 For my first wedding (don't even ask how many years ago!) I had only a handful of things to consider when picking my invitations. This was at a time when we didn't have the Internet and had to use a local print shop. Paper stock, black ink or blue, embossed or not, and what font style were pretty much the only things to think about. Fancy meant putting a small stock image on your invitations. Back then, you would put in your order along with handwritten notes and sketches showing what you wanted, wait a month, and then hope like crazy that you got what you'd envisioned.
Today, this is far from the process. Thanks to all kinds of technology, choices on the Internet are abundant. In looking, I’ve found that the top trends in wedding invitations for Spring 2011 bring together multiple colors, bold graphics, and a theme for the wedding. Add Some Color Color seems to play the biggest part in the new look of wedding invitations. Whether bright colors or more subtle tones are being used, it’s the combination of colors that seems to be the most important. Invitations should act as a preview of the wedding, so choosing invitations that encompass at least two of the colors that have been selected for the wedding’s color palette is common. According to Lisa Barr, NY Fashion Bridal Examiner for Examiner.com, natural palettes and hot colors were the top trends for 2011 at this year’s National Stationery Show. Michelle Mospens, who annually follows wedding color trends has put together a great display showing the range of bright colors coming next Spring at “A Wedding Sketchbook.” Pop In a Graphic Graphic design is being strongly incorporated, be it through monograms, silhouettes, photographs, patterns or other meaningful images–right on the front of the invitation. Themes Are the Way to Go And for themes, vintage or retro designs are HUGE! One of the top ideas trending in wedding plans is a “Mad Men” inspired wedding. This trickles down to the invitations and an unbelievable array of designs. Reflective of the TV show, darker and more earthy colors (see Part 2 of Michelle Mospens display) are used along with bold and sleek designs and large but minimalistic copy. Think of slick magazine advertising from the ‘60s and you’ve got a perfect invitation that will evoke the feel of this theme. Show Who You Are Since society has become much more accepting of invitations that are brighter, more fun, and really represent the engaged couple, they are more readily available and the costs are less prohibitive. Whatever combination, today’s invitation should be fun and offer a glimpse into the spirit of the soon-to-be newlyweds.  When considering menswear for the groomsmen, most thoughts go immediately to tuxedos. But what if you don’t want the men in your wedding party feeling like they are stuffed into something so formal that they can’t be comfortable? Let them wear suits!
Suits have become more acceptable for weddings because they are affordable and can be customized with accessories to reflect the tone of the wedding. Dressed up or down, their versatility makes them a suitable option for most weddings. For couples who opt to have their groomsmen wear suits, some trends that are hot for 2011 weddings are tone-on-tone shirt and tie combinations, solid ties, and pocket squares. First Things First The suit color should be something that complements the color palette of the wedding. You don’t want the bridesmaids clashing with the groomsmen when they walk together down the aisle. Black suits are the easiest to work with yet, according to Michael Andrews of Bespoke, charcoal grey or midnight blue suits are fast becoming more popular, and khaki suits are a staple for more informal occasions. Once you have the suit color settled, it’s time to accessorize. Shirts Many couples are staying away from white shirts and instead selecting regular dress shirts that are in tones similar to the color of the bridesmaid’s dresses. This helps to bring together the color palette in a stronger way to all members of the wedding party. It also gives the men a more uniform look, especially if each is wearing a suit that is the same color but the style varies (differences in cut, button placement, lapel differences, etc.). Neckwear There’s a strong trend towards selecting solid ties in a tone that is very close to the shirt color. This is the tone-on-tone look. Again, this helps to hide the fact that the suits themselves may not be identical. It also gives the male wedding party a sleek, consistent look - particularly helpful if you have a range in the actual body size and structure of the men. Pocket Squares Once out of fashion and long overlooked, pocket squares are making a comeback. They tend to lend an air of sophistication or fun to any suit and can be folded and placed in the pocket in different ways to suggest these moods. TM Lewin Shirtmakers has a wonderful video series showing the ins and outs of folding and placing pocket squares.  Ever notice that when you spill coffee over the edge of your cup it always produces a ring under the bottom edge?
There is a rather complex reason for this, but it can be summed up somewhat easily. Two main factors are at play: surface tension of the molecules of the liquid and the temperature of the surrounding environment. When a drop of coffee is splashed outside of the cup, it has an initial “pinned” spot, and from there the surface tension within the liquid causes the molecules to spread and draw more liquid away from it. The temperature of the surrounding area then comes into play as a difference in temperature between the liquid and the air causes evaporation to begin. When an evaporating drop is checked under a microscope, there is a strong outward flow of material as the particles stream toward the edge, rather than moving around randomly. As the process continues, the molecules of the liquid continue to draw towards the edge and, because of their surface tension, they continue to draw more molecules towards them to replace liquid that has already evaporated. This continuous flow piles the material up at the edges, where it eventually dries and forms a ring. No matter what type of liquid or different types of surface on which the liquid is spilled, all combinations still produce rings. Scientists who have recently studied this phenomenon believe it has implications for industries that rely on the uniform deposition of solids suspended in liquid media (i.e., paints) and that dispersed solids could be deposited in a controlled fashion such as by creating tiny electronic circuits or providing a means of high-density information storage. Originally posted in Headline Discoveries, January 2011 Why I Make Fresh Pumpkin Puree from Scratch for Pumpkin Pies and More  Several years ago I began getting interested in cooking pies around the holidays. Since I really prefer to cook from scratch whenever possible, I thought the best place to look for recipes was in a collection of cookbooks that had been handed down from my grandmother. I come from a long line of Yankees and this was reflected in the types of cookbooks I reviewed - they all featured very basic recipes from the New England area. The beauty of recipes from that region is their simplicity - both in terms of the number of ingredients, and also in the amount of steps needed to cook something. I found a pumpkin pie recipe that sounded good except for one thing. It said to use fresh pumpkin, but it didn't tell how to prepare the pumpkin. Several years later, and after many different methods were explored, I developed a way to cook the pumpkin and then process it into a puree with a consistency that makes for a fabulous pie. Baking the pumpkin lends to the process - it keeps the flavor from being parched out as it does when you boil the pumpkin. Plus, baking the pumpkin allows the sugars to slightly caramelize - another bonus in any dessert. In this short video, you can see how to make both the pumpkin puree and the pumpkin pie. This will give you the instructions with many pictures showing the process of making the puree plus a great pumpkin pie recipe - one that I've developed over time as well. If you'd like to see the printed how-to guides, click here for the pumpkin puree process, and this link shows how to make my Best Ever New England Deep-Dish Pumpkin Pie. The best part about this pumpkin puree is that you can store it in the freezer for quite a long time. I put mine into small Ball or Mason jars (one-quart or smaller) and use a vacuum sealer machine to close them off. Done this way, the puree can keep for many, many months - allowing you to make fresh pumpkin goods for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even July 4th if that's what you like!
