know of your youth, examine well your blood51, Whether, if you yield not 52to your father's choice, You can endure the livery 53of a nun, For aye to be in shady cloister mew'd54, To live a barren sister 55all your life, Chanting faint hymns to the cold fruitless 56moon. Thrice-blessed they that master so their blood, To undergo such maiden pilgrimage57; But earthlier happy is the rose distill'd, Than that which withering on the virgin thorn58 Grows, lives and dies in single blessedness59. HERMIA So will I grow, so live, so die, my lord, Ere I will my virgin patent up Unto his lordship, whose unwished yoke My soul consents not to give sovereignty60. THESEUS Take time to pause61; and, by the next new moon-The sealing-day62 betwixt my love and me, For everlasting bond of fellowship63-Upon that day either prepare to die For disobedience to your father's will, Or else to wed Demetrius, as he would64; Or on Diana65's altar to protest66 For aye austerity and single life67. Stage Directions 80 85 Theseus is more comfortable focusing on the alternative for Hermia of monastic seclusion. But even here he goes too far when he speaks of ‘chanting faint hymns to the cold fruitless moon’, forgetting that Hippolyta worships the moon. At this point Hippolyta comes up behind Hermia and embraces her comfortingly. Hermia breaks away from Hippolyta as she defies Theseus, Egeus and Demetrius. Hippolyta stares at Theseus coldly when he speaks of ‘everlasting bond of fellowship’. 90 DEMETRIUS Relent, sweet Hermia: and, Lysander, yield Thy crazed title 68to my certain right. 51 Think about what you want; consider how young you are; examine your emotions You don’t give in 53 The habit or dress 54 To be shut up forever in a dark convent 55 Nun 56 Barren 57 Women who can control their passions and be virgins forever are three times blessed 58 But here on earth happier is the rose that, plucked, surrenders its perfume, than one that, withering on its untouched stem, 59 In the holy state of being celibate 60 Before I will surrender my right to my virginity to this distinguished man whose unwanted rule I could never obey 61 Think things over 62 The wedding day 63 Our eternal union 64 Wishes 65 Diana is the goddess of chastity, represented by the moon 66 To formally take an oath 67 To live forever as a virgin 68 Your flawed claim 52 56 1.1 Commentary Hermia’s absolute refusal to ‘honour’ her father and marry a man she doesn’t love is a blow against patriarchy (male dominance), but Shakespeare might have been emboldened by the knowledge that Queen Elizabeth 1 refused her royal advisors’ repeated advice to make a marriage alliance in the interests of England, because she loved her long-time lover, Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester The plot is now advanced further by Theseus’ compromise of delaying a decision on Hermia’s fate until his wedding day. Having done his official duty by trying to convince Hermia that she should follow her father’s wishes, Theseus, unwilling to pronounce a harsh sentence on Hermia, with whom he emotionally sympathises, finds a diplomatic way out by postponing his decision for four days until his wedding. This delay creates suspense because the audience is kept hanging. They know that Hermia is unlikely to relent, otherwise the play would come to an abrupt end. So what could possibly happen in the interim? Hermia may relent, or stick to her position, or something else may intervene to change the course of events. They will soon find out. The two male lovers, Demetrius and Lysander, now start to intervene. Lysander is the more sympathetic character and Demetrius the less attractive, though they both are ‘thin’ characters. The question of reality vs. illusion comes up in the exchange between Theseus and Hermia. Theseus urges her to think clearly. Is she sure that she really loves Lysander? Can she endure the life of chastity of a nun? Why does Demetrius call Lysander’s courtship of Hermia a ‘crazed title (faulty claim)? Is it because Egeus has dictated that Demetrius should marry Hermia? 57 Stage Directions 1.1 LYSANDER You have her father's love, Demetrius; Let me have Hermia's: do you marry him69. EGEUS Scornful Lysander! True, he hath my love, And what is mine my love shall render 70him. And she is mine, and all my right of her I do estate unto Demetrius71. LYSANDER I am, my lord, as well derived72 as he, As well possess'd73; my love is more than his; My fortunes every way as fairly rank'd, If not with vantage, as Demetrius';74 And, which is more than all these boasts can be, I am beloved of beauteous Hermia75: Why should not I then prosecute76 my right? Demetrius, I'll avouch it to his head77, Made love to 78Nedar's daughter, Helena, And won her soul; and she, sweet lady, dotes, Devoutly dotes, dotes in idolatry79, Upon this spotted and inconstant 80man. THESEUS I must confess that I have heard so much, And with Demetrius thought to have spoke thereof81; But, being over-full of self-affairs82, My mind did lose it. But, Demetrius, come; And come, Egeus; you shall go with me, I have some private schooling83 for you both. For you, fair Hermia, look you arm yourself To fit your fancies to your father's will;84 Or else the law of Athens yields you up-Which by no means we may extenuate85-To death, or to a vow of single life86. 69 Why don’t you marry him? Give 71 I hand over my rights in her to Demetrius 72 From as a good a family 73 Rich 74 My prospects are as good, if not better than those of Demetrius 75 Hermia loves me 76 Pursue 77 Say it to his face 78 Courted 79 Idolizes 80 Sinful and unfaithful 81 And was going to speak to Demetrius about it 82 Busy with my own affairs 83 Private advice 84 Be prepared to do what your father wants 85 The law of Athens, which I am powerless to alter, condemns you 86 Lifelong celibacy 70 95 115 120 Lysander is savagely sarcastic, which only annoys Egeus further. Clearly he is no diplomat. The actor looks at the audience when he says this line, pausing after 'Hermia's' and stressing 'you', knowing it will get a laugh. Egeus, enraged at Lysander (clearly their relationship is terrible), simply asserts his right as a father. In doing so he grabs hold of Hermia and drags her forcefully to him. He arrogantly does not feel the need to justify his choice of Demetrius. Lysander ignores Egeus and moves forward and bows respectfully to Theseus, imitating what Hermia had just done. He makes a well-reasoned case that Egeus’ choice of Demetrius is irrational. Then loses his cool and launches a vicious verbal assault on Demetrius. Again the two young men reach for their sticks. Theseus quickly intervenes. Ah, he now conveniently remembers, he had heard that Demetrius had wooed Helena, at which Hippolyta gives him a piercing look. Now he’s the peace-maker again. He will talk privately with Egeus and Demetrius. He has temporarily found his way out of his quandary. 58 1.1 Commentary Lysander’s remarks suggest that Egeus’ choice of Demetrius as a husband for Hermia is arbitrary, highhanded and unreasonable. The animosity between Egeus and Lysander is evident. What is the backstory here? One assumes that Egeus and Lysander may have exchanged words before, such is the palpable dislike of each for the other. Lysander is certainly no diplomat: he speaks frankly and fearlessly, but does not do his cause any good. Lysander’s suggestion to Demetrius that he marry Egeus may be motivated by the fact that he knows Demetrius is more interested in the dowry that Egeus will confer on Hermia than in Hermia herself. Egeus is not just a pompous twit; he’s a cold-hearted vicious man who would rather see his daughter die than have his wishes thwarted. From what he says, Hermia is just a piece of property. And what is the backstory of his relationship with Demetrius? Are they in some business or other project together? The fourth lover, Helena, is cleverly introduced by Shakespeare to the audience through Lysander’s description of her as besotted with love. This might be doubly ironic because, when in Act 3 Puck has placed the love juice in Lysander’s eyes he too will begin to dote on Helena: his first words on seeing Helena when he awakes with the love charm on him are ‘And run through fire I will for thy sweet sake. / Transparent Helena!’’ (Act 3, Scene 2, (103–4). But it is also ironic because according to the backstory we suggest Lysander secretly has the ‘hots’ for Helena Backstory: who is Helena’s father, Nedar? He is mentioned only twice and never appears. The second reference comes in Act 4, when Egeus refers to him as ‘old Nedar’. Was he Jewish (Nedar has Hebrew roots), a Shylock (and his daughter Jessica) figure perhaps? Would this then explain Demetrius’ abandonment of Helena, because Nedar would not agree to Helena marrying Demetrius, or because the dowry was too small? Our understanding of the position of the four lovers is now complete as well as the obstacles in their path to true love and marriage, which is the conventional ending that the audience would expect from a comedy. The journey from Act 1 to Act 5 is one from disharmony to harmony, from tragic potential to comic resolution, making “concord of this discord”. The Hippolyta of Act 1 has been won by the sword; she disagrees – politely? combatively? – with her betrothed in the opening lines, and remains enigmatically and perhaps resentfully silent until his anxious enquiry “what cheer, my love?” By her wedding-night she has been converted to address her spouse affectionately as “my Theseus.” Shakespeare also uses a clever bit of foreshadowing (dropping a hint in an early scene of what is to come later) by telling Hermia that the deadline for her decision will be his wedding day. To an audience that knows the convention that comedies end in marriage, it can anticipate that everything will be resolved happily in four days’ time. The possible fate of Hermia seems to shift. First Egeus says it’s either marry Demetrius or die. Then Theseus says its marry Demetrius, die or be secluded in a convent for life. Also, Theseus says that he can’t ‘extenuate’ or get around the law of Athens. Here is a clever use of the foreshadowing technique by Shakespeare: we will find in Act 4 that Theseus does ‘extenuate’ the law and overrule Egeus. This raises the intriguing question: what happens to Theseus (and Hippolyta) between Act 1 and Act 4? What happens between Theseus and Egeus? Shakespeare has packed an incredible amount of backstory into Theseus’ brief speech. He confesses that he knew about Demetrius’ wooing of Helena (we might assume that the head of state has his spies everywhere) and planned to speak to him about it (to say what?). Theseus almost apologetically mentions the cause of his inaction, namely, he was “over full of self-affairs” (presumably sorting out his relationship with Hippolyta). Then he goes on to talk of having to give some “private schooling” (some words of advice) to Egeus and Demetrius. What on earth does he plan to say? The text never tells us, but a director and actor would certainly be keen to think about it. Theseus ultimately leaves the audience in suspense over Hermia’s fate and mystified by his proposed actions. The plot thickens. 59 Stage Directions 1.1 Come, my Hippolyta: what cheer87, my love? Demetrius and Egeus, go along: I must employ you in some business Against our nuptial 88and confer with you Of something nearly that concerns 89yourselves. 125 EGEUS With duty and desire we follow you90. Exeunt all but LYSANDER and HERMIA LYSANDER How now, my love! Why is your cheek so pale? How chance the roses there do fade so fast? HERMIA Belike91 for want of rain, which I could well Beteem them from the tempest of my eyes92. LYSANDER Ay me! for aught that I could ever read, Could ever hear by tale or history,93 The course of true love never did run smooth; But, either it was different in blood94,-- 130 135 HERMIA O cross! too high to be enthrall'd to low.95 LYSANDER Or else misgraffed 96in respect of years,-HERMIA O spite! too old to be engaged to young. LYSANDER Or else it stood97 upon the choice of friends,-HERMIA O hell! to choose love by another's eyes98 87 140 What’s the matter? In preparation for our wedding 89 That closely concerns 90 It’s a duty and pleasure to follow you 91 Most likely 92 Which I could well provide from storms of tears 93 From all I have ever read or heard 94 A difference in social class 95 O what bad luck, to be too high born to fall in love with one of lower rank 96 Mismatched 97 Depended 98 To have one's love chosen by others 88 As Theseus turns to Hippolyta to leave and takes her hand he notices she is furious and asks her ‘what cheer?’ i.e. what is the matter? Hippolyta removes her hand from his and stalks off in silent rage. Theseus, disconcerted, tells Egeus and Demetrius to go ahead. While he follows Hippolyta they can be heard arguing in hushed tones. Before Demetrius goes off, he grabs Hermia by her hair and plants a kiss on her lips, she pushes him off in disgust, and Lysander draws his stick. Hermia restrains him. Lysander and Hermia remain alone. Each is lost in their own thoughts. Then Lysander, approaching Hermia, holds her face tenderly in his hands. After Hermia responds to his query about her paleness, he then turns away to face the audience, and launches into a lengthy trite speech about the course of true love never being smooth, which Hermia interrupts with dramatic outbursts as she moves up behind him and puts her hands around him. With each interruption she peers out at the audience from either side of Lysander, so that their dialogue becomes briefly a duet. This part of the scene should be played in a stylized nuanced comic manner, pointing up the infatuation of the young. 60 1.1 Commentary The four lovers epitomise youthful love or infatuation (which figures prominently in the thematic conflict between realty and illusion), and are to some extent figures of fun. Indeed in Act 3, Scene 2, one of the most comical scenes in the theatre, the four lovers are reduced to figures of farce. They must pass through the dream world of the subconscious in the wood, before they sort themselves out, emerge with a more mature love and prove themselves ready for marriage. Hermia’s words about having to choose love ‘by another’s eyes’ is part of the theme of the difficulty of distinguishing realty from illusion. There is no other play by Shakespeare in which the word ‘eyes’ features so prominently. Lysander and Hermia’s dialogue illustrates the difficulties in the path of true love, making it a dangerous enterprise. Their dialogue is an example of stichomythia, a technique in verse drama in which single alternating lines are given to alternating characters. It typically features repetition and antithesis. Stichomythia is well suited to sections of dramatic dialogue where two characters are in violent dispute. The rhythmic intensity of the alternating lines combined with quick, biting ripostes in the dialogue can be quite powerful. 61 1.1 LYSANDER Or, if there were a sympathy in choice99, War, death, or sickness did lay siege to it100, Making it momentany 101as a sound, Swift as a shadow, short as any dream; Brief as the lightning in the collied102 night, That, in a spleen103, unfolds104 both heaven and earth, And ere a man hath power to say 'Behold!' The jaws of darkness do devour it up: So quick bright things come to confusion.105 HERMIA If then true lovers have been ever cross'd,106 It stands as an edict in destiny107: Then let us teach our trial patience108, Because it is a customary cross109, As due to love 110as thoughts and dreams and sighs, Wishes and tears, poor fancy's111 followers. LYSANDER A good persuasion112: therefore, hear me, Hermia. I have a widow aunt, a dowager Of great revenue113, and she hath no child: From Athens is her house remote seven leagues114; And she respects115 me as her only son. There, gentle Hermia, may I marry thee; And to that place the sharp116 Athenian law Cannot pursue us. If thou lovest me then, Steal forth thy father's house to-morrow night; And in the wood, a league without117 the town, Where I did meet thee once with Helena, To do observance to a morn of May118, There will I stay for thee. 99 145 160 165 Even if the couple were suitably matched Threaten it 101 Momentary or fleeting 102 Black as coal 103 In a flash of anger 104 Reveals or lights up 105 So bright hopes quickly fade 106 Frustrated 107 A law of fate 108 Bear our suffering patiently 109 The usual obstacle that lovers face 110 As much a part of love 111 Love’s 112 A good doctrine or well said 113 A rich widow 114 Her house is 20 miles distant (1 league = 3 miles approx.) 115 Regards 116 Harsh 117 Outside 118 To celebrate May Day (festivities involving gathering flowers and branches from the woods) 100 Stage Directions After Hermia’s last interruption, Lysander gently pulls her in front of him, with her facing the audience, puts his hands around her with one hand playfully covering her mouth as he finishes his speech. As he says the words ‘come to confusion’ he suddenly releases her as he raises his hands in the air. She slides to the ground at his feet. As he bends down to help her up, she pulls him down and crosses his arms around her neck from behind and speaks her words. After a pause they separate, she still sitting on the ground, and he standing. He begins to talk in more serious vein. He goes off on a new tact. As he says the words ‘marry thee’ he goes down on one knee and holds her hand. As he finishes his speech he kisses her. 62 1.1 Commentary The playfulness and absurd infatuation of the young lovers is highlighted in the dialogue between Hermia and Lysander about the nature of love. But then Lysander goes on to suggest that even if the lovers can overcome the obstacles in their way and are suitably matched, sickness or death can quickly destroy love. This sombre note leads Hermia to suggest that they have patience. Then, out of the blue, Lysander introduces a new and important plot element: the proposal to elope. This immediately captures the audience’s attention. Will they manage to escape the harsh law of Athens that might condemn Hermia to death or a life of seclusion? But even more intriguing, Lysander’s proposal is to flee to the wood, where legend had it that strange creatures of folklore lived and where all the rules of the civilised life of the city could be turned upside down. What effect would this have on the lovers? What is his motive? In fact, after they enter the wood, he tells Hermia he has lost his way and maybe they should bed down for the night in the wood. Really? Lysander’s reference to his aunt who is a rich widow that thinks of him as her only son also suggests that he could use the money, especially if they will have forfeited the generous dowry that Egeus would have bestowed on Hermia and her husband. On the other hand, in the context of life in Athens, the ancient Greeks would have regarded a life of exile as little better than death and seclusion. So Hermia is giving up a lot for her love of Lysander. Moreover, the mention of the wood outside Athens is tied to the popular folkloric festivals. The opposition between the city and the country lay at the heart of popular festivals. For the festival was still in Shakespeare’s time the product of a rural, popular culture whose seasonal rhythms were linked with the mysteries and the magic of natural fertility. When England had been Catholic, Midsummer had been a day of festive release, a time to light bonfires and for dancing and merrymaking. The festive occasion, associated with the playfulness, sexual freedom and love games which it encouraged, was also regarded as a rite of passage for the young, leading to their integration through marriage into the group or community. Indeed Dream is a celebration of the popular festivals of Valentine’s Day, May Day, and Midsummer’s Day/Night. They symbolise three phases in the life of a young person: mate selection, courtship and marriage. And this is the process through which the young lovers pass in the course of this play. All of these festivals were times of licence and revelry. On May Day young men and women went into the woods before dawn to gather flowers and make garlands. This was when they usually courted the person they wished to marry. This was followed by dancing around the maypole which, as an image of an erect phallus, symbolised fertility. In view of our suggestion that Lysander has repressed erotic feelings for Helena, they may very well have first arisen during the merrymaking and flirtation that accompanied May Day celebrations. Note that later in Act 3 when Hermia and Helena have a quarrel that almost comes to blows, Hermia refers to Helena as a painted maypole. Although it is now midsummer, Lysander is, probably unconsciously, making the connection between May Day and Midsummer. Indeed the Elizabethan audience would now be anticipating all kinds of erotic high jinks and madness when the action of the play moved to the wood: in other words a period of carnival excess and unrestrained revelry. 63 Stage Directions 1.1 HERMIA My good Lysander! I swear to thee, by Cupid's strongest bow, By his best arrow with the golden head119, By the simplicity120 of Venus' doves121, By that which knitteth souls and prospers loves122, And by that fire which burn'd the Carthage queen, When the false Troyan under sail was seen,123 By all the vows that ever men have broke, In number more than ever women spoke, In that same place thou hast appointed me124, To-morrow truly will I meet with thee. 170 175 LYSANDER Keep promise, love. Look, here comes Helena. Enter Helena HERMIA God speed 125fair Helena126! whither away127? HELENA Call you me fair? That fair again unsay128. Demetrius loves your fair129: O happy fair! Your eyes are lode-stars;130 and your tongue's sweet air131 More tuneable132 than lark to shepherd's ear, When wheat is green, when hawthorn buds appear133. Sickness is catching: O, were favour134 so, Yours would I catch, fair Hermia, ere I go; My ear should catch your voice, my eye your eye, My tongue should catch your tongue's sweet melody. Were the world mine, Demetrius being bated, The rest I'd give to be to you translated.135 O, teach me how you look, and with what art You sway the motion of Demetrius' heart. 119 180 185 190 Hermia, who has been sitting, now jumps up and enthusiastically swears she will meet him. This speech should be delivered with such rapidity and so breathlessly that it has a comic effect. The final line, after a huge gasp of breath, is delivered slowly. At the same time she has slowly moved towards Lysander and embraces him after the final line. Lysander, who, from their embrace, sees Helena coming, and after the word ‘love’, pulls away and adjusts his clothing. Hermia, also dusting herself off, (the two lovers have been interrupted, just as Theseus and Hippolyta were, and are slightly embarrassed) greets Helena, in an artificially chirpy voice. Helena, hurrying in, is totally absorbed in her own problems with Demetrius. She goes on a loud rant. Moreover, although she and Hermia have been close friends from young, she is quite envious of Hermia. She places exaggerated emphasis on ‘your’. Lysander, unseen by Helena, just shakes his head and rolls his eyes. Cupid was the son of Venus, the goddess of love. His golden-headed arrow was used to inspire love Honesty or openness 121 Doves, symbolic of faithfulness, were sacred to Venus 122 Unites souls and makes love flourish 123 In Virgil’s Aenid, Dido the queen of Carthage, is deserted by Aeneas (the false Troyan) and kills herself on a funeral pyre when she sees him sail away. The fire is her devotion to love 124 At the appointed place 125 Greetings and a safe journey 126 ‘Fair’ Helena is both blonde haired and beautiful. While Hermia is short and dark, Helena is tall and fair 127 Where are you off to? 128 Take back your words 129 Beauty. Helena is punning on ‘fair’ as beautiful and light complexioned 130 Navigational guiding stars, i.e. that draw the gaze of Demetrius as such stars attract the attention of navigators 131 Tune 132 More melodious 133 i.e. in spring 134 Good looks 135 If I owned the world I would give it all up, except Demetrius, to be turned into you 120 64 1.1 Commentary Shakespeare introduces Helena with a bang. She storms on stage ranting about her predicament. Does she know about Hermia’s own plight, and if she does, does she, in her embittered mood, care? The audience should immediately notice the physical contrast between Hermia, short, dark complexioned and plump, and Helena, tall, light complexioned and skinny. The playwright will use this contrast as the source of much humour in Act 3, Scene 2. The lovers are a constant source of comedy and the delivery of their lines and their actions should be consistent with this. Underlying all the dialogue between Helena and Hermia is the subtext of jealousy. These two women are close friends who love each other but are also acutely jealous. Each always suspects the other is trying to steal away her man. Helena unconsciously believes that Hermia stole Demetrius away from her. Helena in her ranting speech wishes she could be turned into Hermia and thus touches on a major theme of the play: transformation. Indeed there is irony here and foreshadowing, because in Act 3, when Puck puts the love drug in the eyes of Lysander and Demetrius they are both transformed, both desert Hermia and lust after Helena. Bottom will also be transformed into an ass, and the dignified queen of the fairies, Titania, into a raging slut. Note the references to ‘eyes’ here, illustrating the theme of illusion vs. reality. 65 Stage Directions 1.1 HERMIA I frown upon him, yet he loves me still. HELENA O that your frowns would teach my smiles such skill! 195 HERMIA I give him curses, yet he gives me love. HELENA O that my prayers could such affection move! HERMIA The more I hate, the more he follows me. HELENA The more I love, the more he hateth me. HERMIA His folly, Helena, is no fault of mine. 200 HELENA None, but your beauty: would 136that fault were mine! HERMIA Take comfort: he no more shall see my face; Lysander and myself will fly this place. Before the time I did Lysander see, Seem'd Athens as a paradise to me: O, then, what graces in my love do dwell, That he hath turn'd a heaven unto a hell137! LYSANDER Helen, to you our minds we will unfold:138 To-morrow night, when Phoebe139 doth behold Her silver visage in the watery glass, Decking with liquid pearl the bladed grass,140 A time that lovers' flights 141doth still 142conceal, Through Athens' gates have we devised to steal.143 136 205 Hermia and Helena now move into a dialogue in rhyming couplets, just as Hermia and Lysander did earlier. The effect the actors should aim for is stylised comic. Helena towers over Hermia and is gradually forcing her back. The comedy is enhanced by the fact Hermia actually enjoys the situation of having two men in love with her, especially one who is loved by her close friend Helena, with whom she has always had a rivalry, She stresses the words ‘love’ and ‘loves’. There is an edge to this dialogue since Helena suspects that Hermia has led Demetrius on and therefore stolen him from her. Helena is intensely jealous of Hermia. Hermia’s line “His folly…mine” should be delivered with exaggerated mock innocence. Helena’s last line here should be delivered with a snarl. Hermia, feeling a bit threatened, decides on the spur of the moment to share the secret plan of elopement to the woods with her. Lysander, who knows these two friends with their loving but bickering relationship only too well, has been watching them while sitting on the ground. He now jumps up and intervenes. 210 I wish Ironically, Lysander’s love for Hermia, by provoking her father’s anger and Demetrius’ jealousy has made life hell for her 138 Reveal 139 Another name for Diana, the moon goddess 140 When the moon sees its reflection in the sea and the dew has fallen on the grass 141 Elopements 142 always 143 Planned to escape 137 66 1.1 Commentary Here we see another example of stichomythia in the one liners exchanged by Hermia and Helena, which suggests that their relationship contains some strong elements of conflict. Hermia is rubbing salt in Helenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wounds, and she is enjoying it. After all she has seen Lysander flirting with Helena in the wood on May Day. The relationship between these two is complex: something of a lovehate relationship. They will only move on when they honestly confront their feelings in the wood later. The revelation by Hermia of the secret plans of her and Lysander to run away to the wood is a key plot development. As we shall soon see, Helena will tell Demetrius out of jealousy and spite and this will lead to her and Demetrius going in pursuit of Hermia and Lysander. All of them will end up in the wood and there encounter the creatures of the spirit world, leading to some strange happenings. Note the reference to the moon (Phoebe) by Lysander. As noted, the moon is an ambiguous symbol. Here, ironically, the moon will provoke erratic behaviour in the four lovers. 67 Stage Directions 1.1 HERMIA And in the wood, where often you and I Upon faint144 primrose-beds were wont 145to lie, Emptying our bosoms of their counsel sweet146, There my Lysander and myself shall meet; And thence from Athens turn away our eyes, To seek new friends and stranger companies147. Farewell, sweet playfellow: pray thou for us; And good luck grant thee thy Demetrius! Keep word148, Lysander: we must starve our sight From lovers' food 149till morrow deep midnight. LYSANDER I will, my Hermia. Exit Hermia Helena, adieu: As you on him, Demetrius dote on you! Exit Lysander HELENA How happy some o'er other some can be150! Through Athens I am thought as fair as she. But what of that? Demetrius thinks not so; He will not know what all but he do know: And as he errs151, doting on Hermia's eyes, So I, admiring of his qualities: Things base and vile, holding no quantity152, Love can transpose to form and dignity153: Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; And therefore is wing'd Cupid painted blind154: Nor hath Love's mind of any judgement taste155; Wings and no eyes figure unheedy haste156: And therefore is Love said to be a child, Because in choice he is so oft beguiled157. As waggish158 boys in game themselves forswear159, So the boy Love is perjured 160everywhere: 144 Pale Used to 146 Confiding our dearest secrets to each other 147 The fellowship of strangers 148 Keep your promise 149 We must deny ourselves the joy of seeing each other 150 How much happier some are than others 151 Does the wrong thing 152 Having no value 153 Can be transformed by love to a dignified form 154 That’s why Cupid is always depicted as blind 155 And love does not have any good judgment 156 Wings and blindness suggest rash haste 157 Tricked 158 Mischievous 159 Playfully break their promises 160 Breaks his promises 145 215 235 240 Before Lysander can finish speaking, the irrepressible Hermia shoves him aside and continues. She is keen to placate Helena, so she refers to their life-long bosom friendship. Maybe she regrets telling Helena her secret. Hermia grows sad when she speaks of leaving Athens and all their friends forever. If she only stopped at ‘pray thou for us’. But her reference to Demetrius pours salt in Helena’s wound. All her placating is in vain. From the time she mentions Demetrius Helena’s face turns sour. Lysander makes things worse by mentioning Demetrius again as he leaves. Helena is now furious. She thinks they are mocking her. Her speech to the audience is filled with bitterness. She stalks up and down kicking the ground and venting her anger. 68 1.1 Commentary Here we have a significant new plot development triggered by the threat of death that looms over Hermia. Hermia, in the hope of placating Helena, has told her of her secret plan to escape to the wood outside Athens with Lysander. She will escape not only Athens but also Demetrius, thus leaving the way clear for Helena to regain Demetrius’ love. Perhaps regretting having told her secret, since she knows Helena can be spiteful, Hermia now refers to the time when they were young bosom friends who used to exchange confidences, hoping that Hermia will keep this particular confidence. But then she puts her foot in it. She tells Helena “Good luck grant thee thy Demetrius!” which is insulting because it suggests that only luck would allow Helena to get back Demetrius. Lysander then rubs more salt in the wound with his final words to Helena as he goes off: just as you dote on Demetrius, may Demetrius dote on you. This sends Helena into a rage. How can she be revenged on Hermia? Note that seeking asylum outside of Athens was for the Athenians (as Shakespeare well understood) a fate only marginally better than death or seclusion. So Hermia and Lysander are making a major sacrifice for love. Hermia’s last words to Lysander, ‘We must starve our sight from lovers’ food till tomorrow deep midnight’, might be interpreted by Lysander as a promise of erotic love in the dark in the wood. We shall see. Helena’s speech also rings the changes on the theme of illusion and reality: how often do our eyes deceive us? She suggests that Demetrius sees only with his eyes and not with his mind (i.e. superficially and not using one’s judgment), consequently he loves Hermia rather than Helena. She goes on to say that when you are besotted with love you see something or someone vile and think it is wonderful; thus Cupid is depicted as blind. This is ironical, because Helena herself is besotted with Demetrius, who, from what we have seen of him is the least likeable of the four young lovers: he is a bit of an arrogant prig. All this foreshadows events to come later in the play, when Puck drops the juice of a magical herb in the eyes of Demetrius and Lysander with hilarious results. Even more interesting, Oberon drops some juice in Titania’s eyes and she falls in love with Bottom (something ‘base and vile’ love can ‘transpose to form and dignity’ ), who has been transformed into an ass. 69 1.1 For ere Demetrius look'd on Hermia's eyne161, He hail'd down oaths 162that he was only mine; And when this hail some heat from Hermia felt, So he dissolved, and showers of oaths did melt. I will go tell him of fair Hermia's flight: Then to the wood will he to-morrow night Pursue her; and for this intelligence163 If I have thanks, it is a dear expense164: But herein mean I to enrich my pain, To have his sight thither and back again165. Stage Directions 245 Exit Helena 161 Eyes He showered me with oaths 163 Information 164 If all I get for my trouble is thanks, it will be worth it 165 By this I plan to get something for my trouble by seeing him again 162 Helena laments her fate. She pauses, and then a bright idea occurs to her. She cheers up. She can get back at Hermia and maybe make Demetrius grateful to her, by telling him of Hermiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s planned flight to the wood with Lysander. Little does she know what a train of events she is unleashing. 70 1.1 Commentary The plot thickens. Act 1, Scene 1 does some major things that a playwright wants to accomplish at the beginning of a play. The scene skilfully introduces the characters and conflicts of three of the plots: the conflict between Theseus and Hippolyta, the conflicts between Hermia and her father ,and between Demetrius and Helena (the other two plots (the conflict between Quince and Bottom in rehearsing the Pyramus and Thisbe play, and the conflict between Oberon and Titania will be introduced in Act 1, Scene 2, and Act 2 Scene 1 respectively). The scene sets up the complications that must be overcome if the comedy is to end (as was conventional) in marriages all around. First we discover the tension between Theseus and Hippolyta and although we know they are scheduled to be married in four days’ time, might anything go wrong that would threaten their marriage? After all, she is a spoil of war. Then there is the death sentence (or seclusion in a convent) on Hermia in four days’ time if she does not yield to her father? Then there is Helena’s apparently unrequited love for Demetrius. What could possibly make him change his mind? There are a number of plot triggers in the first scene: the harsh sentence on Hermia; the revelation that Demetrius has spurned Helena who ‘dotes’ on him; Lysander and Hermia’s decision to flee Athens into the wood; the revelation of their secret to Helena; and Helena’s decision to tell Demetrius. There are foreshadowings of things to come. Helena is beginning to blame Hermia for Demetrius’ ceasing to love her, Helena: she thinks that until he looked on Hermia’s eyes, everything was fine. This foreshadows the hilarious fight the two young women will have in Act 3. This also spurs her to take revenge on Hermia by telling Demetrius that Hermia and Lysander are fleeing into the wood, almost ensuring that he will either come back to her on the rebound, or follow Hermia , and then she, Helena, will follow and get him alone in the wood, and then, who knows? Note the opposing symmetry: it is Lysander who wants to get Hermia into the wood, and Helena who wants to get Demetrius into the wood. The wood outside Athens is indicated to be a major site of the continued action of the play. The Elizabethan audience would have understood the symbolic meaning of the wood, a green place where strange spirits dwell and enchantments and supernatural events take place. Athens (the city) stands for order; the wood stand for disorder. The audience can anticipate some weird goings on. And they will get them. Major themes of the play are introduced. Dream (illusion) versus reality. Can we ever be sure we are not dreaming? Could we be simply characters in someone else’s dream? What is love? Do we love with our eyes or our judgment? Can love be compelled by force, as in arranged marriages? Is love more than infatuation or lust? Can it last? Does it distort reality? Does it lead us to act in ways that run counter to what we believe? Is love subversive or supportive of the social order? Are popular festivals, which had their origin in religion, supportive of the status quo or do they undermine it, or both? This play is the comedy in which Shakespeare flirted as dangerously as he could with all that is subversive of the social order without actually undermining it. Indeed if there is a moral to the play it is that order and disorder are both essential to a civilised existence. They must be kept in balance. Too much of one or the other can lead to disaster. That is why carnival and carnival-like celebrations are so similar to what goes on in the wood in the rest of the play. 71 1.2 ACT 1, SCENE 2. A working class part of Athens. Stage Directions Enter QUINCE the Carpenter, SNUG the Joiner, BOTTOM the Weaver, FLUTE, the Bellows Mender, SNOUT the Tinker and STARVELING the Tailor QUINCE Is all our company here? BOTTOM You were best to call them generally166, man by man, according to the scrip167. QUINCE Here is the scroll 168of every man's name, which is thought fit, through all Athens, to play in our interlude 169 before the duke and the duchess, on his wedding-day at night. 5 BOTTOM First, good Peter Quince, say what the play treats on, 170 then read the names of the actors, and so grow to a point.171 QUINCE Marry172, our play is, ‘The most lamentable173 comedy, and most cruel death of Pyramus and Thisbe’174 10 BOTTOM A very good piece of work, I assure you, and a merry175. Now, good Peter Quince, call forth your actors by the scroll. Masters, spread yourselves176. QUINCE Answer as I call you. Nick Bottom, the weaver. BOTTOM Ready. Name what part I am for, and proceed. 166 15 He means ‘severally’ i.e. one by one ‘scrip’ is a scrap of paper; Bottom means ‘script’ 168 List 169 Play 170 Is about 171 Come to a conclusion. Bottom means to tell Quince to get to the point 172 ‘By the Virgin Mary’, a mild oath 173 Sad 174 A famous story of star-crossed lovers from the Roman poet Ovid’s Metamorphoses 175 An entertaining one 176 Spread out 167 A group of workmen who have no experience with the theatre want to put on a play. These are like construction workers or street vendors who hang out a lot together and joke with each other, so that on stage they are always interacting even when they are not speaking. Their accents should be broad. Quince is the leader, perhaps because he’s the most educated. We all know Bottom: he’s the man in any group who knows it all and voices his ‘authoritative’ opinion on every possible subject. He’s going to be a thorn in the side of poor Peter Quince. They assemble in a yard and come in chatting (with Bottom’s voice the loudest) and stand around in two groups Quince enters with a sheaf of papers, fully aware that he is the director of the play. Maybe he could be dressed in what he thinks is director garb. Bottom immediately starts interrupting him, and in the course of the scene Quince grows more and more exasperated. Bottom gets most words wrong but that does not deter him. The workmen are huddled around Quince trying to see what he has on the paper. They scatter and sit down as instructed by Bottom. Who really is in charge of putting on this play? 72 Act 1, Scene 2 1.2 Summary The ‘mechanicals’, skilled workmen, have decided to put on a play for Theseus’ wedding night feast. The play they have chosen is ‘The most Lamentable Comedy and Most Cruel Death of Pyramus and Thisbe’. The two lead parts, Pyramus and Thisbe, are assigned to Bottom the weaver and Flute the bellows mender. When all the parts are assigned they agree to meet in the wood outside of Athens to rehearse. Commentary Here come the mechanicals! Shakespeare’s choice of this plot involving Athenian workmen was a stroke of genius. It adds a whole new dimension to Dream. This is the equivalent of Cervantes having Sancho Panza accompany Don Quixote on his adventures as a would-be knight. Scene 2 introduces the fourth plot, the misguided efforts of some workmen from Athens to put on their version of the well-known ancient play, Pyramus and Thisbe, at the wedding feast of Theseus and Hippolyta in four days’ time. What is the intriguing backstory here? Why do these inept workmen think they can put on a play, since they have absolutely no theatrical talent? Did they just decide to do it? Or was there a public announcement inviting handsomely paid entertainments for the duke’s wedding night, and they decided to do it for the money? That seems the most likely case. Moreover, the group is torn by a conflict between the ‘director’ Quince and his ‘star’ actor, Bottom (what’s the backstory here? Probably Quince is the most educated? But is he the natural leader of the group?) This plot is linked to all other plots, since it is to take place, they hope, on the wedding night of Theseus and Hippolyta; and when they rehearse in the enchanted wood they will run afoul of the mischievous Puck. Indeed the performance of Pyramus will take up the entire Act 5 of Dream. They are terrible actors who make a hash of their play in Act 5, much to the amusement of Theseus, Hippolyta and the four lovers, as well as the actual theatre audience. Indeed the performance of this little play-within-a-play is the most uproariously funny farce in all of Shakespeare’s work. Shakespeare also wanted to parody some titles of existing plays as well as styles of acting. The purpose of this plot is to provide a mocking counterpart to the star-crossed lovers of the main plot, as well as to explore the theme of illusion and reality. It is a kind of anti-masque (burlesque of a masque). The play-within-a-play reminds the actual theatre audience that they are also watching a play i.e. this is not reality; or is it? It is also part of the maturing process – a therapy, if you will - of the Athenian upper class persons who watch the Pyramus play in Act 5 to see themselves parodied. And we shall see how they complete their maturing by first sneering at the performance patronisingly and then ending up being totally engrossed and enjoying themselves. The workmen speak, not in blank verse as did the aristocrats in the previous scene, but in prose, a convention that Shakespeare uses to mark their working class status. Their language is down-to-earth and un-poetic, and Bottom’s is riddled with comic blunders and malapropisms (clumsily mistaken vocabulary). The names of the workmen underline their trades or appearances. The name “Quince” is suggestive of the word ‘quoins’—the wedges used in carpentry; “Snug” suggests the close fitting expertise of joinery; “Flute” suggests the high-pitched voice of one who is to play Thisbe, as well as the pipes of an organ worked by bellows; “Snout” puts one in mind of the nozzles and spouts on the kettles mended by a tinker; “Starveling” suggests the proverbial image of a tailor as thin, weak and possibly effeminate; and ”Bottom” was both the core on which the weaver’s thread was wound, as well as a backside. 