Other really good things to make from the pumpkin puree include muffins, cookies, breads, cakes, pumpkin rolls, and even soup. Though it may initially seem like a lot of effort to bake and process the pumpkins, it really isn't. Most of the time is taken up by the baking process (about 45 minutes) and then the cooling process (another 30 to 45 minutes). Take that as an opportunity for a little "me" time! You'll find that this method of processing pumpkin is well worth the effort and that you will end up creating pumpkin-based dishes that your family and friends will love. Originally published on Yahoo.com, October 7, 2009  Because of recent activity in Iceland, there have been many news reports done on volcano eruptions and the damages that can be caused by volcanic ash. So, just what is “volcanic ash?
THE ASSUMPTION It’s not what most people may envision. Typically, when most people think about ash, they picture something light and fluffy—like ashes in the fireplace or barbecue. So, when they hear that a volcano has erupted and everything is covered in ash, the natural assumption is that it is relatively harmless and can be easily swept away. Not true. THE BLAST AND ITS COMPONENTS Volcanic eruptions occur when gases in magma, or molten rock, expand and escape into the air. They also occur when water that is super-heated by magma abruptly flashes into steam, or when thermal contraction from chilling occurs after contacting water. Each scenario leads to eruptions that occur with explosive force, causing escaping gases to shatter surrounding rock layers of the Earth. When eruptions occur in areas covered by glaciers, the resulting plume can contain glass-rich deposits that were created when melted ice quickly chilled lava prior to its explosion. Material expelled from the volcano at this point is called ‘”tephra.” To better study components of a volcanic eruption, scientists have broken tephra into classifications based on size:
PERSPECTIVE While the size of a volcanic bomb doesn’t seem so large, some perspective is needed. Take, for example, a storm producing hailstones of roughly the same size. They can cause excessive damage to car windshields and even slate roofs. To a person struck by a volcanic bomb, the impact would feel something like getting hit with a baseball thrown by a major league pitcher due to the high rate of propulsion. Volcanic bombs and lapilli do cause problems but, because they settle to the ground at a much quicker rate than ash, the extent of their damage is often not as far reaching. The tiny size of ash and its ability to readily travel everywhere means it can be a lot less apparent to ascertain the damages it can cause. THE REALITY Much has been written about the damage to people, animals, air, soil and water, but less so the damage and chaos that ash can cause to other things, especially those that are technologically and/or mechanically based. Following are just a few things that could be heavily impacted:
These examples show that volcanic ash is dramatically more devastating than it appears and has a great potential to leech its way into so many things that are important to the day-to-day operation of life for everyone in areas affected by volcanic eruptions. Getting to the Bottom of It The words "tephra" and "pyroclast" both derive from the Greek language.
Properties of Volcanic Ash
Originally posted in Headline Discoveries, Fall 2010 Are you using brown as one of your main colors for your wedding? Maybe you want to use the very popular Tiffany’s theme – blending the now popular brown and blue combination. Are you considering having chocolate or coffee flavors as key ingredients in your food items? If any of this applies, then this edible wedding favor may be just right for your needs – plus it becomes a very simple, yet elegant, decorative piece for your guest tables.  The unique combo of chocolates and coffee beans makes this wedding favor special. How to Make Chocolate and Espresso Bean Wedding Favor & Decoration Combo
This favor combines two key ingredients, coffee and chocolate, in one of the easiest ways imaginable. Here’s what you’ll need:
You’ll need to do some figuring to get the exact number of espresso beans and malt balls for each cup. The cup that is shown here measured approximately 1″ square and was nearly 1″ high. It held about a dozen espresso beans with one malt ball in each. Be sure to order several extra chocolate cups since they are somewhat fragile and you don’t want to run short from last minute breakages. Additionally, you should order a couple of extra cups of espresso beans and malt balls, since you may spill some or eat them as you do your assembly. It’s best to order your espresso beans and the malt balls in bulk as a cost-savings measure. The edible ingredients used here were ordered from A Taste of Chocolate and the flowers were silk sprigs that were picked up at a Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft store, but they can be ordered online as well. If you order your chocolate, espresso beans, or malt balls early, be sure to store them in an air-tight container and keep them in a cool and dark location until you are ready to use them. Since these items are temperature-sensitive (you can’t leave them out in a room that is too warm or refrigerate them to keep them cool as the chocolate will sweat), you should plan to do your assembly no earlier than the afternoon before your wedding reception. It’s easiest to lay out all of the cups on a tray and then first drop in the espresso beans, followed by the addition of the malt ball on top. Then simply place a sprig of flowers into the cup wherever it looks best and will stay put. Each cup can then be easily transferred to a simple bread plate on the guest table. Originally posted on Yahoo Lifestyle  In the 1960s, the undisputed kings of the Las Vegas Strip, the epitome of cool sophistication, and the lords of Hollywood’s Sunset strip, the Rat Pack was once a highly newsworthy subject of interest.
The term “Rat Pack” was coined by journalists during the 1960s to refer to the collective of its members: Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Joey Bishop, and Peter Lawford. It was said that they were a closely knit group, not allowing access to outsiders. Of the five Rat Pack members, Joey Bishop was known primarily as a comedian and talk show host, Peter Lawford as an actor, and the other three (Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr.) were considered the real singers. People have loved songs by the singing members of the Rat Pack for quite some time, even before their resurgence into today’s mainstream music. Something about their voices and the musical compositions always seems to put everyone in a better mood. When asked which Rat Pack Christmas songs were favorites, people don’t have to think long. Their choices vary from highly classic Christmas carols to some not-so-traditional compilation. In no particular order, here’s the list: “White Christmas” as sung by Frank Sinatra The ethereal quality of Sinatra’s voice in this song is hard to match. As we flick around music stations during the holiday season listening for something good to stop on, this one always causes us to pause and enjoy. “Let it Snow” as sung by Dean Martin Those of you who love this song (and winter) say hearing Dean sing it makes them wish for a big, big snow storm so they can get out and enjoy the white stuff. “Christmas Waltz” as sung by Frank Sinatra Some people said they remember hearing this song a lot when they were younger and it’s always stuck with them as one of the most romantic Christmas songs. They love the background vocals, as they always thought it was angels singing along with Frank. “Christmas Blues” as sung by Dean Martin Only Dean can nail a song about being alone at a time when it’s important to be with others and still make you feel good. This one is an often-missed classic, but well loved by those familiar with it. “It’s Christmas Time All Over the World” as sung by Sammy Davis, Jr. Sammy didn’t do as many Christmas recordings as the others and, to be honest, a lot of people don’t really care for the other songs that he did. But this one is liked quite a bit. People say it seems to capture his spirit and his voice is top-notch on this Christmas tune. “Marshmallow World” – a duet by Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin This Frank & Dean duet is such a fun song plus the always amiable combination of vocals and attitude from these stellar performers makes this less-heard song yet another favorite. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” as sung by Frank Sinatra It’s hard to explain the allure of this version of this holiday classic. Some people say it makes them feel very sad and yet secure in what they have when at other times it might not seem like a lot. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” as sung by Dean Martin This rendition of the well-know Christmas classic is so good because it shows off Dean’s childlike sensibility and his very playful nature. How can you not smile when you hear him sing this song?! “Winter Wonderland” as sung by Dean Martin Hands down, this has to be the most “swingy” version of this classic holiday song ever recorded. People say when they hear it, they envision being outside with fluffy hand-knit hats, scarves, and mittens and playing in the snow like you see in old movies based in New England during the winter. “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” as sung by Frank Sinatra This classic Christmas song easily puts people in a reflective state of mind. In particular, older individuals say it makes them think about their parents or grandparents during war time and what it must have been like for them to be away from each for the holidays. Originally posted on Yahoo Entertainment  Most times doctors tell you that a well-balanced diet is the key to staying healthy. Although this is good advice for most people, individuals with bipolar disorder (or manic-depression) need to be careful.
WebMD states that “there isn’t a miracle diet for bipolar disorder.” In general, they recommend avoiding fad diets and sticking to the basics, like eating lots of fruits, vegetables, and grains and sticking to fewer foods loaded with fats and sugar. This concept is all well and good, but there is a more valuable point that you need to know, and few sources out there discuss this. Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling, who spent his life studying and working in the sciences, founded the new field of Orthomolecular Psychiatry in 1968. Pauling proposed that “mental abnormalities might be successfully treated by correcting imbalances or deficiencies among naturally occurring biochemical constituents of the brain, notably vitamins and other micronutrients, as an alternative to the administration of potent synthetic psychoactive drugs.” In laymen’s terms, this means that there are certain foods that can greatly affect your moods if you are swinging on either end of the pendulum of bipolar disorder. For example, when someone feels emotionally balanced, potatoes are okay to eat. They are also okay to eat when that same person swings to the lows of depression. However they should be avoided if that person is having a bout with the manic side of bipolar. Milk and other dairy products are okay when balanced, but they should be avoided when on a manic high, and yet they can help when on a depressed low. Fish, (tuna in particular), pork, carrots, spinach, oranges, brown rice and many other foods are okay no matter what level a person is at. What a person with bipolar needs to be careful of is when a particular food is a key ingredient of another food product. For example, tomatoes are okay for when they feel balanced and or the depressed end of bipolar, but they need to be avoided when swinging to the manic side – so no tomato-based products like ketchup or tomato sauce on pizza. Why Does Eating or Avoiding Certain Foods Matter? Everyone’s brain has three neurotransmitter chemicals that are affected by food; dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Neurotransmitters relay signals between neurons and other brain cells. In a well-functioning brain, the proportion of these chemicals works properly, however, in bipolar disorder, there is a chemical imbalance between these. Any foods that are ingested break down into a chemically-based composition of their own that can have an impact on any one of these neurotransmitters or any combination of them. So if the chemicals in the person’s brain are running one way, adding the wrong set of chemicals through food intake can further press the brain to react in a negative manner. How to Learn More To learn more about how certain foods can be used to manage bipolar symptoms (and other types of depression), “The Brain Chemistry Diet” by Michael Lesser, M.D. (Putnam Books, 2002) may be helpful. Lesser was one of the founders (along with the late Linus Pauling, Ph.D.) of the Orthomolecular Psychiatry Movement. Originally posted on Yahoo Health  Chris Noth is Just the Latest in New Hollywood Parents On Janaury 21 it was announced that Chris Noth, star of Sex and the City and best known by his character name of "Mr. Big", has finally become a father. According to E! Online, Noth and his longtime girlfriend Tara Wilson welcomed their 7 pound, 10 ounce son Orion Christopher into the world on Friday, January 18th. The couple's rep has said that "Chris and Tara are thrilled and all are doing well." The birth of their child comes right on the heels of a smattering of other celebrity births, including that of Nicole Ritchie and Joel Madden's 6 pound, 7 ounce baby girl on Friday, January 11th according to People Magazine. The couple have named their healthy newborn Harlow Winter Kate Madden . Courtney Thorne-Smith and her husband Roger Fishman became parents with the birth of their son, Jacob "Jake" Emerson on Friday as well. This is the first child for the According to Jim star. Christina Aguilera and Jordan Bratman, announced the birth of a son, Max Liron Bratman on Saturday, January 12th at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles according to the Associated Press. Their baby weighed 6 pounds, 2 ounces. On the pregnancy watch list are some very hot celebrity names. Most recently, news broke that Matthew McConaughey and girlfriend, Brazilian model Camila Alves, are expecting their first child. According to a posting on McConaughey's website the baby is "3 months growin' in her womb and all looks healthy and lively so far." Jennifer Lopez and husband Marc Anthony are expecting their first child in the spring (rumors swirl that it may be a double blessing). Halle Berry and her partner Gabriel Aubry are due to welcome a new edition to their lives sometime in March. Despite some initial confusion, it has been confirmed by Reuters that Nicole Kidman and her husband, country music artist Keith Urban, are expecting a child in the middle of 2008. And, according to PageSix.com, Brazilian beauty and Victoria's Secret model Alessandra Ambrosio is pregnant. She and her boyfriend, Jamie Mazur, made their announcement earlier this week with insiders saying that Ambrosio is several months along. Originally posted on Yahoo Entertainment January 21, 2008  Dr. Doolittle, one of the most famous animal doctors in literature, once sang: If we could talk to the animals, just imagine it He, like most people who have animals, wished that he could speak with his animal friends. This wish is never as important as when an animal is sick.