73 Stage Directions 1.2 BOTTOM That will ask178 some tears in the true performing of it: if I do it, let the audience look to their eyes; I will move storms179, 20 I will condole180 in some measure. To the rest181yet my chief humour182 is for a tyrant: I could play Ercles183 rarely, or a part to tear a cat in184, to make all split. The raging rocks And shivering shocks 25 Shall break the locks Of prison gates; And Phibbus' 185car Shall shine from far And make and mar 30 The foolish Fates.186 This was lofty!187 Now name the rest of the players. This is Ercles' vein,188 a tyrant's vein; a lover is more condoling189. Quince wisely chooses Bottom first in the hope of shutting him up. But as soon as Bottom is told that Pyramus is a lover, he jumps up to tell everyone how he will play the role. He tells Quince to continue (‘to the rest’) but interrupts him to tell the others how well he could also play a tyrant. Then he goes on to ham it up as a tyrant, reciting “The raging rocks…Foolish Fates” at the top of his voice. Then before anyone can congratulate him, he congratulates himself with “That was lofty!” holding out his hand for some ‘fives’. Bottom, who claims to know everything, first tells Quince to continue assigning the parts, then after a pause interrupts him as he goes to speak to explain that playing a tyrant was only a demonstration, but he would play the lover more gently. QUINCE Francis Flute, the bellows-mender. Quince reads from his list. QUINCE You, Nick Bottom, are set down for Pyramus. BOTTOM What is Pyramus? A lover, or a tyrant177? QUINCE A lover, that kills himself most gallant for love. FLUTE Here, Peter Quince. QUINCE Flute, you must take Thisbe on you190. 177 Two popular stage characters. A tyrant was a melodramatic hero Require 179 Move the audience to tears 180 Express grief 181 Go on with the list 182 Inclination 183 Greek hero Hercules 184 To rant and rave 185 Phoebus, the sun god who supposedly drove a chariot through the sky 186 This is a parody of a style popular early in Shakespeare’s day 187 High-flown 188 Style 189 Comforting or gentle 190 You must take on the role of Thisbe 178 35 74 1.2 Commentary A play called ‘Hercules’ was performed in London in 1595. The verse ‘The raging rocks…’ parodies a style of verse common in Shakespeare’s time. Bottom continues to misuse words like ‘Ercles’ for ‘Hercules’, and ‘Phibbus’ for ‘Phoebus’. It is clear that Bottom intends to run the show. Throughout this scene the tension grows between Quince, the nominal leader, and Bottom, the self-appointed loud-mouthed leader. Bottom’s question about whether Pyramus is a lover or tyrant quite fittingly also applies to Theseus. Which will he turn out to be? 75 Stage Directions 1.2 FLUTE What is Thisbe? A wandering knight? QUINCE It is the lady that Pyramus must love. FLUTE Nay, faith, let me not play a woman; I have a beard coming. QUINCE That's all one191: you shall play it in a mask192, and you may speak as small193 as you will. 40 BOTTOM An194 I may hide my face, let me play Thisbe too, I'll speak in a monstrous little voice195. 'Thisne, Thisne;' 'Ah, Pyramus, lover dear! thy Thisbe dear, and lady dear!' Flute is the youngest but a budding macho man who wants to play a knight. When he asks if Thisbe is a wandering knight he draws a fictitious stick and mimics stick licking, Quince clears his throat and announces that Thisbe is a woman, at which all the other workmen laugh at Flute. Flute is not amused. Although beardless, he says he has a beard, feels his bare chin, pauses, and then says ‘coming’ at which the other workmen laugh. BOTTOM Well, proceed. Of course, Bottom jumps in at the mention of a mask. He minces about imitating a woman and then calls out in his own gruff voice ‘Thisne’.. and then switches to a falsetto to say ‘Ah, Pyramus dear…’ Quince is getting more and more irritated and puts his foot down! Bottom reluctantly relents. QUINCE Robin Starveling, the tailor. Each of the workmen stands up obediently as his name is called. QUINCE No, no; you must play Pyramus: and, Flute, you Thisbe. 45 STARVELING Here, Peter Quince. QUINCE Robin Starveling, you must play Thisbe's mother196. Tom Snout, the tinker. As his name suggests Starveling is tall and skinny. 50 SNOUT Here, Peter Quince QUINCE You, Pyramus' father: myself, Thisbe's father: Snug, the joiner; you, the lion's part: and, I hope, here is a play fitted197. 191 That doesn’t matter In the 17th c ladies often wore masks in public 193 Speak in as high a voice as you want 194 If 195 In an extraordinarily high-pitched voice 196 Neither Thisbe’s mother nor Pyramus’ father appear in the play that is put on in Act 5. 197 Well cast 192 Quince now hurriedly comes to a conclusion before Bottom can interrupt. He gathers up his papers and gets ready to move on. 76 1.2 Commentary What continues to drive this scene is Bottom’s wish to play every part in the play. In Shakespeare’s time women were not allowed to act on the public stage, so that young men or boys had to play the women’s parts. The wandering knight was the knight-errant who wandered in search of adventures. He was a popular story and stage character. In the Elizabethan age women of the upper classes often wore silk masks to protect their faces from sunlight. Thisbe’s parents do not appear in the actual play performed in Act 5. Starveling becomes Moonshine, Snout the Wall, and Quince as Prologue. This may have been because Shakespeare had not yet thought out completely the action of Act 5. Let us remember that plays were considered works in progress intended for performance that could be altered as circumstances dictated. The written text did not have the sacrosanct status it has today. In any event the addition of Moonshine and Wall add enormously to the hilarity of the farcical play put on in Act 5. 77 1.2 Stage Directions SNUG Have you the lion's part written? Pray you, if it be, give it me, for I am slow of study198. 55 QUINCE You may do it extempore199, for it is nothing but roaring. BOTTOM Let me play the lion too: I will roar, that200 I will do any man's heart good to hear me; I will roar, that I will make the duke say 'Let him roar again, let him roar again.' QUINCE An201 you should do it too terribly, you would fright202 the duchess and the ladies, that they would shriek; and that were enough to hang us all. 60 After Snug asks for the script for the Lion’s part, Quince stares at him and shakes his head. Then very sarcastically he tells him he can make it up as he goes along since it is all roaring. Right away Bottom pounces. Full of enthusiasm he jumps up. He holds his arms, hands hanging down like two paws, in front of him. When he says ‘roar’ he lets out a loud roar, which he repeats after his speech. All the others except Quince, who stands there shaking his head in exasperation, pretend to be frightened. All nod agreement. ALL That would hang us203, every mother's son. BOTTOM I grant you, friends, if that you should fright the ladies out of their wits, they would have no more discretion204 but to hang us: 65 but I will aggravate205 my voice so that I will roar you as gently as any sucking 206dove; I will roar you an 'twere 207 any nightingale. QUINCE You can play no part but Pyramus; for Pyramus is a sweet-faced man; a proper 208man, as one shall see in a summer's day; a most lovely gentleman-like man: therefore you must needs play Pyramus. 70 BOTTOM Well, I will undertake it. What beard were I best to play it in? QUINCE Why, what you will. Bottom roars softly illustrate his point. Slow at learning lines You may ad lib or make it up as you go along 200 So that 201 If 202 Frighten 203 Get us all hanged 204 Choice 205 Bottom means ‘moderate’ or soften his voice 206 Bottom typically confuses a ‘sitting’ dove and a ‘sucking’ lamb: both symbols of mildness 207 As though it were 208 Handsome 199 to Quince has had enough from Bottom. He has lost all patience and is angry now as he shouts the words ‘You can play…Pyramus’. Bottom immediately pouts, throws down his script and begins to walk off. Two of the others pull him back. Quince pauses, calms down, and softens his tone. He tries to placate Bottom. He stresses ‘you’ Bottom accepts. 198 twice 78 1.2 Commentary The workmen seem not to realise that the audience watching the Pyramus play will be aware that the whole thing is play-acting. This ignorance of the workmen-actors will be a rich source of humour when the play is put on in Act 5. This also fits in with Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme of the difficulty of distinguishing between reality and illusion. The reference here to all of the actors being hanged for frightening the ladies, is also a clever way of Shakespeare alluding to the difficulties of theatres in his time having to be careful what they staged for fear of incurring the displeasure or even wrath of the authorities. Putting on plays in those days was a risky business. Several of Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contemporaries were jailed. The theatre was a highly disreputable but hugely popular form of entertainment. 79 Stage Directions 1.2 BOTTOM I will discharge209 it in either your straw-colour beard, your orange-tawny 210beard, your purple-in-grain211 beard, or your French-crown-colour 212beard, your perfect yellow. QUINCE Some of your French crowns 213have no hair at all, and then you will play bare-faced. But, masters, here are your parts: and I am to entreat you, request you and desire you, to con214 them by to-morrow night; and meet me in the palace wood, a mile without the town, by moonlight; there will we rehearse, for if we meet in the city, we shall be dogged with company215, and our devices216 known. In the meantime I will draw a bill of properties217, such as our play wants. I pray you, fail me not. 75 80 85 BOTTOM We will meet; and there we may rehearse most obscenely 218and courageously. Take pains; be perfect219: adieu220. QUINCE At the duke's oak 221we meet. BOTTOM Enough; hold or cut bow-strings222. All the workmen laugh at Quince’s joke, a reference to the widespread belief that syphilis, known in England as the French disease, resulted in baldness. Quince now tries to be all business again as the producer of the play rallying his players. But Bottom must jump in again, with his usual malapropism 90 Bottom must have the last word. Exeunt 209 Perform Tan 211 Permanent purple 212 Pale yellow or gold of the French coin which in English was known as a crown 213 Allusion to the alleged baldness produced by syphilis, known in England as the ‘French disease’ 214 Learn 215 Have lots of people watching us 216 Plans 217 Draw up a list of props 218 Bottom probably means unseen or secretly 219 Know your lines 220 Goodbye from French a Dieu (to God) 221 At the giant oak tree in the Duke’s forest 222 A proverbial expression from archery meaning ‘keep your word or be disgraced’ 210 80 1.2 Commentary A second link between the plots: the workmen plan to rehearse in the wood, where the lovers have fled. The action now is moving towards the wood outside Athens where one can expect strange goings-on. For Shakespeare and his contemporaries, the countryside lying outside the city walls was still the object of superstition and deep-rooted fears. The forest associated with royal privileges was the domain of hunting, of wildness and the sacred. The workmen will have to meet at night because they all have day jobs, and the wood will give them the privacy necessary to keep their rehearsals free from prying eyes. Don’t forget that these men are in it for the money. If their entertainment is chosen they will become fabulously rich, relatively speaking. Moreover, as Shakespeare knew only too well, stealing other theatre companies’ ideas and plots was common practice, hence the need for privacy. But how could such incompetents possibly win the prize in this major competition? We shall see. Note that they are going to rehearse by moonlight. The moon, the moon! In Act 2, the first words of the fairy/spirit king, Oberon are: ‘Ill met by moonlight, proud Titania’. Shakespeare has now set out the basis for all his plots/dramatic conflicts except for that of the conflict between Oberon, the king of the spirit underworld and Titania the queen of the same underworld. Note that that last conflict underlies all the others since it has thrown nature out of joint. Unless that is resolved the other conflicts hardly can be, since the disruption of the natural order affects everyone. Shakespeare has also cleverly laid down the physical structure (the magical wood) that will unite all the plots. The first plot, the wedding of Theseus and Hippolyta (will it take place?), functions as a framing device for the whole play. Note that Theseus and Hippolyta do not reappear until the end of Act 4, when all the conflicts, including their own, have been resolved. What happens to them in the interim? There are some clues in the text (Theseus is to have words with Egeus and Demetrius and clearly he and Hippolyta will be discussing not only their upcoming marriage but also the whole business about Egeus and Hermia, which has infuriated Hippolyta); but it is important for the portrayal of what is to come for the director and actors playing these two lead characters to work out how they have resolved their conflict, as they clearly have by the end of Act 4. 81 2.1 ACT 2, SCENE I. A wood near Athens. PUCK223 or Robin Goodfellow Enter, from opposite sides, a FAIRY, and PUCK How now, spirit! whither wander you? FAIRY Over hill, over dale, Thorough224 bush, thorough brier, Over park, over pale225, Thorough flood, thorough fire, I do wander everywhere, Swifter than the moon's sphere226; And I serve the fairy queen, To dew her orbs227 upon the green. The cowslips tall her pensioners228 be: In their gold coats spots 229you see; Those be rubies, fairy favours,230 In those freckles live their savours231: I must go seek some dewdrops here And hang a pearl in every cowslip's ear. Farewell, thou lob of spirits232; I'll be gone: Our queen and all our elves come here anon233. PUCK The king doth keep his revels here to-night: Take heed the queen come not within his sight; For Oberon is passing fell and wrath,234 Because that 235she as her attendant hath A lovely boy, stolen from an Indian king; She never had so sweet a changeling236; And jealous Oberon would have the child Knight of his train, to trace237 the forests wild; But she perforce238 withholds the loved boy, Crowns him with flowers and makes him all her joy: And now they never meet in grove or green, 223 Stage Directions 20 25 All the fairies in the play are depicted as spirits/creatures of Caribbean folklore, costumed accordingly. Puck might be costumed as Baron Samedi of Haitian folklore. He is waiting on stage in a pensive mood as the fairy enters speaking in singsong. Puck puts out his foot and trips him at the point where he says “thorough fire’. Then, picking him up by the scruff of his neck, Puck speaks his first line. The fairy then starts to speak rapidly, resuming from ‘I do wander…’. When he reaches ‘upon the green’ Puck rolls his eyes and claps his hand over his mouth. The Fairy continues speaking through Puck’s hand which he releases intermittently and then replaces, until he reaches ‘cowslip’s ear’; at which point Puck removes his hand and shoves him away. The fairy angrily gets ready to leave. But Puck, upon hearing that the fairy queen is coming, stops him and explains that the fairy king is angry. Puck is the word for a mischievous spirit or goblin; from Old English ‘pouke’ Through 225 A fence around an enclosed area 226 Moon’s orbit 227 Fairy rings: circles of grass darker than the fields in which they grow, thought at that time to be made by fairies 228 Queen Elizabeth retained a splendidly dressed royal bodyguard known as the pensioners 229 Cowslips were yellow with red spots at the centre 230 Gifts of the queen 231 Perfume or scent 232 You lout ( ungainly fellow) among spirits 233 Soon 234 Very vengeful and angry 235 Because 236 It was believed that fairies stole human children and left imps in their place; so ‘changeling’ is a stolen child 237 Wander through 238 By force 224 82 2.1 Act 2, Scene 1 Summary Puck reveals that Oberon the king of the fairies (spirits) has quarrelled with Titania, the queen of the fairies, over an Indian boy that Titania adopted and the Oberon wants as his special attendant. They enter and begin quarrelling again. Oberon asks Puck to get him a magic flower whose juice can make people fall in love against their wishes. Oberon plans to put the juice in Titania’s eyes and make her fall in love with whatever creature she first sees upon waking, and only release her when she obeys him. Demetrius, followed by Helena, comes looking for Hermia and Lysander in the wood. He rejects Helena. Oberon overhears Helena pleading desperately with Demetrius, and tells Puck to put the same love juice in the eyes of the man wearing Athenian garments so as to make Demetrius love Helena. Neither Oberon nor Puck are aware that there are two men with Athenian clothes in the wood: Demetrius and Lysander. Commentary With Act 2 we enter the wood outside of Athens. The wood is a multi-layered symbol. It represents the natural world as opposed to civilization which constrains one’s impulses and instincts. Within this natural setting festivals (like Midsummer) celebrating unrestrained joy and erotic love are held. It also represents the unseen spirit world which the Elizabethans believed affected our lives constantly. And it represents night, moonlight and the subconscious with its dreams, nightmares and illusions. This green world is a not only a place of escape from social constraints, but also a place of change (of gender or of identity or both), i.e. very similar to the cultural and psychological functions of the Caribbean carnival. It is here that the themes of illusion vs. reality and the nature of love will be most thoroughly explored, but in a truly farcical fashion always with hints of unseen menace. All the plots will be drawn together as the worlds of the lovers, the workmen and the fairies/spirits clash and intermingle. It is vital in staging the play that the contrast between Athens and the wood should be sharply drawn using every theatrical technique available (costumes -the characters of the court might wear small [eye] masks when in the wood -, lighting, acting styles and so on). In view of the fact that Titania tells us that all nature is thrown into disorder by the conflict between Oberon and her, it might be appropriate to have sound and light effects of thunder and lightning occasionally throughout the action in the wood. The fairies have often been depicted in stage and screen versions of the play as cute little Enid Blyton creatures. Hold on! If you are going into a forest on a moonlit night, you are not going to encounter cute little fairies. You are going to meet some scary creatures. And that’s how the fairies should be portrayed. In keeping with the Caribbean interpretation of this edition (and also in keeping with the Elizabethan view), we prefer to portray them as spirits of the folklore world. Hence we suggest that Puck may be costumed as a Baron Samedi figure from Haitian folklore. The other fairies could be similarly attired. There is something both benevolent and malevolent about these ‘fairies’. Benevolent in the sense that the fairies represent the forces of nature that humans need to sustain them psychically; and malevolent in that they can be a threat to anyone who repeatedly ignores or abuses the forces of nature. Puck in particular is akin to the Caribbean Trickster, a powerful spirit creature whose dual nature flickers with the nuances of day and night, light and dark, cruelty and kindness, creation and destruction. So a Caribbean production of Dream should show the fairies/spirits in carnival costumes that represent folkloric creatures: jab jab, bat, midnight robber, jumbie, ol higue, papa bois, hag, bacoo and so on. Puck’s speech is a masterful piece of exposition by Shakespeare, introducing to the audience the fifth plot and conflict, namely that Oberon and Titania have quarrelled, and what their quarrel is about: an Indian boy whom Titania stole - according to Oberon and Puck - and with whom she is obsessed (why?); an Indian boy whom Oberon desperately wants (why?) and of whom we shall hear more. He, who is never seen (according to the text; though we suggest he comes on at the end of Act 5) plays a vital role in the play. We cannot take Puck’s explanation of why Oberon wants the Indian boy as accurate. Indeed Shakespeare may have made it deliberately misleading. We will soon learn that Puck does not fully understand or agree with Oberon. So our suggestion is that Oberon wants the boy as his son, of which more later. He is angry because Titania is monopolising the boy and will not let him share in the joys of parenthood. 83 Stage Directions 2.1 By fountain clear, or spangled starlight sheen, But, they do square,239 that all their elves for fear Creep into acorn-cups and hide them there. Fairy Either I mistake your shape and making240 quite, Or else you are that shrewd and knavish 241sprite Call'd Robin Goodfellow: are not you he That frights the maidens of the villagery242; Skim milk243, and sometimes labour in the quern244 And bootless245 make the breathless housewife churn; And sometime make the drink to bear no barm;246 Mislead 247night-wanderers, laughing at their harm? Those that Hobgoblin call you and sweet Puck, You do their work248, and they shall have good luck: Are not you he? PUCK Thou speak'st aright; I am that merry wanderer of the night. I jest to Oberon and make him smile When I a fat and bean-fed horse beguile,249 Neighing in likeness of a filly foal: And sometime lurk I in a gossip's bowl250, In very likeness of a roasted crab,251 And when she drinks, against her lips I bob And on her wither'd dewlap252 pour the ale. The wisest aunt253, telling the saddest 254tale, Sometime for three-foot stool mistaketh me; Then slip I from her bum, down topples she, And 'tailor' 255cries, and falls into a cough; And then the whole quire 256hold their hips and laugh, And waxen in their mirth 257and neeze258 and swear 239 30 35 The fairy, keeping his distance from Puck, angrily tells him off as he recognizes who he is. 40 45 Puck, proudly describes what he does as he circles around the fairy. During the speech he often mimics the actions. At ‘filly foal’ he mimics the horse’s copulating movements 50 55 . Quarrel Physical appearance 241 Mischievous and wicked 242 villages 243 Steal the cream off the milk 244 Spoil the grinding of the corn in the hand mill (quern) 245 In vain i.e. stops the cream from turning to butter however much she churns 246 Froth; Puck stops the yeast from working to produce beer 247 Lead out of their way 248 It was believed that fairies would clean the house at night if treated nicely 249 Deceive 250 An old woman’s bowl of punch 251 Crab apple, often put in hot punch 252 Loose flesh around her throat or it could have a double meaning of referring to her genitals, in which case ‘pour the ale’ also has a double meaning. Shakespeare’s audience would have recognized and enjoyed these double entendres. 253 Old woman 254 Most serious 255 From ‘tail’, thus meaning ‘oh, my poor butt!’ 256 company 257 Laugh even more 258 Sneeze 240 84 2.1 Commentary The exchange between the fairy and Puck is meant to show the audience the nature of Puck as a Trickster figure, as well as to set the scene for the arrival of the king and queen of the spirit underworld: Oberon and Titania, and to show what the nature of their conflict is. Remember that drama is all about conflict and its eventual resolution. Oberon and Titania may have been meant by Shakespeare to mirror Theseus and Hippolyta, and the characters are often played by the same two actors. This â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;doublingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; works at different levels: there are conflicts between the males and the females that have to be resolved by the end of the play; the males want to impose their will on the females; and both Titania and Oberon accuse each other of having love affairs with Hippolyta and Theseus. This also links the two plots. One way of highlighting the difference between the spirit world of the wood and the human world of Athens is by use of music. In keeping with our Caribbean carnival atmosphere of the play, Oberon and Titania should be portrayed as king and queen of carnival masquerade bands/ king and queen of the spirit world of folklore who enter dancing from different sides of the stage and clash in the middle, accompanied by carnival type percussion rhythm music. The physical clash mirrors their emotional clash, which as we shall see, has thrown nature out of joint. Stage Directions 85 2.1 A merrier hour was never wasted there. But, room259, fairy! Here comes Oberon. Fairy And here my mistress. Would that he were gone! Enter, from one side, OBERON, King of the fairies with his train260; from the other, TITANIA, the Queen, with hers. OBERON Ill met by moonlight, proud Titania. 60 TITANIA What, jealous Oberon! Fairies, skip hence:261 I have forsworn262 his bed and company. OBERON Tarry,263 rash wanton264: am not I thy lord? TITANIA Then I must be thy lady265: but I know When thou hast stolen away from fairy land, And in the shape of Corin266 sat all day, Playing on pipes of corn 267and versing268 love To amorous Phillida. Why art thou here, Come from the farthest Steppe269 of India? But that, forsooth, the bouncing 270Amazon, Your buskin'd 271mistress and your warrior love, To Theseus must be wedded, and you come To give their bed joy and prosperity. OBERON How canst thou thus for shame, Titania, Glance at my credit 272with Hippolyta, Knowing I know thy love to Theseus? Didst thou not lead him through the glimmering night From Perigenia,273 whom he ravished? 259 65 70 75 Puck hears Oberon coming by the drumming that accompanies him. He kicks the fairy away. Oberon and Titania should be costumed as king and queen of a masquerade band. They come on stage from opposite sides dancing to carnival-type drumming. Each carries a staff which they twirl. Those accompanying should be also dressed in costume and wearing masks. They meet in the middle and neither gives way. Oberon strikes the ground with his staff and there is immediate silence. Then he begins to speak. They go at each other with no holds barred, but they love each other deeply. Possible background sound effects might be thunder and lightning, since as Titania shortly reveals their quarrel has thrown nature into violent discord. Titania turns to leave, but Oberon shouts at her and tries to hit her on the backside with his staff. She parries him and they engage in a balletic stick fight during their accusations. When he asks her imperiously if he is not her lord, she turns back and slowly goes up right in his face. Her reply is defiant and sarcastic. She uses ‘lady’ to convey the sense that they are equals and she demands respect. When she speaks of Hippolyta (the bouncing Amazon) her voice drips with sarcasm. Make way followers 261 Leave! 262 Sworn to avoid 263 Wait 264 Rebel or spoiled child 265 If you are my husband then I am your wife with equal rights 266 Corin and Phillida are typical names for shepherd and shepherdess in pastoral verse of the time 267 Flutes of straw 268 Expressing his love in verse 269 Steep or mountainside; maybe the Himalayas 270 Athletic; i.e. butch 271 Wearing knee-high hunting boots – a reference to her height compared with the fairy Oberon 272 Make snide remarks about my relationship with Hippolyta 273 These are the names of women with whom Theseus had sexual relations and then abandoned 260 86 2.1 Commentary Here Shakespeare introduces us to the raging conflict between Oberon and Titania, the king and queen of the spirit world, over an Indian boy that Titania adopted and that Oberon wants as his page (young male attendant). This conflict, just as in a marriage, also raises other sources of conflict between the two, in this case mutual suspicions about love affairs with Theseus and Hippolyta. What is the real backstory to the Indian boy? Is he, as some commentators have suggested, actually Oberon’s son? Or is the cause of conflict that Titania has become so preoccupied with the Indian boy that she is totally ignoring Oberon and thus making him jealous? The more likely explanation is ironical: Titania wants more than anything else to be a mother: that’s why she has adopted the Indian boy. Oberon appears to feel neglected sexually by Titania, but in truth the cause of his jealousy is that he wants desperately to be a father. Neither of them recognises what is the true source of their conflict (it is not sexual jealousy but parental jealousy) until their ultimate reconciliation when they will share the Indian boy as their son. If we accept this backstory explanation then there is a lot of subtext to the dialogue between the two. Note that the entry of Oberon and Titania is marked by a switch from rhyming couplets to blank verse. The theme of love and jealousy gets a good workout here. Titania reveals that they she has been denying him both her company and sex. This harks back to Hippolyta not sleeping with Theseus until they are married. Oberon makes a reference to Theseus’ well-known womanising, implying that Titania has facilitated it. One might interpret the physical confrontation between Oberon and Titania as mirroring the battle between Theseus and Hippolyta in which he defeated her in his war on the Amazons. Oberon’s first line ‘ill met by moonlight, proud Titania’ foreshadows the Pyramus play, for as Quince will remind us later (Act3 Scene1) ‘Pyramus and Thisbe meet by moonlight.’ This is just part of the overwhelming influence of the moon on the entire play. 87 2.1 Stage Directions And make him with fair Aegles break his faith, With Ariadne and Antiopa? TITANIA These are the forgeries274 of jealousy: And never, since the middle summer's spring275, Met we on hill, in dale, forest or mead,276 By paved277 fountain or by rushy brook, Or in the beached margent 278of the sea, To dance our ringlets279 to the whistling wind, But with thy brawls280 thou hast disturb'd our sport. Therefore the winds, piping to us in vain, As in revenge, have suck'd up from the sea Contagious 281fogs; which falling in the land Have every pelting282 river made so proud That they have overborne their continents283: The ox hath therefore stretch'd his yoke 284in vain, The ploughman lost his sweat285, and the green corn Hath rotted ere his youth attain'd a beard286; The fold stands empty in the drowned field287, And crows are fatted with the murrion flock288; The nine men's morris 289is fill'd up with mud, And the quaint 290mazes291 in the wanton green292 For lack of tread 293are undistinguishable: The human mortals want 294their winter here; No night is now with hymn or carol blest: Therefore the moon, the governess of floods295, Pale in her anger, washes all the air, That 296rheumatic diseases 297do abound: 274 90 95 This lengthy speech of Titania’s (which might be shortened in actual performance) is made at times to Oberon, but most of the time talking to the audience. For example, the first line is angrily directed at Oberon, then she turns to the audience for the next few lines and then turns back to him and exclaims angrily ‘But for thy brawls’. Then she turns back to the audience with occasional glances at Oberon. Oberon in the meantime struts about and occasionally goes up to Puck who is standing in the background looking sardonically amused. Oberon also goes to speak on a few occasions but Titania cuts him off each time. 100 105 Lies The beginning of midsummer 276 Meadow 277 Flowing over stones 278 By the sea shore 279 Circular dances 280 Quarreling 281 Carrying disease or infectious 282 Paltry or insignificant 283 Flowed over their banks 284 Pulled the plough 285 Labored in vain 286 Before it could ripen 287 The sheep pen is empty in the flooded field 288 Grow fat from eating the corpses of the diseased sheep 289 The ground where an outdoor game ‘nine men’s morris’ is played 290 Elaborate 291 Mazes or elaborate paths through hedges or pieces of turf leading to a centre were common in that time 292 Lush grass 293 Because no one is walking in them 294 Lack 295 Who controls the tides 296 So that 297 Colds and coughs 275 88 2.1 Commentary Titania’s lengthy and beautiful speech is intended to show the audience how much the natural order has been disrupted by the conflict between herself and Oberon. It illustrates humanity’s eternally precarious position in the physical universe. It tells the audience how the rift between the queen and king of the spirit world has thrown the natural world into turmoil, creating climate change, floods, droughts, crop failures and even leading to human illness. The world has been reduced to a barren wasteland. Shakespeare’s audience lived far more closely tied to the earth than do most of us in the twenty-first century. Titania’s speech, with its invocation of natural rhythms and cosmic distress, invites the audience to see the relationship between the world of drama and festivity and ritual action, traditionally connected with the seasonal cycle and fertility. Mazes were thought to be used in magic. Once again we see another reference to the moon, the major symbol throughout the play. 89 Stage Directions 2.1 And thorough298 this distemperature299 we see The seasons alter: hoary-headed frosts Far in the fresh lap of the crimson rose300, And on old Hiems301' thin and icy crown An odorous chaplet 302of sweet summer buds Is, as in mockery, set: the spring, the summer, The childing303 autumn, angry winter, change Their wonted liveries304, and the mazed305 world, By their increase306, now knows not which is which: And this same progeny307 of evils comes From our debate,308 from our dissension; We are their parents and original309. OBERON Do you amend310 it then; it lies in you: Why should Titania cross her Oberon? I do but beg a little changeling boy, To be my henchman311 At the words ‘And this same..’ Titania turns to Oberon and angrily confronts him with the cause of the natural disasters that flow from their quarrel. 110 115 Oberon tries to reason with her. 120 TITANIA Set your heart at rest312: The fairy land buys not the child of me313. His mother was a votaress of my order314: And, in the spiced Indian air, by night, Full 315often hath she gossip'd by my side, 125 And sat with me on Neptune's yellow sands316, Marking the embarked traders on the flood,317 When we have laugh'd to see the sails conceive And grow big-bellied with the wanton wind; Which she, with pretty and with swimming gait318 130 319 Following ,--her womb then rich with my young squire,-298 She laughs disdainfully and angrily retorts: over her dead body would he get that child. She then tries to explain to Oberon why she holds that boy so dear. While she is doing this she grows nostalgic for that happier time. Then when she reaches the words ‘of that boy did die’ she comes back to the present and ends on a defiant note. Oberon has had enough. He realizes she will not give up the boy. Because of Disorder both of the body and the weather 300 Frost comes just as roses bloom 301 Winter. The image of winter as an old man with a snowy head comes from Ovid’s Metamorphoses 302 Sweet smelling garland or wreath 303 Fruitful 304 Usual uniforms or colours 305 Bewildered 306 Produce of their different seasons 307 Offspring 308 Quarrel 309 Origin or source 310 Put it right 311 Page or young male attendant 312 Get over it 313 I wouldn’t give up this child for all of fairyland 314 One of my worshippers 315 Very 316 Neptune was the ancient god of the sea; i.e. beaches 317 Watching the merchant ships out to sea 318 With a smooth gliding motion 319 Resembling 299 90 2.1 Commentary Titania’s speech reveals to the audience, though neither to Oberon or herself (subtext), that she would love to be pregnant (fairies can’t produce children), but lacking that ability she has adopted the Indian boy and it is her son. Thus her obsession with the Indian boy stems from her overwhelming desire to be a mother. But she does not realise that by not sharing responsibility for her son with Oberon she is driving him crazy. The key to understanding Titania's speech comes in the word ‘mazed’ near the very end. Here it means both reduced to a maze i.e. a confusing puzzle to everyone, a labyrinth from which it is impossible to find your way out of, and also "amazed," or struck dumb by the devastating changes. The speech in performance will be most effective if the actress can convince the audience of her character's astonishment and shame that she and Oberon are damaging the natural world. The audience is led to expect from Titania’s speech that the harmony of nature will be restored once the conflict between Oberon and Titania is resolved. Yet the scene ends on a pessimistic note: Titania has basically told Oberon that he will only get the Indian boy over her dead body. While Titania has given an explanation for her wanting to keep and raise the Indian boy (because her biological mother was one of her worshippers), Oberon gives no reason why he wants the boy. Is this male arbitrariness? Does he want the boy because he is the son of an Indian king (both Oberon and Titania seem to have a strong connection to India)? Or does he want him only because Titania has him? Or is he jealous of the love that Titania lavishes on the boy? Or is the boy his son? Or, more likely, does he want to be a father to the boy? (backstory, backstory!) There is a lot of subtext (the unspoken thoughts and emotions of characters in contrast to what they are articulating) here to the dialogue between Oberon and Titania. 91 2.1 Would imitate, and sail upon the land, To fetch me trifles320, and return again, As from a voyage, rich with merchandise. But she, being mortal, of that boy321 did die; And for her sake do I rear up her boy, And for her sake I will not part with him. Stage Directions 135 OBERON How long within this wood intend you stay? TITANIA Perchance322 till after Theseus' wedding-day. If you will patiently dance in our round323 And see our moonlight revels, go with us; If not, shun me, and I will spare324 your haunts. 140 Titania tries once more to placate Oberon: come dance with me or leave me. Oberon pretends to be equally reasonable: just give me the boy. OBERON Give me that boy, and I will go with thee. TITANIA Not for thy fairy kingdom. Fairies, away! We shall chide downright325, if I longer stay. Exit TITANIA with her train OBERON Well, go thy way: thou shalt not from this grove Till I torment thee for this injury326. My gentle Puck, come hither. Thou rememberest Since once 327I sat upon a promontory328, And heard a mermaid on a dolphin's back Uttering such dulcet and harmonious breath329 That the rude330 sea grew civil331 at her song And certain stars shot madly from their spheres332, To hear the sea-maid's music. PUCK I remember. 320 Little presents In giving birth to that boy 322 Maybe 323 The fairies danced in a ring 324 Avoid 325 Have a real brawl or even come to blows 326 You will not leave this grove until I make you suffer for this insult 327 The time when 328 A cliff 329 Singing such sweet songs 330 Rough 331 Calm 332 Orbits 321 145 But Titania snaps back: no way! She is so furious that she threatens to come to blows. She exits dancing to the rhythm of the music, mocking Oberon with her movements. Puck laughs but Oberon silences him with a look. 150 Oberon’s addressing Puck as ‘gentle’ is spoken ironically. Puck speaks dryly 92 2.1 Commentary Shakespeare links the development of action in this plot to the wedding day of Theseus and Hippolyta. Now every action in the play (the reconciliation of Theseus and Hippolyta; the fate of Hermia, Lysander, Demetrius and Helena; the successful staging of the Pyramus and Thisbe play; and the reconciliation of Oberon and Titania) leads to the wedding day. At this point the conflict between Oberon and Titania seems unresolvable: they both are unwilling to yield an inch. Indeed their meeting seems only to have hardened their positions. But, as in most negotiations, a solution can be found if you move away from the positions the two parties adopt and take into account what their interests are. Apart from her loyalty to the adopted boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dead mother, why does Titania want to keep the Indian boy exclusively for herself? Is this because she thinks Oberon would keep him exclusively to himself, if he had him? Had they not thought of sharing him as two parents? We shall see. There are two references to the ambiguous moon here: the moonlight that will shine on and erotically inspire the revels of Titania and her band of spirits, and the chaste moon that doused the erotic power of Cupidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrow. 93 Stage Directions 2.1 OBERON That very time I saw, but thou couldst not, Flying between the cold moon and the earth, Cupid all arm'd333: a certain aim he took At a fair vestal throned by the west334, And loosed his love-shaft 335smartly from his bow, As it should pierce 336a hundred thousand hearts; But I might see young Cupid's fiery shaft Quench'd in the chaste beams of the watery moon 337, And the imperial votaress 338passed on, In maiden meditation, fancy-free.339 Yet mark'd I where the bolt 340of Cupid fell: It fell upon a little western flower, Before milk-white, now purple with love's wound, And maidens call it love-in-idleness341. Fetch me that flower; the herb I shew'd thee once: The juice of it on sleeping eye-lids laid Will make or342 man or woman madly dote343 Upon the next live creature that it sees. Fetch me this herb; and be thou here again Ere 344the leviathan345 can swim a league. PUCK I'll put a girdle round about the earth346 In forty minutes. Exit OBERON Having once this juice, I'll watch Titania when she is asleep, And drop the liquor of it in her eyes. The next thing then she waking looks upon, Be it on lion, bear, or wolf, or bull, On meddling monkey, or on busy ape, She shall pursue it with the soul 347of love: And ere I take this charm from off her sight348, As I can take it with another herb, 333 155 175 180 With his bow and arrows A virgin queen of the west; presumed to be a reference to Queen Elizabeth I 335 Cupid’s arrow was believed to make the person it hit fall in love 336 Strong enough to have pierced 337 The purity of the moonlight doused the erotic power of the arrow 338 The royal virgin; a reference to Elizabeth I, known as the Virgin Queen 339 Thinking her maidenly thoughts, unconcerned with love 340 Arrow 341 Another name for the pansy flower 342 Either 343 Fall madly in love with 344 Before 345 Biblical sea monster or whale 346 I’ll circle the earth 347 The essence; i.e. total devotion 348 Before I remove the spell from her eyes 334 While talking, Oberon, almost trance-like, gestures to emphasize the importance of this flower (it will have a critical effect on the plots). He stoops as if plucking the flower and holds it up for Puck to see. He places special emphasis on the word ‘woman’, smiling wickedly as he does so. Puck saunters off, taking his own time. Oberon stamps on the ground and Puck dashes off. Oberon now turns to the audience and addresses them miming his words, taking mischievous delight in the prospect of Titania falling in love with a beast. 94 2.1 Commentary An important plot element is introduced here. It will have an effect not only on the plot/conflict between Oberon and Titania, but also on the others as well. This is the magical juice from the pansy flower, credited with distorting the sight and imagination of anyone, human or spirit, in whose eyes it is dropped. As Oberon explains the nature of the magic flower juice, he mentions that it must be placed upon sleeping eyelids. Dreams come to life during sleep. So, the magic juice works in collaboration with dreams and only works when the person is asleep, perhaps dreaming or perhaps awaking to a new dream. Oberon plans to humiliate Titania by having her fall in love with an ugly beast, but little does he know what consequences will flow from his decision. This love juice also fits in with the theme of the unreliability of our perception: how our eyes often deceive us. It also fits in with the theme of the ambiguous nature of love. The aphrodisiac juice of this herb can give rise to powerful hallucinations and release repressed feelings and desires from our subconscious. Shakespeare has now completed the exposition of all the conflicts in the play that must be resolved by the end. He has also introduced the quite distinct world of the wood, where magical things happen, and where people can be released from all civilised inhibitions and restraints. Let the carnival begin. 