People who work with animals, such as veterinarians, veterinary technologists/technicians, and other specialists in the animal healthcare professions, often wish that they could speak with animals, as it would make their jobs easier. Yet through their training and day-to-day work, these practitioners get closer to understanding animals than most of us can ever hope to. They learn to read animal behavior in an effort to help them when they are sick, injured, or ill-tempered -- looking for clues such as eating and sleep habits, socialization problems, and other non-verbal signs that indicate pain or suffering. This connection to animals is necessary for individuals who provide healthcare to animals. The jobs related to animal healthcare are important and diverse. While most of us usually only think of veterinarians and veterinary technologists/technicians working with "everyday pets", their involvement can include many types of animals - just like some of those listed in the lyrics above. Some individuals specialize in zoo animals, lab animals, or even wild animal care. Others choose to specialize in particular animal patient services, such as doctors who work only on issues of health and disease related to the heart, or technicians who work exclusively on laboratory analysis. Learn more about these professionals and the education you'll need to work in the fields of Veterinary Technologists & Technicians and Veterinarians. Original post for VeterinarySchools.com  What is one of the best ways that you can leave your mark on your community or the world? Become a teacher! According to Henry Adams, a prominent 19th century journalist, professor, lobbyist, and world traveler, "A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops."
Using hands on teaching methods and interactive discussions, teachers are considered instructors, coaches, or facilitators in helping students learn and apply new educational concepts. In early educational levels, educators can use simple games to teach letters or numbers to preschoolers. As students get older, more sophisticated tools, such as computers or science apparatus can be used to teach complex concepts, develop critical thought processes, and reinforce problem solving skills. Teachers are typically grouped according to the age level of students taught (Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary School, Middle and Secondary School). Post-secondary Educators teach college-level courses and are desribed further along in this article. Preschool TeachersPreschool teachers work with children who are old enough to be away from home for several hours a day, but too young to begin kindergarten. Their work involves using play activities (such as storytelling, rhyming, and acting) to improve the child's social skills, further language and vocabulary development, and introduce basic concepts of science and math. Creative activities may include art, music, and dance and may be presented on a one-on-one basis or as part of a group lesson. Kindergarten Teachers The job of kindergarten teachers is much the same as that of a preschool teacher; however at this level, basic academics become more important. Letters and numbers, phonics, and a stronger awareness of science, nature, and the arts are subjects that are typically covered. Elementary Schools Teachers In most elementary schools, teachers are responsible for instructing one class of students in several subjects. In other schools, some teachers may be found who instruct only one subject to multiple classes (usually science, math, reading, physical education, art, or music). Middle and Secondary School Teachers Building on lessons taught in elementary school, middle and secondary school teachers help students by expanding on previously learned skills and by exploring new topics so they may gain information about the world around them. Classes such as history, biology, and foreign languages are offered and, often, middle and secondary school teachers can be found who specialize in these specific subjects. Another educational specialty is a vocational education teacher, who can train students to work in a wide variety of fields (i.e.: technology, healthcare, auto repair). Other responsibilities for teachers include monitoring homerooms and study halls, escorting students on field trips, and supervising extracurricular activities. They may also be involved in assisting students with various activities related to college and career exploration. Duties performed outside of the classroom often require educators to work more than 40 hours per week. An exception is preschool and kindergarten teachers who typically work on a part-time schedule. Traditional school years require most teachers to work for 10 consecutive months with a 2-month vacation held over the summer. Preschool teachers who work in a daycare setting often work year-round. Licensure Licensing requirements for preschool teachers can vary by state. Public preschool teachers are generally subjected to higher requirements than those teaching at private preschools. In some states a bachelor's degree in early childhood education is required, while others only require an associate's degree. Some states require certification by a nationally recognized authority. The most common type of certification, The Child Development Associate (CDA)credential, requires a combination of classroom training and experience, in addition to an independent assessment of an individual's competence. Public school teachers are required to be licensed to work in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Private schools teachers are not required to be licensed. A State Board of Education or a licensure advisory committee usually grants licensure. State requirements for licenses to teach kindergarten through 12th grade vary. All states require a bachelor's degree and the completion of an approved teacher training program as well as supervised practice teaching. Technology training and the attainment of a minimum grade point average is becoming more common in some states, and some states require that teachers earn a master's degree in education within a designated period of time after they begin teaching. Most states require continuing education for renewal of a teacher's license. Post-secondary Educators Individuals who are post-secondary teachers usually work as professors, assistant professors, instructors, and/or lecturers. These are all "tenure track" positions, meaning a tenured professor may not be fired without good reason or due process. Tenure exists in an effort to preserve academic freedom for professors - thus ensuring that they will not be fired for espousing controversial opinions. Part-time instructors, known as adjunct faculty members, usually are not eligible for tenure. Courses for undergraduate or graduate students are taught by post-secondary educators who typically instruct in one or more subjects within a prescribed curriculum. These teachers are responsible for the preparation and delivery of lectures and associated course materials/components (bibliographies, tests, reading assignments, research, in-class demonstrations, guest lecturers, etc.) pertinent to the subject being taught. In addition, administration and grading of examinations is part of their job. Post-secondary teachers often conduct research in their particular field of interest and publish their findings in professional journals. They may also direct the research of other teachers or graduate students who are working to obtain an advanced degree in the same field. Other duties can include acting as an advisor to students or student organizations, and providing service on faculty committees. For post-secondary educators, WetFeet.com reports that "College and university faculty should enjoy an increasing number of employment opportunities as well, but competition for those jobs will be intense, particularly for tenure-track positions. And as colleges and universities face increasing budget constraints, more and more teaching positions will go to contract workers." Earnings Potential earnings can vary widely based on many factors, some of which may include the following:
Summary With skills and personal attributes such as organization, communication, motivation, creativity, patience, diligence, and commitment, individuals can succeed in a rewarding career as a teacher and work towards their passion for ensuring a high-quality education for the children and adults that come into their classroom. Currently live on Teaching.org  I've often had the conversation where I'm asked what one food would I refuse to go without. I don't even have to think about that. Hot Dog. Plain and simple, I want hot dogs. When I was 5 years old I was very ill and in the hospital. I wouldn't eat anything so my mother, I'll never forget this, would smuggle in one of those red and black plaid thermos containers with a hot dog inside. It was like I was being given the best gift in the world. Though I'll eat hot dogs in most any way, I'm from the New England area, so I have a great affinity for hot dogs prepared like they were when I was living there. Top-split New England style bun, buttered on each side, then grilled.  The hot dog (with casing) was either split then grilled or deep-fried until the casing began to rip. Condiments placed on top had to be MROK (mustard, relish, onion, and kraut) plus crumbled bacon. My head is spinning just thinking about how good this was. There is a really great documentary called A Hot Dog Program that shows off the various preparations of this comfort food staple around the country. A couple of years ago I went to the Jersey Shore for the Fourth of July and made a side trip to Rutt's Hut in Clifton, home of the "Ripper" that is shown in this program. The hot dogs chosen: The Ripper and the Cremator. Got to say, the Ripper was fantastic but the Cremator was like eating styrofoam. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the excursion. And just to prove how much I love hot dogs: Several years back (okay, about 20) I was at a flea market. I saw a binder of old, thin cookbooks. It was a series that somebody had collected over time. They dated from the late 1950s and were published by Good Housekeeping. I was delighted when in the middle of the series there was one issue called "Good Housekeeping's Hamburger & Hot Dog Book."  I made my offer (no price, based on my desire for that one issue, would have been too much) and it was mine! I got home and looked over the recipes and found myself experiencing a large range of emotions. Some recipes were looked appetizing, some were just plain nasty sounding, and others had me laughing at the sheer ridiculous idea that somebody would actually concoct what I was reading about. Take for example "Frank Delight" that uses hot dogs with eggplant or my favorite, "Frank Suey," Stuffed Franks, or Barbecued Frank Kabobs.   I've gone on to cook many of the recipes and can say that some were excellent and others, like the Frank Suey one were not. But, it didn't matter - because it had hotdogs.