95 Stage Directions 2.1 I'll make her render up her page to me. But who comes here? I am invisible; And I will overhear their conference.349 185 Enter DEMETRIUS, HELENA following him DEMETRIUS I love thee not, therefore pursue me not. Where is Lysander and fair Hermia? The one I'll slay, the other slayeth me. Thou told'st me they were stolen unto 350this wood; And here am I, and wood351 within this wood, Because I cannot meet my Hermia. Hence, get thee gone, and follow me no more. HELENA You draw me, you hard-hearted adamant352; But yet you draw not iron, for my heart Is true as steel353: leave you 354your power to draw, And I shall have no power to follow you. DEMETRIUS Do I entice355 you? do I speak you fair356? Or, rather, do I not in plainest truth Tell you, I do not, nor I cannot love you? HELENA And even for that do I love you the more. I am your spaniel357; and, Demetrius, The more you beat me, I will fawn on you: Use me but as your spaniel, spurn me, strike me, Neglect me, lose me; only give me leave, Unworthy as I am, to follow you. What worser place can I beg in your love,-And yet a place of high respect with me,-Than to be used as you use your dog? 190 205 210 DEMETRIUS Tempt not too much the hatred of my spirit358; For I am sick when I do look on thee. 349 Conversation Had sneaked 351 Mad; from the Anglo-Saxon ‘wod’ 352 Loadstone or magnet which can exert an attraction 353 A play on words: ‘instead of being as hard as iron I’m as true as steel’ 354 Give up 355 Encourage 356 Do I speak kindly to you? 357 A dog famous for its fawning and faithfulness 358 Don’t push me too hard 350 Noises off stage are heard. Oberon comes out of his trance. He gestures elaborately as he says ‘invisible’ and turns to the audience and addresses them. From now on he will move constantly among the humans totally invisible. We might experiment with Oberon as theatre director, observing the actions of the lovers and intervening (i.e. freezing them in place with a gesture) from time to time. Demetrius is pursued by Helena whom he tries to get rid of. He alternately addresses her and the audience. When he says ‘get thee gone’ she seems to go away, but then as he walks she shadows (in comic vein) his every footstep, until he turns and sees her. Then she says “You draw me …” During this episode she is constantly embracing him and he is wriggling out of her embrace. As she says the word ‘adamant’ Helena leaps on his back wrapping him in her legs and arms. He struggles to get away. Finally wriggling out of her embrace, he turns to her angrily and shouts his words of rejection. Helena will not give up. She goes down on her hands and knees when she says the word ‘spaniel’ and puts her arms around Demetrius’ lower legs, knocking him down. He gets up with her still clinging. As he walks away he drags her with him, still holding on to one foot. When she says ‘use your dog’ she mimics a dog copulating on a man’s foot. 96 2.1 Commentary Shakespeare shows us immediately that the escape to the wood leads to the characters’ behaviour growing increasingly erratic as their passions (both love and hate) grow wilder and more uncontrolled. While this release of repressed emotions can be healthy, it can lead to destructive behaviour if at some point it is not checked. The theme of the unreliability of sight is also illustrated by Oberon’s making himself invisible. He is clearly not invisible to the actual audience, but, at the same time, the audience must imagine that he is invisible to the other characters on stage. So is he invisible or not? Is it a reality or an illusion? A director and actor playing Oberon can use his invisibility to good comic effect if they wish. In addition we have to imagine Oberon as a director directing, with Puck’s assistance, the actions of the four lovers in the wood Helena’s doting and fawning on Demetrius illustrates the excesses to which love can drive a person. What is the backstory to Demetrius’ leaving Helena whom he had once loved? Was he just attracted to Hermia more, while he still loved Helena? Or was he attracted by the greater wealth of Hermia’s father Egeus? In other words has he really stopped loving Helena? What does he mean when he says he ‘cannot’ love Helena? Is his anger and cruelty to her perhaps anger at himself for still loving her while he wishes to make a more financially convenient marriage to Hermia? Does he feel threatened by Helena’s presence in the sense that he might reveal his honest feelings to her? Has he come to some understanding with Hermia’s father Egeus? It’s essential that the actors playing these two agree on motivation. Helena’s aggressive pursuit of Demetrius would not have seemed strange to an Elizabethan audience: women were then considered to be more lustful than men. 97 Stage Directions 2.1 HELENA And I am sick when I look not on you. DEMETRIUS You do impeach your modesty too much359, To leave the city and commit yourself Into the hands of one that loves you not; To trust the opportunity of night And the ill counsel of a desert place360 With the rich worth of your virginity. HELENA Your virtue is my privilege:361 for that362 It is not night when I do see your face363, Therefore I think I am not in the night; Nor doth this wood lack worlds of company364, For you in my respect 365are all the world: Then how can it be said I am alone, When all the world is here to look on me? 215 220 225 Demetrius eventually gets out of her grip and threatens to sexually take advantage of her, as if that could possibly deter Helena. She smiles broadly at the threat. As Helena gives her examples she keeps grabbing Demetrius. DEMETRIUS I'll run from thee and hide me in the brakes,366 And leave thee to the mercy of wild beasts. HELENA The wildest hath not such a heart as you. Run when you will, the story shall be changed: Apollo flies, and Daphne holds the chase367; The dove pursues the griffin368; the mild hind369 Makes speed to catch the tiger; bootless 370speed, When cowardice pursues and valour flies. DEMETRIUS I will not stay 371thy questions; let me go: Or, if thou follow me, do not believe But 372I shall do thee mischief373 in the wood. 359 230 235 Demetrius, totally fed up, threatens to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;do her mischiefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. This has the opposite effect. She smiles delightedly at the prospect. You call in question your reputation The wicked thoughts inspired by a wild and lonely place 361 Protection 362 Because 363 i.e. your face lights up the darkness for me 364 i.e. this wood is a world of company because you are my world 365 In my mind 366 Thickets or bush 367 In the myth Daphne is pursued by the god Apollo and is saved by being turned into a laurel tree 368 A mythological monster with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle 369 Deer 370 Useless 371 Endure or tolerate 372 Be assured that 373 Sexual mischief 360 98 2.1 Commentary This scene prolongs the conflict between Demetrius and Helena. At the same time it shows how determined Helena is to get her man. This is quite different from Demetriusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pursuit of Hermia, because Hermia doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t love him and never has; whereas Demetrius once loved Helena, and indeed may still do so (think of the subtext here). Even so, how will Helena ever win back his love? At the same time the scene illustrates the folly of infatuation. Note that this scene will be similar to the scene to come later when Lysander, under the influence of the love drug, rejects and scorns Hermia. 99 2.1 Stage Directions HELENA Ay, in the temple, in the town, the field, You do me mischief. Fie, Demetrius! Your wrongs do set a scandal on my sex374: We cannot fight for love, as men may do; We should be wooed and were not made to woo. Exit DEMETRIUS I'll follow thee and make a heaven of hell, To die upon 375the hand I love so well. Exit OBERON Fare thee well, nymph376: ere 377he do leave this grove, Thou shalt fly him 378and he shall seek thy love. Re-enter PUCK Hast thou the flower there? Welcome, wanderer. 240 245 PUCK Ay, there it is. OBERON I pray thee, give it me. I know a bank where the wild thyme blows,379 Where oxlips380 and the nodding violet grows, Quite over-canopied with luscious woodbine381, With sweet musk-roses 382and with eglantine383: There sleeps Titania sometime of 384the night, Lull'd in these flowers 385with dances and delight; And there the snake throws 386her enamell'd387 skin, Weed388 wide enough to wrap a fairy in: And with the juice of this I'll streak389 her eyes, And make her full of hateful fantasies390. Take thou some of it, and seek through this grove: A sweet Athenian lady is in love391 With a disdainful youth: anoint his eyes; But do it when the next thing he espies 374 250 255 260 The wrongs you do me make me behave in a way that is scandalous to my sex (gender) By means of 376 A mythical beautiful woodland woman 377 Before 378 Flee from him 379 Blooms 380 A variety of the primrose flower 381 Honeysuckle 382 Rambling roses 383 Sweetbriar 384 For some part of 385 Lulled to sleep by these flowers 386 Sheds or casts off 387 Brightly coloured 388 Garment: the skin is a garment big enough for the fairy 389 Smear 390 Horrible nightmares 391 Who is in love 375 Helena throws herself on her back and as she says the words ‘do me mischief’ she throws her legs in the air. She then gets up and prepares to follow him as she addresses the last words to the audience. Demetrius runs away with Helena in hot pursuit. Oberon mimics squeezing the love juice in Demetrius’ eyes. The actor playing Oberon should pace this speech carefully, with many pauses. At times he is talking to himself, the audience and to Puck. Oberon’s mood in this speech begins in nostalgia thinking back to happier times with Titania, then changes to angry when he speaks of ‘streaking her eyes’. Then he pauses and tells Puck to put the love juice in Demetrius’ eyes. After Oberon’s words ‘anoint his eyes’ Puck starts to go, but Oberon stops him with his hand to give him detailed instructions. 100 2.1 Commentary Why does Oberon decide to interfere in order to remedy an injustice in human affairs? Why should he care? Why take Helena’s side? Is there something in Demetrius’s harsh treatment of Helena that triggers some emotion or memory in him? Does he think after watching Demetrius and Helena that he has been unfair to Titania? Indeed Oberon begins his speech in a nostalgic mood. While Puck revels in the misfortunes and calamities of the humans, Oberon does not. He has a sense of responsibility that Puck doesn’t have. The scene between Demetrius and Helena ends with the suggestion of a plot complication: Oberon will also use the love juice intended for Titania on Demetrius. Shakespeare uses dramatic irony in Oberon’s speech to Puck telling him repeatedly to make sure he administers the love juice in the correct way, because the audience just knows that Puck is going to mess up and get it all wrong. This device of dramatic irony also emphasises an important plot device: foreshadowing the mistake that Puck will make by putting the juice in the wrong man’s (Lysander’s) eyes, leading him to fall in love with Helena. Then after Oberon puts the juice in Demetrius’s eyes, both Demetrius and Lysander lust madly after Helena, all of which leads to the hilarious confrontation scene between Hermia and Helena in Act 3. But it is hardly all Puck’s fault. In fact neither Oberon nor Puck at this stage is aware that they are two Athenian men in the wood: Demetrius and Lysander. 101 Stage Directions 2.1 May be the lady: thou shalt know the man By the Athenian garments he hath on. Effect it with some care392, that he may prove More fond on her than she upon her love393: And look thou meet me ere the first cock crow. PUCK Fear not, my lord, your servant shall do so. Exeunt 392 393 Do it carefully More infatuated with her than she with him 265 After ‘lady’ Puck starts to leave again, but Oberon stops him. Puck starts to leave again after ‘he hath on’, but Oberon stops him again. Knowing Puck usually screws up, he is at pains to tell him to undertake the job ‘with some care’. During all this, Puck nods patiently and rolls his eyes. 102 2.1 Commentary Oberon, although he is in a sense a director of events in the wood, does not have control over everything. He and Puck will make mistakes. 103 2.2 ACT 2, SCENE 2. Another part of the wood Enter TITANIA, with her train TITANIA Come, now a roundel394 and a fairy song; Then, for the third part of a minute, hence395; Some to kill cankers396 in the musk-rose buds, Some war with 397rere-mice 398for their leathern wings, To make my small elves coats, and some keep back The clamorous399 owl that nightly hoots and wonders At our quaint 400spirits. Sing me now asleep; Then to your offices401 and let me rest. The Fairies sing You spotted snakes with double402 tongue, Thorny hedgehogs, be not seen; Newts and blind-worms403, do no wrong, Come not near our fairy queen. Philomel404, with melody Sing in our sweet lullaby; Lulla, lulla, lullaby, lulla, lulla, lullaby: Never harm, Nor spell nor charm, Come our lovely lady nigh; So, good night, with lullaby. Weaving spiders, come not here; Hence, you long-legg'd spinners, hence! Beetles black, approach not near; Worm nor snail, do no offence.405 Philomel, with melody . Sing in our sweet lullaby; Lulla, lulla, lullaby, lulla, lulla, lullaby: Never harm, Nor spell nor charm, Come our lovely lady nigh; So, good night, with lullaby. 394 Stage Directions 5 15 Titania and her attendants, costumed in appropriate Caribbean style, come in dancing conga-line style. Then they form a circle around Titania chanting to the tune of ‘Brown Girl in the Ring’. If her attendants (the same actors playing the Mechanicals/workmen) are dressed as zombies, this could be a source of humour. When Titania says ‘hence’, she gestures to them to leave. 20 This song should be done Caribbean-style (perhaps to the same tune of ‘Brown Girl in the Ring’) 10 25 30 A dance in a circle or ring, from Old French rondele Leave 396 Caterpillars 397 Hunt or catch 398 Bats 399 Noisy 400 Dainty 401 Duties or jobs 402 Forked 403 Newts and earth worms were thought to be poisonous 404 Nightingale, so called from the Greek legend of Philomela, transformed into the bird after being raped by Tereus. The story is from Ovid’s Metamorphoses 405 Harm 395 104 2.2 Act 2, Scene 2 Summary Titania falls asleep. Oberon puts the magic juice in Titaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes while she is asleep. Lysander and Hermia arrive and lie down near to each other to sleep. Puck, thinking that Lysander is Demetrius, puts the love juice in his eyes. Meanwhile Helena comes in pursuing Demetrius who escapes from her. Lysander awakened by the noise wakes up and sees Helena and falls madly in love with her. Helena, thinking she is being mocked by Lysander, runs away with Lysander in pursuit. Hermia awakens from a nightmare to find she is alone Commentary The creatures mentioned by the spirits/fairies were all thought to be poisonous and some of them were used in witchesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cauldrons to make their malevolent magical spells. This adds to the always subtly frightening atmosphere of the wood. Titaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spirit attendants might be costumed to look like and behave like zombies who from time to time come out of the zombie state. This could be a rich source of humour. There is irony here, because all the spells cast by her attendants do not protect Titania from Oberon who puts the magical love juice in her eyes. This suggests that while these spells may protect her from small poisonous creatures, they are not effective against Oberon, who has power beyond the capabilities of lesser spirits. 105 Stage Directions 2.2 FAIRY Hence, away! now all is well: One aloof stand sentinel406. Exeunt FAIRIES. TITANIA sleeps. Enter OBERON and squeezes the flower on TITANIA's eyelids OBERON What thou seest when thou dost wake, Do it for thy true-love take, Love and languish407 for his sake: Be it ounce408, or cat, or bear, Pard409, or boar with bristled hair, In thy eye that shall appear When thou wakest, it is thy dear: Wake when some vile thing is near. Exit. Enter LYSANDER and HERMIA 35 40 LYSANDER Fair love, you faint with wandering in the wood; And to speak troth410, I have forgot our way: We'll rest us, Hermia, if you think it good, And tarry for the comfort of the day411. HERMIA Be it so, Lysander: find you out a bed; For I upon this bank will rest my head. 45 LYSANDER One turf shall serve as pillow for us both; One heart, one bed, two bosoms and one troth.412 HERMIA Nay, good Lysander; for my sake, my dear, Lie further off yet, do not lie so near. 406 One fairy stand guard at a distance Pine or suffer 408 Lynx or wildcat 409 Leopard 410 To tell the truth 411 Wait until daylight when things will be easier 412 One shared vow of love 407 50 Titania goers to sleep upstage and the spirits place a screen around her, so she cannot be seen by the audience, and the actor playing Titania can go off stage. The fairy who is supposed to guard her is put in a trance by Oberon and then walks off like a zombie. Oberon recites these lines as if casting a spell. He actually sprinkles the love juice at the line ending ‘it is thy dear’. He begins to walk away; then goes back and says with mischievousness ;Wake when some vile…’. During their time in the wood the four lovers might wear small eye masks to maintain the carnival atmosphere of the wood as well as signal the anonymity and interchangeability of the object of desire. During this scene Lysander makes amorous approaches to Hermia; he has more than sleep on his mind. Has he really forgotten his way, or does he just want an opportunity to lie with Hermia? Hermia lies down with her hands under her head. Lysander quickly seizes the opportunity to lie beside her and embrace her. When he says ‘two bosoms’ by his gesture he shows he’s referring to Hermia’s bosoms! He stops quickly as Hermia looks at him. She laughs and then carefully and firmly removes his arms from around her, and gestures for him to move farther away. Lysander is all injured innocence: sex was the farthest thing from his mind! 106 2.2 Commentary This is the first use of the magical love juice that makes a sleeping (unaware) person fall in love instantly with the first thing they see when they awake. This magical juice symbolises the infinite variability of erotic desire, which can attach itself to the nearest object, as often happens during carnival. Think: Shadow’s 1974 masterpiece “I Come out to Play”. Note that the animals that Oberon has in mind for Titania to see when she wakes are fierce animals that would reject the sexual advances of Titania. Oberon therefore sees it as a joke in which Titania pursues wild beasts that run away. He had not envisaged a perhaps compliant Bottom, half transformed into an ass. Shakespeare will ring the changes on what love, desire, and infatuation are. Of the four lovers Hermia is the sanest and most constant. Helena, we are told from the first scene in the play ‘dotes’ on Demetrius, who is an arrogant man. Demetrius will have the love juice placed on his eyes and never removed! Is this an oversight by Shakespeare? Or are we to think that Helena’s doting on Demetrius deserves his doting on her? Or does their experience in the wood lead to a more mature love? Earlier we speculated that subconsciously Demetrius still loves Helena, although he is determined for financial reasons to make a match with Hermia. There is irony in this exchange between Lysander and Hermia, particularly when he says “Love takes the meaning in love’s conference” meaning ‘true lovers understand each other’. But Hermia has her mind fixed on marriage and then sex; Lysander has his mind on sex and then marriage. Has he lost his way or does he want a chance to have a go at Hermia? Indeed in the rest of the play we hear no more of his widowed aunt. Does she even exist? There is a lot of subtext here (characters saying one thing and meaning -consciously or unconsciously - another). 107 Stage Directions 2.2 LYSANDER O, take the sense, sweet, of my innocence413! Love takes the meaning in love's conference414. I mean, that my heart unto yours is knit So that but one heart we can make of it; Two bosoms interchained415 with an oath; So then two bosoms and a single troth416. Then by your side no bed-room me deny; For lying so, Hermia, I do not lie. HERMIA Lysander riddles very prettily: Now much beshrew 417my manners and my pride, If Hermia meant to say Lysander lied. But, gentle friend, for love and courtesy Lie further off; in human modesty, Such separation as may well be said Becomes 418a virtuous bachelor and a maid, So far be distant; and, good night, sweet friend: Thy love ne'er alter till thy sweet life end! LYSANDER Amen, amen, to that fair prayer, say I; And then end life when I end loyalty! Here is my bed: sleep give thee all his rest! 55 60 413 Don’t misunderstand the innocence of my suggestion True lovers understand each other 415 Shakespeare most likely coined this word 416 Our two bodies are linked with single vow 417 A curse upon 418 Is fitting for 419 May you sleep well too 420 Test or put to the proof 421 Provoking 422 This is an exclamation 414 When she comes to her last line, she pauses and says it slowly so that the audience will appreciate the dramatic irony when Lysander, after receiving a dose of the love juice, falls madly in love with Helena. 65 70 HERMIA With half that wish the wisher's eyes be press'd!419 They sleep. Enter PUCK PUCK Through the forest have I gone. But Athenian found I none, On whose eyes I might approve420 This flower's force in stirring421 love. Night and silence422.--Who is here? Lysander won’t give up. While protesting his innocent intentions he once more embraces Hermia. She laughingly disentangles herself from his embrace. She once again gestures to him to move farther away. 75 Lysander extends the dramatic irony with his ‘amens’. When he says ‘here is my bed’ he is only a couple of feet away from her. She laughs and gestures for him to go farther. He moves away bit by bit looking to her for approval, until she has him quite a distance away. While she drops off immediately he shakes his head and otherwise expresses his frustration before he too falls asleep. Puck enters angry and frustrated by his fruitless search. Then he sees Lysander and exclaims enthusiastically ‘Night and silence…’ He moves from Lysander (examining his clothes) to Hermia (looking at her face) and back again. Then Puck interprets the great distance between them as proof that Lysander despises her and therefore Puck has found the right man. 108 2.2 Commentary Hermia sees right through Lysander to his true intentions. But she loves him so she just banters with him so he knows she knows. Shakespeare uses dramatic irony here. We see Lysander swearing that his life will end when his loyalty to Hermia ceases, yet in a short while he will, as a result of the love juice, fall instantly in love with Helena. Another instance of dramatic irony is Hermiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forcing Lysander to sleep apart from her, which will convince Puck that he has found the right man because he interprets the distance between them as due to the fact that HE despises HER. This action between the two lovers shows how Lysanderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love is at this stage mainly lust. This he will have to overcome before he can move to a more mature stage in which erotic desire is incorporated within respect and responsibility. 109 Stage Directions 2.2 Weeds 423of Athens he doth wear: This is he, my master said, Despised the Athenian maid; And here the maiden, sleeping sound, On the dank and dirty ground. Pretty soul! she durst424 not lie Near this lack-love, this kill-courtesy425. Churl426, upon thy eyes I throw All the power this charm doth owe427. When thou wakest, let love forbid Sleep his seat on thy eyelid:428 So awake when I am gone; For I must now to Oberon. 80 85 Puck chants his spell from ‘When thou wakest…’ During their time in the wood the lovers might wear small eye masks to maintain the carnival atmosphere of the wood as well as signal the anonymity and interchangeability of the object of desire. Exit Enter DEMETRIUS and HELENA, running HELENA Stay, though thou kill me, sweet Demetrius. 90 Helena is panting, gasping for breath. DEMETRIUS I charge thee, hence429, and do not haunt me thus. HELENA O, wilt thou darkling430 leave me? Do not so. DEMETRIUS Stay, on thy peril431: I alone will go. Exit HELENA O, I am out of breath in this fond432 chase! The more my prayer, the lesser is my grace433. Happy is Hermia, wheresoe'er she lies; For she hath blessed and attractive eyes. How came her eyes so bright? Not with salt tears: 423 95 Clothes Dare 425 Kill-joy 426 Ill-mannered rogue 427 Possess (own) 428 Prevent sleep from closing your eyes 429 Depart, leave 430 In the dark 431 At your own risk 432 Foolish 433 The less my prayers are answered (that I should please Demetrius) 424 Helena addresses the audience. When she mentions Hermia she becomes sarcastic. The phrase ‘blessed and attractive eyes’ is said with great mockery. Irony in that Hermia is lying right nearby. Helena pouts as she continues. 110 2.2 Commentary One of the themes of the play is the unreliability of eyesight. Shakespeare therefore constantly refers to the eyes, both as the instrument of sight and as the most attractive feature of the face. Again we see Shakespeare’s use of dramatic irony. The audience knows that the Athenian that Puck sees is not Demetrius, but Lysander. They can only wonder at this stage what this error might lead to. They will soon find out. Shakespeare introduces a major plot twist by having Puck, who had been instructed by Oberon to put the love juice in the Athenian man’s eyes (meaning Demetrius), make a mistake and put it in Lysander’s eyes. This causes Lysander to fall out of love with Hermia and in love with Helena. This will lead to complications galore. 111 Stage Directions 2.2 If so, my eyes are oftener wash'd than hers. No, no, I am as ugly as a bear; For beasts that meet me run away for fear: Therefore no marvel though 434Demetrius Do, as a monster fly my presence thus. What wicked and dissembling glass 435of mine Made me compare with Hermia's sphery eyne436? But who is here? Lysander on the ground! Dead? or asleep? I see no blood, no wound. Lysander if you live, good sir, awake! LYSANDER [Awaking] And run through fire I will for thy sweet sake. Transparent437 Helena! Nature shows art, That through thy bosom makes me see thy heart438. Where is Demetrius? O, how fit a word Is that vile name to perish on my sword! HELENA Do not say so, Lysander; say not so What though he love your Hermia? Lord, what though? Yet Hermia still loves you: then be content. LYSANDER Content with Hermia! No; I do repent The tedious minutes I with her have spent. Not Hermia but Helena I love: Who will not change a raven 439for a dove440? The will of man is by his reason sway'd441; And reason says you are the worthier maid. Things growing are not ripe until their season So I, being young, till now ripe not to reason; And touching442 now the point of human skill443, Reason becomes the marshal to my will444 434 100 She stumbles over Lysander. Then turns him over and examines him for a wound. Then she shakes him awake and stands up. 105 120 125 As Lysander wakes he rubs his eyes, sees, Helena, and falls exaggeratedly in love with Helena. The actor playing Lysander must play him as out of his normal character and under a strange influence. He is infatuated and filled with lust to the point of obsession. Helena thinks he wants to kill Demetrius because Demetrius loves Hermia. Lysander goes down on his knees and hobbles over to Helena clutching her around her legs and burying his face in her thighs, while kissing her hands (this contrasts with the earlier scene where Helena fawned on Demetrius). Helena disentangles herself from Lysander and moves away. He follows her around on his knees. This ridiculous posture makes his words about reason all the more laughable. No wonder that Distorting or deceitful mirror 436 Compare my eyes with her star-like eyes 437 Bright and open 438 Nature skillfully lets me see your heart through your body 439 A black bird with a fierce and sinister reputation 440 Much humour in the play comes from the contrast between the dark hair and complexion of Hermia and the fair hair and complexion of Helena 441 Human emotions are ruled by reason (the opposite is actually true in the play) 442 Reaching 443 Discernment or intelligence 444 Reason now rules my passions 435 112 2.2 Commentary Lysander’s last speech is deeply ironic, since in the wood reason does dot not rule at all. All is imagination and fantasy run wild in this dream world. This is dramatic irony at its best since the audience knows what is going on (Lysander is drugged out of his mind) but the characters don’t know. So when he says “The will of man is by his reason swayed/And reason says you are the worthier maid.” the audience laughs because they know he is influenced by the love juice and not by reason. Shakespeare is illustrating the infinite capacity for humans to fool themselves when they are under the influence of their basic instincts and emotions. Lysander is also a case of transformation, one of the themes running throughout the play, and that fits our whole carnival-themed atmosphere because carnival is all about temporary transformation. Lysander’s reference to raven and dove is the first of many references to the different colourings of Helena (fair) and Hermia (dark). Helena also totally misunderstands the situation. Knowing Lysander’s love for Hermia, she thinks he must be mocking her. But is there a human way of explaining Lysander’s sudden switch of erotic attention from Hermia to Helena? Just think of the many occasions on which one person of a couple finds himself/herself attracted to his/her beloved’s close friend? This is perfectly natural. Erotic attraction knows no bounds There’s nothing wrong with it. What creates problems is when you act on your erotic impulses without any sense of responsibility. So it’s possible to see Lysander’s lusting after Helena in that context. It may be his way of recognising a subconscious attraction for Helena, bringing it to the surface and thus exorcising it. The miscommunication between the four lovers will grow and grow until it bursts into open conflict, with the two girls and the two men almost coming to blows. 113 Stage Directions 2.2 And leads me to your eyes, where I o'erlook445 Love's stories written in love's richest book446. HELENA Wherefore447 was I to this keen448 mockery born? When at your hands did I deserve this scorn? Is't not enough, is't not enough, young man, That I did never, no, nor never can, Deserve a sweet look from Demetrius' eye, But you must flout my insufficiency449? Good troth, you do me wrong, good sooth, you do,450 In such disdainful manner me to woo. But fare you well: perforce I must confess I thought you lord of more true gentleness451. O, that a lady, of one man refused. Should of452 another therefore be abused! Exit LYSANDER She sees not Hermia. Hermia, sleep thou there: And never mayst thou come Lysander near! For as a surfeit of the sweetest things The deepest loathing to the stomach brings453, Or as the heresies that men do leave Are hated most of those they did deceive454, So thou, my surfeit and my heresy, Of 455all be hated, but the most of456 me! And, all my powers, address 457your love and might To honour Helen and to be her knight458! Exit HERMIA [Awaking] Help me, Lysander, help me! do thy best To pluck this crawling serpent from my breast! Ay me, for pity! What a dream was here! 445 Read Volumes of love inscribed 447 Why 448 Sharp or harsh 449 Mock my shortcomings or inadequacy 450 Troth and sooth = truly 451 I have to say, I thought you were more of a gentleman 452 By 453 Just as eating too may sweets makes you sick 454 Just as religious converts hate most what they used to believe 455 By 456 By 457 Apply 458 Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll use all my abilities and efforts to serve and honour Helen 446 Helena begins to get angry since she suspects Lysander is mocking her. 130 135 Helena flees in tears. She has no idea what is going on. 140 145 Lysander goes over to Hermia. He leans over her. We should imagine him as deeply conflicted. i.e. torn between his deep love for Hermia and the overpowering lust that is driving him mad for Helena. Even as he says words indicating his hatred for Hermia, his eyes and actions belie the words. 150 Hermia awakes, scared out of her mind by her nightmare, brushing a snake away from her breast. 114 2.2 Commentary Lysander, now under the influence of the love juice (as in the worst excesses of carnival), is being driven mad by the overwhelming lust he feels for Helena. He is now deeply conflicted between that lust and the love he still feels for Hermia but has to put aside. He is torn by guilt and emotions he simply cannot understand. His change of love now presents yet another cause of conflict: Hermia loves him, but he now loves Helena. How will this conflict be resolved? 115 Stage Directions 2.2 Lysander, look how I do quake with fear: Methought459 a serpent eat my heart away, And you sat smiling at his cruel prey460. Lysander! What, removed? Lysander! Lord! What, out of hearing? Gone? No sound, no word? Alack, where are you speak, an if you hear; Speak, of all loves461! I swoon 462almost with fear. No? Then I well perceive you all not nigh463 Either death or you I'll find immediately.464 Exit 459 It seemed to me Preying on me 461 For love’s sake 462 Faint 463 Near 464 Since I see you’re nowhere nearby I’ll find you or die right away. 460 155 160 Hermia is distraught from her nightmare. Now she notices Lysander has disappeared and she becomes frightened and bewildered. She begins to panic. She shouts his name. She thinks he may be playing a prank on her, so when she says ‘I swoon’ she pretends to fall. She pauses for a response, then says ‘no?’ Then she rushes off sobbing. 116 2.2 Commentary What does Hermia’s dream mean? Subconsciously does she imagine Lysander might abandon her? And, if so, why? Is the snake Helena? Hermia’s reaction on awakening shows us how the dream world also has the potential of tragedy. Indeed at this point the play is teetering between comedy and tragedy. Act 2 has been filled with conflict that has the potential to turn tragic. Starting with the conflict between Oberon and Titania, which has all of nature thrown into confusion; then Demetrius’ spurning and abandonment of Helena in the wood frequented by savage beasts; and finally Lysander, under the influence of the love drug, abandoning Hermia. There is almost a sombre tone to the whole act. 117 3.1 ACT 3, SCENE I. The wood. TITANIA lying asleep. Enter QUINCE, SNUG, BOTTOM, FLUTE, SNOUT, and STARVELING Stage Directions BOTTOM Are we all met465? Remember that Titania is asleep in her bower which is upstage and screened so that the actor playing Titania can come and go. The workmen all come in with scripts in their hands and mill around. Bottom tries to take charge while Quince is looking at his master script. Quince looks up and cuts off Bottom with his ‘pat, pat’. He gathers all the men around him. But Bottom interrupts him. Quince starts to get impatient. He sarcastically stresses ‘thou’ when he responds to Bottom. All the workmen except Quince nod when Bottom speaks. He turns to face the audience as if reasoning with them, looking back at Quince when he says ‘How answer you that?’ QUINCE Pat, pat466; and here's a marvellous convenient 467place for our rehearsal. This green plot shall be our stage, this hawthorn-brake 468our tiring-house469; and we will do it in action 470as we will do it before the duke. 5 BOTTOM Peter Quince,-QUINCE What sayest thou, bully471 Bottom? BOTTOM There are things in this comedy of Pyramus and Thisbe that will never please. First, Pyramus must draw a sword to kill himself; which the ladies cannot abide472. How answer you that? SNOUT By'r lakin473, a parlous474 fear.475 10 STARVELING I believe we must leave the killing out, when all is done476. Clearly the workmen are siding with Bottom rather than Quince. 465 Are we all here? On the dot, punctually 467 Suitable 468 Clump of flowering shrubs 469 Dressing room 470 We’ll rehearse just as we will do it in front of the duke 471 Good old Bottom 472 Tolerate 473 By Our Lady (the Virgin Mary) from ‘ladykin’; a mild oath 474 Perilous or terrible 475 That’s a real problem! 476 All things considered 466 118 3.1 Act 3, Scene 1. Summary The workmen come into the wood to rehearse their play. The conflict between Bottom and Quince continues. The mischievous Puck transforms Bottom’s head into the head of an ass. This frightens his comrades away. Titania, who has been sleeping nearby, wakes, sees Bottom, and falls madly in love with him. Commentary The workmen now enter the wild dream world of the wood, where anything can happen. This will give the audience a sense of anticipation since it knows what has already happened to Titania and to Lysander. The conflict between Bottom and Quince continues. Both want to control the production of the play. Quince has written the Pyramus play but the audience will have to wait until Act 5 to see it played. Here they only get hints which increase audience anticipation. The gloriously funny ending of Dream is the staging of Pyramus in Act 5. Don’t forget that Shakespeare is also using the ‘play-within-the-play’ to mock the action of the four lovers, comment on the theatre of his time and on the nature of theatrical illusion. Bottom - who has obviously been thinking about the play in order to upstage Quince - and his comrades do not understand the nature of theatrical illusion and take things literally, imagining that the women in the audience will be scared by a sword. Indeed much of this scene is about the workmen’s misguided understanding of the nature of theatrical illusion and whether by acting too realistically the audience might believe that it is not in fact ‘acting’ but reality. It is easy to laugh at Bottom and company, but just think of how many people today actually believe that some of the obviously staged events, like professional wrestling, on television are ‘real’. Of course, as usual, Shakespeare laces this stage action with irony: we see Quince and company discussing whether the audience for whom they are going to stage the play will think the lion is real and whether Pyramus actually dies, at the same time as they agree that the green they are on is a stage and a bush their dressing room. Even deeper irony is that the real actors are pretending to be actors pretending…. 119 3.1 BOTTOM Not a whit477: I have a device478 to make all well. Write me a prologue479; and let the prologue seem to say, 480we will do no harm with our swords, and that Pyramus is not killed indeed; and, for the more better assurance481, tell them that I, Pyramus, am not Pyramus, but Bottom the weaver: this will put them out of fear.482 Stage Directions 15 QUINCE Well, we will have such a prologue; and it shall be written in eight and six483. BOTTOM No, make it two more; let it be written in eight and eight. 20 SNOUT Will not the ladies be afeard of the lion? STARVELING I fear it, I promise you. BOTTOM Masters, you ought to consider with yourselves484: to bring in-God shield485 us!--a lion among ladies, is a most dreadful thing; for there is not a more fearful486 wild-fowl 487than your lion living; 25 and we ought to look to 't.488 SNOUT Therefore another prologue must tell he is not a lion. 477 Not at all Plan 479 Introductory speech 480 Hint 481 To make doubly sure 482 Put their minds at rest 483 Alternating lines of eight and six syllables (the usual ballad metre) 484 To think about this carefully 485 Help 486 Terrifying 487 Wild bird 488 Be careful 478 Before Quince can answer, Bottom cuts him off with his own solution. At the word ‘write’ he turns to the audience. Bottom utters the words ‘put them out of their fear’ with a note of triumph. Quince hurriedly buts in to offer his own solution, but once again Bottom must contradict him. At Bottom’s ignorant words Quince slaps his own forehead and rolls his eyes. The other workmen are now emboldened by Bottom and begin to voice their objections Bottom again interjects before Quince can say anything or even interrupts him as he goes to speak. 120 3.1 Commentary This absurd dialogue continues the whole question of illusion vs. reality in a theatrical context. This foreshadows Puckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final speech in the epilogue in which he raises the question of whether the real theatre audience is dreaming or not. The portrayal of the lion is one of the continuing concerns of the workmen. Will the audience think it is a real lion? Should the lion roar softly so as not to frighten them? On the other hand, the workmen (and Shakespeare) would have been aware that artisans just like these had been the leaders of the sporadic riots about depressed economic conditions in the last two decades of the 16th century. So they would be very anxious for the upper-class audience to recognise that their swords were not real. This idea of breaking the wall of illusion between actors and audience will, however, prove to be the saving grace of the performance at Theseusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; palace, because it will turn the court audience from satirical observers into joyful participants. 121 3.1 BOTTOM Nay, you must name his name, and half his face must be seen through the lion's neck:and he himself must speak through, saying thus, or to the same defect489, --'Ladies,'--or 'Fair-ladies-I would wish You,'--or 'I would request you,'--or 'I would entreat you,--not to fear, not to tremble: my life for yours490. If you think I come hither as a lion, it were pity of my life491: no I am no such thing; I am a man as other men are;' and there indeed let him name his name, and tell them plainly he is Snug the joiner. Stage Directions 30 35 QUINCE Well it shall be so. But there is two hard things; that is, to bring the moonlight into a chamber492; for, you know, Pyramus and Thisbe meet by moonlight. As Bottom speaks Snug, who plays the part of Lion, silently mouths the words Bottom is suggesting, becoming more perplexed as Bottom keeps changing his mind and pausing about what words to use Quince is fed up. Turning away from Bottom, he poses a problem to the others. SNOUT Doth the moon shine that night we play our play? BOTTOM A calendar, a calendar! look in the almanac493; find out moonshine, find out moonshine. 40 Bottom jumps in. QUINCE Yes, it doth shine that night. Quince calendar. BOTTOM Why, then may you leave a casement494 of the great chamber window, where we play, open, and the moon may shine in at the casement. Of course, Bottom has the answer. Effect (a typical comic mistake by Bottom) I value your lives as much as my own 491 It would be the greatest pity (‘of my life’ is a mild oath) 492 Room 493 Calendar with astronomical information 494 Hinged window 495 A bundle of wood (The man in the moon was often depicted as carrying a bundle of firewood) 496 Lantern, depicting the light of the moon 497 Bottom means to say ‘figure’ or portray 490 the 45 QUINCE Ay; or else one must come in with a bush of thorns495 and a lanthorn,496 and say he comes to disfigure497, or to present, the person of Moonshine.Then, there is another thing: we must have a wall in the great chamber; for Pyramus and Thisbe 489 checks But Quince has a better idea. 122 3.1 Commentary Once again we see the workmen showing their ignorance of theatrical illusion in relation to the moonlight and a wall. Shakespeare’s plays were staged almost without props. It was the words that gave the audience the sense of time and place. Earlier on we noticed that when Oberon said he was invisible and gestured, the audience would accept that they could see him but not the other characters on stage. The discussion about how to portray Moonshine shows the importance of the moon as a symbol throughout the play. Thus the play-within-a-play has several correspondences to the action of Dream. Just as Titania and Oberon were ‘ill met by moonlight’ at the height of their conflict that is shattering the natural order and producing disasters, so Pyramus and Thisbe also meet by moonlight. But their tragedy is turned into comedy by Bottom and company. Ironically enough the workmen are now meeting by moonlight in the wood to rehearse so their whole discussion about ‘Moonshine’ takes place in the moonlight. Bottom as usual is full of malapropisms; as is Quince to a lesser degree. 123 3.1 says the story, did talk through the chink498 of a wall. 50 SNOUT You can never bring in a wall. What say you, Bottom? BOTTOM Some man or other must present499 Wall: and let him have some plaster, or some loam500, or some rough-cast501 about him, to signify wall502; and let him hold his fingers thus, and through that cranny shall Pyramus and Thisbe whisper. 55 QUINCE If that may be503, then all is well. Come, sit down, every mother's son, and rehearse your parts. Pyramus, you begin: when you have spoken your speech, enter into that brake504: and so every one according to his cue. Enter PUCK behind PUCK What hempen home-spuns 505have we swaggering here, So near the cradle of the fairy queen506? What, a play toward507! I'll be an auditor508; An actor too, perhaps, if I see cause509. 60 QUINCE Speak, Pyramus. Thisbe, stand forth. BOTTOM (as Pyramus) Thisbe, the flowers of odious 510savours 511sweet,-- 65 Note that Snout defers to Bottom. This annoys Quince. Bottom as usual has a suggestion. In fact it will turn out to be the source of much humour in Act 5.When Bottom says ‘hold his fingers thus’ he makes a circle with the fingers and thumbs of his two hands, and holds them between his thighs. Bottom every now and then turns to the audience as if seeking their agreement. Quince takes charge again. Rehearsal is about to begin. They all sit with their individual scripts. Puck, who is invisible, strolls on and mockingly observes the proceedings. Then the realization that he is watching them rehearse a play, makes him smile wickedly: he can watch, but MAYBE he can also play a part. Puck speaks to the audience, gesturing towards the workmen. Bottom commits another howler and Quince loses his cool. 498 Hole or crack Represent 500 Clay-like mud 501 Mixture of lime and gravel used as a rough plaster on a wall 502 To show the audience he’s a wall 503 If we can do that 504 Thicket or clump of shrubs (which is the agreed dressing room) 505 Country bumpkins (Hemp was the main fabric in the home-made clothes of rustics and the poor generally.) 506 The bower or secluded bed where Titania, still on stage, is sleeping. ‘Cradle’ is meant to suggest the small size of the fairies 507 In the making 508 I’ll listen or be a member of the audience 509 If the occasion arises or if I get a chance 510 Hateful. Bottom means to say ‘odorous’, 511 Scents 499 124 3.1 Commentary In most productions the actor portraying Wall holds two fingers out scissors-like. But the circle of finger and thumb between the legs may very well have been the original way of doing it and is certainly much more consistent with the jokes in the text, as we shall see in Act 5 when the play is put on. Puck’s stumbling upon the workmen is a lovely plot twist, dragging Bottom and company into the spirit world, thus linking the plots. Shakespeare’s mastery of plotting is unexcelled. Puck’s remark about ‘so near the cradle of the fairy queen’ is intended to remind the audience that Titania is asleep nearby. 125 3.1 Stage Directions QUINCE Odours, ‘odorous’!.512 BOTTOM (as Pyramus) --odours savours sweet: So hath thy breath, my dearest Thisbe dear. But hark, a voice! Stay thou but here awhile, And by and by I will to thee appear513. Exit Quince is pulling his hair out as he screams at Bottom. 70 PUCK A stranger Pyramus than e'er played here. Exit FLUTE Must I speak now? QUINCE Ay, marry514, must you; for you must understand he goes but to see a noise that he heard, and is to come again. FLUTE (as Thisbe) Most radiant Pyramus, most lily-white of hue515, Of colour like the red rose on triumphant516 brier, Most brisky juvenal 517and eke 518most lovely Jew519, As true as truest horse that yet would never tire, I'll meet thee, Pyramus, at Ninny's520 tomb. QUINCE 'Ninus' tomb,' man: why, you must not speak that yet; that you answer to Pyramus: you speak all your part at once, cues and all. Pyramus enter: your cue is past; it is, 'never tire.' FLUTE O,--As true as truest horse, that yet would never tire. 512 75 80 Flute as Thisbe comes close to Bottom who recoils at his breath. He pushes Flute back. He falls. Bottom goes off. Puck trips Bottom as he goes off. Then he gets an idea: he strokes his chin and says “A stranger Pyramus…’ and follows Bottom off. Flute gets up and, not sure, asks Quince whether it’s his turn to speak. Quince the director is having a hard time of it. He is really losing his cool. He slaps Flute with his script. Flute starts his lines in his normal voice. Quince gestures to him to take his voice higher. So he says the second line in a higher voice. Quince gestures again: higher. Then again, until Flute says the last two lines in a very high voice. Quince ironically applauds, as the others kill themselves with laughter. Then Flute ruins it by mispronouncing ‘Ninus’. Quince slaps him again. Quince shouts for Pyramus to come back on. Quince tries to correct Bottom by telling him the adjective is ‘odorous’ from the noun ‘odours’ I’ll be right back 514 By the Virgin Mary (a mild oath) 515 Pale coloured 516 Magnificent 517 Lively youth (juvenile) 518 Also 519 Maybe Flute meant to say ‘jewel’ 520 Flute mangles Ninus into ninny (fool) 513 126 3.1 Commentary There is a lot of farcical action here that will get even funnier when they put on the play in Act 5. 127 Stage Directions 3.1 Re-enter PUCK, and BOTTOM with an ass's head BOTTOM If I were fair, Thisbe, I were only thine.521 85 QUINCE O monstrous! O strange! we are haunted. Pray, masters! Fly, masters! Help! Exeunt QUINCE, SNUG, FLUTE, SNOUT, and STARVELING PUCK I'll follow you, I'll lead you about a round522, Through bog, through bush, through brake, through brier: Sometime a horse I'll be, sometime a hound, A hog, a headless bear, sometime a fire; And neigh, and bark, and grunt, and roar, and burn, Like horse, hound, hog, bear, fire, at every turn. Exit BOTTOM Why do they run away? This is a knavery523 of them to make me afeard. Re-enter SNOUT SNOUT O Bottom, thou art changed! What do I see on thee? BOTTOM What do you see? You see an asshead of your own524, do you? Exit SNOUT Re-enter QUINCE QUINCE Bless thee, Bottom! Bless thee! Thou art translated525. Exit 521 90 95 Some thought has to go into how Bottom will be disguised as an ass. The variations in productions over the years have been numerous. In keeping with the carnival theme of our interpretation of this play, it might be a modification of the traditional ‘burrokeet’ masquerade costume, but with the donkey head on the actor playing Bottom. There should be something scary about the head. Bottom’s entrance has to be spectacular. Perhaps Puck comes on first and makes an elaborate bow of introduction, then Bottom then appears in the donkey costume. Quince who has been going to get him, steps back in fright and falls on his bottom. Quince then utters his lines and scuttles on hands and knees off the stage as all but Bottom and Puck flee. After his first line he gives a loud heehaw, which he repeats from time to time. Puck’s lines, accompanied by evil laughter, should be interspersed with his going off stage to scare the workmen. They run back and forth like chickens with their heads cut off, running into and falling over each other. Snout rushes on and collides with Bottom and then exclaims about Bottom being changed. Same with Quince. This scene has to be played in a hectic madcap way. If I were handsome, Thisbe, I would still want only you A roundabout way 523 A dirty trick 524 Bottom is unaware of his transformation; he means that Snout is an ass to try and make an ass of him 525 Transformed 522 128 3.1 Commentary Bottom being changed into an ass is the key transformation in the play. It is a transformation which has several plot effects. Puck intends it to show Bottom as the ass (silly person) that he is (which the audience knows). But it also transforms him into the beast with legendary sexuality and size, thus linking the plot of the workmen with the plot of Oberon and Titania, so that that the encounter with Titania (about which the audience does not yet know) serves the purpose for which Oberon intended it. The only problem, as we shall see, is that Bottom can’t really play the sexual ass. Bottom’s transformation also complicates the mechanicals’ plot: it suggests that, with Bottom transformed, Quince becomes the winner in their conflict, yet at the same time it raises the question of whether the workmen can stage their entertainment now that rehearsals have been interrupted and that their star actor is turned into an ass. But Bottom’s transformation also leads to his having some disturbing experiences (dreams?) that eventually result in a new level of selfawareness on his part. Note that in Shakespeare’s time a mummer (one who goes merrymaking in disguise during festivals) often wore animal masks. The workmen are scared out of their wits because they know they are in a wood peopled with strange creatures and where magical events can occur. Plus it’s night and the moon is shining. 129 Stage Directions 3.1 BOTTOM I see their knavery: this is to make an ass of me; to fright me, if they could. But I will not stir from this place, do what they can: I will walk up and down here, and I will sing, that they shall hear I am not afraid. Sings The ousel 526cock so black of hue, With orange-tawny bill, The throstle 527with his note so true, The wren with little quill528,-- 100 105 TITANIA [Awaking] What angel wakes me from my flowery bed? BOTTOM [Sings] The finch, the sparrow and the lark, The plain-song 529cuckoo gray, Whose note full many a man doth mark, 110 530 And dares not answer nay ;-for, indeed, who would set his wit to 531so foolish a bird? Who would give a bird the lie532, though he cry 'cuckoo' never so533? TITANIA I pray thee, gentle mortal, sing again: Mine ear is much enamour'd of 534thy note535; So is mine eye enthralled to thy shape536; And thy fair virtue's force 537perforce doth move me On the first view to say, to swear, I love thee. 526 115 Big bold Bottom is alone in the wood at night. He is nervous. He pauses every few words and looks around, especially after ‘fright’. Bottom throws down his script angrily as he says ‘I am not afraid.’ Even as he says ‘not afraid’, he looks around nervously. Bottom crudely sings his song tremulously to a Caribbean beat while dancing slowly. He’s facing the audience. Titania wakes, stretches and hears Bottom’s song and then sees him backing her. As he sings shakily, facing the audience she comes from behind the screen upstage, approaches him from behind and looks at him admiringly. Then starts to dance right behind him to the same rhythm. Bottom inserts brays at occasional intervals in his song. Titania utters her lines, which are spoken seductively, right behind Bottom, startling him and making him jump and give a little shriek. He turns around and faces her. As Titania says the words ‘enthralled of your shape’, she eyes his lower body lasciviously. As she says ‘I love thee’ she embraces him seductively. The actor playing Titania should remember that Titania is changed from a proud dignified queen into a raging seductive slut. Blackbird Thrush 528 Thrill song 529 Simple melody (referring to the cuckoo’s repeated call) 530 Many men hear but don’t dare say no to it ( Cuckoo is associated with cuckold, the term for a man whose wife is unfaithful) 531 Argue with 532 Contradict 533 However often he cried ‘cuckoo’ (i.e. called you a cuckold) 534 Has fallen in love with 535 Song or voice 536 Captivated by your physical appearance 537 The power of your perfect excellence forces me to say 527 130 3.1 Commentary The essential humour in this confrontation between Titania and Bottom is that she has been turned from a dignified, proud queen of the spirit underworld into a raving seductress who is all over Bottom. On the other hand, Bottom is scared and bewildered and the last thing on his mind is sex, however beautiful the woman. After all, he would have heard stories about seductive women who appear in woods and steal menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s souls (Elizabethan stories equivalent to our stories of La Diablesse, an apparently beautiful devil woman with one cloven foot and face of a corpse hidden beneath a veil and a hat, who enchants and leads men to their destruction in the forest). This is a drug-induced fantasy that Titania is acting out. But Bottom hasn't a clue what is going on and just wants to get out of this enchanted wood. Though, as we shall see, he gets accustomed to the fantasy that is being played out around him. Note that Bottom is the only human in the play who can see the fairies/spirits. What do we make of that? 131 3.1 BOTTOM Methinks, mistress, you should have little reason for that: and yet, to say the truth, reason and love keep little company together now-a-days; the more the pity that some honest neighbours will not make them friends538. Nay, I can gleek539 upon occasion. Stage Directions 120 TITANIA Thou art as wise as thou art beautiful. BOTTOM Not so, neither: but if I had wit enough to get out of this wood, I have enough to serve mine own turn540. TITANIA Out of this wood do not desire to go: Thou shalt remain here, whether thou wilt or no. I am a spirit of no common rate541; The summer still doth tend upon my state542; And I do love thee: therefore, go with me; I'll give thee fairies to attend on thee, And they shall fetch thee jewels from the deep543, And sing while thou on pressed flowers dost sleep; And I will purge thy mortal grossness 544so That thou shalt like an airy spirit go. Peaseblossom! Cobweb! Moth! And Mustardseed! Enter PEASEBLOSSOM, COBWEB, MOTH, and MUSTARDSEED PEASEBLOSSOM Ready. COBWEB And I. MOTH And I. 538 Good people will not link the two Joke 540 That would suit me nicely 541 Rank or value 542 Always follows wherever I go 543 Like pearls or coral 544 Rid you of your coarse human shape 539 125 130 135 Bottom, visibly scared by Titania’s sudden appearance, tries disentangling himself from her embrace. However, while she is speaking Titania is caressing and admiring his body. She has the ‘hots’ for Bottom. After Bottom’s lines he brays two or three times. Titania listens to his braying and then says ‘Thou art as wise...beautiful’. As Bottom, still scared, turns to flee, Titania grabs him and pulls him back (or maybe uses a magical gesture with her hand that freezes him). He is now in full panic mode. Titania keeps a firm hold on him while she lets him know that he is her captive boy toy. She wraps her arms around him as she says ‘I love thee’ kissing him all over his head. And then when she says ‘therefore go with me’, she puts him in a headlock and drags him along. Then when she says ‘dost sleep’, she releases him from the headlock. And when she says ‘purge thy mortal grossness’ she winds up on him lasciviously, leaving no doubt of her intentions. But Bottom the blowhard, who would normally have boasted about being in such a situation, is scared out of his wits. All he can do is bray. The same actors playing the workmen play the fairies (spirits) dressed in carnival costumes, maybe jab jab, bats, or midnight robbers or zombies or a mix. 132 3.1 Commentary There are two transformations here: Bottom’s physical change into an ass while remaining essentially the blowhard braggart that he is; and Titania’s mental change into a sex-mad fiend, while remaining physically what she was. Titania must be played in a totally different character from her normal self. The humour in the scene comes from the conflict created by the incompatibility of these two transformations. While Titania lusts after this well-proportioned half human-half beast, Bottom can’t get it up because of his fear. Indeed we will see that he is more interested in food than in sex. Another way of thinking of Titania’s transformation is that she, the upper class queen of the spirits, suddenly has the hots for Bottom, a sweaty oversized (in all senses of the word) working-class man. Note that while Bottom tries to run away, Titania keeps him back with her magical powers. This only scares Bottom more. Bottom’s response when Titania says she loves him comes from his heart. He is scared and speaks the truth: there is little reason for a gorgeous woman like you to love a plain overweight bloke like me, but then reason and love don’t often go together, touching on one of the themes of the play. 133 3.1 MUSTARDSEED And I. 140 ALL Where shall we go? TITANIA Be kind and courteous to this gentleman; Hop in his walks and gambol in his eyes545; Feed him with apricocks546 and dewberries547, With purple grapes, green figs, and mulberries; The honey-bags steal from the humble-bees548, And for night-tapers crop their waxen thighs549 And light them at the fiery glow-worm's eyes550, To have my love to bed and to arise; And pluck the wings from painted butterflies To fan the moonbeams from his sleeping eyes: Nod551 to him, elves, and do him courtesies. 145 150 Titania issues instructions to her attendants to prepare Bottom for some extended love-making. The attendants smirk and nudge each other as they watch her caress Bottom seductively. As Titania says ‘arise’ they all raise their right hands with fists clenched in imitation of an erect phallus. PEASEBLOSSOM Hail, mortal! COBWEB Hail! MOTH Hail! The attendants’ salutations to Bottom are mock ironic. 155 MUSTARDSEED Hail! BOTTOM I cry your worship's mercy552, heartily: I beseech 553your worship's name. COBWEB Cobweb. 545 Leap and dance for him Apricots 547 Blackberries 548 Bumble-bees 549 Collect wax from the bees legs to make night candles 550 Fire flies emit light from their abdomens 551 Bow 552 I beg your pardon (for asking their names) 553 Request 546 Bottom is less interested in sex than he is in practical matters. Plus he’s trying to placate these strange creatures of the night. 134 3.1 Commentary Bottom is even more frightened by the appearance of these spirits (costumed as malevolent creatures). These are macabre, yet, comical, creatures (think The Addams Family). One of the spirits might be used to comic effect dressed as a zombie who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quite follow instructions or directions. Bottom listens in awe as Titania instructs them to stuff Bottom with aphrodisiacs, like fattening the lamb for the slaughter. Then he tries to placate these weird creatures by nervously engaging them in conversation. 135 Stage Directions 3.1 BOTTOM I shall desire you of more acquaintance, good Master Cobweb: if I cut my finger554, I shall make bold with you. Your name, honest gentleman? 160 PEASEBLOSSOM Peaseblossom. Bottom is trying to resort to some kind of normality by conversing in practical terms with these smirking attendants, who know that Bottom is being prepared for the slaughter, BOTTOM I pray you, commend me to 555Mistress Squash556, your mother, and to Master Peascod557, your father. Good Master 165 558 Peaseblossom, I shall desire you of more acquaintance too . Your name, I beseech you, sir? MUSTARDSEED Mustardseed. BOTTOM Good Master Mustardseed, I know your patience 559well: that same cowardly, giant-like ox-beef hath devoured many a gentleman of your house:560 I promise you your kindred had made my eyes water 561ere now. I desire your more acquaintance, good Master Mustardseed. TITANIA Come, wait upon him; lead him to my bower562. The moon methinks looks with a watery eye; And when she weeps, weeps every little flower563, Lamenting some enforced chastity564. Tie up my love's tongue bring him silently. Exeunt 554 170 175 Titania is getting impatient. She caresses him after he talks to each of the attendants and then tries to get him to bed, but he continues. Eventually she loses patience and tells her attendants to lead him to her ‘bower’, which she pronounces in meaningful tones. As they raise him up on their shoulders, like a corpse, he brays wildly. As Bottom brays, Titania flinches. Then she tells her attendants to ‘tie up my love’s tongue’. However sex-crazed she is, she can’t tolerate the discordant braying. They go off as in a parodied funeral procession, perhaps to the music of ‘Zombie Jamboree’. Cobwebs were a common home remedy for stopping bleeding Convey my greetings to 556 Unripe pea pod 557 A ripe pea pod 558 I’d like to get to know you better 559 What you put up with 560 Huge slabs of beef have eaten many of your relatives (mustard was a common condiment for roast beef) 561 The hot mustard has caused his eyes to water 562 Bedroom 563 Dew was thought to fall from the moon on the grass and flowers 564 The moon goddess, Diana, was also goddess of chastity 555 136 3.1 Commentary The conflict in this entire scene is between the drug induced lust of Titania, which has turned her into a different person, and the fear of Bottom that stems from being in a world he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand confronted by a sex-crazed woman who seems to want to eat him alive. Bottom is talking to her ghoulish attendants in order to postpone the fate that seems to await him, while Titania is impatient to get her lover to bed. Eventually the sprit attendants seize Bottom and loft him on to their shoulders like a coffin. Then the group processes off stage with Titania leading, doing her little obscene dance movements in a parody of a funeral procession, with Bottom braying like mad until they silence him on Titaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instructions. Titania notices that the moon looks watery, which she takes as a sign that sexual fulfillment is being frustrated in the world. Her comment reminds the audience of the several broken relationships in the play that have yet to be healed. Act 3, unlike Act 2 with its sombre and potentially tragic undertones, has begun on a comic note, setting the tone for the entire Act. Indeed the efforts of the workmen to rehearse their play are farcical; the confrontation between Bottom and Titania is also farcical, and the confrontation between the four lovers later on will be pure farce. Maybe the production team might think of lightening the atmospherics as we move into Act 3. 137 Stage Directions 3.2 ACT 3, SCENE 2. Another part of the wood Enter OBERON OBERON I wonder if Titania be awaked; Then, what it was that next came in her eye, Which she must dote on in extremity565. Enter PUCK Here comes my messenger. How now, mad spirit! What night-rule now 566about this haunted grove? PUCK My mistress with a monster is in love. Near to her close567 and consecrated568 bower, While she was in her dull569 and sleeping hour, A crew of patches570, rude mechanicals571, That work for bread upon Athenian stalls, Were met together to rehearse a play Intended for great Theseus' nuptial-day572. The shallowest thick-skin 573of that barren sort574, Who Pyramus presented575, in their sport576 Forsook his scene 577and enter'd in a brake578 When I did him at this advantage take579, An ass's nole 580I fixed on his head: Anon his Thisbe must be answered581, And forth my mimic582 comes. When they him spy, As wild geese that the creeping fowler 583eye, Or russet-pated choughs584, many in sort585, 565 10 15 Oberon’s lines, which should be delivered facing and to the audience, are a beautiful instance of dramatic irony, i.e. the audience knows something that the character doesn’t know. So the lines should be delivered slowly with emphasis to get a laugh. As Puck says ‘monster’ he holds up his hands to show the length of the ass’s phallus. Puck half of the time speaks to the audience and half of the time to Oberon. He takes great relish in reciting the mischief he has done. While he is doing so he does not notice that Oberon is not enjoying his narrative as much as he is. 20 Excessively or desperately What’s going on tonight? (meaning what tricks are you up to?) 567 Secluded or secret 568 Sacred or holy 569 Drowsy 570 Clowns 571 Rough workingmen 572 Wedding day 573 The stupidest idiot 574 Dim-witted bunch 575 Took the role of Pyramus 576 Entertainment 577 Left the stage 578 Thicket or clump of shrubs 579 Taking advantage of this 580 Head (from the Old English ‘knoll’) 581 When he heard his cue to go back on stage to answer his Thisbe 582 Actor 583 Bird-hunter 584 Gray coloured jackdaws (black or dark gray bird with a reputation for stealing bright objects) 585 All together 566 138 3.2 Act 3, Scene 2: The Wood Summary When Puck reports to Oberon, the latter realizes that Puck has put a spell on Lysander by mistake, so he sends Puck to find Helena, and bring her into Demetrius’ sight, while he himself puts some of the juice in Demetrius’ eyes to make him fall in love with Helena. Demetrius sees and falls in love with Helena, so that both Demetrius and Lysander love Helena and quarrel over her. Hermia reappears and she and Helena quarrel as do Demetrious and Lysander. Oberon resolves to put everything right through more magic. Commentary Oberon’s first words, following on the crazy implied love scene of Titania with Bottom, are a masterpiece of dramatic irony. The audience of course is only too aware of what has just happened with Titania and Bottom. But perhaps Oberon does not relish what has gone on as much as Puck. Indeed we shall see Oberon grow increasingly uneasy about the spell he has cast on Titania. We have already noticed that Oberon cares more about the plight of the humans in the wood than does Puck, who just sees them as opportunities for having some fun at their expense. Puck’s recounting to Oberon of what he has been up to is a device Shakespeare used to keep his large and not always attentive theatre audience up to date on what has happened so far. Very much like a TV soap opera which begins by telling the viewers what happened in the previous episode. You might call it continuous exposition. It also fills in the audience on what has happened off stage. 139 Stage Directions 3.2 Rising and cawing at the gun's report, Sever themselves 586and madly sweep the sky So, at his sight, away his fellows fly; And, at our stamp, here o'er and o'er one falls587; 25 He murder cries and help from Athens calls. Their sense thus weak, lost with their fears thus strong, Made senseless things begin to do them wrong588; For briers and thorns at their apparel 589snatch; Some sleeves, some hats, from yielders590 all things catch591. 30 I led them on in this distracted 592fear, And left sweet Pyramus translated593 there: When in that moment, so it came to pass, Titania waked and straightway loved an ass. OBERON This falls out better than I could devise. But hast thou yet latch'd 594the Athenian's eyes With the love-juice, as I did bid thee do? PUCK I took him sleeping,--that is finish'd too595,-And the Athenian woman by his side: That, when he waked, of force she must be eyed596. 35 40 This line (Titania waked…ass) should be delivered loudly and after a dramatic pause. Puck concludes with a mock braying and then gives his devilish laugh. Oberon laughs, but falsely. He does not wish to recognise that he now half regrets what he has done to his beloved wife. Oberon’s reply is curt, to say the least. Enter HERMIA and DEMETRIUS OBERON Stand close597: this is the same Athenian. PUCK This is the woman, but not this the man. 586 Scatter Hearing my footsteps one of them stumbles and falls 588 Overcome with fear they imagined that inanimate objects were attacking them 589 Clothes 590 Those fleeing in fear 591 Imagine all kinds of attacks 592 Mad or frenzied 593 Transformed 594 Moistened (leached) 595 I found him sleeping so that’s taken care of as well 596 When he woke he could not avoid seeing her 597 Keep out of sight 587 Puck is puzzled. He stresses ‘this’, continues, stresses ‘woman’; then a long pause – ‘but …man.’ All the while he makes appropriate gestures. 140 3.2 Commentary Oberon finds he is not as happy he thought he would be by the practical joke he has played on Titania. Like an insanely jealous man who initially takes a perverse delight in putting temptation in his partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way, he now realises that it was perhaps not the smartest thing to do. He will take out his anger at himself on Puck for having screwed up with the love juice on Lysander instead of Demetrius. 141 Stage Directions 3.2 DEMETRIUS O, why rebuke598 you him that loves you so? Lay breath so bitter on your bitter foe599. HERMIA Now I but chide600; but I should use thee worse601, For thou, I fear, hast given me cause to curse602, If thou hast slain Lysander in his sleep, Being o'er shoes in blood603, plunge in the deep, And kill me too. The sun was not so true unto the day As he to me604: Would he have stol’n away From sleeping Hermia605? I'll believe as soon This whole earth may be bored and that the moon May through the centre creep and so displease Her brother's noontide with Antipodes606. It cannot be but thou hast murder'd him; So should a murderer look, so dead607, so grim. DEMETRIUS So should the murder'd look, and so should I, Pierced through the heart with your stern cruelty: Yet you, the murderer, look as bright, as clear, As yonder Venus 608in her glimmering sphere609. HERMIA What's this to610 my Lysander? Where is he? Ah, good Demetrius, wilt thou give him me? 45 Hermia is desperately worried over what has happened to Lysander. The dramatic irony here, as the audience knows, is that the drugged Lysander is now madly in love with Helena. In terms of stage movements he pursues her with his complaints and she pursues him with hers. 50 Hermia tries to be nice but Demetrius retaliates harshly, which then arouses her fierce anger. DEMETRIUS I had rather give his carcass to my hounds. 598 Scold or quarrel with Save such bitter words for your most bitter enemy 600 Scold 601 Should be more severe 602 Ask God for vengeance 603 Being ankle-deep or have waded in so far 604 He (Lysander) was as faithful to me as the sun to the day 605 Would he have sneaked away from me while I was asleep? 606 Hermia imagines the moon boring through the earth and muddling up the sun’s (the moon’s brother) midday on the other side (the Antipodes) 607 Pale as death 608 Venus is the evening star and the goddess of love 609 Orbit 610 To do with 599 142 3.2 Commentary We are now entering the second funniest action in Dream next to the Pyramus play in Act 5. The director and the actors have to give a lot of thought to the choreographing of the coming hilarious confrontation between the four lovers. Hermiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speech is laced with dramatic irony which should draw some laughs from the audience as she extols Lysanderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faithfulness, when the audience knows he is now crazy for Helena. Yet again a reference to the moon. Indeed we will soon see two lunatics and two bewildered women on display. Once again a director and the actors playing Oberon and Puck can have some fun with their invisibility. For example, at the height of their physical confrontation, Oberon may suddenly gesture and the four lovers should remain frozen while he whispers to Puck and afterwards unfreezes them. Remember, we might think of Oberon as the director of this confrontation between the lovers. 143 Stage Directions 3.2 HERMIA Out, dog! out, cur611! Thou drivest me past the bounds612 Of maiden's patience. Hast thou slain him, then? Henceforth be never number'd among men613! O, once614 tell true, tell true, even for my sake! Durst thou 615have look'd upon him being awake616, And hast thou kill'd him sleeping? O brave touch617 Could not a worm618, an adder619, do so much? An adder did it; for with doubler tongue Than thine, thou serpent, never adder stung620. DEMETRIUS You spend your passion on a misprised mood621: I am not guilty of Lysander's blood; Nor is he dead, for aught that I can tell. 65 70 75 Every time Hermia tries to be reasonable, Demetrius responds in ways that do not help his own cause. He is too selfish and arrogant to see how he is damaging himself. HERMIA I pray thee, tell me then that he is well. DEMETRIUS An if I could, what should I get therefore622? HERMIA A privilege never to see me more. And from thy hated presence part I so: See me no more, whether he be dead or no. Exit DEMETRIUS There is no following her in this fierce vein: Here therefore for a while I will remain. So sorrow's heaviness doth heavier grow For debt that bankrupt sleep doth sorrow owe623: Which now in some slight measure it will pay, 611 Cowardly dog Limits 613 Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t count yourself as human 614 For once tell the truth 615 Did you dare 616 Did you dare face him while he was awake? 617 Courageous stroke! (sarcastic) 618 Snake 619 Fork-tongued snake 620 No adder ever stung with as forked (deceitful) a tongue as yours 621 Misunderstanding 622 For that 623 Sadness gets harder to bear when you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t had enough sleep 612 Hermia remains furious with Demetrius, believing he has done Lysander some harm. 80 85 Demetrius gives up too easily here. This is a device to allow Oberon to put the love juice in his eyes. 144 3.2 Commentary Hermia’s reference to snakes recalls the earlier action when she awoke from a dream thinking that a snake was biting her breast. Note that while Puck doesn’t care in the least what happens to the people on whom he plays his tricks, Oberon obviously does. This only makes sense if you assume that Oberon sees in their predicaments something of the predicament into which he and Titania have fallen. Moreover he clearly recognises that the use of the magical love juice can have unintended consequences. He’s now beginning to regret that he put the love juice in Titania’s eyes in a fit of jealousy and anger. 145 Stage Directions 3.2 If for his tender624 here I make some stay625. Lies down and sleeps OBERON What hast thou done? thou hast mistaken quite And laid the love-juice on some true-love's sight: Of thy misprision626 must perforce ensue Some true love turn'd and not a false turn'd true627. Oberon is not amused that Puck has screwed up. 90 PUCK Then fate o'er-rules, that, one man holding troth, A million fail, confounding oath on oath628. OBERON About the wood go swifter than the wind, And Helena of Athens look thou find: All fancy-sick 629she is and pale of cheer630, With sighs of love, that costs the fresh blood dear631: By some illusion632 see thou bring her here: I'll charm his eyes against she do appear633. PUCK I go, I go; look how I go, Swifter than arrow from the Tartar's 634bow. Exit OBERON Flower of this purple dye, Hit with Cupid's archery, Sink in apple of his eye635. When his love he doth espy, Let her shine as gloriously As the Venus of the sky. When thou wakest, if she be by, Beg of her for remedy636. 624 95 100 Puck starts to amble off in his usual style. Then Oberon claps and gestures threateningly and Puck finally hastens off. 105 Oberon chants this spell. He is thinking all the time of what he has done to Titania. When he says the words, ‘Let her shine as gloriously…’ he is obviously thinking of Titania. Offer Sleep will repay a little if I stay here and accept its offer 626 mistake 627 Your mistake must result in upsetting true love rather than putting false love right 628 Then fate rules, for every man who is true in love, a million fail, breaking one oath after another 629 Love-sick 630 Face 631 A sigh was commonly thought to cost a drop of blood 632 Magic or trick 633 In preparation for her appearance 634 A warrior from central Asia, especially Turkey, renowned for their powerful bows 635 Sink into the pupil of his eye 636 i.e. beg her to cure your love sickness 625 146 3.2 Commentary Puckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s words about the lovers are salt in Oberonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wounds, now that he regrets what he has done to Titania. Once again Oberon goes out of his way to sort out the tangled relationships between the four lovers, while Puck is simply enjoying the situation. 147 Stage Directions 3.2 Re-enter PUCK PUCK Captain of our fairy band, Helena is here at hand; And the youth, mistook by me, Pleading for a lover's fee637. Shall we their fond pageant 638see? Lord, what fools these mortals be! 110 115 OBERON Stand aside: the noise they make Will cause Demetrius to awake. PUCK Then will two at once woo one; That must needs be sport alone639; And those things do best please me That befall preposterously640. Enter LYSANDER and HELENA LYSANDER Why should you think that I should woo in scorn641? Scorn and derision never come in tears642: Look when 643I vow, I weep; and vows so born, In their nativity all truth appears644. How can these things in me seem scorn to you, Bearing the badge of faith645, to prove them true? Puck sets up the audience for the hilarious hijinks that are to follow. During all the frenetic action that follows Oberon and Puck move about observing the lovers and trying to keep out of their way. 120 125 HELENA You do advance your cunning more and more. When truth kills truth, O devilish-holy fray646! These vows are Hermia's: will you give her o'er647? 130 648 Weigh oath with oath, and you will nothing weigh : 637 Puck addresses Oberon ironically. Then anticipating the action to come with the four lovers, he asks the audience if we should watch their actions. Lysander and Helena do not notice Demetrius lying practically under their noses, which adds to the humour of the situation. Reward Foolish scene 639 Sport of a unique kind 640 Turn out absurdly or ridiculously 641 Mockery 642 i.e. people don’t cry when they’re mocking someone 643 Whenever 644 i.e. when vows are born in weeping only truth appears at their birth 645 i.e. his tears 646 If Lysander’s present vow of love to Helena is true it destroys the vow he made to Hermia, in a clash that is both ‘holy’ since it involves vows, and ‘devilish’ since one vow is a lie 647 Abandon her 648 Because the oaths cancel each other and carry no weight 638 148 3.2 Commentary The actors playing Oberon and Puck must be active observers during the confrontation of the four lovers, with Puck clearly enjoying it much more than Oberon. Helena, who is totally bewildered by Lysander’s sudden vows of love to her, originally thought that he was mocking her. She is now coming around to the view that maybe he is serious, but she then questions his good judgment and loyalty. Lysander’s words about truth and judgment are ironical because he is under the influence of the magical love juice. Once again the love juice raises the question of illusion vs. reality. Recall that Theseus had recommended to Hermia that in matters of love she should look with her father’s judgment, i.e. she should replace her own judgment with that of her father’s. This was a typical patriarchal attitude. Now Lysander is telling Helena that when he swore he loved Hermia he had no judgment. Helena correctly suggests that he lacks judgment now in swearing he loves her, Helena. And don’t forget that both Helena and Hermia, who do not fall under the love drug’s effect, are aware of being in a wood at night with men who are behaving weirdly. This adds to their fear and bewilderment. 149 Stage Directions 3.2 Your vows to her and me, put in two scales, Will even weigh, and both as light as tales649. LYSANDER I had no judgment when to her I swore. HELENA Nor none, in my mind, now you give her o'er. 135 Lysander’s words are full of dramatic irony. Demetrius will immediately awaken, see Helena and fall under the same druginduced spell. LYSANDER Demetrius loves her, and he loves not you. DEMETRIUS [Awaking] O Helena, goddess, nymph, perfect, divine! To what, my love, shall I compare thine eyne650? Crystal is muddy. O, how ripe in show Thy lips, those kissing cherries, tempting grow! That pure congealed white, high Taurus651 snow, Fann'd with the eastern wind, turns to a crow When thou hold'st up thy hand652: O, let me kiss This princess of pure white, this seal653 of bliss! HELENA O spite! O hell! I see you all are bent654 To set against 655me for your merriment: If you were civil and knew courtesy, You would not do me thus much injury. Can you not hate me, as I know you do, But you must join in souls 656to mock me too? If you were men, as men you are in show657, You would not use a gentle lady so; To vow, and swear, and superpraise my parts658, When I am sure you hate me with your hearts. You both are rivals, and love Hermia; And now both rivals, to mock Helena: 649 150 155 False as lies Eyes 651 Chain of mountains in Turkey 652 The pure white snow of a mountain top seems as black as a crow compared to your hand 653 Promise 654 Determined 655 Attack 656 Conspire 657 If you were the men you seem to be 658 Qualities 650 This speech of Demetrius’ should be delivered with passionate overemphasis that draws laughter from the audience. In Act 5 Bottom will parody the highfaluting romantic language that Demetrius and Lysander use here. Helena reacts with total astonishment, as does Lysander. When Demetrius utters the words “Thy lips ….tempting grow” he tries to hold and kiss Helena who, astonished, steps back. Then Demetrius hobbles across on his knees to Helena. She holds up one of her hands in a ‘no. no’ gesture. Demetrius grabs her hand and tries to kiss it but she pulls it away and he falls flat on his face. 150 3.2 Commentary Demetrius now awakens under the influence of the love drug and behaves in the same absurd infatuated manner as Lysander. Whereas before they both loved Hermia, now they both love Helena. Shakespeare is deliberately using this parallelism to comic effect. Demetrius’s sudden conversion only confuses Helena more, and brings the two men into bitter rivalry. We have to interpret Demetrius’ conversion to Helena as a subconscious recognition that he still truly loves Helena, although he had tried to make a match with Hermia. Demetrius’ reference to Helena’s ‘eyne’ (eyes) recalls Helena’s earlier almost obsessive references in Act 1 Scene 1 and Act 2 Scene 2 to Hermia’s eyes having bewitched Demetrius. The flowery romantic language of Demetrius will be magnificently parodied by Bottom in the Pyramus play in Act 5. Although both the men are under the influence, they still have enough self-awareness to know that both of them have changed the object of their affections. 151 Stage Directions 3.2 A trim659 exploit, a manly enterprise, To conjure tears up in a poor maid's eyes With your derision! None of noble sort660 Would so offend a virgin, and extort661 A poor soul's patience, all to make you sport662. LYSANDER You are unkind, Demetrius; be not so; For you love Hermia; this you know I know: And here, with all good will, with all my heart, In Hermia's love I yield you up my part; And yours of Helena to me bequeath663, Whom I do love and will do till my death. 160 165 HELENA Never did mockers waste more idle breath. DEMETRIUS Lysander, keep thy Hermia; I will none664: If e'er I loved her, all that love is gone. My heart to her but as guest-wise sojourn'd665, And now to Helen is it home return'd, There to remain. 170 LYSANDER Helen, it is not so. DEMETRIUS Disparage666 not the faith 667thou dost not know, Lest, to thy peril, thou aby it dear668. Look, where thy love comes; yonder is thy dear. Re-enter HERMIA HERMIA Dark night, that from the eye his function takes, 659 Fine Character 661 Torture 662 For your amusement 663 Assign or give 664 I want no part of her 665 Stayed for a short while like a visitor 666 Belittle or speak badly of 667 Deep love 668 Pay for it dearly 660 175 Lysander goes down on his knees and hobbles across to Helena grabbing her hand. Helena angrily tries to pull away. Meanwhile Demetrius grabs her other hand. Both of them on their knees tug Helena in opposite directions. The entire action between the lovers should be played as slapstick with lots of choreographed action on stage. This is pure farce. It has been staged in many different ways, but all of them intended to milk maximum humour from the confused situation. The action is far more important than the words. Also think through how Oberon and Puck, who are present but invisible to the four lovers, will fit into this action. Will Oberon, aghast at what he sees, freeze the action at times as he silently chastises Puck for the mess he has created? When Demetrius says ’And now to Helen is it home ….remain’, he takes Helena by one hand. Lysander grabs her by the other hand and both start to tug her in opposite directions. Both Lysander and Demetrius stand while still holding on to Helena’s hands. The men threaten each other with their sticks. Hermia enters peering about her fearfully. 152 3.2 Commentary All the dialogue here is laced with irony: Demetrius swearing that he now recognises he has always loved Helena; Lysander, saying to Helena, no, no, he lies, when he himself lies; Demetrius referring to Hermia, whom he loved, as Lysanderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beloved. Throughout these exchanges between the lovers, Shakespeare rings the changes on the unreliability of eyes (sight). 153 Stage Directions 3.2 The ear more quick of apprehension669 makes670; Wherein it doth impair the seeing sense, It pays the hearing double recompense. Thou art not by mine eye, Lysander, found; Mine ear, I thank it, brought me to thy sound But why unkindly didst thou leave me so? 180 Hermia has heard Lysander’s voice and then sees him and her fear turns to joy (temporarily). She runs up to Lysander and grabs him lovingly. LYSANDER Why should he stay, whom love doth press to go? HERMIA What love could press Lysander from my side? LYSANDER Lysander's love, that would not let him bide671, Fair Helena, who more engilds the night Than all you fiery oes672 and eyes of light673. Why seek'st thou me? Could not this make thee know, The hate I bear thee made me leave thee so? 185 190 HERMIA You speak not as you think674: it cannot be. HELENA Lo, she is one of this confederacy675! Now I perceive they have conjoin'd 676all three To fashion this false sport, in spite of me677. Injurious 678Hermia! Most ungrateful maid! Have you conspired, have you with these contrived To bait 679me with this foul derision680? Is all the counsel681 that we two have shared, The sisters' vows, the hours that we have spent, When we have chid682 the hasty-footed time 669 Understanding The night takes away sight but increases the power of hearing 671 Stay 672 Spangles 673 Who lights up the night more than the bright stars 674 You can’t mean what you’re saying 675 Group of conspirators 676 Got together 677 To mock me 678 Insulting 679 Torment 680 Cruel mockery 681 Confidences or secrets 682 Scolded or complained about 670 195 200 While her beloved Lysander praises her rival Helena, Hermia looks on open-mouthed. Hermia can’t believe her ears. Note that while the two men are drugged/under a magic spell, the two women are not. They therefore haven’t a clue what’s going on. Helena throws both men to the ground and advances on Hermia to deliver her rant. She keeps getting in Hermia’s face. While Helena and Hermia confront each other verbally the two men wrestle on the ground. Helena makes things worse for Hermia by claiming that the other three have conspired in a game of making fun of her. She then in a long rant accuses Hermia, who becomes slowly enraged. But soon deep inside, Helena will enjoy the complete turning of the tables: previously both men loved Hermia; now both love Helena. 