Originally posted on Comfort Food Party, August, 2004  Getting accepted to a veterinary program at any level has many requirements that you'll need to be sure to pay keen attention to. Generally, the process for students of veterinary technology programs is simpler than that for veterinary students wishing to earn graduate or doctoral degrees. Testing RequirementsStudents of veterinary technology/technician programs who wish to earn an associate's or bachelor's degree are required to have a high school diploma or GED and submit either SAT or ACT scores. The SAT measures your skills in Critical Reading, Math, and Writing. The ACT test, America's most widely accepted exam, assesses your general education development and your ability to complete college-level coursework. You'll be tested via multiple-choice questions in four skill areas: English, math, reading, and science. There is an optional writing test that measures your skill in the planning and writing of a short essay. Other Vet Program Requirements Schools may also look for personal qualities such as leadership, motivation, and good communication skills when making admission decisions. Veterinary program applicants are also expected to have some experience working with or near animals (such as in pet stores or animal shelters) as this shows your ability and demeanor for the proper care and handling of animals. Since the number of colleges and universities that offer veterinary programs is relatively small (compared to other majors), the competition for admission can be fierce, for regular vet tech and DVM degree programs. Very high standards are set and you'll need to meet all of the criteria that a school requires for admission, such as:
Residency Status In many cases, there are no more than one or two institutions of higher learning in a given state that offer master or doctoral programs in veterinary science. In such cases, schools often give preference to in-state students first. Academic Performance With so much competition, schools often set a high minimum GPA for incoming students. Students should not expect to be accepted if their average is below 3.0, with some schools opting for an even higher GPA. GRE or MCAT Scores Testing for acceptance into masters or doctoral level programs is done through either the GRE or MCAT. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is made up of two separate parts: the General Test and the Subject Test in psychology. The General Test is a three-part test comprised of sections that measure verbal skills, quantitative knowledge, and analytical writing skills. The Subject Test (which only is required by some programs) measures knowledge of psychological concepts that are essential to graduate study. The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice exam, designed to assess your problem solving, critical thinking, and writing skills. It will also test your knowledge of science concepts (physical and biological) and other principles that are considered prerequisites to the study of medicine. Along with test scores, graduate schools place a lot of importance on the types of courses covered at an undergraduate level. Typically, courses in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and animal science must have been taken within a specified number of years prior to your application to ensure that you have the most current knowledge. Background Experience You'll be expected to have some type of animal care experience (other than mere observation) already under your belt. This experience should showcase your interest in animal well-being, your work habits, and your personal integrity. Consider working or volunteering at a zoo, animal medical environment, veterinary practice, animal research institution, humane shelter, regulatory animal control facility, or commercial animal production operations. Character Affidavits Some schools require applicants to submit written referrals from either their personal and/or professional associates that attest to their interest in the field, their commitment to the profession, and their general attitude and demeanor towards animal welfare. Make sure you ask for character affidavits from people who have seen you interact with animals on a professional level, and look beyond your family and close friends. Communication Skills Communication is a key requirement for any veterinarian professional. (See Top 10 Qualities of a Great Veterinarian). During the admission process, you'll be assessed on your communication skills either through personal essays or in personal interviews. Veterinarians need to communicate effectively with staff and animal owners, and so this can be a key component used by schools when considering your for admission into their veterinary program. Extracurricular Activities As with any other undergrad admission programs (and many graduate programs), activities done in the community are looked upon favorably by schools. Your extracurricular r work can further show your commitment to the field of veterinary medicine. Your level of devotion to causes that are important to you can portray compassion - another key characteristic of veterinarians. It may seem that there are a lot of requirements that have to be met for acceptance to veterinary programs -- at any level. This is true because of the nature of the profession. Veterinary practitioners deal with life on many levels. Veterinary colleges and universities make a point of selecting individuals who can meet the challenges of the profession while serving to protect and enhance the lives of the creatures that come before them, advance the causes of science related to veterinary practices, and live up to the ideals set forth in the Veterinarian's Oath. Veterinarian's Oath (from the AVMA) Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health, the relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.  Oprah... Howard Stern... Larry King... Dan Rathers... Rush Limbaugh... Barbara Walters... Years ago each of these people started at small radio or television stations and now they are all at the top tier in the world of broadcasting. They all have similar passions... they stay current on what's going on in the world and then communicate their knowledge and ideas on these topics to the public. If you feel the way they do, a career in broadcasting may be a good fit for you. You may want to be in the forefront of broadcasting with a job as an announcer or sportscaster, or if you prefer, a job in a support position may be more satisfying. These positions can include producers, directors, editors, copywriters, camera operators, and many more. History vs. Present Traditionally, broadcasting has been the distribution of audio- or visual-based programming designed to reach predetermined target markets by means of radio or television reception. Advances in technology have brought the advent of "webcasting" - a form of content delivery designed for the Internet. Webcasting includes delivering content produced for internet-only distribution, as well as a current trend whereby large communications companies adapt live or pre-produced broadcast material for insertion on radio or television websites that are part of their existing roster. For example, NBC News televises The Today Show each weekday morning and, by early afternoon, clips from featured interviews on that particular day's show have been fed to a webcast on NBC's online partner site, MSNBC. Even when new content is being created to be delivered on an Internet-only basis, the personnel involved in the entire process can be relatively the same as those involved in the production of more conventional broadcast programs. A difference is seen when it comes to getting the programs out to the public. Sites involved with webcasts have an added need for professionals with a high degree of expertise the area of content delivery mechanisms for the Internet. This includes working knowledge of webcast applications, coding expertise, and the understanding of networks, digital and streaming technologies, and in some cases, privacy and security issues. Some industry professionals do not consider webcasting as a part of broadcasting simply because of the very nature of broadcasting itself. According to Dictionary.com, the definition of broadcasting is that it is "a medium that disseminates via telecommunication" with telecommunication defined as "the science and technology of communication at a distance by electronic transmission of impulses, as by telegraph, cable, telephone, radio, or television." Franc Kozamernick of the European Broadcasting Union stated in "Webcasting - the broadcasters' perspective" in 2000 that "the distinction between conventional broadcasting and the Internet begins to blur." Since that comment was made, webcasting has made impressive technological strides, and though it utilizes a very different method of information delivery than those involved