154 3.2 Commentary Note that in Helena’s speech rhyming couplets give way to blank verse as the quarrel grows more intense and emotional. Helena now thinks that Hermia is part of a plot to mock her. The extent of Helena’s incomprehension of the present situation has to be seen against her total infatuation with Demetrius. A little while back Helena would have accepted Demetrius’ confessions of love gladly, but after Lysander has suddenly avowed his love for her she doesn’t know what to believe. 155 Stage Directions 3.2 For parting us,--O, is it all forgot? All school-days' friendship, childhood innocence? We, Hermia, like two artificial683 gods, Have with our needles created both one flower, Both on one sampler684, sitting on one cushion, Both warbling of one song, both in one key, As if our hands, our sides, voices and minds, Had been incorporate685. So we grow together, Like to a double cherry, seeming parted, But yet an union in partition686; Two lovely berries moulded on one stem; So, with two seeming bodies, but one heart; Two of the first, like coats in heraldry, Due but to one and crowned with one crest687. And will you rent688 our ancient love asunder689, To join with men in scorning your poor friend? It is not friendly, 'tis not maidenly: Our sex, as well as I, may chide you for it, Though I alone do feel the injury. HERMIA I am amazed at your passionate words. I scorn you not: it seems that you scorn me. HELENA Have you not set Lysander, as in scorn, To follow me and praise my eyes and face? And made your other love, Demetrius, Who even but now 690did spurn me with his foot, To call me goddess, nymph, divine and rare, Precious, celestial?691 Wherefore speaks he this To her he hates? And wherefore doth Lysander Deny your love, so rich within his soul, And tender692 me, forsooth693, affection, But by your setting on, by your consent? 683 Helena takes out her anger on Hermia. At the same time she is unconsciously enjoying the fact that the two men who previously loved Hermia now dote on her. 205 210 215 220 Helena grabs Lysander’s stick and starts laying about her. The others dodge the blows. 225 She then throws the stick back at Lysander as she prepares to leave. 230 Highly skilled, from ‘artificer’, a craftsman Piece of embroidery 685 United in one body 686 Apparently separate, but really one whole in two parts 687 Like a coat of arms on a shield, divided down the middle, but united by a single crest 688 tear 689 apart 690 Just recently 691 heavenly 692 offer 693 In truth 684 Hermia is totally bewildered, but getting irritated by Helena’s accusations. 156 3.2 Commentary Shakespeare cleverly lets Helena’s speech remind the audience of the similar remarks that Hermia at the end of Act 1 Scene 1 made about not soliciting the avowals of Demetrius’ love. Again this is another example of parallelism. Helena may be bewildered by what is going on, but she certainly enjoys the fact that the two men who previously loved Hermia now love her. Her words are meant, at least unconsciously, to rub salt in Hermia’s wound. This is obvious in the way she exaggerates the complimentary adjectives that she says Demetrius showers on her: ‘goddess, nymph, divine, and rare, precious, celestial?’ This can have only one function – to revenge herself on Hermia. 157 3.2 What thought I be not so in grace 694as you, So hung upon with love695, so fortunate, But miserable most, to love unloved696? This you should pity rather than despise697. Stage Directions 235 Helena is sarcastic. Hermia totally bewildered. HERMIA I understand not what you mean by this. HELENA Ay, do, persever698, counterfeit699 sad looks, Make mouths 700upon me when I turn my back; Wink each at other; hold701 the sweet jest up: This sport, well carried, shall be chronicled702. 240 If you have any pity, grace703, or manners, You would not make me such an argument704. But fare ye well: 'tis partly my own fault; Which death or absence soon shall remedy. LYSANDER Stay, gentle Helena; hear my excuse: My love, my life, my soul, fair Helena! Lysander holds back Helena as she tries to leave. 245 HELENA O excellent705! HERMIA Sweet, do not scorn her so. DEMETRIUS If she cannot entreat, I can compel706. 694 So popular Caressed 696 Loving but not loved in return 697 You should pity rather than mock me 698 Persevere or continue 699 Fake 700 Pull faces 701 Keep up (the joke) 702 Told, as a joke 703 Goodness 704 Butt of your jokes or figure of fun 705 Sarcastic 706 If she canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t persuade him, I will make him 695 Hermia holds on to Lysander. While Lysander is holding Helena and Hermia is holding Lysander, Demetrius tries to get hold of Lysander. This, properly choreographed, can be farcical. 158 3.2 Commentary Lysander pours more salt into Hermia’s open wound as he urges Helena not to leave. By this time Hermia is totally bewildered. Apart from the farcical humour going on here and the parody of infatuation, Shakespeare has a deeper purpose at play. He wants to show that for the four lovers to arrive at a mature love for each other they must first come to terms with their subconscious feelings and instincts by showing a degree of honesty. For example, Helena and Hermia have always been the best of friends as the text makes clear; but there is also a lot of envy and resentment of each other in their relationship that have always remained beneath the surface, but now have to surface and be worked out before they can reach a new level of maturity. To a lesser degree this also applies to the relationship between Demetrius and Lysander, even though there is no textual evidence that they are good friends. They actually come to blows. Even more important though, the two men (genetically predisposed to promiscuity like all men) must come to terms with their innermost feelings before they can reach a level of maturity at which they have mastery over their instinctual desires. In Lysander’s case he has to come to terms with the fact that despite his genuine love for Hermia, he still feels sexually attracted to Helena. In Demetrius’ case he has to come to terms with the fact that despite his decision to pursue marriage to Hermia for essentially financial reasons he still feels a deep attraction for Helena. All four lovers have to let it all hang out. And this they do with a vengeance in the second most hilarious scene in the history of the theatre. At the time Shakespeare was writing, black skin became widely understood as the result of Noah’s curse upon his son Ham’s descendants. These racist taunts will be heaped on Hermia. 159 Stage Directions 3.2 LYSANDER Thou canst compel no more than she entreat707: Thy threats have no more strength than her weak prayers. Helen, I love thee; by my life, I do: I swear by that708 which I will lose for thee, To prove him false that says I love thee not. 250 Lysander continues to hold on to Helena. DEMETRIUS I say I love thee more than he can do. LYSANDER If thou say so, withdraw709, and prove it too. Demetrius now grabs hold of Helena too. 255 DEMETRIUS Quick, come! HERMIA Lysander, whereto tends all this? LYSANDER Away, you Ethiope710! Lysander draws his stick. Demetrius draws his stick and he and Lysander engage in a brief bout of stick-licking, with Helena caught between them and Hermia holding Lysander. Hermia tries to pull Lysander away from fighting with Demetrius, who taunts him by accusing him of letting a girl hold him back. Hermia grabs him by the leg and holds on for dear life. He drags her with him. DEMETRIUS No, no, sir, Seem to break loose711; take on as you would follow712, But yet come not: you are a tame man713, go! LYSANDER Hang off, thou cat, thou burr714! Vile thing, let loose, Or I will shake thee from me like a serpent! HERMIA Why are you grown so rude715? What change is this? Sweet love,-- 707 260 Lysander tries his best to shake off Hermia as he hurls insults at her. Lysander still can’t shake her off. During all this exchange of words Lysander is struggling to get at Demetrius with his stick and Hermia is holding him back determinedly. You can’t make me any more than she can persuade me i.e. his life, which he might lose in a duel with Demetrius 709 Draw your sword 710 Reference to Hermia’s dark complexion. This was a term used for any dark-skinned person 711 You’re only pretending to break loose from Hermia 712 You make a great fuss as if you would follow me 713 A coward 714 A seed that clings to one’s clothes 715 Rough or coarse 708 160 3.2 Commentary Note that as all three others turn on Hermia their insults about her stature and complexion (Ethiope, tawny Tartar) grow stronger. In the case of Lysander, he is not only lusting after Helena, but is hostile to the point of viciousness towards Hermia. We can explain this as a side effect of the love drug that not only makes you dote on the person you first see but also hate the person who you think to be an obstacle in the way of your possessing the object you desire so desperately. But in broader psychological terms Shakespeare may be trying to show us how close to hate love often is. You never hate someone with such intensity as the person you deeply love. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a paradox we have to live with. Although this scene is essentially comic, underlying it there is something chilling and tragic about the vicious insults that Lysander hurls at Hermia, and the way the two men are prepared to kill each other for Helena. 161 Stage Directions 3.2 LYSANDER Thy love! Out, tawny Tartar716, out! Out, loathed medicine! Hated potion717, hence! Hermia is shattered by what is going on. She is still hoping against hope that it is all some silly joke. HERMIA Do you not jest? HELENA Yes, sooth718; and so do you. 265 LYSANDER Demetrius, I will keep my word with thee719. Meanwhile the two men still try to get at each other with their sticks. DEMETRIUS I would I had your bond, for I perceive A weak bond720 holds you: I'll not trust your word. LYSANDER What, should I hurt her, strike her, kill her dead? Although I hate her, I'll not harm her so. Hermia still holds on to Lysander. 270 HERMIA What, can you do me greater harm than hate? Hate me! Wherefore? O me! What news, my love! Am not I Hermia? Are not you Lysander? I am as fair now as I was erewhile721. Since night you loved me; yet since night you left me:722 275 Why, then you left me--O, the gods forbid!-In earnest723, shall I say? LYSANDER Ay, by my life; And never did desire to see thee more. Therefore be out of hope, of question, of doubt; Be certain, nothing truer – ‘tis no jest That I do hate thee and love Helena. 716 Hermia is incredulous. 280 Brown barbarian .Another reference to Hermia’s dark skin. Could also mean ‘poison’. 718 Indeed, of course 719 i.e. to fight 720 The first ‘bond’ means a legal agreement; the second a tie or restraint, referring to Hermia holding on to Lysander 721 A little while ago 722 You loved me at nightfall; then you left me during the night 723 For real 717 162 3.2 Commentary When Lysander suggests that hurting, striking or killing Hermia is just a bit more than his hatred for her demands, you wonder what is going on. Indeed Hermia is totally lost. Her plaintive words â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Am not I Hermia? Are not you Lysander?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; calls into question whether this is a dream or some horrible nightmare. What is reality and what illusion? Think too how Oberon and Puck (present but invisible to the four lovers) react to what is going on in very different ways: Puck no doubt finding it highly amusing and Oberon highly disturbing. Despite the underlying tragic potential of what is going on, it is at this point that the farce accelerates as Helena and Hermia come close to blows and the two men try to keep Hermia away from Helena, while trying to fight each other. The action here has to be carefully and cleverly choreographed since the text allows for a wide interpretation of physical action. 163 Stage Directions 3.2 HERMIA O me! you juggler724! You canker-blossom725! You thief of love! What, have you come by night And stolen my love's heart from him? HELENA Fine, i'faith726! Have you no modesty, no maiden shame, No touch of bashfulness? What, will you tear Impatient answers from my gentle tongue? Fie, fie! you counterfeit727, you puppet728, you! HERMIA Puppet? why so? Ay, that way goes the game729. Now I perceive that she hath made compare Between our statures730; she hath urged her height731; And with her personage732, her tall personage, Her height, forsooth, she hath prevail'd733 with him. And are you grown so high in his esteem; Because I am so dwarfish and so low? How low am I, thou painted maypole734? Speak; How low am I? I am not yet so low But that my nails can reach unto thine eyes. HELENA I pray you, though you mock me, gentlemen, Let her not hurt me: I was never curst735; I have no gift at all in shrewishness; I am a right maid for my cowardice736: Let her not strike me. You perhaps may think, Because she is something lower than myself, That I can match her. HERMIA Lower! hark, again. 724 Hermia has had enough. She can’t understand what is going on but now she thinks Helena is behind it all. This is where it gets interesting. 285 300 305 Hermia is now enraged by the insults from Helena. Her words here are laden with sarcasm and anger. She starts this speech by facing the audience, but then turns and slowly advances on Helena, spitting her insults at her. When she says the words ‘nails can reach unto thine eyes’ she lunges at Helena. Demetrius and Lysander quickly intercept her. While Helena speaks these lines, the two men hold Hermia, struggling to get at Helena, away from Helena; at the same time the two men try to hit each other. Helena now turns up her insults. When Hermia repeats the word ‘lower’ she summons all her strength and hurls the two men to the ground Trickster Diseased flower 726 Oh, very good (sarcastic)! Helena insists that Hermia is conspiring with the others to mock her. 727 Cheat 728 Two meanings: someone whose strings are being pulled; and someone who is short. Helena is tall and Hermia short. 729 I see where this is going. 730 Heights 731 She is boasting how tall she is 732 Stature 733 She has won over Lysander 734 Hermia refers to the fact that Helena is tall and skinny and implies she wears too much make-up 735 Quarrelsome or shrewish 736 I am truly a timid soul 725 164 3.2 Commentary The conflict between the two women (best friends) becomes physical, and this is where they let it all hang out. Repressed resentments and jealousies come to the surface with a vengeance, as they trade insults about their physical qualities (‘puppet’, ‘painted maypole’). Helena clearly enjoys having the two men protect her against Hermia, which only infuriates Hermia more. 165 3.2 HELENA Good Hermia, do not be so bitter with me. I evermore737 did love you, Hermia, Did ever keep your counsels738, never wrong'd you; Save that, in love unto Demetrius, I told him of your stealth739 unto this wood. He follow'd you; for love I follow'd him; But he hath chid740 me hence and threaten'd me To strike me, spurn me, nay, to kill me too: And now, so you will let me quiet go, To Athens will I bear my folly back And follow you no further: let me go: You see how simple and how fond741 I am. Stage Directions Helena tries to placate Hermia by reasoning with her. Lysander, who has got up now puts himself between the two girls, facing Hermia with this hands in the air as if to stop her attacking Helena. Demetrius does the same. HERMIA Why, get you gone: who is't that hinders you? HELENA A foolish heart that I leave here behind. HERMIA What, with Lysander? HELENA With Demetrius. LYSANDER Be not afraid; she shall not harm thee, Helena. DEMETRIUS No, sir, she shall not, though you take her part. HELENA O, when she's angry, she is keen and shrewd742! She was a vixen743 when she went to school; And though she be but little, she is fierce. HERMIA 'Little' again! Nothing but 'low' and 'little'! Why will you suffer her to flout 744me thus? Let me come to her. 737 Always Always confided in you 739 Stealing away 740 Scolded or rebuked 741 Foolish or doting 742 Harsh and shrewish 743 A female fox, i.e. sly and ferocious 744 Abuse 738 Helena makes the mistake of insulting Hermia again, making another reference to her shortness. Hermia pauses after exclaiming ‘little’ and then emphasizes ‘again’. Hermia rushes at Helena, but she is held off by Lysander holding his outstretched hand, palm open, on her forehead while she flails away. Then she stoops down and quickly darts through Lysander’s legs. Helena backs away. Lysander grabs Hermia and while heaping insults on her throws her away. 166 3.2 Commentary Once more we see that the effect of the love juice drug is not only to make the person drugged love but also hate. Helena’s remarks to Hermia that Demetrius ‘threaten'd me/ To strike me, spurn me, nay, to kill me too’ echo Lysander’s comments about Hermia, revealing both men in the worst light possible. Helena tries at first to reason with Hermia, telling her that she in fact betrayed her confidence about she and Lysander fleeing to the wood, and that now she intends to return to Athens, but then she ruins it all by insulting Hermia again as a shrewish vixen. Hermia cannot take the insults about her being short. She flies into a rage, leading to the climax of this particular piece of stage action. Of course while the women are quite sober, the men are drugged out of their minds, so you have to pity poor Lysander who will at the end of the play return to normal and marry Hermia. Fortunately for him both women will be put under a spell of forgetful sleep by Titania in Act 4 that will leave them with only vague memories of what happened. 167 3.2 Stage Directions LYSANDER Get you gone, you dwarf; You minimus745, of hindering knot-grass 746made; You bead, you acorn. DEMETRIUS You are too officious In her behalf that scorns your services747. Let her alone: speak not of Helena; Take not her part; for, if thou dost intend Never so little show of love to her, Thou shalt aby748 it. LYSANDER Now she holds me not749; Now follow, if thou darest, to try whose right, 750 Of thine or mine, is most in Helena. 330 335 Lysander and Demetrius go off fighting with their sticks. DEMETRIUS Follow! nay, I'll go with thee, cheek by jowl751. Exeunt LYSANDER and DEMETRIUS HERMIA You, mistress, all this coil is 'long of you752: Nay, go not back753. HELENA I will not trust you, I, Nor longer stay in your curst754 company. Your hands than mine are quicker for a fray755, My legs are longer though, to run away. Exit HERMIA I am amazed, and know not what to say. Exit OBERON This is thy negligence756: still thou mistakest, Or else committ'st thy knaveries wilfully757. 745 340 Hermia turns to the audience. She says to the audience “I am amazed” pauses and then says her last words and exits. This line should be delivered so as to get a laugh. 345 A tiny thing; a word probably coined by Shakespeare A weed which was believed to stunt one’s growth and also smothered other plants 747 You are too eager to take the part of someone who doesn’t want your help 748 Pay for 749 Lysander is no longer held back by Hermia 750 Which of us has the greater right to Helena 751 Face to face, close together 752 All this turmoil is because of you 753 Don’t retreat or don’t run 754 Shrewish 755 Fight 756 Fault 757 You are either careless or willfully malicious 746 Hermia gets to her feet and menacingly advances on Helena who retreats. She has no Lysander and Demetrius to protect her now. Helena pulls her skirt up and flees. Oberon wags his threateningly at Puck. finger 168 3.2 Commentary When Hermia says she is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;amazedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, it means both astonished and bewildered as if lost in a maze. So ends this wonderful farcical scene. 169 3.2 PUCK Believe me, king of shadows758, I mistook. Did not you tell me I should know the man By the Athenian garment be had on? And so far blameless proves my enterprise, That I have 'nointed759 an Athenian's eyes; And so far am I glad it so did sort760 As this their jangling761 I esteem a sport.762 OBERON Thou see'st these lovers seek a place to fight: Hie 763therefore, Robin, overcast the night; The starry welkin764 cover thou anon With drooping fog as black as Acheron765, And lead these testy766 rivals so astray As 767one come not within another's way. Like to Lysander sometime frame thy tongue768, Then stir Demetrius up with bitter wrong769; And sometime rail770 thou like Demetrius; And from each other look thou 771lead them thus, Till o'er their brows death-counterfeiting sleep With leaden legs and batty772 wings doth creep: Then crush this herb into Lysander's eye; Whose liquor hath this virtuous property773, To take from thence all error with his774 might, And make his eyeballs roll with wonted775 sight. When they next wake, all this derision776 Shall seem a dream and fruitless vision777, And back to Athens shall the lovers wend778, With league whose date till death shall never end779. Whiles I in this affair do thee employ, 758 Of the night; of fairies and spirits Put the juice in 760 Turn out 761 Quarreling 762 I consider a lot of fun 763 Hurry 764 Sky 765 One of the rivers of the underworld 766 Touchy or bad tempered 767 That 768 Disguise your voice to sound like Lysander 769 Unjust accusations 770 Use abusive language or rant 771 Make sure to 772 Bat-like 773 Quality or power 774 i.e. the liquor’s 775 Normal 776 Foolishness 777 A fantasy 778 Go 779 An alliance of love that shall last until death 759 Stage Directions Puck puts up his hands, all injured innocence, as be backs away from Oberon. 350 Oberon partly addresses Puck and partly the audience during this speech. 355 360 365 370 When Oberon says ‘then crush this herb’ he takes out the herb and gives it to Puck. Oberon addresses most of his speech to the audience. 170 3.2 Commentary Note that the first part of the conversation between Oberon and Puck is in blank verse, thus marking the change in speakers and tone. Then they switch to rhyme. Note also that Puck addresses Oberon as king of shadows, i.e. of the night and of spirits. But in his epilogue Puck also uses ‘shadows’ to refer to the actors in the play. In a sense Oberon and Puck are, through their interventions, the creators of theatrical performance between the lovers (two of whom are administered the love juice), among the mechanicals (Puck’s transformation into an ass), and among the fairies/spirits (Titania, administered the love juice, and Bottom transformed) Oberon and Puck have different reactions to the conflicts among the four lovers induced by the mistake Puck made in putting the drug into the eyes of Demetrius rather than Lysander. Puck has enjoyed the confusion whilst Oberon is angry. Oberon instructs Puck to ensure that the two men do not come to blows but tire themselves out until they sleep so Puck can put an antidote into Lysander’s eyes to return him to normal and love Hermia again. It is interesting that Oberon does not instruct Puck to put any antidote in Demetrius’ eyes. He is to remain permanently under the influence of the love juice. Yet Oberon says that when both men awake, they both will remember what happened only as ‘a dream and fruitless vision.’ So, clearly, although it is not specified, Demetrius will undergo some form of transformation which will leave him as loving Helena, but not as he was under the influence of the love juice. So to all effects and purposes Demetrius too returns to a non-drugged state. Note, however, that neither man returns to what he was before the love juice had been administered. They are both transformed by the dreamlike experience to a new level of maturity. This is consistent with the major theme of the play that a voyage through illusion/fantasy/dream/the subconscious is a necessary part of the healing process by which a person is transformed from an immature reality to a mature reality. 171 Stage Directions 3.2 I'll to my queen and beg her Indian boy; And then I will her charmed780eye release From monster's view, and all things shall be peace. PUCK My fairy lord, this must be done with haste, For night's swift dragons cut the clouds full fast, And yonder shines Aurora's harbinger781; At whose approach, ghosts, wandering here and there, Troop home to churchyards: damned spirits 782all, That in crossways and floods have burial783, Already to their wormy784 beds are gone; For fear lest day should look their shames785 upon, They willfully themselves exile from light And must for aye 786consort 787with black-brow'd night. OBERON But we are spirits of another sort: I with the morning's love have oft made sport788, And, like a forester789, the groves may tread, Even till the eastern gate, all fiery-red, Opening on Neptune with fair blessed beams, Turns into yellow gold his salt green streams790. But, notwithstanding, haste; make no delay: We may effect this business 791yet ere day. Exit \ PUCK Up and down, up and down, I will lead them up and down: I am fear'd in field and town: Goblin, lead them up and down. Here comes one. 375 390 395 Puck now speaks with a sense of urgency, reminding Oberon that the night is almost over. During the following action, Puck remains on stage while Lysander and Demetrius come and go. The scene should have a farcical but nightmarish quality to it, as befits two men drugged out of their minds. Puck is like a bullfighter waving an invisible cloth through which the two bulls (Demetrius and Lysander) charge futilely (remember that Puck is invisible to them). The whole sequence should be like a bullfighting ballet, ending with each circling Puck like an exhausted bull and then falling to the ground and passing out. 400 Re-enter LYSANDER LYSANDER Where art thou, proud Demetrius? speak thou now. 780 Enchanted or bewitched The morning star, sign of the coming dawn 782 The spirits of those who are damned and whose bodies do not lie in churchyards 783 Suicides were buried at crossroads and drowned people would have no funeral rites if their bodies were not recovered 784 Crawling with worms 785 Disgrace 786 For ever 787 Keep company 788 I often hunted with Cephalus, the beloved of Aurora 789 A game warden or forest ranger 790 Wander around in the woods until the sun rises over the ocean turning the green water to gold. Neptune was the Roman god of the oceans 791 Get this business done 781 172 3.2 Commentary Shakespeare here has Oberon indicate how the conflicts between the four lovers and between him and Titania will be resolved. Oberon ends his lines with the words ‘and all things shall be peace’. This of course is only a promise. The audience will have to wait to see if things turn out as Oberon envisages. Don’t forget that it was his intervention in human affairs, through Puck, that created the confusion between the lovers in the first place. In addition the audience is still left in suspense about whether the death threat on Hermia will be lifted; what will happen to Bottom; whether the workmen will get to put on their play or not; and whether Theseus and Hippolyta will be truly reconciled. Act 4, the climax of the play, will resolve all these conflicts, and then we will have the magnificent, hilarious denouement in Act 5. It is interesting that Oberon says he will ‘beg’ the Indian boy of Titania, not take him from her. Clearly Oberon himself has been transformed by witnessing the confused conflicts among the lovers, teetering on the brink of tragedy, and is now ready for reconciliation with Titania. Shakespeare has Oberon draw the distinction between ghosts of dead humans who can only come out at night, and spirits like Oberon himself and presumably Titania and Puck. Or is Oberon using the royal ‘we’ to refer to himself alone, suggesting that he, as king of the spirit world, is immune to the daylight. For he seems to accept that there is need to act quickly. Puck’s speech about morning soon coming is also intended to remind the audience of the passage of theatrical time and that all the machinations taking place in the moonlit night must come to an end quickly. 173 Stage Directions 3.2 PUCK Here, villain; drawn792 and ready. Where art thou? LYSANDER I will be with thee straight. PUCK Follow me, then, To plainer793 ground. Exit LYSANDER, as following the voice; Re-enter DEMETRIUS DEMETRIUS Lysander! speak again: Thou runaway, thou coward, art thou fled? Speak! In some bush? Where dost thou hide thy head? 405 PUCK Thou coward, art thou bragging to the stars, Telling the bushes that thou look'st for wars794, And wilt not come? Come, recreant795; come, thou child; I'll whip thee with a rod: he is defiled796 410 That draws a sword on thee. DEMETRIUS Yea, art thou there? PUCK Follow my voice: we'll try no manhood here797. Exeunt; Re-enter LYSANDER LYSANDER He goes before me and still dares me on798: When I come where he calls, then he is gone. The villain is much lighter-heel'd 799than I: I follow'd fast, but faster he did fly; That fallen am I in dark uneven way, And here will rest me. Lies down Come, thou gentle day! For if but once thou show me thy grey light, I'll find Demetrius and revenge this spite. Sleeps. 792 415 420 With sword drawn More open 794 Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for a fight 795 Coward: one who broke faith with his lord to whom he had pledged 796 Disgraced or dishonoured 797 Not put our manhood to the test here 798 He flees but still taunts me 799 Faster 793 This is the final sequence in the bullfighting ballet, in which Lysander takes shorter and shorter runs at Puck who dodges him like a bullfighter and then despatches him as if holding a sword. As Lysander sinks to the ground, Puck turns to the audience, raises his hands in victory and takes a deep bow as if to great applause. 174 Commentary This bit of stage business with which Act 3 ends, brings the dream sequence of the four lovers to an end. Puck as usual enjoys carrying out his instructions from Oberon in as mischievous a way as possible. We have suggested that Lysanderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Demetriusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rushing around the invisible (to them) Puck, might be staged as a mock bullfight. It is not intended to be realistic, but to be farcical in a highly stylised manner, ending as it does with the two men falling asleep near to each other and the two women coming in to fall asleep next to their right mates. This scene with its hallucinatory quality calls into question more than anything else what exactly is reality and what is illusion. Lysander and Demetrius are totally bewildered by Puck. They are truly in a nightmare. Again we are reminded by both Lysander, Demetrius and Helena that day is approaching. After a nightmarish experience throughout this long night, all three sink into a deep and dreamless sleep. 175 Stage Directions 3.2 Re-enter PUCK and DEMETRIUS PUCK Ho, ho, ho! Coward, why comest thou not? DEMETRIUS Abide800 me, if thou darest; for well I wot801 Thou runn'st before me, shifting every place, And darest not stand, nor look me in the face. Where art thou now? PUCK Come hither: I am here. 425 DEMETRIUS Nay, then, thou mock'st me. Thou shalt buy this dear802, If ever I thy face by daylight see: Now, go thy way. Faintness constraineth 803me To measure out my length 804on this cold bed. By day's approach look to be visited805. 430 Lies down and sleeps. Re-enter Helena HELENA O weary night, O long and tedious night, Abate thy hours806! Shine comforts from the east807, That I may back to 808Athens by daylight, From these that my poor company detest809: And sleep, that sometimes shuts up sorrow's eye, Steal me awhile from mine own company810. Lies down and sleeps PUCK Yet but three? Come one more; Two of both kinds make up four. Here she comes, curst811 and sad: Cupid is a knavish lad812, Thus to make poor females mad. 435 440 Re-enter Hermia 800 Face me or wait for me Know 802 Pay for this dearly 803 Forces or obliges 804 To lie down 805 I’ll get you as soon as morning breaks 806 Cut short; i.e. make time fly faster 807 I wish the comforting light of day would shine 808 I may return 809 And get away from these people who hate my company so much 810 And may sleep that brings relief from sorrow release me from myself for a while 811 Ill-tempered 812 A naughty boy 801 Puck utters the words ”Come hither: I am here” from centre stage as he stands like the matador at the end of a bullfight. They then re-enact the same scene as occurred earlier with Puck and Lysander. The following actions in which the two women enter and fall exhausted to sleep should mimic each other. This is the end of the dream sequence. Puck contrives to push, drag the two women as they fall asleep next to their respective mates. Helena blinded by sleep ends up next to Demetrius, without seeing him, just as Hermia ends up next to Lysander without seeing him. Much fun could be had with this ending (imagine just as Puck gets one woman organized, the other has crawled away and has to be dragged back etc). 176 3.2 Commentary Hermia staggers in and Puck helps her to lie down next to Lysander. Hermia, like Helena, is totally exhausted both physically and emotionally. Indeed as Puck manipulates the two women so as to get them correctly paired off, they appear more like puppets than humans. Indeed in one sense they are, since Puck has been pulling everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strings. 177 Stage Directions 3.2 HERMIA Never so weary, never so in woe, Bedabbled813 with the dew and torn with briers814, I can no further crawl, no further go; My legs can keep no pace with my desires. Here will I rest me till the break of day. Heavens shield Lysander, if they mean a fray815! Lies down and sleeps PUCK On the ground Sleep sound: I'll apply To your eye, Gentle lover, remedy. Squeezing the juice on LYSANDER's eyes When thou wakest, Thou takest True delight In the sight Of thy former lady's eye: And the country proverb 816known, That every man should take his own, In your waking shall be shown: Jack shall have Jill; Nought shall go ill; The man shall have his mare again, and all shall be well. 445 Exit 813 Spattered or splashed Thorns or prickles 815 God protect Lysander if they intend to fight 816 These were well-known proverbs from Shakespeare’s time, all meaning that ‘boy gets girl’. 814 Puck brings this remarkable and hilarious action in Act 3, Scene 2, to an end in an incantatory style, turning to address the audience direct from ‘And the country proverb…”. He bows deeply as he exits. 178 3.2 Commentary Finally Puck gets it right. As he utters his final words to the audience ‘Jack shall have Jill;/ Nought shall go ill;/ The man shall have his mare again, and all shall be well’, the audience will breathe a deep sigh of relief. The end of Act 3 might be an appropriate place to have an intermission. It comes after a lengthy Act 3 Scene 2 that includes the second funniest action in the play; it allows the ‘sleeping’ actors to remove themselves; it leaves the audience in suspense, and it is an appropriate pause before the climax in Act 4 and the lengthy denouement in Act 5. 179 4.1 ACT 4, SCENE 1. The same wood. LYSANDER, DEMETRIUS, HELENA, and HERMIA lying asleep. Enter TITANIA and BOTTOM; PEASEBLOSSOM, COBWEB, MOTH, MUSTARDSEED, and other Fairies attending; OBERON behind unseen TITANIA Come, sit thee down upon this flowery bed, While I thy amiable817 cheeks do coy818, And stick musk-roses in thy sleek smooth head, And kiss thy fair large ears, my gentle joy. BOTTOM Where's Peaseblossom? Stage Directions 5 PEASEBLOSSOM Ready. BOTTOM Scratch my head Peaseblossom. Where's Mounsieur 819Cobweb? COBWEB Ready. BOTTOM Mounsieur Cobweb, good mounsieur, get you your weapons in your 10 hand, and kill me a red-hipped humble-bee on the top of a thistle; and, good mounsieur, bring me the honey-bag. Do not fret yourself too much in the action, mounsieur; and, good mounsieur, have a care the honey-bag break not; I would be loath to have you overflown820 with a honey-bag, signior. Where's 15 Mounsieur Mustardseed? MUSTARDSEED Ready. BOTTOM Give me your neaf821, Mounsieur Mustardseed. Pray you, leave your courtesy822, good mounsieur. MUSTARDSEED What's your will?823 817 Lovely Caress 819 Monsieur: Bottom’s mispronouncing attempt to speak high-flown language 820 Overflowing; i.e. drowned in honey 821 Hand 822 Leave your courtesy; i.e. stop bowing and scraping 823 How can I serve you? 818 20 The four lovers, now properly paired, lie in pairs on either side of the stage. Titania and Bottom and the four spirits will occupy centre stage. Titania enters leading a reluctant Bottom by the hand. Oberon is upstage. Titania, still under the influence of the love drug, speaks seductively and erotically to Bottom who has, not sex, but food and other comforts on his mind. She should say the words ‘cheeks’ ‘head’ and ‘large’ to bring out the double entendre. In other words the conflict between Titania and Bottom continues. Each has one thing in mind, but it is different for each one. While Bottom addresses the spirits Titania is caressing him seductively. The spirits reply mockingly to Bottom. Note that Oberon is observing all this with mixed feelings. 180 4.1 Act 4, Scene 1. Summary Oberon, having asked for and obtained the Indian boy from Titania, releases Titania from her spell and they are reconciled. Theseus and Hippolyta, who themselves have been reconciled, stumble upon the four lovers in the wood early in the morning when they go hunting. Theseus sees that they are now happily matched, and overrules Egeus. He invites the two couples to be married at his own wedding ceremony. Commentary We left Bottom at the end of Act 3 Scene 1 being taken forcibly to Titania’s bower, and we argued that Bottom, completely bewildered and scared, was unable to have sex with Titania. We know from what Oberon will say in a moment, that he met Titania who was gathering flowers for the sleeping Bottom. Oberon asked her for the Indian boy and she agreed. Now it is near morning and Titania is still trying to seduce Bottom and get him in the mood. She has had a frustrating time of it so far. But Bottom has been transformed. He has lost most of his initial fear and is now feeling somewhat peckish. Some commentators (and some productions –notably that of Peter Brook) have suggested that Titania and Bottom actually have sex. But this is highly unlikely with Oberon watching and later saying to Puck ‘See’st thou this sweet sight?’ It would be totally out of character. 181 4.1 Stage Directions BOTTOM Nothing, good mounsieur, but to help Cavalery824 Peaseblossom to scratch. I must to the barber's, mounsieur; for methinks I am marvellous hairy about the face; and I am such a tender 825ass, if my hair do but tickle me, I must scratch. TITANIA What, wilt thou hear some music, my sweet love? 25 BOTTOM I have a reasonable good ear in music. Let's have the tongs and the bones826. TITANIA Or say, sweet love, what thou desirest to eat. BOTTOM Truly, a peck of provender827: I could munch your good dry oats. Methinks I have a great desire to a bottle828 of hay: good hay, sweet hay, hath no fellow829. 30 TITANIA I have a venturous 830fairy that shall seek The squirrel's hoard831, and fetch thee new nuts832. BOTTOM I had rather have a handful or two of dried peas. But, I pray you, let none of your people stir me: I have an exposition833 of sleep come upon me. 35 TITANIA Sleep thou, and I will wind thee in my arms. Fairies, begone, and be all ways away834. Exeunt fairies So doth the woodbine the sweet honeysuckle Gently entwist; the female ivy so Enrings 835the barky fingers 836of the elm. O, how I love thee! How I dote on thee! They sleep 824 40 As Titania asks him if he wants some music she starts cooing into his ear and moving seductively. She thinks some music and slow dancing will get our boy in the mood. He slaps his ear as if she had tickled him. Titania seductively utters the word ‘eat’ to bring out the double entendre. But Bottom takes her literally. Again Titania says the word ‘nuts’ to emphasize the double entendre, using her hands suggestively. Part of the humour of this scene is that Bottom and Titania are talking past each other about two different things. As Titania says these words she slowly pins Bottom down and climbs on top of him. The spirit attendants sneak back on stage and put a screen shielding them from the audience. One of them wags a finger at the audience. Bottom’s head appears once above the screen but he is hauled back down. He brays loudly in desperation. He tries to crawl away but is dragged back. Oberon gestures and they both freeze and then fall asleep. Cavaliere; meaning ‘sir’ in Italian: Another of Bottom’s mispronunciation Sensitive 826 The crudest percussion instruments i.e. showing his lack of musical appreciation. Metal triangles were struck with a key and bones were held between the fingers and rattled together 827 A good quantity of food 828 Bundle 829 There’s nothing like it 830 Adventurous 831 Secret stash 832 A naughty play on words, hinting that Titania has exhausted Bottom’s love-making capacity. 833 Another mistake of Bottom’s. He means ‘disposition’ or inclination. 834 In every direction 835 Encircles; the ‘enringed finger’ was a symbol of sex. 836 The branches 825 182 4.1 Commentary We suggest that a lot of the humour of this scene, without any violation of the text, is the total mismatch between Titaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seductive intentions and Bottomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unimaginative focus on food and comfort. The last thing on his mind is sex. Oberon realises this and therefore is more amused than anxious about the mismatch. It would be totally out of character for Oberon to witness his queen coupling with an ass. We therefore suggest that he thus gestures magically and puts both her and Bottom to sleep, thus bringing an end to the charade he had created. Oberon the director has the last word. 183 Stage Directions 4.1 Enter PUCK OBERON Coming forward Welcome, good Robin. See'st thou this sweet sight? Her dotage 837now I do begin to pity: For, meeting her of late 838behind the wood, Seeking sweet favours839 for this hateful fool, I did upbraid 840her and fall out with her; For she his hairy temples then had rounded841 With coronet842 of fresh and fragrant flowers; And that same dew, which sometime on the buds Was wont to swell like round and orient843 pearls, Stood now within the pretty flowerets844' eyes Like tears that did their own disgrace bewail845. When I had at my pleasure 846taunted her And she in mild terms begg'd my patience847, I then did ask of her her changeling848 child; Which straight849 she gave me, and her fairy sent To bear him to my bower in fairy land. And now I have the boy, I will undo This hateful imperfection of her eyes850: And, gentle Puck, take this transformed scalp851 From off the head of this Athenian swain852; That, he awaking when the other 853do, May all to Athens back again repair854 And think no more of this night's accidents855 But as the fierce vexation 856of a dream. But first I will release the fairy queen. Be as thou wast wont to857 be; 837 Iinfatuation Recently 839 Flowers as tokens of love 840 Scold 841 Placed around 842 Crown 843 Shiny 844 Little flowers 845 As if they were lamenting their own disgrace 846 As much as I pleased 847 Begged me to stop 848 i.e. the stolen Indian child over whom they had quarreled 849 Right away 850 The spell that has distorted her vision so horribly 851 i.e. the assâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head 852 Rustic or peasant 853 Others; i.e. the four lovers 854 Return 855 Happenings or events 856 Affliction of wild fantasies 857 Accustomed to 838 45 50 Oberon is being ironical: the sight of Titania and Bottom sleeping together might amuse Puck, but not Oberon. After the first three lines, at which he gestures to Titania and Bottom sleeping side by side, Oberon turns to the audience. He wants them to know that he has got what he wanted from Titania: the Indian boy. 55 60 Oberon turns to Puck again. 65 Oberon then turns sleeping couple to the 184 4.1 . Commentary Oberon’s speech is to let the audience know that he has got what he wanted: the Indian boy. This is part of Shakespeare’s continuous exposition by which he keeps the audience informed of what has taken place off stage. Oberon is now a father, which is what he wanted to be all the time. The source of their conflict was that Titania did not wish to share the boy she had adopted with Oberon. Oberon having got the boy will share it with her so that parenthood is complete and both are happy. Once again we see the caring side of Oberon. Puck would happily leave Bottom with his ass transformation, but Oberon instructs him to return him to normal so he can re-join his work mates. He then suggests that the four lovers and Bottom will think of this night’s topsy-turvy happenings as no more than the ‘fierce vexation of a dream’, i.e. dreams can be both pleasant visions and nightmares. Indeed we will see Oberon shortly ask Titania to put all five of the humans into a deep sleep. This will erase not only the effects of the love drug generally but also return them to normal refreshed and renewed, with only vague dream-like memories of what went on. Once more we see Shakespeare stressing the major theme of the play: what is reality and what is illusion? Note Oberon’s use of ‘my’ Titania, ‘my sweet queen’, which shows his deep love for Titania. The herb he uses represents chastity. A question to ask ourselves is why Shakespeare chose not to represent on the stage this encounter between Oberon and Titania rather than have Oberon relate it to Puck? This has to do with selecting for representation those scenes that the playwright considers essential and narrating those that are not. 185 Stage Directions 4.1 See as thou wast wont to see: Dian's bud 858o'er Cupid's flower859 Hath such force and blessed power. Now, my Titania; wake you, my sweet queen 70 Titania wakes and stretches. She is now back to her normal dignified self. She is bewildered. TITANIA My Oberon! What visions have I seen! Methought I was enamour'd of 860an ass. OBERON There lies your love. TITANIA How came these things to pass? O, how mine eyes do loathe his visage861 now! 75 OBERON Silence awhile. Robin, take off this head. Titania, music call862; and strike more dead Than common sleep of all these five the sense863. TITANIA Music, ho! music, such as charmeth864 sleep! Soft music plays 80 PUCK Now, when thou wakest, with thine own fool's eyes peep. OBERON Sound, music865! Come, my queen, take hands with me, And rock the ground whereon these sleepers be. Now thou and I are new in amity866, And will to-morrow midnight solemnly867 85 Dance in Duke Theseus' house triumphantly868, And bless it to all fair prosperity: There shall the pairs of faithful lovers be Wedded, with Theseus, all in jollity869. Titania gestures and a soft flute plays. Puck removes the ass costume from Bottom. After 'Sound music' the music changes and heats up with drums and other percussion as Oberon and Titania start to dance from the end of the line ‘And rock the ground ….sleepers be.’ After the music ends then Oberon resumes ‘Now thou and I… . 858 This is the herb that is the antidote to the passion-inducing flower. Diana was the goddess of chastity Pansy 860 In love with 861 Face 862 Summon your musicians (her fairies) 863 Put these five (the four lovers and Bottom) into a death-like sleep 864 Induces sleep 865 Let the music sound 866 Are friends again 867 With suitable ceremony 868 With pomp and circumstance; i.e. in public festivity 869 With great merrymaking 859 186 4.1 Commentary Note the use once again of ‘my’ before the person’s name to signal complete love. Note also that Oberon, instead of conjuring up the music himself, defers to Titania to summon the music that will induce forgetful, rejuvenating, deep sleep in the four lovers and Bottom, restoring order to their troubled minds. We don’t know the type of dance done in Shakespeare’s time or the accompanying music, but it would no doubt have consisted of vigorous, vital motions, that symbolised their reconciliation and the restoration of harmony to all nature that their conflict had fractured. So carnival type music would be in order. At the end of this dance, Oberon says convincingly, "Now thou and I are new in amity". 187 Stage Directions 4.1 PUCK Fairy king, attend, and mark870: I do hear the morning lark. OBERON Then, my queen, in silence sad871, Trip we after the night's shade: We the globe can compass 872soon, Swifter than the wandering moon. 90 95 TITANIA Come, my lord, and in our flight Tell me how it came this night That I sleeping here was found With these mortals on the ground. Exeunt. Horns winded873 within Enter THESEUS, HIPPOLYTA, EGEUS, and train THESEUS Go, one of you, find out the forester874; For now our observation875 is perform'd; And since we have the vaward876 of the day877, My love shall hear the music of my hounds. Uncouple 878in the western valley; let them go: Dispatch879, I say, and find the forester. Exit an attendant We will, fair queen, up to the mountain's top, And mark the musical confusion Of hounds and echo in conjunction880. HIPPOLYTA I was with Hercules881 and Cadmus882 once, When in a wood of Crete they bay'd883 the bear With hounds of Sparta884: never did I hear Such gallant chiding885: for, besides the groves, The skies, the fountains, every region near 870 Puck interrupts them to remind them that morning is approaching. Oberon and Titania go off dancing. The four lovers and Bottom remain asleep. Remember that the same actors playing Oberon and Titania also play Theseus and Hippolyta, so there must be a musical interlude during which the music changes from the carnival music of night to a more restrained music of the day, also giving the actors time to change. Theseus and Hippolyta have become reconciled and view each other with great lovingness. 100 105 110 Take note and listen Grave or sober 872 Encompass or go around 873 Hunting horns are sounded or blown offstage. This announces both the arrival of Theseus and company and the break of day 874 The gamekeeper, so the hunt may begin 875 The observance of the rite of May (May Day – the 1st). May Day in Shakespeare’s England was devoted to behavior free of the usual constraints; i.e. a carnival-like revelry. 876 Variant of ‘vanguard’; here ‘early part’ 877 It is still early 878 Unleash for the chase 879 Hurry 880 Listen to the music of the hounds baying and its echoes 881 Legendary Greek hero 882 Mythical founder of Thebes 883 Cornered 884 Spartan hounds were famous for their hunting prowess 885 Baying or yelping 871 188 4.1 Commentary Puck once again is concerned that morning will catch them out. So maybe Oberon and Titania are immune from daylight but not Puck. Yet another mention of the moon. As she and Oberon go off, Titania asks an embarrassing question. We would love to have heard Oberon’s answer. But maybe this is where Oberon confesses that he all the time wanted to be a father to the Indian boy. Just as we can imagine that all kinds of conversations have taken place between Theseus and Hippolyta after Act 1, so we can imagine the conversation that goes on between these two monarchs of the spirit world until they reappear again at the end of Act 5. Why, apart from dramatic convenience, is Egeus accompanying Theseus and Hippolyta? Had he noticed that his daughter had not returned home and was out all night? Had he tried to get in touch with Demetrius, his chosen match for Hermia, and could not? If so his overriding emotion must be grave anxiety. The noisy entrance of Theseus and Hippolyta signals the arrival of daybreak. We are now back to daylight and reality and away from moonlight and dreams. We should not forget that Hippolyta was an Amazon and just as interested in hunting as Theseus. Theseus refers to Hippolyta as ‘my love’ and ‘fair queen’ indicating that they are fully reconciled. Note that Hippolyta refers to the hounds baying and its echoes as ‘musical a discord; such sweet thunder’. This is later echoed by Theseus in Act 5 when, referring to the description of the play, Pyramus and Thisbe as ‘very tragical mirth’ he asks ‘How shall we find the concord of this discord? This description could be applied to Dream itself. Shakespeare has combined many discordant elements into one beautiful harmonious whole. 189 Stage Directions 4.1 Seem'd all one mutual cry886: I never heard So musical a discord887, such sweet thunder. THESEUS My hounds are bred out of the Spartan kind, So flew'd888, so sanded889, and their heads are hung With ears that sweep away the morning dew; Crook-knee'd, and dew-lapp'd 890like Thessalian 891bulls; Slow in pursuit, but match'd in mouth like bells892, Each under each. A cry more tuneable893 Was never holla'd 894to, nor cheer'd895 with horn, In Crete, in Sparta, nor in Thessaly: Judge when you hear. But, soft896! What nymphs are these? EGEUS My lord, this is my daughter here asleep; And this, Lysander; this Demetrius is; This Helena, old Nedar's Helena: I wonder of 897their being here together. THESEUS No doubt they rose up early to observe The rite of May, and hearing our intent, Came here in grace our solemnity898. But speak, Egeus; is not this the day That Hermia should give answer of her choice? 115 125 130 EGEUS It is, my lord. THESEUS Go, bid the huntsmen wake them with their horns. Horns and shout within. LYSANDER, DEMETRIUS, HELENA, and HERMIA wake and start up Good morrow, friends. Saint Valentine 899is past: Begin these wood-birds but to couple 900now? 886 135 Theseus almost stumbles on the four sleeping lovers. In their sleep the two couples have instinctively embraced each other, and this is the way that Theseus and company find them: paired off in each other’s arms, still showing unconscious movements of affection. Egeus anxiously goes from one side of the stage to the other as he scrutinizes and identifies the four lovers. He is now puzzled by the way there are paired off. His anxiety gives way to uncertainty and puzzlement. His lines should be spoken stutteringly to reflect his bewilderment. Theseus’ lines are spoken with humorous irony. This is the new, more humane Theseus. Then, since Egeus is shaking his head at a loss for words, he urges him to speak, knowing full well that Demetrius has already made his choice of Helena. When Theseus addresses the lovers he continues to use light irony. Hippolyta laughs. Everything around us seemed to echo the baying of the hounds Oxymoron 888 With hanging chaps (loose folds of skin around the mouth) 889 Sandy-coloured 890 Bulls with bent knees and skin hanging from their necks 891 From Thessaly in Greece 892 Their baying was in harmony like bells pealing together 893 melodious 894 The cry given to rouse the hounds 895 Encouraged or incited 896 Hold on! 897 At; ‘wonder of’ was the usual construction in Old English and was replaced by ‘wonder at’ in the late 17 th c. 898 To honour our marriage 899 It was widely believed that birds chose their mates on Valentine’s Day, February 14th 900 To pair off; but also a pun on sexual coupling 887 190 4.1 Commentary When Theseus stumbles upon the four lovers he canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t identify who or even what they are since a) it is still not full daylight, and b) the pairs are embracing each other in their sleep. It is Egeus who, peering at them and maybe separating them a little, discovers to his astonishment, that Demetrius is embracing Helena. This has to freak him out. Theseus, however, quickly assesses the situation of the pairings and his mood becomes ironic and humorous. He realises that there will be no need to enforce Egeusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; demand since Demetrius is clearly now enamoured of Helena again. So when he asks Egeus if today is not the day when Hermia should choose, he is teasing Egeus since he realises the four choices have already been made. He also teases the lovers after he has them awakened with the hunting horns. 191 Stage Directions 4.1 LYSANDER Pardon, my lord. THESEUS I pray you all, stand up. I know you two are rival enemies: How comes this gentle concord in the world, That hatred is so far from jealousy901, To sleep by hate, and fear no enmity902? LYSANDER My lord, I shall reply amazedly903, Half sleep, half waking: but as yet, I swear, I cannot truly say how I came here; But, as I think,--for truly would I speak, And now do I bethink me, so it is,-I came with Hermia hither: our intent Was to be gone from Athens, where we might, Without 904the peril of the Athenian law… 140 145 150 EGEUS Enough, enough, my lord; you have enough: I beg the law, the law, upon his head. They would have stolen away; they would, Demetrius, Thereby to have defeated 905you and me, You of your wife and me of my consent, 155 Of my consent that she should be your wife. DEMETRIUS My lord, fair Helen told me of their stealth, Of this their purpose hither 906to this wood; And I in fury hither follow'd them, Fair Helena in fancy 907following me. But, my good lord, I wot908 not by what power,-But by some power it is,--my love to Hermia, Melted as the snow, seems to me now As the remembrance of an idle gaud909 Which in my childhood I did dote upon; And all the faith, the virtue910 of my heart, The object and the pleasure of mine eye, Is only Helena. To her, my lord, 901 Lacking in distrust That those who hate each other sleep side by side without fear 903 In bewilderment 904 Beyond the reach of 905 Cheated or frustrated 906 In coming here 907 Spurred on by her love 908 Know 909 Worthless trinket 910 Worth 902 Lysander and Demetrius emerge from their drugged sleep totally bewildered. The four embarrassed lovers kneel in front of Theseus until he bids them stand. Lysander stutters an unconvincing explanation but is cut off by Egeus, who recovering slightly, becomes his old selfimportant arrogant self and begins to rant. 160 165 For emphasis, he draws out the words ‘you…have.. enough!’ Like a prosecuting attorney, he thinks he has his moment of triumph. He appeals to Demetrius to back him up. But then Demetrius pulls the rug out from under him. When Demetrius refers to his now vanished love for Hermia he looks at her and she gives a mock pout. As Demetrius finishes his speech Helena gives him a hug and a kiss. As Demetrius gives his explanation Egeus is sputtering with incomprehension and indignation at seeing his will thwarted. He eventually deflates like a punctured tyre, holding his head in his hands. He is defeated. When Demetrius says ‘And all the faith… he turns to Helena and eventually embraces her. Hippolyta observes this with great delight and Theseus with relief. The last thing they want is another source of conflict. 192 4.1 Commentary All the four lovers have but faint recollections of what happened the night before, because of the charm of forgetful sleep that Titania put on them. They have now returned to reality, but not to their old selves, to more mature personalities who have benefitted from their sojourn in the dream world where they have recognized feelings of lust, envy, and even hatred that lay dormant or repressed in their subconscious. Note the reference by Demetrius to eyes. Egeus appeals to Demetrius, but when Demetrius asserts his love for Helena, his case is lost as Theseus recognises. There is something reminiscent of Shylock in Egeus' appeal to the law. The lines that Shakespeare puts in Demetrius’ mouth show clearly that he is no longer in a drugged state even if the antidote to the love drug was not administered by Puck. Oberon and Titania have magical resources that Puck doesn’t. Demetrius, as he says, ‘as in health, come to my natural taste.’ Demetrius thus recognises that his pursuit of Hermia was a sickness (maybe because he was interested in her dowry more than in her, while he still loved Helena). 193 Stage Directions 4.1 Was I betroth'd 911ere I saw Hermia: But, like in sickness, did I loathe this food; But, as in health, come to my natural taste, Now I do wish it, love it, long for it, And will for evermore be true to it. THESEUS Fair lovers, you are fortunately met: Of this discourse912 we more will hear anon913. Egeus, I will overbear your will914; For in the temple by and by with us These couples shall eternally be knit915: And, for the morning now is something worn916, Our purposed hunting 917shall be set aside. Away with us to Athens; three and three918, We'll hold a feast in great solemnity919. Come, Hippolyta. Exeunt THESEUS, HIPPOLYTA, EGEUS, and train DEMETRIUS These things seem small and undistinguishable920, Like far-off mountains turned into clouds. HERMIA Methinks I see these things with parted921 eye, When every thing seems double. 170 HERMIA Yea; and my father. 911 Engaged Story or tale 913 In due course 914 Overrule your wishes 915 Joined 916 Since the morning is nearly over 917 Proposed hunt 918 i.e. the three couples 919 Celebration 920 Hard to see 921 Literally ‘divided’ as in double vision. i.e. unfocussed 922 Still 912 Hippolyta is absolutely delighted to see Hermia and Lysander united again. While Theseus speaks, she goes across and hugs Hermia, and then in turn the other three lovers. The four lovers, including those who have not been drugged (the two women) still can’t make sense of what happened to them. HELENA So methinks: And I have found Demetrius like a jewel, Mine own, and not mine own. DEMETRIUS Are you sure That we are awake? It seems to me That yet922 we sleep, we dream. Do not you think The duke was here, and bid us follow him? As Theseus speaks, Egeus looks sadly at his daughter Hermia. His anger is gone and just sadness and a sense of loss remains. He has lost both a daughter and a son-in-law After Theseus says he will overbear Egeus’ will, Egeus bows miserably in acceptance, because he simply has no leg to stand on. At that point, Hermia goes and kisses him gently and then Lysander approaches, bows and shakes his hand. Egeus is reconciled. He embraces them both, as all the others applaud. 190 Hermia is amazed that her father is reconciled to Lysander and her marrying. 194 4.1 Commentary Theseus’ pardoning of the lovers and his overruling of Egeus in such an outspoken and joyful manner indicates that Hippolyta has civilised and to a certain extent ‘feminised’ him: he has become more of a lover and less of a tyrant. Of course, he is helped by the fact that Demetrius and Helena are now paired off. Egeus has lost the suitor in his arranged marriage. Some commentators have pointed out that Theseus contradicts himself by ‘overbearing’ Egeus’ will. Recall that in Act 1 the law was said, by Theseus himself, to be irrevocable. “Fit your fancies to your father’s will,” he told Hermia, “Or else the law of Athens yields you up—/ Which by no means we may extenuate” (1.1.118–20). But here Theseus is not extenuating the law, merely saying that it can’t possibly apply when Egeus’ choice of son-in-law is no longer interested in Hermia. You can’t arrange a marriage for your daughter when the man you want is not interested. Demetrius’ words about whether he is still dreaming are in keeping with the major theme of the play: reality vs. illusion. What, then, does the sojourn in the wood among the spirits cause in Athens? It brings about the corrective realignments among the lovers that prepare for the multiple-marriage finale. However, Puck’s and Oberon’s machinations only make the lovers at the end of Act 4 willing to marry. That they can marry is a result of Theseus’ setting aside the application of the law. This shows that Theseus has matured (presumably under the influence of Hippolyta) in the interim. Most commentators and directors do not have Egeus being reconciled with Hermia. There is of course no textual evidence in favour of reconciliation. But then there you could hardly put on a successful staging of the play by relying solely on the text. Backstory alone leads to much of the interpretation of their roles by actors. The crucial point is not whether an interpretation is supported by the text or not, but whether it violates the text. In our case there is nothing in the text that prohibits the reconciliation of Egeus with Hermia and Lysander. We suggest as much in the stage directions because we think it is in keeping with the spirit of reconciliation and the overall restoration of harmony in the play. Why would Egeus not accept Lysander as a son-in-law, if he is as noble born, wealthy and educated as Demetrius, once Demetrius had lost interest? Could you conceive of there being a wedding of Hermia at which Egeus would not be present to give away his daughter? Might the ‘private schooling’ that Theseus gave to Egeus include accepting Lysander if Demetrius withdrew his proposal to marry her? Then there are Hermia’s words of astonishment to the other lovers, ‘and my father’, which suggests that she finds amazing that her father has now accepted Lysander as a son-in-law. 195 4.1 Stage Directions HELENA And Hippolyta. LYSANDER And he did bid us follow to the temple. DEMETRIUS Why, then, we are awake: let's follow him And by the way 923let us recount our dreams. Exeunt 195 BOTTOM [Waking] When my cue comes, call me, and I will answer: my next924 is, 'Most fair Pyramus.' Heigh-ho925! Peter Quince! Flute, the bellows-mender! Snout, the tinker! Starveling! God's my life926, stolen927 hence, and left me asleep! I have had a most rare vision. 200 I have had a dream, past the wit 928of man to say what dream it was: man is but an ass, if he go about to expound this dream929. Methought I was--there is no man can tell what. Methought I was, --and methought I had,--but man is but a patched930 fool, if he will offer to say what methought I had. The eye of man 205 hath not heard, the ear of man hath not seen, man's hand is not able to taste, his tongue to conceive, nor his heart to report931, what my dream was. I will get Peter Quince to write a ballad932 of this dream: it shall be called Bottom's Dream, because it hath no bottom933; and I will sing it in the 210 934 935 latter end of a play, before the duke: peradventure , to make it the more gracious936, I shall sing it at her 937death. Bottom now emerges from his sleep. Stretching, he begins to speak. Then he looks around and sees he is alone and starts to panic. After the words ‘left me asleep? There is a long pause. Then he begins to remember vaguely the happening of the night before. He too is totally bewildered and unable to tell whether what happened to him was a dream or reality. This is a brilliant and subtle speech that has to be delivered slowly. Exit 923 Along the way i.e. my next line 925 This is Bottom yawning, with a faint resemblance to the braying of an ass 926 God bless me 927 Sneaked away 928 Intelligence 929 If he tries to explain this dream 930 The court jester or fool traditionally wore a patchwork costume of different colours 931 Bottom’s garbled reference to 1 Corinthians 2.9-10: “The eye of man hath not seen, and the ear hath not heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.” 932 In the days before newspapers news was often conveyed in the form of printed ballads 933 Two meanings: 1) it has no foundation or reality, and 2) it is unfathomable 934 Towards the end or in the concluding part 935 Perhaps 936 Appealing 937 i.e. Thisbe’s death 924 196 4.1 Commentary It is interesting how Shakespeare repeatedly has his characters go off stage indicating they must discuss something that either happened or is about to happen. We saw this in Act 1 in the case of Theseus saying he had matters to discuss with Egeus and Demetrius. And we have to assume that a lot of intimate conversations went on between Theseus and Hippolyta between Act 1 and Act 4. Also we saw Titania telling Oberon how must tell her what went on. And now we see it in the case of the four lovers. This is great dramatic technique. It is Bottom’s turn now to return from the dream world to reality in one of the most important bits of dialogue in the play. He too has been transformed by the experience. In fact this stirring of the imagination in Bottom is his real transformation, not his being given an ass’s head. Bottom, although he gets the words wrong, reminds us of St. Paul, to show us that there is a dimension beyond human comprehension, beyond logic, beyond rational explanation. The reference to Paul suggests that Bottom has had not just a vision, but a spiritual experience the nature of which he can’t quite put into words. He is still our beloved blowhard Bottom, but a more mature Bottom, aware that he has had an extraordinary experience. In fact he waxes as philosophical as he can get within his educational limitations. The dream world of the wood has now come to an end. All the humans have either returned or are on their way back to Athens. All that remains in Act 4 is to see what will happen to the conflict between Quince and Bottom and whether the workmen will succeed in having their entertainment chosen for Theseus and Titania’s wedding night. 197 4.2 Stage Directions ACT 4, SCENE 2. Athens. QUINCE'S house. Enter QUINCE, FLUTE, SNOUT, and STARVELING QUINCE Have you sent to Bottom's house? Is he come home yet? STARVELING He cannot be heard of. Out of doubt 938he is transported939. FLUTE If he come not, then the play is marred940: it goes not forward941, doth it? QUINCE It is not possible: you have not a man in all Athens able to discharge 942Pyramus but he. 5 FLUTE No, he hath simply the best wit943 of any handicraft man944 in Athens. Quince admits that without Bottom, their 'star' actor, they can’t do the play. All the workmen shower compliments on Bottom. QUINCE Yea and the best person945 too; and he is a very paramour 946 for a sweet voice. FLUTE You must say 'paragon:' a paramour is, God bless us, a thing of naught947. The workmen come in full of gloom. Their star actor has disappeared; maybe even carried off to the spirit world. They are doubly depressed: they genuinely miss Bottom as a friend, and they seem to have little chance of putting on their play and receiving their reward without him as an actor. Remember that the monetary reward for having their entertainment chosen will be probably the equivalent of several days wages, plus other benefits. 10 They are all glum, thus setting the stage for Bottom’s surprise entry. Enter SNUG SNUG Masters, the duke is coming from the temple, and there is two or three lords and ladies more married: if our sport had gone forward, we had all been made men948. 938 They all shake their heads bitterly at the loss of money. Snug comes in excited with the news he has heard. No doubt or doubtless Magically carried off to another world 940 Spoiled 941 i.e. we’ll have to cancel the performance 942 Perform or play 943 Intelligence 944 Craftsman or skilled workman, not someone making handicrafts 945 Personal appearance or presence 946 Quince means to say ‘paragon’ , a perfect model, but ‘paramour’ means an illicit or secret lover 947 A bad or wicked thing 948 Our fortunes would have been made 939 198 4.2 Act 4, Scene 2 Summary Bottom returns to Athens and surprises the other workmen who are gloomily gathered at Quinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house. They react with delight now that their star actor has returned. Their joy is even greater when Bottom tells them that their play has been put on the list of entertainments for Theseus to choose from. Commentary This scene begins with dramatic irony since the audience knows that Bottom is coming back but the other workmen donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, so they are downcast. Clearly from all the flattering comments, including that of Quince, we recognise that Bottom has triumphed in his conflict with Quince. He is now the undisputed leader of the group. So ends the comic conflict between Bottom and Quince. But it ends happily with Quince recognising the indispensability of Bottom to their whole team project. They are reconciled. Shakespeare lets us know through Snug who makes a late entrance that the weddings of Theseus and Hippolyta and the four lovers have taken place. The wedding feast will begin and then will be the time for entertainment. Since the beginning of Act 4 (at daybreak), we have now moved to early evening. The suspense is building. 199 4.2 FLUTE O sweet bully Bottom! Thus hath he lost sixpence a day 949during 15 his life; he could not have 'scaped sixpence a day: an950 the duke had not given him sixpence a day for playing Pyramus, I'll be hanged; he would have deserved it: sixpence a day in Pyramus, or nothing. Enter BOTTOM BOTTOM Where are these lads? Where are these hearts951? QUINCE Bottom! O most courageous 952day! O most happy hour! 20 BOTTOM Masters, I am to discourse 953wonders: but ask me not what; for if I tell you, I am no true Athenian. I will tell you everything, right as it fell out954. QUINCE Let us hear, sweet Bottom. BOTTOM Not a word of955 me. All that I will tell you is, that the duke hath dined956. Get your apparel957 together, good strings 958to your beards, new ribbons959 to your pumps;960 meet presently961 at the palace; every man look o'er his part; for the short and the long is, our play is preferred962. In any case, let Thisbe have clean linen963; and let not him that plays the lion pare his nails, for they shall hang out for the lion's claws. And, most dear actors, eat no onions nor garlic, for we are to utter sweet breath964; and I do not doubt but to hear them say, it is a sweet comedy. No more words: away! go, away965! Exeunt 949 25 30 35 An average daily wage for a skilled craftsman If 951 Fine fellows 952 Quince likes to use (and misuse) big words: he probably means ‘splendid 953 Speak 954 Just as it happened 955 From 956 i.e. it is now after dinner and the duke and his guests will need some entertainment 957 costumes 958 i.e. to tie on the false beards 959 Laces 960 Light shoes 961 Immediately 962 Recommended or short listed among the entertainment for the evening 963 Underwear 964 Two meanings: sweet-smelling breath and sweet-sounding words 965 Move it! Get along! 950 Stage Directions Bottom utters these first words off stage and then strolls on. They all rush around him in excited delight. Quince shows he is most delighted of all to see Bottom. After all, it’s Quince’s play. Bottom holds the stage: he has exciting news to tell. Bottom raises their expectations. They wait expectantly. Then Bottom takes a long pause, provoking Quince to urge him to tell his story. But Bottom has realized his story is absurd and unbelievable. He changes his mind. He then rushed through his speech from ‘Get your apparel together…to ‘and the long is..’ then pauses to announce dramatically the great news: their play has made the short list! They all cheer noisily. They all hustle feverishly to get ready as Bottom tells them what preparations they must make. It is Bottom, not Quince, who is in charge, but Quince has accepted that. He knows his place in the team and accepts Bottom’s place. 200 Commentary Bottom’s dramatic entrance changes the mood completely. All the others are now thrilled. Bottom wisely decides not to recount what happened to him. He will want to think about his ‘vision’ or ‘dream’ some more. Bottom’s speech indicates clearly that he is now in charge of the play. He is the one that says their play is ‘preferred’ i.e. made the list of possible entertainments for Theseus to choose from (continuous exposition). He no doubt picked up this information on his way to Quince’s house. He is the one who gives detailed instructions on how to prepare to perform. He is in control, and he is a different, justifiably confident and more mature Bottom: he has been ‘transformed’ emotionally and mentally. The actor playing Bottom must indicate how Bottom has changed. Act 4 ends and all the conflicts in the play have been resolved: Theseus and Hippolyta have come to a perfect understanding; Hermia and her father are reconciled, clearing the way for her to marry Lysander; Demetrius has come to his senses and he and Helena are married; Oberon and Titania are reconciled and the harmony of the natural order is restored; Quince and Bottom are reconciled and it is now Bottom who leads the mechanicals; and Pyramus and Thisbe has made the short list of entertainments for Theseus to choose from for the post-feast entertainment. The only matter left hanging is whether Theseus will choose Pyramus, but no audience would be in any doubt about that outcome. Still there is suspense. So Act 4 constitutes the climax of the play and we are now ready for the magnificent denouement in Act 5: the hilarious staging of Pyramus. At the same time as Shakespeare has neatly resolved all the conflicts and tied up the plot ends, he has brought a thematic climax to the play. He has shown that a repressive rationality as we saw evidence of in Act 1 in the daylight of Athens, can be overcome by recourse to the dream world of the moonlit wood outside Athens where through the magical transformations of a liberated subconscious a new mature rationality can emerge. He has explored all the nuances of love – from erotic desire, hate, jealousy to deep concern and commitment. All the characters go through transformations or learning experiences which leads them to a more critical self-awareness. Much of this experience was hilariously funny but always tinged with the possibility of something going terribly wrong. The comedy, even at its most farcical, was always teetering on the edge of tragedy. What a master Shakespeare is. 201 Stage Directions 5.1 ACT 5 SCENE I. Athens. The palace of THESEUS. Enter THESEUS, HIPPOLYTA, PHILOSTRATE, Lords and Attendants HIPPOLYTA 'Tis strange my Theseus, that966 these lovers speak of. THESEUS More strange than true: I never may967 believe These antique968 fables, nor these fairy toys.969 Lovers and madmen have such seething970 brains, Such shaping fantasies971, that apprehend More than cool reason ever comprehends972. The lunatic, the lover and the poet Are of imagination all compact973: One sees more devils than vast hell can hold, That is the madman. The lover, all 974as frantic975, Sees Helen's 976beauty in a brow of Egypt977: The poet's eye, in fine frenzy rolling978, Doth glance from heaven to earth, from earth to heaven; And as imagination bodies forth979 The forms of things unknown, the poet's pen Turns them to shapes and gives to airy nothing980 A local habitation and a name981. Such tricks hath strong imagination982, That if it would but apprehend some joy, It comprehends some bringer of that joy983; Or in the night, imagining some fear, How easy is a bush supposed a bear! 966 15 20 Nothing in the text suggests that Egeus is present, but nothing suggests that he is absent. It would be unusual for Egeus not to be present at his daughter’s wedding. So we have decided to bring him on as a member of the lords in attendance. He of course has no speaking role but then neither do Hermia or Helena. As we shall see they should be given active bodily roles during this Act. Hippolyta is puzzled by what the lovers have recounted. She is in a reflective mood. Theseus, on the other hand, dismisses all that has happened as fabrications of the imagination or illusions. Most of this speech he addresses directly to the audience. This is an important thematic speech so the actor playing Theseus should take pains with it. Hippolyta while he is speaking walks around pondering what has happened. As Theseus gets to the words ‘a bush supposed a bear’ he goes up to her as she is looking away and pretends to frighten her. What or that which Can 968 Ancient and nonsensical 969 Tales 970 Active imaginations 971 Extravagant fancies 972 That conceives more than reason understands 973 All have similar imaginations 974 Just as 975 Wild 976 Helen was a legendary beauty of Greece over whom the Trojan War was fought 977 In the swarthy face of a gypsy (gypsies were thought to have originated in Egypt); 978 i.e. in a demented poetic rapture 979 Gives shape to or embodies 980 Mere imagination 981 A concrete reality and identity 982 Vivid Imagination can play such tricks 983 That if it conceives of something joyful, it imagines some supernatural source of that joy. 967 202 5.1 Act 5, Scene 1 Summary Theseus, after the wedding feast in his palace, decides he wants to see the Pyramus play as the entertainment, and the workmen finally get to perform their play. When the humans have gone to bed, the spirits, led by Oberon and Titania, arrive to bless the marriages. The play ends on a note of happy harmony. Puck delivers the epilogue. Commentary This Act, like Act 1, Scene 1, takes place at the palace of Theseus in Athens (the site of order and rationality), but, unlike Act 1, it takes place in the evening/night, thus suggesting a new more humane rational order. Hippolyta’s use of ‘my Theseus’ is the first time she has called him by name and the first clear sign of affection. What has happened since Act1 (backstory)? Why has she become fully reconciled to their marriage? Is it because he overruled Egeus and allowed Hermia to marry Lysander? Or did something else take place? In any event their reconciliation has resulted in Theseus becoming a better and more respectful person, who has reached a new level of maturity. Theseus’ speech is critically important in that it returns us from the dream world of unrepressed emotions to the rational and ordered world of the court, but with a huge difference. The experiences of the lovers in this dream world have led, through a healthy working out of their repressed desires, to a new level of psychological maturity. Both the limitations of reason/order and imagination/disorder have been transcended into a new more mature synthesis. Remember the dialectic we suggested: thesis (order), antithesis (disorder), synthesis (new order). Theseus’ description of the creative work of a poet (a writer) is accurate: it gives substance to imagination, thus making it not illusionary but real. Hippolyta, who has obviously been mulling over the story of the lovers, raises it with Theseus, remarking that it is strange. Theseus, in a major thematic speech, dismisses the lovers’ wild stories as products of their imagination. First he says the lover and the lunatic (the moon, the moon!) have such active imaginations and such fantasies that go beyond all that we can rationally understand. Then, interestingly enough, he adds poets (creative writers) to the list of those who use their imagination. But he unconsciously (or Shakespeare consciously) draws a subtle distinction. The lunatic deceives himself by conjuring devils out of thin air; the lover deceives himself by imagining his plain beloved to be a beauty. But when it comes to the poet he uses his imagination, not to deceive himself, but to create a concrete reality (works of art that can be shared by others) out of his imagination. In other words the madman and the lover use their imagination to deceive themselves while the poet uses his imagination to deceive others into accepting the product of his imagination as a form of reality. Theseus gives an accurate and positive description of the creative process that distinguishes it from the fantasies of the madman and the lover. But at the same time he ends by saying that all are products of the imagination. This raises the question that Dream itself raises: what exactly is reality and what illusion? Is a play, which is a product of imagination, describing imaginary actions by imaginary characters real? Shakespeare’s answer would be a resounding ‘maybe’. The magnificent irony here is that you have a purely fictitious person, Theseus, a character in a play, discussing whether something that took place earlier in a spirit inhabited wood in the same play was real or illusionary. Shakespeare almost looks ahead to Luigi Pirandello’s Six Characters in Search of an Author (1921) 203 Stage Directions 5.1 HIPPOLYTA But all the story of the night told over, And all their minds transfigured 984so together, More witnesseth than fancy's images And grows to something of great constancy But, howsoever, strange and admirable.985 25 But Hippolyta is sure that there must be some truth in what the lovers have recounted. So she tries to convince Theseus. But she is interrupted by the entrance of the four lovers, now newlyweds. THESEUS Here come the lovers, full of joy and mirth. Enter LYSANDER, DEMETRIUS, HERMIA, and HELENA Joy, gentle friends! Joy and fresh days of love Accompany your hearts! LYSANDER More than to us Wait in your royal walks, your board, your bed986! THESEUS Come now; what masques987, what dances shall we have, To wear away this long age of three hours Between our after-supper 988and bed-time? Where is our usual manager of mirth989? What revels990 are in hand? Is there no play, To ease the anguish of a torturing hour991? Call Philostrate. 30 Lysander pauses before ‘your bed’ and then laughs after saying the words. 35 The mention of ‘bed’ reminds Theseus of how much he has been longing to get Hippolyta into bed. This leads to the idea of an entertainment. Theseus and Hippolyta exchange looks and laughs when he says ‘torturing hour’. PHILOSTRATE Here, mighty Theseus. THESEUS Say, what abridgement 992have you for this evening? What masque? What music? How shall we beguile993 The lazy994 time, if not with some delight? . 40 PHILOSTRATE There is a brief995 how many sports are ripe996: Make choice of which your highness will 997see first. Giving a paper 984 Changed at the same time Suggests there is more to it than mere imagination, and however strange, it is consistent and convincing 986 May even greater joy grace your walks, your table and your bed 987 Court entertainments with masked participants 988 Supper in Shakespeare’s time was taken around 5:30 pm; ‘after-supper’ refers to dessert 989 Official in charge of entertainment at court known as the Master of the Revels 990 Entertainments 991 i.e. while we wait in torment for bedtime to come 992 Two meanings: a short play, and something to make the time seem short 993 Deceive 994 Slow moving 995 Summary or list 996 Entertainments are ready (to be performed) 997 Wishes to 985 204 5.1 Commentary Hippolyta gently objects to Theseus’ dismissal of the events in the wood by pointing out that the consistency in the four lovers’ stories (we have to assume that they shared their disjointed memories of what happened at night in the wood with Theseus and Hippolyta) shows that there must be some reality underlying their stories. They can’t all be products of imagination. This in fact raises the stakes in the reality vs. illusion game to its ultimate high. We who have read or seen the play know that these things did occur within the play and therefore are as real as anything else. Oberon, Titania and Puck are as real as Theseus and Hippolyta? So what indeed is reality and what illusion? It’s interesting how Shakespeare frequently interrupts something important that one character is saying to another by the entrance of other characters. In this case we don’t know what would have been the continued discussion between Theseus and Hippolyta about the lovers’ recollections of events in the wood. Similarly in Act 1, Scene 1, just as Theseus is telling Hippolyta that he is going to marry her ‘in another key’, in barges Egeus. Theseus’ comments about ‘a long age of three hours’ show that he is still dying to get into bed with Hippolyta, and reminds us of his very first words in the play when he talks about how slow the old moon was waning and how it lingered his desires for Hippolyta. By having Theseus read out the list of possible entertainments Shakespeare prolongs the dramatic suspense: will Pyramus be chosen? 205 5.1 THESEUS [Reads] 'The battle with the Centaurs, to be sung By an Athenian eunuch998 to the harp.' We'll none of that: that have I told my love, In glory of my kinsman Hercules999. Reads 'The riot of the tipsy Bacchanals1000, Tearing the Thracian singer in their rage1001.' That is an old device1002; and it was play'd When I from Thebes came last a conqueror. Reads 'The thrice three Muses 1003mourning for the death Of learning, late deceased in beggary1004.' That is some satire, keen and critical, Not sorting1005 with a nuptial ceremony1006. Reads 'A tedious 1007brief scene of young Pyramus And his love Thisbe; very tragical mirth.' Merry and tragical! Tedious and brief! That is, hot ice and wondrous strange snow. How shall we find the concord1008 of this discord? PHILOSTRATE A play there is, my lord, some ten words long, Which is as brief as I have known a play; But by ten words, my lord, it is too long, Which makes it tedious; for in all the play There is not one word apt, one player fitted1009: And tragical, my noble lord, it is; For Pyramus therein doth kill himself. Which, when I saw rehearsed, I must confess, Made mine eyes water; but more merry tears The passion1010 of loud laughter never shed. Stage Directions 45 As Theseus reads Hippolyta reads over his shoulder while tenderly embracing him. 50 Theseus dismisses the proposed entertainments until he comes to the Pyramus and Thisbe play. 55 60 65 This excites him. He exclaims delightedly about ‘hot ice’ etc. to all on the stage. Philostrate comes up to Theseus and tries to gently dissuade him. He’s afraid that he will be blamed for the crudely amateurish performance of Bottom and company. 