in traditional broadcasting, it is still a means of getting information out to a wide contingency of individuals. For the purposes of this article, it will be included as a type of broadcasting. What Is Broadcasting? Some radio stations have various formats throughout the day - mixing talk, news, and music, while others have one general theme - such as an oldies station or all talk formats. In the case of television, stations may provide programming for children in the early hours, housewives in midday, family entertainment during early evening hours, and have more adult-oriented shows in the later portion of an evening, or they may be dedicated to one particular format - such as HGTV, which airs home and gardening information all day long. The success of a station is measured by levels of listener or viewer retention that is gauged on a steady basis by professional monitoring services, such as Neilsen Media Research for television or Arbitron for radio. A station's success depends not only on the on-air personality's performance, but also on the coordination of programming, the quality of production, and the various other functions that go into making the on-air programs entertaining and informative to the station's target audience. Careers in broadcasting can be broken down into five basic categories: On-air announcing, program direction, production, writing, and other jobs. On-air Announcing Announcers are the most easily recognized of the broadcast personae. You tune them in to find out about your news, sports, and weather. They give you topic-loaded insider comments about some of your favorite shows, read commercials to you, interview guests on talk shows, or preside over panel discussions. In news broadcasting, announcers are primarily concerned with the delivery of on-air reports, while television stations will also hire announcers to host variety and talk shows. Stations compete to find personalities that have the right look, voice, and general charisma that will attract and keep a loyal following. News announcers are paid to coordinate and deliver the news and, in some cases, they are also required to research and write their own stories. Variety and talk show hosts are required to become informed about the show's guests and the topics to discuss, make sure that the guest stays engaged in exciting commentary, know when to take breaks for commercial endorsements, and keep a show's schedule moving at the right pace. Radio stations that are an all-music format hire announcers (usually called disc jockeys) to provide between-song commentary, and sometimes read news, weather, and traffic reports. All-talk radio stations usually require their on-air personalities to be well-versed in the topic that their show covers (political, religious, gardening, health, financial, etc.) and then the day-to-day performance is similar to that of the television talk show host. Program Direction Program directors have the responsibility of setting the tone for all content that a station provides. Some stations provide a broad range of styles, attempting to reach out to as many types of demographic sets as possible. Television network stations are a good example of this, offering programming for all ages at various times throughout any given day. Other stations try to fill a need for niche markets (narrowcasting), with stations devoted to the likes of home repair, classic TV reruns, game shows, cooking, or science fiction. Program directors work closely with their station's management and sales teams to determine and tailor the station's overall presence. They also decide what shows will run and at what times in an effort to draw the greatest number of viewers and increase the station's overall ratings, which then drives up key advertising revenue. For radio stations, program directors provide the same types of services, except that instead of deciding what television shows to air, they are responsible for the creation of play lists of songs for the audience to hear and for determining what talk or information shows are to run. Producers Once the "tone" is set by the Program Directors, the responsibility of coordinating all of a station's specific content falls squarely in the lap of the producers. Different departments might handle news, programming, advertising, writing, and other production functions, but the producers have to ensure that they all are kept informed of assignments to be met, schedules to be adhered to, and of changes that may be made to either as production moves along. Success in production efforts provides for a smooth transition as stations switch between programs, news, weather and traffic updates, commercials, and station-identification alerts. In either television or radio, the producer also is responsible for overseeing the production of original shows and commercials. Writing News writers at large stations write the news that on-air announcers and reporters will read. Before doing so, they might review reporter's notes, perform background research, confirm interview sources, and adapt newswire reports. At smaller stations it is not uncommon to find that an announcer's job description includes researching, writing, and editing his own material. Copywriters create written material to be used by businesses to promote their goods or services. Large businesses often hire advertising agencies with copywriters to write their ads; however, many stations have copywriters available for this service. Small stations typically use staff other than copywriters to create ads for advertisers and even for the station itself. Original entertainment programs, like variety shows or dramas, employ scriptwriters who are responsible for creating material, sometimes on a very fast-paced basis. These positions are usually difficult to find, extremely competitive, and typically available only at larger stations. Other Jobs Other broadcasting employees work at jobs in video and audio production, editing, engineering, camera and audio operations, technical direction, information technology, marketing, and sales. In these positions, like the others, people work under a great deal of pressure to meet deadlines. This can make for erratic work schedules, with employees sometimes working early mornings or late into the evening. Although the broadcasting industry is known for high pressure and sometimes demanding hours, the work is generally not hazardous and many people find the excitement of this industry is a good trade off. Typical Broadcasting Jobs
More job titles can be found at TVJobs.com. The linked list shows job titles (over 350) as submitted by actual people working in the field. Another very good site to check out is ArticleInsider.com which provides an abundance of information on the different types of positions found in broadcasting. Working In Broadcasting Being a team player is important in the broadcasting field. It is imperative to remember that all personnel at a station must work together to ensure that the quality and timeliness of a station's broadcasts are met. The station needs to attract the largest audience possible, which in turn attracts advertising dollars and keeps the business operable. Advertising dollars are the main revenue source for any station, except in the case of many non-profits which try to lock in public and private funding sources instead. To work in broadcasting, it is helpful if you have a broadcasting degree or a background in communications or journalism, although these are not necessary and many people move into good positions without them. You should know that the "glamour" jobs are hard to come by and competition for them is extremely fierce. Most of those breaking into the industry start at a small radio or television station to get hands-on practice interviewing local politicians, sports, and news personalities and producing news programs and commercials. If your goal is to have a career in broadcasting and you don't want an on-air spot, then finding an engaging and creative position in the supporting roles of this field is realistic and attainable. Keep in mind, though, that the pay can be low and the hours long, often at times of the day when you normally wouldn't want to be working. In addition, since so many radio and television stations are small, you may have to change employers several times to advance in your career. Frequently, relocation to other parts of the country is necessary to make such a move. Education Colleges and trade schools offer formal programs in mass communications, journalism, and radio or television broadcasting, writing, and production. Even technical jobs are now being covered as new technologies come into place, requiring employees to have a better understanding of computers, networks, and other forms of digital technology. Courses of study can be as long as 4 years or as short as 6 months, depending on the path you decide to take. Bachelor level programs at universities or colleges can be found with majors such as mass communications, journalism, broadcasting, media studies, etc. Typically, these programs offer an education rooted in liberal arts with concentrations in various aspects of the industry. Courses for the concentrations are designed to teach students technical, conceptual, and theoretical applications about the field and prepare them for entry-level jobs upon graduation. Some concentrations include the following:
Course requirements for specific concentrations are usually predetermined by the school and leave little room for customization, however some schools allow for "independent study" classes to be chosen. In this situation, a student can select a couple of classes that satisfy a special interest. Below is a representative example of classes offered in journalism and mass communications programs at some universities or colleges:
Trade schools offer quicker and more intensified programs of study, usually aimed at getting students thoroughly trained in one particular area of the broadcasting field. Programs don't include studies in English, math, science, and history like at the universities. Even classes on theory, analysis, and business principles are excluded. Some time is spent on classroom lectures, however the general theme of an education provided by a trade schools is that hands-on, real-world experience makes for the most well-trained student. If a student wants to be a camera operator, study begins by learning about and then working on a camera; future videotape editors learn the editing process then work with actual tape and editing machines; and would-be newscasters work in front of a microphone or camera to hone their skills. At some schools, students also will work collectively on larger projects (i.e.: commercial production, preparation and delivery of on-air shows, sportscasts) to obtain a more broad base of experience. Training is supervised by professionals who are educators in the field and, in some cases, currently working in the profession. Whether you are looking to work on-air or off, it is generally best to have some real work experience. This can be attained by working for your school's radio or television station as an intern or volunteer, or by approaching local stations to find other potential opportunities. These positions are usually unpaid, however you may be able to obtain college credits or tuition reimbursements instead. Hands-on-training is considered one of the most desirable aspects for a potential job candidate to have because stations want you to be able to begin working immediately and with little further instruction. Job Outlook The employment outlook for broadcasting is expected to increase by only approximately 9 percent over the 2002-12 period, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Competition from other media outlets (internet, satellite, etc.), introduction of new technologies, and industry consolidation are contributors to the slow growth for this field. Many small stations have been consolidated into larger broadcast networks. This trend has caused employers to create ways to use existing employees more effectively. For example, a news program or talk show can be produced once and then broadcast from all of the station's affiliates simultaneously. This eliminates the need for multiple news or production teams. Other employee efforts, from technicians to upper level managers, are also being pooled to achieve costs savings across the board for large broadcast networks. New technology also is impeding the employment growth in the traditional areas of broadcasting. Where conventional broadcast equipment used to be very specialized, new computerized equipment usually combines the functionality of several older pieces and requires less manpower and knowledge to perform even complex operations. In particular, this new equipment has decreased the need for individuals whose sole responsibility was either editing, recording, or creating graphics. In addition, this equipment can be controlled remotely, which allows the user to operate and monitor transmissions from a distance, again eliminating excessive employees. Services outside of the traditional broadcasting industry that create and use radio and television programs also are slowing job growth. Prepared programming, including news, weather, music, sports, commentaries, and announcer services are created by these services and are accessed by listeners or viewers over satellite or internet connections (i.e.: WABC-AM News Talk Radio 77, The Christian Internet Radio & Television Network, National Public Radio (NPR), BBC News Television, Air America Radio). Similar to production techniques used at the broadcasting conglomerates, programs only need to be created once and then they are sent out over multiple media types. Again, this reduces the need for news and production staffs. Finding Jobs Getting a job in broadcasting is competitive, so individuals should start looking for potential opportunities before graduating. People in the industry often say that one of the best ways to find work is to be willing to do whatever a station manager wants you to do - even if it is not what you went to school for, and do it at any time of the day (evening and overnight shifts are not uncommon). This not only gets you in, but it also shows that you are willing to keep on learning and can be a team player in the process. To look for jobs, there are several sources to consider: A school's career placement office Many schools work with locally and even nationally-based broadcasting companies and communications organizations to provide current job listings for future graduates. It is wise to check out these opportunities early in your educational process as job descriptions can often give insight as to courses and skills that should be obtained prior to graduation. Trade publications Trade publications provide another good source for finding employment. Many hardcopy publications have an online counterpart and, in most cases, the online versions have current job listings or provide links to other sites related to the trade. Some suggested sites include the following:
Trade associations Many associations post job listings on their sites that do not show up anywhere else. In addition to national and worldwide sites for broadcasters, individuals should be sure to look for broadcasting associations listed by state as well. Examples are:
Career websites Other than the large generally-oriented career websites, be sure to look for sites specifically aimed at listing jobs in television, radio, and communications such as:
Not to be overlooked are the sites for television and radio networks, and especially their local affiliates. Often jobs posted by affiliates are ones that pertain to the station alone, not necessarily to network-level positions. Radio-Locator is a great tool as it provides links to over 10,000 radio station web pages, searchable by state, zipcode, or call letters. Also of note is TVRadioWorld which provides a searchable database of stations on a worldwide basis and includes information on whether or not a station has webcast capabilities in place. Summary Careers in broadcasting can be very diversified, hectic, exciting, and challenging. With a solid education and lots of practical on-the-job experience while in school, new graduates can expect to find many opportunities to choose from. Graduates need to remember that they may initially have to make temporary concessions as to the type of work being done or the hours worked just to "get a foot in the door," and relocation may be required as well. With hard work, the ability to think on one's feet, an open-minded attitude, and dedication to learning new skills, individuals can go far in this field and have very rewarding careers. Original blog post: BroadcastingSchools.com  An introduction to the field of veterinary medicine and educational options for future veterinary practitioners.Veterinarians typically perform clinical work in private practices and more than one-half of them limit their practice to the treatment of small or “companion” animals. Typical companion animals include animals such as cats and dogs; however other animals that can be kept as pets (birds, reptiles, rabbits, etc.) are part of this group. A smaller number of veterinarians (about one-fourth) work in mixed animal practices where, in addition to companion animals, they administer to pigs, goats, sheep, and other non-domestic animals. These veterinarians diagnose animal health problems, vaccinate against diseases (such as rabies and distemper), perform surgery, set fractures, treat and dress wounds, and medicate animals. Often their job involves advising owners about feeding, behavior, and breeding of animals. The remaining balance of veterinarians can be found working exclusively with large animals (mostly horses or cows) and with breeds