70 THESEUS What are they that do play it? 998 A castrated man I have already told my love (Hippolyta) of this story of my cousin Hercules (legendary Greek hero) 1000 Women worshippers of the Greek god of wine, Bacchus, who indulge in drunken frenzies (bacchanals) 1001 The Greek poet Orpheus was in legend torn to pieces by the drunken devotees of Bacchus 1002 Show or dramatic plot 1003 In Greek myth the nine muses were each responsible for one of the arts 1004 Poets and scholars were proverbially poor 1005 Not in keeping with or suitable for 1006 A wedding celebration 1007 Boring or long 1008 Harmony 1009 Not one well written word and not one actor who suits the part (i.e. who can act) 1010 Strong feeling i.e. a fit of laughter 999 206 5.1 Commentary Theseus goes through the short list of entertainments and dismisses all of them until he comes to Pyramus. He finds the contradictions in the description fascinating, and then when Philostrate tells him it is so ridiculous it made him laugh, this piques his curiosity even more. Theseusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; comment about finding the concord in the discord of the Pyramus play, also applies to Dream itself: all the conflicts have been resolved and harmony has been restored between Hippolyta and Theseus, Titania and Oberon, Quince and Bottom and the four lovers. It now remains to see how the apparent discord of Pyramus will be turned into harmony. In fact, as we will see the play-within-a-play will have the effect of creating a temporary harmony between the Athenian upper and lower classes, as does carnival. 207 Stage Directions 5.1 PHILOSTRATE Hard-handed men that work in Athens here, Which never labour'd in their minds till now1011, And now have toil'd1012 their unbreathed 1013memories1014 With this same play, against your nuptial1015. 75 Despite Philostrate’s dismissal of the play, Theseus joyfully proclaims his will to see the play. THESEUS And1016 we will hear it. PHILOSTRATE No, my noble lord; It is not for you: I have heard it over, And it is nothing, nothing in the world; Unless you can find sport in their intents1017, Extremely stretch'd1018 and conn'd with cruel pain1019, To do you service. 80 THESEUS I will hear that play; For never anything can be amiss1020, When simpleness 1021and duty1022 tender it. Go, bring them in: and take your places, ladies. Theseus, enunciating each word carefully, asserts in a dramatic and definitive manner ‘I will…play!’ Philostrate goes off reluctantly still mumbling protests. He looks back at Theseus who gestures him off. Exit PHILOSTRATE HIPPOLYTA I love not to see wretchedness o'er charged And duty in his service perishing1023. 85 THESEUS Why, gentle sweet, you shall see no such thing. HIPPOLYTA He says they can do nothing in this kind1024. 1011 Never spent much time thinking Exhausted 1013 Unpractised, rusty, out of shape 1014 Brains 1015 In preparation for your wedding 1016 Then 1017 Get a laugh out of their efforts 1018 I.e. their efforts have strained their abilities 1019 i.e. they have learned their lines with excruciating difficulty 1020 Be wrong or offend 1021 Artless sincerity or unsophistication 1022 A sense of duty 1023 Poor people with limited abilities trying something ambitious and failing 1024 Of this sort; i.e. he (Philostrate) just said they’re no good at acting 1012 Philostrate tries to dissuade him. He does not understand Theseus’ motives for seeing this entertainment, and may be afraid that he will be blamed if it is a flop. Hippolyta makes a plea. She does not like the idea of exposing these humble working men to ridicule. 208 5.1 Commentary What clinches it for Theseus is that some Athenian workmen are putting it on. Both because he is proud of the craftsmen of his city state and because he admires the gall of these uneducated men who dare to enter their play for such an occasion like this. Philostrate tries to dissuade him, but Theseus insists, arguing that the play can’t offend if it is inspired by sincerity and a sense of duty. Moreover, the ‘nothings’ in the exchange between Philostrate, Theseus and Hippolyta take us back to Theseus’ earlier remarks that the poet by his imagination can create something out of nothing. Hippolyta misunderstands Theseus, thinking that the only reason for allowing the entertainment is to mock or make sport of the workmen. But Theseus corrects her. Indeed when Bottom and company come on, although at first they inspire ridicule, their instinctive naturalness and goodwill convert the stage audience into their supporters. They become fully engaged in the play which they realise is a highly amusing entertainment. For the complete restoration of harmony it is important that the divide between the aristocrats and the workmen be seen to gradually break down so at the end they are all united in a celebratory dance. In the following interaction between the stage audience and the stage actors, neither Hermia nor Helena speak any lines: it is essentially the men who exchange witticisms; but it is important to show how all three women (Hippolyta as well) become increasingly involved in and thoroughly enjoying the play. It is up to the director and the actors to devise how best this can be done, but there are many opportunities for the stage audience to become physically involved with the stage actors with whom they gradually empathise. The play-within-a-play is akin to an anti-masque which traditionally presented grotesque or comic characters to act as a foil to the main masque. Thus Pyramus mocks the absurd passions of the four lovers in the wood and, at the same time, provides a healthy catharsis by allowing the lovers to witness at a suitably removed aesthetic distance a reduction to comedy of what might have been their own tragedy provoked by emotions gone wild. 209 5.1 THESEUS The kinder we, to give them thanks for nothing1025. Our sport shall be to take what they mistake1026: And what poor duty cannot do, noble respect Takes it in might, not merit1027. Where I have come1028, great clerks 1029have purposed To greet me with premeditated welcomes;1030 Where I have seen them shiver and look pale, Make periods 1031in the midst of sentences, Throttle 1032their practised accent 1033in their fears And in conclusion dumbly have broke off, Not paying me a welcome1034. Trust me, sweet, Out of this silence yet I pick'd 1035a welcome; And in the modesty of fearful duty1036 I read as much as from the rattling tongue Of saucy and audacious eloquence1037. Love, therefore, and tongue-tied simplicity In least speak most, to my capacity1038. 90 95 100 Stage Directions Theseus addresses this partly to Hippolyta and partly to the audience. During the entire playwithin-a-play scene Hippolyta and Theseus express their affection for each other as they sit side by side. While only the men of the four lovers speak, it is important to show Hermia and Helena actively involved. 105 Re-enter PHILOSTRATE PHILOSTRATE So please your grace, the Prologue1039 is address'd1040. THESEUS Let him approach. Flourish of trumpets Enter QUINCE for the Prologue 1025 All the kinder of us to thank them for nothing Our pleasure will be to accept what they offer even when they get it wrong 1027 And when well-meant efforts fail, magnanimity requires that we accept what they offer rather than what they intend 1028 I.e. in my travels 1029 Learned men 1030 Have set out to greet me with well-prepared formal speeches of welcome 1031 Pause or stop (inappropriately) in the middle of a sentence 1032 Botch 1033 Rehearsed speeches 1034 And at the end break off as if struck dumb without welcoming me 1035 Understood and accepted 1036 And form the deference shown by tongued-tied respect 1037 I discerned as much as from all the talkativeness of an overconfident eloquence 1038 Lovers and tongue-tied simple men say most when they say least, as far as I can tell. 1039 The actor speaking the prologue, which was used to tell the audience what the play was about 1040 Ready 1026 210 5.1 Commentary Again Theseus maintains that if the entertainment is offered sincerely and the product falls short because of the limitations of the actors, we, the audience, must be magnanimous in accepting what they offer rather what they intend. Theseusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; speech sets the tone for the rest of the stage audience: we are not here to mock these unschooled and honest workmen but to help them in their sincere efforts to honour us with their entertainment. The play-within-the-play carries on the theme of reality vs. illusion. We the theatre audience are watching a stage audience watching a play. But we are also watching the play. The stage audience becomes increasingly involved in the play. Note too that it is night and the entertainment provokes constant laughter which releases potentially anarchic and subversive forces. So in this case the rational ordered world of Athens becomes permeated with the spirit of carnival that reaffirms the celebration of natural life forces. 211 Stage Directions 5.1 QUINCE (as Prologue) If we offend, it is with our good will1041. That you should think, we come not to offend, But with good will1042. To show our simple skill, That is the true beginning of our end. Consider then we come but in despite1043. We do not come as minding to content you1044, Our true intent is. All for your delight We are not here. That you should here repent you, The actors are at hand1045 and by their show You shall know all that you are like to know. 110 115 THESEUS This fellow doth not stand upon points1046. LYSANDER He hath rid1047 his prologue like a rough1048 colt; he knows not the stop1049. A good moral, my lord: it is not enough to speak, 120 but to speak true.1050 HIPPOLYTA Indeed he hath played on his prologue like a child on a recorder; a sound, but not in government1051. THESEUS His speech, was like a tangled chain; nothing impaired, but all disordered1052. Who is next? 1041 125 What we want or intentionally (Quince of course means to say the opposite) Ie don’t think we come to offend; for that is our intent (Quince stops in the wrong place) 1043 We’re here in spite or ill will 1044 With the intention of pleasing you 1045 In order for you to be sorry the actors are here 1046 Doesn’t worry about punctuation 1047 Ridden 1048 Unbroken or wild 1049 Stop both in the sense of punctuation and stopping of a horse 1050 Correctly or grammatically 1051 Not under control or undisciplined 1052 Nothing broken but everything confused 1042 Now begins the most hilarious action in Dream: the playwithin-the-play presented by Quince, Bottom and company. Quince mangles the prologue by pausing and stopping in all the wrong places. The actor should do this slowly to milk all the laughs from the real audience. Theseus and company greet the prologue with genuine laughter and applause. During the entire Pyramus and Thisbe play, Theseus, Hippolyta, Lysander and Demetrius keep up a running commentary, to which the workmen actors occasionally react. The interaction between the two sets of people must be worked out carefully so that the real audience can hear what both are saying. Also the actors must take account of the real audience’s bouts of laughter so that their words are not drowned out. Theseus and company begin by poking fun at the workmen but soon become caught up in and part of the play, however ridiculous they find it. They actually come to enjoy it as the farce that it is. 212 5.1 Commentary Quince in his nervousness mangles the prologue much to the amusement of the stage audience and the real audience. This sets the tone for what is to follow. Theseus and company now realise that these workmen are in way over their heads. Their reaction might have been to contemptuously dismiss them and boo them off the stage, but Theseus has already made it clear that he accepts whatever his workmen have to offer. At first the stage audience is patronising, but in a nice kind of way, as would adults watching children put on a play. Then they become more and more involved in the action, especially when Bottom and others start interacting with them. At the same time the stage audience and the actors in the Pyramus play also interact with us the real audience. It is all mirrors within mirrors. Whose reflection is real? 213 5.1 Enter BOTTOM (as Pyramus), FLUTE (as Thisbe), SNOUT (as Wall), STARVELING (as Moonshine), SNUG (as Lion). QUINCE (as Prologue) Gentles1053, perchance 1054you wonder at this show; But wonder on, till truth make all things plain. This man is Pyramus, if you would1055 know; This beauteous lady Thisbe is certain1056. This man, with lime and rough-cast1057, doth present 130 Wall, that vile Wall which did these lovers sunder1058; And through Wall's chink1059, poor souls, they are content To whisper. At the which let no man wonder. This man, with lanthorn1060, dog, and bush of thorn, Presenteth Moonshine; for, if you will know, 135 By moonshine did these lovers think no scorn1061 To meet at Ninus' tomb, there, there to woo. This grisly 1062beast, which Lion hight 1063by name, The trusty Thisbe, coming first by night, Did scare away, or rather did affright; 140 1064 1065 And, as she fled, her mantle she did fall, Which Lion vile with bloody mouth did stain. Anon1066 comes Pyramus, sweet youth and tall1067, And finds his trusty Thisbe's mantle slain: Whereat, with blade, with bloody blameful blade, 145 He bravely broach'd1068 his boiling bloody breast; And Thisbe, tarrying in mulberry shade1069, His dagger drew, and died. For all the rest, Let Lion, Moonshine, Wall, and lovers twain1070 At large 1071discourse1072, while here they do remain. 150 Exeunt QUINCE, BOTTOM, FLUTE, SNUG and STARVELING THESEUS I wonder if the lion be to speak. 1053 Ladies and gentlemen Perhaps 1055 Want to 1056 For sure 1057 Plaster or mortar used for walls 1058 Separate or keep apart 1059 Hole 1060 Lantern 1061 Were not ashamed 1062 Gruesome 1063 Is called 1064 Cloak 1065 Let fall 1066 Soon 1067 Brave 1068 Pierced 1069 Hiding in the shade of a mulberry bush 1070 Two 1071 Freely 1072 I.e. tell you all about it 1054 Stage Directions The workmen actors bring on a screen which they place upstage and to and from which they go and come as their presence is required. While Quince reads his prologue and thus introduces the play, the various actors take a bow when they are introduced and mime their parts silently in exaggerated fashion so as to get laughs from the real audience. When Snout mimes his part as Wall he puts his circled fingers between his legs. Bottom and Flute, playing Pyramus and Thisbe, stoop down and look through Snout’s hands. Snout should be made up in rags with mud as in a mud ‘ole mas’ costume, maybe with a cardboard sign around his neck saying ‘Wall’. The actor playing Moonshine should carry a flambeau (a burning torch) and use a mop as his prop for a dog. Quince should stress the ‘B’ sounds so as to make the alliteration absurd and funny. He has worked hard on this alliteration and is proud of it. The actor playing Snug playing Lion should act in an exaggerated ferocious manner. The women in the stage audience, entering into the spirit of things, hiss and boo at Wall, pretend to be frightened of the lion, and also pretend to weep when Pyramus and Thisbe die. Quince and the actors all take a bow at the end of the prologue before they go off behind the screen; all except Snout as Wall. Theseus laughs kindly as he says his words. Quince stands by the screen visible to the real audience ready to help his actors as needed. 214 5.1 Commentary Even before the play starts, the stage audience starts to get drawn into it in the prologue, with the women in the stage audience, hissing at â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;vileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Wall, pretending to be scared of Snug as Lion, and pretending to shed tears as Pyramus and Thisbe die. There might also be some applause for Quinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bout of alliteration. As the play progresses the stage audience becomes more and more involved (here it is up to the ingenuity of the director and actors, even those who have no speaking parts). 215 Stage Directions 5.1 Snout Rushes through his lines at top speed, not wishing to be interrupted by Theseus and company. He puts his fingers to create a hole between his legs. DEMETRIUS No wonder1073, my lord: one lion may, when many asses do. SNOUT (as Wall) In this same interlude1074 it doth befall1075 That I, one Snout by name, present 1076a wall; And such a wall, as I would have you think, That had in it a crannied1077 hole or chink1078, Through which the lovers, Pyramus and Thisbe, Did whisper often very secretly. This loam, this rough-cast 1079and this stone doth show That I am that same wall; the truth is so: And this the cranny is, right and sinister1080, Through which the fearful lovers are to whisper. 155 He whispers these two stressing the sibilants. 160 lines When he says ‘right and sinister’ he turns around to face the opposite direction. THESEUS Would you desire lime and hair to speak better? DEMETRIUS It is the wittiest partition1081 that ever I heard discourse, my lord. Enter BOTTOM (as Pyramus) 165 THESEUS Pyramus draws near the wall: silence! BOTTOM (as Pyramus) O grim-look'd night! O night with hue so black! O night, which ever art when day is not! O night, O night! alack1082, alack, alack, I fear my Thisbe's promise is forgot! 170 And thou, O wall, O sweet, O lovely wall, That stand'st between her father's ground and mine! Thou wall, O wall, O sweet and lovely wall, Show me thy chink, to blink1083through with mine eyne1084! Wall holds up his fingers Thanks, courteous wall: Jove1085 shield thee well for this! 175 But what see I? No Thisbe do I see. O wicked wall, through whom I see no bliss! Cursed be thy stones for thus deceiving me! 1073 It wouldn’t surprise me Short play 1075 Happens 1076 Represent 1077 Narrow or small 1078 Crack 1079 Coarse plaster of lime and pebbles 1080 Left 1081 Pun on two meanings of partition: wall and part of a speech 1082 Alas 1083 To look 1084 Eyes 1085 Jove or Jupiter (Zeus in Greek mythology) was the chief Roman god 1074 Theseus does not want to miss a word, so he silences the continuing laughter of the stage audience (and maybe the actual audience). Bottom comes on and hams it up it for all he is worth. Bottom kneels facing the real audience and turns occasionally to Theseus and Hippolyta. On the words “And thou, o wall.” he stands up and approaches Wall. Bottom in embracing Wall gets some of the mud on him and furiously tries to shake and wipe it off. Wall holds his fingers between his legs with his bottom towards Bottom. After getting more mud on his face Bottom hits Snout who retaliates with a kick. Then when he says “cursed be thy stones…me” he knees Wall in the groin. Wall doubles over in agony, staggering around in pain. 216 5.1 Commentary The comments of Theseus and company are often interpreted as being patronising and satirical. There is of course an element of satirical humour, but what the comments show is that the stage audience is being drawn into the play. It’s like persons watching impromptu karaoke performances. They begin by being satirical but end up rooting for their favourite performers even though they recognize their imperfections, and even actually performing. This is exactly what is going on here. When Theseus says ‘Pyramus draws near the wall: silence!’ he is already part of the play. And who could not relish Bottom’s speech? Originally, Wall indicated the chink by putting his fingers between his legs, as the text supports. But a prudish editor in the 18th century indicated that he should hold his fingers in front of him like an open scissors. We revert to the original as more compatible with the text and the farcical and bawdy humour in it. Note that Bottom’s words as Pyramus echo and mock similar words by Helena earlier: ‘O weary night, O long and tedious night’ (Act 3, Scene 2). 217 Stage Directions 5.1 BOTTOM No, in truth, sir, he should not. 'Deceiving me' is Thisbe's cue: 180 she is to enter now, and I am to spy her through the wall. You shall see, it will fall pat 1088as I told you. Yonder she comes. Enter FLUTE (as Thisbe) Thisbe comes out from behind the screen on cue but has to go back when Theseus and Bottom exchange comments, Bottom being so bold as to sit down next to Theseus to explain. He gets up at ‘You shall see…’. Theseus and company are enjoying the farcical goings-on. FLUTE (as Thisbe) O wall, full often hast thou heard my moans, For parting1089 my fair Pyramus and me! My cherry lips have often kiss'd thy stones1090, Thy stones with lime and hair knit up 1091in thee. Thisbe hams it up as a woman. She is bending down at the fingers between Wall’s legs when she says ‘kiss’d thy stones’. THESEUS The wall, methinks, being sensible1086, should curse again1087. 185 BOTTOM (as Pyramus) I see a voice: now will I to the chink, To spy an1092 I can hear my Thisbe's face. Thisbe! FLUTE (as Thisbe) My love thou art, my love I think. BOTTOM (as Pyramus) Think what thou wilt, I am thy lover's grace1093; And, like Limander1094, am I trusty1095 still. 190 FLUTE (as Thisbe) And I like Helen, 1096till the Fates me kill. Bottom turns wall around so Wall’s bottom is facing Thisbe. As Thisbe utters the words ‘My love’ she coughs and fans away a foul smell; then strikes Wall who retaliates. Wall should react in various ways as he is struck by Pyramus and Thisbe. These next few lines of Bottom and Flute are delivered to Theseus and company. BOTTOM (as Pyramus) Not Shafalus to Procrus 1097was so true. FLUTE (as Thisbe) As Shafalus to Procrus, I to you. BOTTOM (as Pyramus) O kiss me through the hole of this vile wall! 1086 195 As the two lovers try to kiss between Wall\s legs more mud comes off on both. Bottom strikes Wall again. Then Thisbe strikes Wall. Having feelings Back 1088 Happen precisely 1089 Separating 1090 A naughty pun: stones as testicles 1091 Bound up or stuck to 1092 If 1093 Your gracious lover 1094 Bottom, as usual, gets it wrong; he means Leander, a legendary hero who swam across a river to meet his love, Hero 1095 Trustworthy or faithful 1096 Instead of saying ‘Hero’, Flute refers to Helen, whole infidelity to her husband caused the Trojan War. 1097 Mistake for Cephalus and Procris. Cepahalus in error killed his faithful wife Procris with a javelin 1087 218 5.1 Commentary Bottom, taking his cue from Theseus’ telling the stage audience to be silent, now completely breaks the illusionary barrier between actors and audience. He, a humble weaver, engages the head of state in dialogue about what’s going on in the play. This takes gumption and a strong sense of self. Bottom’s intervention only helps to draw the stage audience more fully into the play. Note that Shakespeare uses every opportunity of double entendre in this skit: ‘my cherry lips have often kiss’d thy stones’ and ‘’I kiss the wall’s hole’. 219 5.2 FLUTE (as Thisbe) I kiss the wall's hole1098, not your lips at all. Flute and Bottom still try to get rid of the mud on their persons. BOTTOM (as Pyramus) Wilt thou at Ninny's1099 tomb meet me straightway? FLUTE (as Thisbe) Tide1100 life, 'tide death, I come without delay. Exeunt BOTTOM and FLUTE in different directions SNOUT (as Wall) Thus have I, Wall, my part discharged1101 so; And, being done, thus Wall away doth go. Exit THESEUS Now is the mural1102 down between the two neighbours. 200 Wall speaks his final words in a strangulated voice and goes off clutching his groin in pain. There is wild applause from the stage audience for Wall as he exits. DEMETRIUS No remedy, my lord, when walls are so wilful1103 to hear without warning.1104 HIPPOLYTA This is the silliest stuff that ever I heard. THESEUS The best in this kind 1105are but shadows1106; and the worst 205 are no worse, if imagination amend1107 them. HIPPOLYTA It must be your imagination then, and not theirs. THESEUS If we imagine no worse 1108of them than they of themselves, they may pass for excellent men. Here come two noble beasts in, a man and a lion. 210 Enter SNUG (as Lion) and STARVELING (as Moonshine) 1098 A pun on hole and anus Should be Ninus. Bottom repeats the mistake for which Quince castigated Flute earlier 1100 Come or happen; from ‘betide’ as in ‘woe betide thee’ 1101 Performed 1102 Wall 1103 Ready 1104 Reference to the popular saying ‘walls have ears’ 1105 i.e. the best of plays 1106 In the sense of illusions or mere representations 1107 Improved or aided by one’s imagination 1108 Think no less 1099 Hippolyta’s line about ‘silliest stuff’ is said not dismissively but appreciatively. She is enjoying it as much as the others. 220 5.1 Commentary Theseus’ comment about ‘shadows’ relates both to his earlier speech about lover, lunatic and poet, and Puck’s epilogue to come. Once again Shakespeare is mining the theme of illusion vs. reality, and in this case, raising the issue of what is a play, or more generally, what is art’s relation to reality? Wall also symbolises the theatrical wall of illusion between actors and audience, as well as the social circumstances that often separate two lovers. Theseus also comes to the defence of his honest workmen trying their best to please within their limitations. Snug, as Lion, takes his cue from Bottom and addresses the stage audience. 221 Stage Directions 5.1 SNUG (as Lion) You, ladies, you, whose gentle hearts do fear The smallest monstrous mouse that creeps on floor, May now perchance both quake and tremble here, When lion rough in wildest rage doth roar. Then know that I, one Snug the joiner, am A lion-fell1109, nor else no lion's dam1110; For, if I should as lion come in strife1111 Into this place, 'twere pity on my life.1112 215 Snug as Lion tries to reassure his audience (both Theseus and company and the real audience) that he is NOT really a lion. The ladies (Hippolyta, Hermia and Helena) respond by petting him and going ‘aww!’ THESEUS A very gentle beast, of a good conscience. DEMETRIUS The very best at a beast, my lord, that e'er I saw. 220 LYSANDER This lion is a very fox1113 for his valour1114. THESEUS True; and a goose for his discretion1115. DEMETRIUS Not so, my lord; for his valour cannot carry his discretion and the fox carries the goose.1116 THESEUS His discretion, I am sure, cannot carry his valour; 225 for the goose carries not the fox. It is well: leave it to his discretion1117, and let us listen to the moon. Starveling comes on as Moonshine, carrying a flambeau (a burning torch). During the exchange between Theseus and company, Starveling, as Moonshine, tries to speak but keeps getting interrupted and becomes irritated to the point of rage. Snug as Lion tries to reassure him After Starveling stamps his foot. Theseus realizes that Starveling is getting annoyed, and hushes the stage audience. Theseus seems to have taken over the role of stage manager. STARVELING (As Moonshine) This lanthorn1118 doth the horned moon present;-DEMETRIUS He should have worn the horns on his head1119. THESEUS He is no crescent1120, and his horns are 1109 230 A fierce lion Not even a lioness (dam = mother) 1111 Aggressive or roaring 1112 If I came as a roaring lion I would be taking my life in my own hands 1113 The lion was supposed to be brave, the fox cunning and the goose stupid or cowardly 1114 More shrewd than brave; i.e. he is as brave a fox 1115 And as cunning as a goose 1116 His courage can’t overcome his cunning and the fox overcomes the goose 1117 Discretion here in the sense of good judgment 1118 Lantern 1119 i.e. as a cuckold (a man who has been horned) 1120 Waxing or growing full, a joke referring to Starveling’s thinness and also a reference to the two points of a crescent moon 1110 222 5.1 Commentary Is Snug improvising in reaction to how the women in the stage audience reacted fearfully to his first appearance, or has Quince scripted this for him? The director and actor will have to decide. I think heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s improvising. The three ladies respond sympathetically in various ways to Snugâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s words, further breaking down the distinction between the stage actors and the stage audience. The interaction between the stage audience and the workmen actors continues. Starveling as Moonshine is a wonderful parody of the dominant symbol of Dream: the moon. 223 5.1 Stage Directions invisible within the circumference1121. Starveling, during the exchange of witticisms between Theseus and company, tries to speak but is constantly interrupted. STARVELING (as Moonshine) This lanthorn doth the horned moon present; Myself the man i' the moon do seem to be. THESEUS This is the greatest error of all the rest: the man should be put into the lanthorn. How is it else the man i' the moon? 235 Eventually, totally fed up with the interruptions, Starveling bursts angrily out, twirls his mop around and stalks off the stage. But Quince forces him back on. DEMETRIUS He dares not come there for1122 the candle; for, you see, it is already in snuff1123 HIPPOLYTA I am aweary of this moon: would he would change! THESEUS It appears, by his small light of discretion1124, that he is in the wane; but yet, in courtesy1125, in all reason1126, we must stay the time. 240 LYSANDER Proceed, Moon. STARVELING (as Moonshine) All that I have to say, is, to tell you that the lanthorn is the moon; I, the man in the moon; this thorn-bush, my thorn-bush; and this dog, my dog. DEMETRIUS Why, all these should be in the lanthorn; for all these are in the moon. But, silence! Here comes Thisbe. Enter FLUTE (as Thisbe) FLUTE (as Thisbe) This is old Ninny's tomb. Where is my love? SNUG (as Lion) [Roaring] Arrh! Thisbe runs off dropping her mantle DEMETRIUS Well roared, Lion. 1121 i.e.since the moon is not crescent shaped you can’t see the horns on his head For fear of 1123 Smoking 1124 Here meaning ‘intelligence’ with a play on words: ‘dimness’ 1125 Out of politeness 1126 As is only reasonable 1122 245 As Thisbe comes on the stage Snug as Lion starts roaring loudly. He chases Thisbe around in circles, even among the stage audience (she perhaps hides behind Helena). She drops her mantle and flees, and he ravages it with excessive delight roaring all the while as Theseus and company applaud. Eventually Quince has to come out from behind the screen and drag him off. Meanwhile Moonshine accidentally sets his thorn bush (some paper and cardboard) afire with the flambeau he is carrying and the other workmen knock him to the ground, trying to put it out. Hermia and Helena come and help extinguish the flame. 224 5.1 Commentary At this point, much to Starvelingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annoyance, the stage audience becomes a little too much involved. It is Lysander who now plays the role of stage manager. Snug as Lion chases Thisbe in and among Theseus and company which gets them even more involved in the play. Then Hermia and Helena come to Starvelingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rescue as he accidentally set himself on fire with the flambeau he was carrying as Moonshine. It is hard now to distinguish between stage actors and stage audience. 225 Stage Directions THESEUS Well run, Thisbe. 250 HIPPOLYTA Well shone, Moon. Truly, the moon shines with a good grace. The Lion shakes Thisbe's mantle, and exits THESEUS Well moused1127, Lion. DEMETRIUS And then came Pyramus. LYSANDER And so the lion vanished. Enter BOTTOM (as Pyramus) BOTTOM (as Pyramus) Sweet Moon, I thank thee for thy sunny beams; I thank thee, Moon, for shining now so bright; For, by thy gracious, golden, glittering gleams, I trust to take of truest Thisbe sight1128. But stay, O spite! But mark, poor knight, What dreadful dole1129 is here! Eyes, do you see? How can it be? O dainty duck! O dear! Thy mantle good, What, stain'd with blood! Approach, ye Furies1130 fell1131! O Fates1132, come, come, Cut thread and thrum1133; Quail1134, crush, conclude, and quell1135! THESEUS This passion1136, and the death of a dear friend, would go near to make a man look sad. 255 260 Hippolyta applauds as she shouts this line and all the other of her company laugh. At this stage Theseus and company are fully involved in the play, getting up from their seats to encourage the action. Demetrius, facing the real audience, says his line slowly to the real audience, pausing before â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pyramusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as if introducing him. Lysander also says this line slowly and humorously. Bottom, after his first line, looks and sees Moonshine lying on the ground. He drags Starveling, up off the ground. Helena runs to help prop him up. Hermia holds a glass up for him to drink from. Bottom then begins his grand speech with elaborate melodramatic gestures to general hilarity. 265 270 Theseus is killing himself with quiet laughter. Hippolyta, weak with laughter, says this shaking her head and holding on to Theseus with one hand. Bottom takes a bow after these remarks. HIPPOLYTA Beshrew 1137my heart, but I pity the man. 1127 Like a cat playing with a mouse Get a sight of Thisbe 1129 Cause of sorrow 1130 Three avenging deities in classical mythology (Tisiphone, Megaera, and Alecto) 1131 Terrible 1132 The three goddesses in Greek mythology, Clotho, Lachesis and Atropos, who would spin, the thread of human lives, another would decide on the length and the third would cut it 1133 Destroy everything, good and bad; the thrum was the unwoven end of the thread in a woven fabric attached to the loom 1134 Overpower 1135 Destroy 1136 Show of sorrow 1137 Curse 1128 226 5.1 Commentary Whatever distinction existed between the stage audience and the workmen actors is now completely gone. Theseus and company are taking every opportunity to get involved and help out where they can. Moreover Theseus and company are breaking down the wall of illusion between the actors and the real audience, turning as they do to directly address them from time to time. 227 Stage Directions 5.1 BOTTOM (as Pyramus) O wherefore, Nature, didst thou lions frame1138? 275 Since lion vile hath here deflower'd1139 my dear: Which is--no, no--which was the fairest dame That lived, that loved, that liked, that look'd with cheer1140. Come, tears, confound;1141 Out, sword, and wound 280 The pap1142 of Pyramus; Ay, that left pap, Where heart doth hop1143: Stabs himself Thus die I, thus, thus, thus. Now am I dead, 285 Now am I fled1144; My soul is in the sky: Tongue1145, lose thy light; Moon take thy flight: Exit Starveling (as Moonshine) Now die, die, die, die, die. 290 Dies DEMETRIUS No die1146, but an ace1147, for him; for he is but one. LYSANDER Less than an ace1148, man; for he is dead; he is nothing. THESEUS With the help of a surgeon he might yet recover, and prove an ass1149. HIPPOLYTA How chance Moonshine is gone before Thisbe comes back and finds her lover? 295 THESEUS She will find him by starlight. Re-enter FLUTE (as Thisbe) Here she comes; and her passion1150 ends the play. 1138 Create Bottom means ‘devoured’ but he says ‘deflowered’, meaning taken her virginity 1140 Cheerfully 1141 Destroy or silence 1142 Breast (he stabs himself in the breast 1143 Beat 1144 Fled from this life; i.e. dead 1145 Bottom means to say ‘eyes’ 1146 One of a pair of dice 1147 Ace or one, the lowest throw at dice. There is also a pun on ‘ace’ and ‘ass’ 1148 Less than one = dead 1149 Another pun on ‘ace’ and ‘ass’ 1150 Speech expressing grief and sorrow 1139 This is Bottom the actor’s big moment: Pyramus’ death scene. So he hams it up and dies spectacularly. When he says ‘deflowered’, Quince shouts ‘devoured’. When Bottom says the words ‘out sword’ he tugs at the fake sword in his belt but can’t get it out. So he has to do it three times. On the third attempt the sword flies out of his hand among Theseus and company. Theseus picks it up and hands it to Bottom with a bow. He stabs himself first on the right, and then, correcting, on the left. He then repeatedly stabs himself. After each ‘die’ he collapses and then sits back up. As he dies for the last time he flashes a thumbs-up sign at Quince, who returns it. The women in the stage audience pretend to tear their hair out and wail as Pyramus dies. Starveling as Moonshine staggers off, much to the amusement of everyone. 228 5.1 Commentary The confusion of actors and audience continues. Thisbe will have to die without Moonshine. 229 5.1 HIPPOLYTA Methinks she should not use a long one for such a Pyramus: I hope she will be brief. 300 Stage Directions DEMETRIUS A mote1151 will turn the balance1152, which Pyramus, which Thisbe, is the better; he for a man, God warrant 1153us; she for a woman, God bless us. LYSANDER She hath spied him already with those sweet eyes. DEMETRIUS And thus she means1154, videlicet1155:-FLUTE (as Thisbe) Asleep, my love? What, dead, my dove? O Pyramus, arise! Speak, speak. Quite dumb? Dead, dead? A tomb Must cover thy sweet eyes. These My lips, This cherry nose, These yellow cowslip cheeks, Are gone, are gone: Lovers, make moan: His eyes were green as leeks. O Sisters Three1156, Come, come to me, With hands as pale as milk; Lay them in gore1157, Since you have shore1158 With shears his thread of silk1159. Tongue, not a word: Come, trusty sword; Come, blade, my breast imbrue1160: Stabs herself And, farewell, friends; Thus Thisbe ends: Adieu, adieu, adieu. Dies 1151 305 320 325 Flute, as Thisbe, is not going to be out-acted by Bottom, especially as she has to wait until Theseus and company have finished their commentary. So she plays her last scene in masterful melodramatic fashion. As Flute says “asleep my love’, she kicks Bottom in the ribs. Bottom swipes at her with his sword. As she mentions the eyes, lips and nose of Bottom she grasps them and tweaks them vigorously, causing Bottom to sneeze. As Thisbe stabs herself she bids ‘adieu’ to Theseus and company, her fellow actors who have now come out from behind the screen and the real audience. The stage audience cheers and applauds wildly. A minute particle; a mere speck Make one of a scale’s two pans dip; i.e there is very little to choose between the outrageous performances of Bottom and Flute 1153 Preserve 1154 Laments 1155 Namely or as you may see 1156 The three Fates 1157 Place your hands in his blood 1158 Shorn or cut 1159 His silk-like thread of life 1160 Pierce 1152 230 5.1 Commentary And so the magnificent farce of Pyramus and Thisbe ends. It has parodied the action that took place in the wood between the four lovers, allowing them to put their ‘dreams’ (i.e. their liberated subconscious desires) into a proper perspective; it has allowed the workmen to fulfil their greatest desire: to pull off a triumph at Theseus’ palace; and it has united the aristocrats and the workmen. 231 5.1 THESEUS Moonshine and Lion are left to bury the dead. Stage Directions 330 DEMETRIUS Ay, and Wall too. BOTTOM [Getting up, as Flute does also] No I assure you; the wall is down that parted their fathers. Will it please you to see the epilogue, or to hear 1161a Bergomask1162 dance between two of our company? THESEUS No epilogue, I pray you; for your play needs no excuse1163. 335 Never excuse; for when the players are all dead, there needs none to be blamed. Marry1164, if he that writ it had played Pyramus and hanged himself in Thisbe's garter, it would have been a fine tragedy: and so it is, truly; and very notably discharged1165. But come, your Bergomask: let your epilogue alone.1166 340 A dance The iron tongue 1167of midnight hath told 1168twelve: Lovers, to bed; 'tis almost fairy time1169. I fear we shall out-sleep the coming morn As much as we this night have overwatch'd1170. This palpable-gross 1171play hath well beguiled The heavy gait of night1172. Sweet friends, to bed. A fortnight hold we this solemnity,1173 In nightly revels and new jollity. Exeunt 1161 Bottom once again confuses ‘see’ and ‘hear’ A country dance performed in a clownish manner; from Bergamo in Italy 1163 Apology; dramatic epilogues were frequently apologetic in tone 1164 By the Virgin Mary, a mild oath 1165 Performed 1166 Forget your epilogue 1167 The clapper of a bell 1168 Tolled or struck 1169 Fairies and spirits were thought to come out late at night 1170 Stayed up later than normally 1171 Rough and ready or crude 1172 Has helped the slow hours of the night to pass quickly 1173 Ceremonies 1162 345 Bottom and company, elated by the ‘success’ of their play, begin a joyful dance to the drums. Theseus and company soon join in and all distinctions between the two groups are temporarily dropped. They all mingle together in true celebratory carnival fashion. Then Theseus says his farewell to the audience. 232 5.1 Commentary Finally the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;concord of the discordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is found and all the Athenians are united in a dance that celebrates harmony and the fertility of the three marriages. Part of the tradition of the popular court masque was the actors dancing at the end with the noble spectators. 233 Stage Directions 5.1 Enter PUCK carrying a broom PUCK Now the hungry lion roars, And the wolf behowls1174 the moon; Whilst the heavy1175 ploughman snores, All with weary task fordone1176. Now the wasted1177 brands1178 do glow, Whilst the screech-owl, screeching loud, Puts the wretch that lies in woe1179 In remembrance of a shroud1180. Now it is the time of night That the graves all gaping wide, Every one lets forth his sprite,1181 In the church-way paths to glide: And we fairies, that do run By the triple Hecate's1182 team, From the presence of the sun, Following darkness like a dream, Now are frolic1183: not a mouse Shall disturb this hallow'd house: I am sent with broom before1184, To sweep the dust behind the door1185. 350 360 365 Enter OBERON and TITANIA with their train OBERON Through the house give glimmering light, By the dead and drowsy fire: Every elf and fairy sprite Hop as light as bird from brier; And this ditty1186, after me, Sing, and dance it trippingly1187. 1174 All these speeches are essentially addressed to the audience, since they all indicate the play is coming to an end. Puck enters slowly and almost menacingly, carrying a broom. He gives his trademark demonic laugh and delivers his speech in mock scary fashion, interspersed with laughter. 370 Oberon and Titania enter with the Indian boy, each holding one of his hands, symbolizing the resolution of the conflict between them and the restoration of harmony. Note that the spirits that accompany Oberon and Titania are the same spirits acted by the actors playing the workmen. So they would have had to make a quick change. Howls at Heavy with weariness 1176 Exhausted 1177 Burnt out, 1178 Embers or burnt logs 1179 Sleepless in misery 1180 To think of a burial shroud in which the corpse was wrapped 1181 Spirit or ghost 1182 The chariot of the goddess Hecate was drawn by a team of dragons. Hecate, goddess of the moon, also was known as Proserpine in Hades (the underworld), Diana on earth and Phoebe in the heavens, hence triple Hecate 1183 Frolicsome or merry 1184 In advance 1185 It was thought that if housemaids left a bowl of milk out for Puck at night he would do their sweeping for them 1186 Light-hearted song 1187 Nimbly 1175 234 5.1 Commentary Puckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speech shows the ambivalence of the spirit world he represents: it includes some frightening and malevolent aspects as well as benevolent blessings. There is nothing in the text that suggests the Indian boy is present, but there is also nothing in the text that prohibits his being present. In view of the restoration of harmony between the king and queen of the spirit world, it is quite justifiable to show that the cause of their conflict is now shared between the two as a sign of their reconciliation. 235 Stage Directions 5.1 TITANIA First, rehearse1188 your song by rote1189 To each word a warbling1190 note: Hand in hand, with fairy grace, Will we sing, and bless this place. 375 The spirits/fairies have their last dance. 380 Oberon speaks directly to the audience. Song and dance OBERON Now, until the break of day, Through this house each fairy stray. To the best bride-bed 1191will we, Which by us shall blessed be; And the issue there create1192 Ever shall be fortunate. So shall all the couples three Ever true in loving be; And the blots of Nature's hand Shall not in their issue stand1193; Never mole, hare lip, nor scar, Nor mark prodigious such as are Despised in nativity1194, Shall upon their children be. With this field-dew consecrate1195, Every fairy take his gait1196; And each several1197 chamber bless, Through this palace, with sweet peace; And the owner of it blest Ever shall in safety rest. Trip away; make no stay; Meet me all by break of day. 385 Exeunt OBERON, TITANIA, and train 1188 Recite By memory 1190 Melodic 1191 The bridal bed of Theseus and Hippolyta 1192 The children there conceived 1193 Their children will not bear any physical blemishes 1194 Nor ominous birthmarks that are hated 1195 Consecrated with the dew from the fields that the fairies are carrying 1196 Go on his way 1197 Separate 1189 236 5.1 Commentary Oberonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blessing of the marriages is to reaffirm that marriage, fertility and child rearing are the bedrock of social stability. 237 5.1 PUCK If we shadows1198 have offended, Think but this, and all is mended, That you have but slumber'd here While these visions did appear. And this weak and idle theme1199, No more yielding but a dream, Gentles, do not reprehend1200: if you pardon, we will mend1201: And, as I am an honest Puck, If we have unearned luck Now to 'scape the serpent's tongue1202, We will make amends ere long; Else the Puck a liar call; So, good night unto you all. Give me your hands1203, if we be friends, And Robin shall restore amends. Stage Directions
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In which U.S. state is Grand Teton National Park located?