of food animals. Some veterinarians drive to farms or ranches to provide their healthcare services for individual animals or herds. Some veterinarians are devoted to the maintenance of the health of livestock, and their job is highly involved in preventive care. They test for and vaccinate against diseases, in addition to consulting with ranch or farm owners on issues related to animal production, feeding, and housing. They also provide treatment to sick or injured animals, and perform surgery, including cesarean sections on birthing animals. When necessary, part of a veterinarian’s job is to euthanize animals. Veterinarians that care for zoo, aquarium, or laboratory animals provide many of the same services. Some veterinarians become livestock inspectors and have jobs that are involved in food safety. These inspectors check animals for transmissible diseases and may quarantine animals as needed. Meat, poultry, or egg product inspectors are involved in the examination of slaughtering and processing plants and their processes. They check live animals and carcasses for disease and enforce government regulations regarding food purity and sanitation. Many veterinarians can be found working side-by-side with physicians and scientists. Collectively, they research methods for the prevention and treatment of various human health problems. By conducting tests on animals, they can determine the effects of new surgical techniques and drug therapies for humans. Education for the Veterinary Professions Acceptance into veterinary programs is very competitive. While there are thousands of colleges and universities in the United States, only a small number of them offer programs in veterinary studies. According to the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges the breakdown of educational programs/institutions is as follows:
If possible, begin planning your educational path as early as you can. Getting a veterinary education can be daunting, as there are many career paths to choose from in this field. Specific career paths almost always have a firm outline of courses that need to be completed prior to moving on to a new semester. Undergraduate programs are in place at schools that have departments of veterinary science. These programs are usually called pre-vet or pre-professional and can prepare students for entry into veterinary programs at the graduate level. Classes are heavy on topics such as biology, physiology, chemistry, physics, nutrition, and animal science. During this time, it’s important to begin getting experience working with animals, as schools offering veterinary degrees look for this as a prerequisite for acceptance into their programs. Work (either paid or volunteer) can be done at animal hospitals, shelters, pet stores, labs, or other animal-related facilities. After earning a bachelor’s, those who want to become veterinarians will have to earn a veterinary degree (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine – DVM ). Once accepted to a veterinary program, students can expect their studies to be concentrated on the sciences. In addition, they will learn how to handle animals, diagnose illnesses, conduct laboratory tests, assess and treat injuries, and perform surgery. This degree usually takes four years to complete. Before beginning practice, veterinarians must pass a state-administered licensing examination. Students can also receive a Masters or PhD in various aspects of veterinary medicine or animal care, such as the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Comparative Biomedical Sciences at the School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, or the Graduate Field of Pharmacology at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Students do not have to go beyond a bachelor’s degree, as many good positions that are non-veterinarian are available. For example, the Department of Veterinary Sciences at Penn State University offers a major in Toxicology which is geared towards educating students in the adverse effects of chemicals on animal (and human) and biological systems. The University of Connecticut has an undergraduate major in Pathobiology which allows graduates to pursue careers in fields such as biotechnology or biomedical sciences. Students can also pursue positions as researchers in fields related to health, agriculture, and natural resources. Admissions to Veterinary Programs There has been an upswing in interest in the veterinary field, as more people are realizing that the field is open to job opportunities beyond just veterinary practices. This means that getting into a program can be very competitive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), “Most veterinary medical colleges are public, state-supported institutions and reserve the majority of their openings for in-state residents, making admission for out-of-state applicants difficult.” Through their 2002 survey, they found that only one of every three applicants was accepted to a veterinary program. The admissions process is determined by the type of veterinary career that sought. See Getting Accepted to Veterinary School for more information on applying to veterinary schools. Costs of Education & Financial Aid While the cost of attending veterinary school can be expensive, there are numerous ways to find funding. Federal financial aid is offered through the U.S. Department of Education and all students are encouraged to apply for this on an annual basis. Scholarships are a good resource and plenty of them are offered by various organizations involved in the fields that the veterinary sciences touch – such as biomedical, pharmaceutical, and research facilities. In addition to scholarships, seek out grant or fellowship opportunities, especially when working towards earning a higher level of veterinary degree, or one that specializes in a particular area of veterinary medicine. Often, a school’s financial aid office will have information on these type of opportunities. Professional associations related to veterinary medicine also provide information on obtaining this type of funding, as well as scholarship opportunities. When assessing schools, be sure to check out all funding opportunities offered by the institutions, as some unique opportunites may exist. For example, Tufts University in Massachusetts has contracted with the states of Maine, New Hampshire, and New Jersey to provide special funding for a select number of students from those states. Each state pays $12,000 per student towards the student’s total annual attendence costs, reducing their overall cost to $20,894 per year. For more, see the Financial Aid channel. Related articles Original post on VeterinarySchools.com
 Forget this wicked heat we're having. I'm ready for Fall. It's my favorite time of year, hands down. I especially look forward to apples fresh off the trees and making lots of tasty things with them.  When I was a kid living in Connecticut, I was lucky enough to have a place called Silverman's Farm nearby where we could actually go into the orchard and pick the apples. We'd take a couple of those long, rectangular cardboard baskets that had a wooden handle with us into the field of apple trees. I remember reaching as high as I could and pulling gently at the branch with one hand and carefully plucking off the apples with the others. We were very careful not to damage the trees, per the instructions passed down from the person who owned the farm. I first went there on a field trip in kindergarten (I still have the button that I was given on that trip - a red apple with a face) and went every year until several years after I graduated from college. By then, the "pick-your-own" liberty had been revoked. When I asked why one year, I was told that too many tourists from out-of-state had acted recklessly over the years and caused a lot of damage. Not sure if that's true, but it did make sense that they would want to protect their crop. As you can probably guess, we would often use the apples to make some splendid pies, both with and without pie crust tops. One of my favorites is a great apple crumb pie recipe that was passed down from my great-grandmother - a true New England Yankee who knew how to cook fabulous and simple dishes. After many years of making my pies from scratch, I finally figured out that I was being greatly slowed down by the apple peeling process. Who out there likes to peel apples by hand? None of you? Yeah, that's what I thought.  Anyhow, I started looking around and finally bought an apple peeler.
What a delight! It cut my time immensely and brought a lot of joy back to the process. I highly suggest that you get one for yourself. Make sure it is made of all metal parts (the plastic ones aren't strong enough to last long) and the model shown in the picture here is one of the best engineered for the work you need done. You won't be sorry! Originally posted on Ellery's Kitchen, August, 2000 |