Plan Your Visit - Grand Teton National Park (U.S. National Park Service) Plan Your Visit Teton Range in Winter   Few landscapes in the world are as striking and memorable as that of Grand Teton National Park. Grand Teton has a lot to offer whatever your interests. Mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers and skies are home to diverse and abundant forests, wildflowers and wildlife. The park also has a rich cultural history with old homesteads and cattle ranches to explore and photograph. Walk on a trail built by the Civilian Conservation Corps or one that American Indians or fur trappers might have used in the 1820s. Ride a bike or paddle a canoe. There is something for everyone. Whatever your interests Grand Teton has something for you. Let this page be the beginning of your adventure! Plan Your Visit to Grand Teton Explore any of the following web pages for more information on:   Basic Information on visiting the park along with numerous useful links. This page provides the essential information that you need to plan any trip to Grand Teton. Gives Directions to the park, information about Fees & Passes, Operating Hours & Seasons and how to Contact Us . Our Things To Do page provides information on our Visitor Centers , Outdoor Activities , Ranger Programs , Nearby Attractions and Concessioner Activities . Visit our calendar of events page.   Directions on how to get to Grand Teton. Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming; north of the town of Jackson, Wyoming and south of Yellowstone National Park. Route suggestions are given from Salt Lake City and Denver, along with shuttle service information and a list of nearby airports. Find directions to the park.   Operating Hours and Seasons - Grand Teton National Park is open twenty-four hours every day, year-round. Seasonal road closures may limit auto access to some areas in the park during the winter. Operating hours of visitor centers and other facilities vary depending on the season. In winter services are limited. Learn more about operating hours and seasons.   Fees and Passes - The entrance fee for the park is $30 for a private noncommercial vehicle; $25 for a motorcycle; or $15 for each visitor 16 years and older entering by foot, bicycle, ski, etc. These fees provide the visitor with a 7-day entrance permit for Grand Teton National Park, the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway only. Yellowstone National Park has a separate entrance fee. Remember to keep your admission receipt in order to re-enter during the week. There is a variety of Annual or Lifetime Passes as possible alternatives to the above fees. Learn more about Fees and Passes.   Lodging choices in Grand Teton National Park are varied, providing a range of accommodations. Choose from a modern hotel or motel type room, lodging in a historic cabin or even tent cabin. Learn more about lodging choices in the park. There are also a variety of choices for places to find something to eat in the park. Choose from a number of restaurants, grocery stories and picnic areas. Learn more about places to eat in the park.   Camping - Six campgrounds operate within the park and parkway during the summer. Most are available on a first-come, first-served basis, although reservations can be made for group camping, the Colter Bay RV Park and the Headwaters Campground and RV Sites at Flagg Ranch. Learn more about campgrounds in the park. There is also camping in the park's backcountry. Learn more about backcountry camping in the park.   Weather - This page provides links to weather forecasts and climate information. Find out what to expect in the way of weather during your trip. This page lists high, low and average temperatures for the park and the amount of precipitation that may be likely during your trip. Learn more about weather in the park.   Pets are allowed in the park in the front country in areas accessible to cars and some other limited areas. Pets are not allowed on trails, in the backcountry, in visitor centers, or on the Multi-use Pathway and must be leashed at all time. These regulations are in place to keep your pet safe and to protect wildlife, other visitors and the unique wilderness environment of the park. Learn more about pets in the park.   Accessibility - Information on accessible trails, lodging and facilities can be found here. The park seeks to provide memorable opportunities for people of all abilities and interests. Find more about accessibility options in the park.   Road Information - Contains road construction updates and contact information for current road status in and around the park. Also contains links for road information for Yellowstone National Park and the state of Wyoming. Learn more about road conditions and possible road construction in the park and surrounding region.   Your Safety is important to us. Find helpful tips and guidelines for enjoying a safe visit to the park. Find information on viewing wildlife safely ; on hiking , camping and recreating in bear country ; how to minimize your chance of being struck by lightning and other safety concerns. Find out more about ways to stay safe in the park.   Lost & Found - Find out how to complete a lost property report or on how to return a found item to the owner. Learn more about Lost & Found procedures in the park.   The following trip planners may also be helpful:   A list of current and future events can be found on our calendar page.   Autumn in the Tetons highlights one of the park's most vibrant and dynamic seasons. A provision from the 1950 park legislation allows a limited elk reduction program in the fall. Learn more about Autumn in the Tetons.   Winter Trip Planner provides information useful when visiting the park during the longest season - winter. Find out about winter activities, seasonal road closures and safety information. Learn more about winter in the Tetons.   For More Information For additional information download our Official Park Newspaper or a variety of Park Brochures . There are many brochures available for your trip planning and to help you learn about park resources. Some brochures are also available in Spanish and other languages. Visit our online store for books, maps, and guides to the park. Operated by the nonprofit Grand Teton Association , store proceeds directly benefit Grand Teton National Park. LOCAL PARTNERS & INFORMATION RESOURCES
Wyoming
What is the name of the evil puppeteer in the 1940s Disney movie Pinocchio
Grand Teton National Park | Travel Wyoming. That's WY Grand Teton National Park Description Description  An ethereal mountain landscape where jagged peaks tower more than a mile above the Jackson Hole valley, Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming just south of Yellowstone National Park and just north of the town of Jackson. Visitors can reach the park through U.S. 191. The park's mountain range is very popular among climbers, hikers and photographers. Explore things to do for you and your family when visiting the park with the following articles: Itinerary Three Days in Grand Teton National Park   Grand Teton National Park offers hiking, camping, climbing, boating, kayaking and numerous photography opportunities. A road winds through the park, but the best way to experience the park is to take one of its shorter trails. Grand Teton's History Located at the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the Rockefeller Parkway connects Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The late conservationist and philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, Jr. made significant contributions to several national parks including Grand Teton, Acadia, Great Smoky Mountains, and Virgin Islands. In 1972 Congress dedicated a 24,000 acre parcel of land as John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway to recognize his generosity and foresight. Congress also named the highway from the south boundary of Grand Teton to West Thumb in Yellowstone in honor of Rockefeller. The parkway provides a natural link between the two national parks and contains features characteristic of both areas. In the parkway, the Teton Range tapers to a gentle slope at its northern edge, while rocks born of volcanic flows from Yellowstone line the Snake River and form outcroppings scattered atop hills and ridges. Grand Teton National Park administers John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. Nature and Beauty Located in northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park protects stunning mountain scenery and a diverse array of wildlife. Rising more than 7,000 feet above the valley of Jackson Hole, the Teton Range dominates the park’s skyline. Natural processes continue to shape the ecosystem against this impressive and iconic backdrop. The elevation of the park ranges from 6,400 feet on the sagebrush-dominated valley floor to 13,770 feet on the windswept granite summit of the Grand Teton. Between the summit and plain, forests carpet the mountainsides. During summer, wildflowers paint meadows in vivid colors. Crystalline alpine lakes fill glacial cirques, and noisy streams cascade down rocky canyons to larger lakes at the foot of the range. These lakes, impounded by glacial debris, mirror the mountains on calm days. Running north to south, the Snake River winds its way down the valley and across this amazing scene. Amenities
i don't know
Of the three types of rock, lava is falls under which type?
Interactives . The Rock Cycle . Types of Rocks Types of Rocks Rocks are not all the same! The three main types, or classes, of rock are sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous and the differences among them have to do with how they are formed. Sedimentary Sedimentary rocks are formed from particles of sand, shells, pebbles, and other fragments of material. Together, all these particles are called sediment. Gradually, the sediment accumulates in layers and over a long period of time hardens into rock. Generally, sedimentary rock is fairly soft and may break apart or crumble easily. You can often see sand, pebbles, or stones in the rock, and it is usually the only type that contains fossils. Examples of this rock type include conglomerate and limestone. Metamorphic Metamorphic rocks are formed under the surface of the earth from the metamorphosis (change) that occurs due to intense heat and pressure (squeezing). The rocks that result from these processes often have ribbonlike layers and may have shiny crystals, formed by minerals growing slowly over time, on their surface. Examples of this rock type include gneiss and marble. Igneous Igneous rocks are formed when magma (molten rock deep within the earth) cools and hardens. Sometimes the magma cools inside the earth, and other times it erupts onto the surface from volcanoes (in this case, it is called lava). When lava cools very quickly, no crystals form and the rock looks shiny and glasslike. Sometimes gas bubbles are trapped in the rock during the cooling process, leaving tiny holes and spaces in the rock. Examples of this rock type include basalt and obsidian. Here's a chart of some of the key characteristics that can help you identify the rocks within these three main classes. Crystals Small, flat surfaces that are shiny or sparkly, like tiny mirrors. Fossils Imprints of leaves, shells, insects, or other items in the rock. Gas bubbles "Holes," like Swiss cheese, in the rock. Glassy surface A shiny and smooth surface, like colored glass. Ribbonlike layers Straight or wavy stripes of different colors in the rock. Sand or pebbles
Igneous rock
What American actress became Princess of Monaco following her 1956 wedding to Prince Rainier?
Types of Igneous Rocks | Types of Igneous Rocks | Types of Igneous Rocks An igneous rock is formed by the cooling and crystallization of molten rock. The term igneous is derived from ignius, the Latin word for fire. Scientists have divided igneous rocks into two broad categories based on where the molten rock solidified. Volcanic rocks (also called extrusive igneous rocks) include all the products resulting from eruptions of lava (flows and fragmented debris called pyroclasts). Plutonic rocks (also called intrusive igneous rocks) are those that have solidified below ground; plutonic comes from Pluto, the Greek god of the underworld. The initial distinction between volcanic and plutonic rocks is made on the basis of texture (fine-grained volcanic vs. coarse-grained plutonic). Volcanic and plutonic rocks are divided further on the basis of chemistry and mineral composition. The classification scheme below is based on chemistry, and is perhaps the simplest method; there are many other classification methods for igneous rocks. These rock types all have different characteristics, including temperature when fluid, viscosity (resistance to flow), composition, explosiveness, and types, amounts, and sizes of minerals. Major Chemical Elements Forming Igneous Rocks Illustration by J. Johnson Volcanic rocks are typically divided into four basic types according to the amount of silica (SiO 2 ) in the rock (see figure at bottom, Components of Igneous Rocks, for the plutonic equivalents of these rock types): basalt consists of about 48-52% silica andesite consists of about 52-63% silica dacite consists of about 63-68% slica rhyolite consists of more than 68% silica Other major elements in varying proportion include titanium (TiO2), aluminum (A2O3), iron (FeO or Fe2O3), manganese (MnO), magnesium (MgO), calcium (CaO), sodium (Na2O), potassium (K2O, and phosphorous (P2O5). The bar graph shows the average concentration of each major element for the four basic types of volcanic rock. Classification and Flow Characteristics of Volcanic Rocks Illustration by J. Johnson The behavior of a lava flow depends primarily on its viscosity (resistance to flow), slope of the ground over which it travels, and the rate of lava eruption. Because basalt contains the least amount of silica and erupts at the highest temperature compared to the other types of lava, it has the lowest viscosity (the least resistance to flow). Thus, basalt lava moves over the ground easily, even down gentle slopes. Dacite and rhyolite lava, however, tend to pile up around a vent to form short, stubby flows or mound-shaped domes. Components of Igneous Rocks Illustration by J. Johnson When molten rock erupts onto the Earth's surface, it cools quickly, freezing the growth of existing minerals and preventing the development of new minerals. Such rapid cooling will typically produce lava rocks with a few small minerals suspended in a groundmass of volcanic glass. Molten rock that remains below the ground, however, cools very slowly so that existing minerals continue to grow and many new minerals develop. A slow rate of cooling will produce a coarse-grained plutonic rock that consists entirely of large crystals. Different names are given to such slow-cooling plutonic rocks on the basis of chemical composition and mineral proportions (for example, plutonic rocks of basaltic composition are called gabbro). , This graph shows the volume percent of minerals present in a plutonic rock that consists entirely of crystals. For example, a granite with 70% SiO2 might have 22% quartz, 38% alkali feldspar, 28% plagioclase feldspar, and 12% biotite. The volume percent of minerals present in volcanic rocks typically varies 0-50%. To calculate the relative amounts of the crystals likely to be present, multiply the volume percent in the graph by the actual volume percent in the rock. For example, a rhyolite volcanic rock with 10% crystals, is likely to 2.2% quartz, 3.8% alkali feldspar, 2.8% plagioclase, and 1.2% biotite. (Information courtesy of the USGS)
i don't know
Currently on display at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space museum, what type of US bomber is the Enola Gay, the plane that dropped the first atomic bomb?
Boeing B-29 Superfortress "Enola Gay" | National Air and Space Museum National Air and Space Museum Boeing B-29 Superfortress "Enola Gay" Boeing B-29 Superfortress "Enola Gay" Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Navigator Station in the Enola Gay Van Kirk’s navigator station in the Enola Gay. Paul Tibbet’s pilot’s position is on the other side of the bulkhead.  Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Boeing's B-29 Superfortress was the most sophisticated propeller-driven bomber of World War II, and the first bomber to house its crew in pressurized compartments.  The Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay is now on display at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. This exhibition was on display in Gallery 103 from June 28, 1995 to May 17, 1998. Enola Gay Assembly at Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center The wings of the Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay are reunited with the fuselage for the first time since 1960 by National Air and Space Museum restoration specialists at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, April 10, 2003.  Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay at the Udvar-Hazy Center Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay on display in the Boeing Aviation Hangar at the National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Enola Gay at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center The historic Boeing B-29 Enola Gay is shown here just after being restored and re-assembled in 2003. The airplane, which received the most extensive restoration in the museum's history, is on display at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay Panorama Panoramic view inside the Boeing B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay. Display Status: This object is on display in the World War II Aviation (UH) exhibition at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA. SummaryLong Description Collection Item Summary: Boeing's B-29 Superfortress was the most sophisticated propeller-driven bomber of World War II and the first bomber to house its crew in pressurized compartments. Although designed to fight in the European theater, the B-29 found its niche on the other side of the globe. In the Pacific, B-29s delivered a variety of aerial weapons: conventional bombs, incendiary bombs, mines, and two nuclear weapons. On August 6, 1945, this Martin-built B-29-45-MO dropped the first atomic weapon used in combat on Hiroshima, Japan. Three days later, Bockscar (on display at the U.S. Air Force Museum near Dayton, Ohio) dropped a second atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan. Enola Gay flew as the advance weather reconnaissance aircraft that day. A third B-29, The Great Artiste, flew as an observation aircraft on both missions. Collection Item Long Description: Boeing's B-29 Superfortress was the most sophisticated, propeller-driven, bomber to fly during World War II, and the first bomber to house its crew in pressurized compartments. Boeing installed very advanced armament, propulsion, and avionics systems into the Superfortress. During the war in the Pacific Theater, the B-29 delivered the first nuclear weapons used in combat. On August 6, 1945, Colonel Paul W. Tibbets, Jr., in command of the Superfortress Enola Gay, dropped a highly enriched uranium, explosion-type, "gun-fired," atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. Three days later, Major Charles W. Sweeney piloted the B-29 Bockscar and dropped a highly enriched plutonium, implosion-type atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan. Enola Gay flew as the advance weather reconnaissance aircraft that day. On August 14, 1945, the Japanese accepted Allied terms for unconditional surrender. In the late 1930s, U. S. Army Air Corps leaders recognized the need for very long-range bombers that exceeded the performance of the B-17 Flying Fortress. Several years of preliminary studies paralleled a continuous fight against those who saw limited utility in developing such an expensive and unproven aircraft but the Air Corps issued a requirement for the new bomber in February 1940. It described an airplane that could carry a maximum bomb load of 909 kg (2,000 lb) at a speed of 644 kph (400 mph) a distance of at least 8,050 km (5,000 miles). Boeing, Consolidated, Douglas, and Lockheed responded with design proposals. The Army was impressed with the Boeing design and issued a contract for two flyable prototypes in September 1940. In April 1941, the Army issued another contract for 250 aircraft plus spare parts equivalent to another 25 bombers, eight months before Pearl Harbor and nearly a year-and-a-half before the first Superfortress would fly. Among the design's innovations was a long, narrow, high-aspect ratio wing equipped with large Fowler-type flaps. This wing design allowed the B-29 to cruise at high speeds at high altitudes but maintained comfortable handling characteristics during slower airspeeds necessary during takeoff and landing. More revolutionary was the size and sophistication of the pressurized sections of the fuselage: the flight deck forward of the wing, the gunner's compartment aft of the wing, and the tail gunner's station. For the crew, flying at altitudes above 18,000 feet became much more comfortable as pressure and temperature could be regulated in the crew work areas. To protect the Superfortress, Boeing designed a remote-controlled, defensive weapons system. Engineers placed five gun turrets on the fuselage: a turret above and behind the cockpit that housed two .50 caliber machine guns (four guns in later versions), and another turret aft near the vertical tail equipped with two machine guns; plus two more turrets beneath the fuselage, each equipped with two .50 caliber guns. One of these turrets fired from behind the nose gear and the other hung further back near the tail. Another two .50 caliber machine guns and a 20-mm cannon (in early versions of the B-29) were fitted in the tail beneath the rudder. Gunners operated these turrets by remote control--a true innovation. They aimed the guns using computerized sights, and each gunner could take control of two or more turrets to concentrate firepower on a single target. Boeing also equipped the B-29 with advanced radar equipment and avionics. Depending on the type of mission, a B-29 carried the AN/APQ-13 or AN/APQ-7 Eagle radar system to aid bombing and navigation. These systems were accurate enough to enable relatively accurate bombing through cloud layers that completely obscured the target. The B-29B was equipped with the AN/APG-15B airborne radar gun sighting system mounted in the tail to assist in providing accurate defense against enemy fighters attacking at night. B-29s also routinely carried as many as twenty different types of radios and navigation devices. The first XB-29 took off at Boeing Field in Seattle on September 21, 1942. By the end of the year the second aircraft was ready for flight. Fourteen service-test YB-29s followed as production began to accelerate. Building this advanced bomber required massive logistics. Boeing built new B-29 plants at Renton, Washington, and Wichita, Kansas, while Bell built a new plant at Marietta, Georgia, and Martin built one in Omaha, Nebraska. Both Curtiss-Wright and the Dodge automobile company vastly expanded their manufacturing capacity to build the bomber's powerful and complex Curtiss-Wright R-3350 turbo supercharged engines. The program required thousands of sub-contractors but with extraordinary effort, it all came together, despite major teething problems. By April 1944, the first operational B-29s of the newly formed 20th Air Force began to touch down on dusty airfields in India. By May, 130 B-29s were operational. In June, 1944, less than two years after the initial flight of the XB-29, the U. S. Army Air Forces (AAF) flew its first B-29 combat mission against targets in Bangkok, Thailand. This mission (longest of the war to date) called for 100 B-29s but only 80 reached the target area. The AAF lost no aircraft to enemy action but bombing results were mediocre. The first bombing mission against the Japanese main islands since Lt. Col. "Jimmy" Doolittle's raid against Tokyo in April 1942, occurred on June 15, again with poor results. This was also the first mission launched from airbases in China. With the fall of Saipan, Tinian, and Guam in the Mariana Islands chain in August 1944, the AAF acquired airbases that lay several hundred miles closer to mainland Japan. Late in 1944, the AAF moved the XXI Bomber Command, flying B-29s, to the Marianas and the unit began bombing Japan in December. However, they employed high-altitude, precision, bombing tactics that yielded poor results. The high altitude winds were so strong that bombing computers could not compensate and the weather was so poor that rarely was visual target acquisition possible at high altitudes. In March 1945, Major General Curtis E. LeMay ordered the group to abandon these tactics and strike instead at night, from low altitude, using incendiary bombs. These firebombing raids, carried out by hundreds of B-29s, devastated much of Japan's industrial and economic infrastructure. Yet Japan fought on. Late in 1944, AAF leaders selected the Martin assembly line to produce a squadron of B-29s codenamed SILVERPLATE. Martin modified these Superfortresses by removing all gun turrets except for the tail position, removing armor plate, installing Curtiss electric propellers, and modifying the bomb bay to accommodate either the "Fat Man" or "Little Boy" versions of the atomic bomb. The AAF assigned 15 Silverplate ships to the 509th Composite Group commanded by Colonel Paul Tibbets. As the Group Commander, Tibbets had no specific aircraft assigned to him as did the mission pilots. He was entitled to fly any aircraft at any time. He named the B-29 that he flew on 6 August Enola Gay after his mother. In the early morning hours, just prior to the August 6th mission, Tibbets had a young Army Air Forces maintenance man, Private Nelson Miller, paint the name just under the pilot's window. Enola Gay is a model B-29-45-MO, serial number 44-86292. The AAF accepted this aircraft on June 14, 1945, from the Martin plant at Omaha (Located at what is today Offut AFB near Bellevue), Nebraska. After the war, Army Air Forces crews flew the airplane during the Operation Crossroads atomic test program in the Pacific, although it dropped no nuclear devices during these tests, and then delivered it to Davis-Monthan Army Airfield, Arizona, for storage. Later, the U. S. Air Force flew the bomber to Park Ridge, Illinois, then transferred it to the Smithsonian Institution on July 4, 1949. Although in Smithsonian custody, the aircraft remained stored at Pyote Air Force Base, Texas, between January 1952 and December 1953. The airplane's last flight ended on December 2 when the Enola Gay touched down at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. The bomber remained at Andrews in outdoor storage until August 1960. By then, concerned about the bomber deteriorating outdoors, the Smithsonian sent collections staff to disassemble the Superfortress and move it indoors to the Paul E. Garber Facility in Suitland, Maryland. The staff at Garber began working to preserve and restore Enola Gay in December 1984. This was the largest restoration project ever undertaken at the National Air and Space Museum and the specialists anticipated the work would require from seven to nine years to complete. The project actually lasted nearly two decades and, when completed, had taken approximately 300,000 work-hours to complete. The B-29 is now displayed at the National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Data Source
Boeing B-29 Superfortress
What product is made at a gristmill?
Boeing B-29 Superfortress | Warbirds Wiki | Fandom powered by Wikia " 49 Three Feathers " March Field Air Museum Boeing B-29 Survivors highlights the history of many well known flying and static display Boeing B-29s in the United States . A list is also provided of other B-29's on display around the world; including location, model and serial numbers, brief history, nicknames/markings, and conditions. Contents [ show ] Background In September 1945, immediately after the surrender of Japan, all contracts for further production of the B-29 were terminated after 3,970 aircraft (2,766 by Boeing Aircraft, 668 by Bell Aircraft and 536 by Glenn L. Martin Co.) were accepted by the USAAF. Uncompleted airframes at the Boeing Plant in Wichita Kansas plant were stripped of all Government Furnished Equipment and scrapped on the flightline. A vast majority all of the B-29s were stored by a new process of cocooning, however, this process trapped heat and moisture resulting in numerous airframes being damaged by this process (primarily the avionics and instruments). Between 1946 and 1949, many early and high time combat veteran aircraft were sold or scrapped – none were released to civilian use. While the B-29 was still considered useful in the post WWII inventory, the numerous problems with development, (i.e. including the freezing of the design in 1942) and the fear that the postwar congress would not fund the purchase of a design that still had significant quantity in storage, led to the radically redeveloped B-29D being redesignated the B-50A . While the B-50A looked similar to the B-29, Boeing had redeveloped the airframe with a new stronger alloy skin, redesigned main spar, taller vertical stabilizer and improved engine cowlings. Additionally, the engines were changed to the R-4360 which produced higher horsepower, had better cooling and were less prone to failure. In 1947, with the advent of the USAF , the B-29 was redesignated as a medium bomber. With the new heavy bombers in production ( B-36 and B-49 ) and the planned production of the both the B-47 and the XB-52 becoming a reality, the Superfortress was quickly starting to become eclipsed by technology. It was only the advent of the Korean War in 1950, which slowed down the retirement of the B-29. Once again, the Superfortress was pressed into combat; while the first 6 months the B-29 was able to hold its own, the introduction of Jet fighters ( Mig-15s ) proved the demise of this aircraft. The B-29 was too slow and the gunnery systems could not keep up/track the high-speed aircraft. By 1953, the remaining B-29s were withdrawn from combat (except for some RB-29s). The remaining B-29s in service were then redesignated as Training ( TB-29 ) , Photo Recon ( RB-29 ), Air-Sea Rescue ( SB-29 ) and refueling/tanker ( KB-29M ) aircraft. The last USAAF flight was in September 1960. The Royal Air Force as a stop-gap measure between the Lancaster and the new V-Bombers leased 88 aircraft in the early 1950s – redesigning them Washington Mk b.I’s . The Washingtons remained in service until late 1958 when they were retired and returned to the United States. Several Washingtons were given to Australia, but within one year they were retired and scrapped. The B-29 did enjoy limited success post war as a flying testbed, being used with NACA to carry the early rocket aircraft ( X-1 , X-1A , D-558-2 etc…), prototype jet engine testing, electronic test ships, High Altitude Atmospheric tests, etc… The majority of the surviving B-29 came from airframes that had either been designated (with the US Navy at NAS China Lake ), initially, as target-tow aircraft, then unmanned target aircraft, finally as a ground target (the last B-29 destroyed was in 1981 more than 6 years after a ban had been placed on further using these aircraft as targets). Furthermore, B-29's were used at Aberdeen Proving Grounds as ground targets and survivability studies. In 1966, the then fledgling Confederate Air Force , in their quest to gather an example of all the remaining WWII bombers attempted to track down a B-29. At this time, except for two noted museum aircraft, the B-29 was considered an almost extinct aircraft. Rumors of B-29s existing at Aberdeen revealed several airframes, but due to the closeness of ocean air, these aircraft were corroded close to the point of unrestorability. In 1970 came the discovery of the US Navy fleet of aircraft at NAS China Lake – these aircraft being used/stored in the desert air were in much better shape. After a year of negotiation, the CAF was able to obtain their B-29 (Fifi). These same negotiations also allowed the RAF to obtain an example as well (It’s Hawg Wild). During the early 1970s, NASA (the redesigned NACA) sold their P2B-1S and for numerous years this aircraft flew under civil registration until it was grounded by spar corrosion. Since the early 1970, numerous aircraft have been removed from Aberdeen Proving Grounds as well as NAS China Lake for museum displays – the last B-29 removed from China Lake is currently being restored to flying condition (Doc). There are still two partial airframes and one wreck at the NAS China Lake site. Several other aircraft were noted as late as 1980 but these aircraft have disappeared (no trace of being scrapped) – several having possibly been used in the Disney Picture “Last Flight of Noah’s Ark” (which seriously damaged/destroyed numerous airframes) during production. Additional aircraft have been discovered at both post-war crash sites and near WWII Pacific airfields. At least four B-29 wrecks on Guam and several on Saipan are know to exist. There is a search for the first B-29 to bomb Japan ( Dauntless Dottie ) which crashed into the Pacific on take-off during her return flight to the United States. If the airplane is found there are plans to recover and restore it for display. Boeing B-29 Survivors Individual airframe histories Individual histories (42-xxxx) (W) = Wreck (U)= Unknown Location If Latitude & Longitude points are given, aircraft is on permanent outside display and can be seen using Google maps (N33 55' 14.13" W84 30' 16.19") B-29 BW Boeing-Wichita B-29-50BW c/n 4452 42-24791, ex-NAS China Lake " The Big Time Operator ", Museum of Flight, Seattle, WA (S) [1] note: nose section only B-29-60BW c/n 10561 44-69729, ex-20th AF/73rd BW/498th BG/875th BS "Square-T 54" – 37 combat missions, ex-KB-29, ex-NAS China Lake, " Square-T 54 ", Seattle Museum Of Flight , Seattle, WA (D) [2] [3] (N47 31' 01.54" W122 17' 42.26") B-29-70BW c/n 10789 44-69957, ex-SB-29, NAS China Lake, CA (W) (N35 54'08.74" W117 43'26.17") note: Parts from nose section used in restoration of B-29 44-69972 "Doc" B-29-70BW c/n 10804 44-69972 (N69972C), ex-20th AF, ex-TB-29, ex-4713th REF (ADC)/1st RCS "Doc", ex-4750th ADW/17th TTS, ex-NAS China Lake " Doc ", Boeing Aircraft Company , Wichita, KS (R) [4] [5] B-29-75BW c/n 10848 44-70016 , ex-20th AF/330th BG/458th BS "Square-K 40 Sentimental Journey / Quaker City" - 31 combat missions, ex-4713th REEC Flight (SAC) "Dopey", " Square-K 40 Sentimental Journey / Quaker City ", Pima Air & Space Museum (PASM) , Tucson, AZ (D) [6] [7] B-29-75BW c/n 10881 44-70049, ex-NAS China Lake, movie: "The Last Flight of Noah's Ark" , Aero Trader (Kermit Weeks), Borrego Springs, CA (S) B-29A-75BW c/n 44-70064, ex-NAS China Lake, "0-90351 Raz’n Hell ", Castle AFB Museum Castle AFB CA (D) [8] [9] (N37 21' 54.76" W120 34' 42.89") note: rebuilt using parts from tail section of B-29A-35-BN 44-61535 & outboard wings from B-29-50BA 44-84084 B-29-75BW c/n 10934 44-70102, ex-20th AF, ex-NAS China Lake, " Here’s Hopin ", China Lake NAS Museum, CA (D) (N35 40' 37.79" W117 40' 37.75") B-29-80BW c/n 10945 44-70113, ex-20th AF/73rd BW/500th Bg/883rd BS "Miss Marilyn Gay/Sweet Eloise" - 27 Combat & 5 POW missions, ex-Aberdeen Proving Grounds, " Z-58 Sweet Eloise ", Marietta B-29 Association, Dobbins AFB, GA (D) [10] [11] [12] (N33 55' 14.13" W84 30' 16.19") B-29-80BW c/n 12430 44-87627, ex-TB-29, ex-Aberdeen Proving Grounds, " BF-627 Bossier City ", 8th Air Force Museum , Barksdale AFB, LA (D) [13] (N32 30' 50.97" W93 40' 57.97") B-29-90BW c/n 12582 44-87779, ex-KB-29M, ex-NAS China Lake, " Circle-R Legal Eagle II ", South Dakota Air and Space Museum , Ellsworth AFB, Rapid City, SD (D) [14] [15] (N44 07' 57.43" W103 04' 21.53") B-29-90BW c/n 13634 45-21739, ex-NAS China Lake, " Circle-W 48 Unification " Korean Aerospace Industry Aerospace Museum , Sacheon Airport, Sacheon, Korea (D) (N35 04' 19.93" E128 03' 48.99") B-29-97BW c/n 13643 45-21748, ex-20th AF/509th CG, ex-TB-29, National Atomic Museum , NM (D) [16] [17] (N35 02' 56.58" W106 33' 03.51") B-29-95BW c/n 13463 45-21768 (N70887), ex-F-13, ex-46th PRS "Kee Bird" - 7 missions, KeeBird , Greenland, Denmark (W) [18] note: (wings & tail only) B-29-95BW c/n 13681 45-21787 (N29KW), ex-P2B1S Bu 84029, ex-NACA 137 "Fertile Myrtle", movie: "The Right Stuff" , " Fertile Myrtle ", Florida Air Museum Lakeland, Florida (D) [19] [20] note: nose section only B-29-100BW c/n 13741 45-21847, ex-RB-29, National Park Service Lake Mead B-29 , NV (W) [21] B-29 MO Martin-Omaha B-29-25MO 42-65281, ex-20th AF / 6th BG / 24th BS "Circle R Miss America 62" -43 missions, ex-301st BG (SAC), ex-WB-29, 373rd RWS (MATS) & 53rd RWS (MATS), ex-510th CCTW, " Circle R 11 Miss America 62 ", Travis AFB , CA (D) [22] [23] (N38 16' 10.75" W121 55' 49.05") B-29-25MO 42-65287, Aquadilla, Puerto Rico-Atlantic Ocean (W) B-29-35MO 42-65401, ex-3rd AF, movie: "Above and Beyond" , ex-Wild Blue Yonder, ex-Enola Gay, "82 Enola Gay ", Stockton Field Aviation Museum , Stockton, CA (D) note: nose section only B-29-40MO 44-27297, ex-Silverplate, ex-20th AF / 313rd BW / 509th CG / 393rd BS "Triangle N 77 Bockscar" - 5 combat missions, " Circle <- 77 Bockscar ", WPAFB Museum , Dayton, OH (D) [24] B-29-40MO 44-27343, ex-F-13A, ex-513RWS, ex-57 SRW, ex-TB-29, ex-Aberdeen Proving Grounds, " Tinker’s Heritage ",Tinker AFB, Oklahoma City, OK (D) [25] (N35 25' 59.83" W97 24' 14.82) B-29-45MO 44-86292 ex-Silverplate, ex-20th AF / 313rd BW / 509th CG / 393rd BS "Circle-R 92 Enola Gay" " - 3 combat missions, " Circle-R 92 Enola Gay ", NASM , VA (D) [26] B-29-55MO 44-86408, ex-43rd BG (SAC) & 9th BW (SAC), ex-Dugway Proving Ground, " Haggerty's Hag ", Hill Aerospace Museum , Hill AFB, UT (D) [27] (N41 09' 38.60" W112 01' 08.85") B-29A BN Boeing-Renton B-29A-10BN c/n 7287 42-93880, ex-F-13A, "The Dutchess", NAS China Lake, CA (U) B-29A-15BN c/n 7374 42-93967, ex-F-13A 5th AF / 314th BW / 19th BG / 28th BS "City of Lansford" - 12 combat missions, ex-RB-29A, ex-Aberdeen Proving Grounds, " City of Lansford ", Georgia Veterans Memorial State Park , Cordelle, GA (D) [28] [29] B-29A-40BN c/n 11146 44-61669 (N3299F), ex-20th AF / 73rd BW / 500th BG / 883rd BS "Z 49 Flagship 500" -11 combat missions, 581st ARG (SAC), ex-NAS China Lake, " Z 49 Three Feathers ", March AFB , Riverside, CA (D) [30] [31] (N33 52' 56.54" W117 15' 56.55") B-29A-40BN c/n 11148 44-61671, ex-SB-29A, ex-Aberdeen Proving Grounds, " 89 The Great Artiste ", Whiteman AFB , Knob Noster, MO (D) (N38 44' 13.36" W93 34' 32.59") B-29A-45BN c/n 11216 44-61739, ex-Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Robins AFB , GA (D) [32] B-29A-45BN c/n 11225 44-61748 (G-BHDK), ex-5th AF / 309th BG (FEAF) "It's Hawg Wild" - 105 combat missions, ex-TB-29A, ex-4750 ADW, ex-NAS China Lake, " Square-Y 748 It's Hawg Wild ", Duxford , England (D) [33] [34] B-29A-55BN c/n 11434 44-61957, NAS China Lake, CA (U) B-29A-55BN c/n 11452 44-61975, ex-TB-29A, ex-RAF Molesworth, ex-Aberdeen Proving Grounds, " Triangle-I 55 Jack’s Hack ", New England Air Museum , Windsor Locks, CT (D) [35] [36] [37] note: tail assembly from B-29A-45BN 44-61739 note: Vert. Stabilizer exchanged with Doc B-29A-55BN c/n 11469 44-61992, NAS China Lake, CA (U) B-29A-60BN c/n 11499 44-62022, ex-F-13A "Laggin Dragon", ex-NAS China Lake, " Peachy ", Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum , Pueblo, CO (D) B-29A-60BN c/n 11532 44-62055, NAS China Lake, CA (U) B-29A-60BN c/n 11547 44-62070 (N529B), ex-310th BW (SAC), ex-TB-29A, ex-NAS China Lake, "Square-A Fifi ", Commemorative Air Force , Midland, TX (R) [38] B-29A-60BN c/n 11565 44-62088, NAS China Lake, CA (S) B-29A-65BN c/n 11589 44-62112, Pima County air Museum, Tucson, AZ (S) note: fwd fuselage only
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