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BOA2 Players:
You asked for it! So here is my humble attempt at organizing a BOA2 FAQ thread! Will continue to add as more Q&A's get answered!
Birth of America 2 - Frequently Asked Questions... and Answers!
Should combat units avoid attacking in Wilderness or Mountains because of the severe attacker penalty?
If avoidable (which in most cases its not ) generally its better to not attack in difficult terrain (wilderness, mountains, marches, wooded areas...) But as everything, it depends of the situation and several factors besides the basic attackk/defense bonus. Here are other considerations:
Unit type: Regulars, cavalry and artillery should fight as much as possible in clear terrain. Irregular forces (Indians, rangers, partisans) thrive in difficult terrain and can give even trained regulars many problems there, as they have a bonus on mostly any terrain but clear. Irregulars, attacking or defending in wilderness is the way to go if they will fight mostly regular troops.
Range: Battles in difficult terrain start as shorter firing range (no clear fields of fire). This is bad for artillery, but good if you have no artillery on your side.
Frontage: This is the max number of elements that can participate in battle at once. Let's say in the first line of battle. Frontage value depends on terrain, weather, type of unit... Big massive battles with lots of units fighting each other at once can happen only on clear terrain. On difficult terrains, the frontage is limited. This is an advantage to small armies attacking or defending against bigger armies, as the big one will not be able to bear all their numbers on the attack at once (but they are still important as the second line element will cover the gaps created by retiring or destroyed first line elements. Besides, in difficult terrains, irregular units take less frontage than regulars, so more can fight at once. Another advantage for irregulars when used on their preferred terrains.
Even though combat units don't get a defense bonus in Wilderness or Mountains, is it a good tactic to defend in these regions since there is a severe attacker penalty? But what happens if your forces are defending, get attacked in either a Wilderness or Mountains region... and then counter attack that turn? Do your units also suffer the severe attacker penalty?
Yes. A unit on offensive stance will not get the terrain benefits. Only the defensive one will. It does not matter that your forces are already in the region. If you are on offensive, you are considered as seeking the enemy and attacking him. Notice that both sides can be on offensive and neither get the terrain defensive benefits.
Is one of the better defense positions to be defending behind a Major River / Lake in a Woods region?
Rivers are very good areas to set up a defending line. Regarding the woods as perfect defending terrain, it depends: If you have plenty of artillery, calvary and regulars, it is better to defend on clear terrain behind a river, specially if the enemy is strong on irregulars.
What are the optimal ROE settings for a small force? Should a small force avoid combat when moving?
It completely depends of the situation. If you risk finding bigger and stronger forces on you way, evade. If your force can be expected to catch some weak force, don't evade. In general, move on defensive as it costs you less cohesion than on offensive and it's safer if you stumble on an enemy force (defensive can use terrain to their advantage). On very safe areas (no enemies around) you can move on passive for still less cohesion loss.
Should Indian units always have their ROE setting for ambush?
Ambush only works for stationary units. So if you are moving around it won't do anything. Its really tricky to manage an ambush.
If you don't have a specific task for a force, is it better to remain "inside" a structure? Or outside a structure, so it can retreat if attacked by a superior force?
I use to leave small garrisons inside (safer against small raids) but bigger field armies and irregular forces outside so they don't get trapped. Of course, having a fort or fortress makes it more interesting to stay inside, but be prepared for a siege or a "do or die" battle with a force inside a structure if a strong enough enemy force attacks.
How do you calculate the relative strength of an enemy unit - especially with fog of war = ON?
Tooltips will give you different levels of information depending of your detection value. Use Indians, spies or irregulars on adjacent regions (and have ROE on evade combat!) to have better information. The little colored balls on the base of the stack will give you general information about size (number of balls) and health (color of balls). With the supply filter on, the color will reveal their supply status (green good/red bad).
What happens; in game terms, when you order a force to sally out of a fort?
When you order a garrison to sally out, it means they will sally BUT ONLY if and when an outside friendly force arrives in the region and attacks the besiegers. So its basically a way to coordinate your units inside a structure with an eventual rescue force so they join strength in evicting the enemy from the region. If there is no friendly "rescue force" arriving during the turn the sally button will have no effect. To actually order your garrison to sally out by themselves and attack the besiegers you simply have to drag the stack out of the structure and on the same region with an offensive posture.
Is it "safe" for Leaders to travel alone? Or should Leaders always be stacked with combat units?
Yes, its pretty safe. They have good evasion rating so they can cross enemy controlled and occupied regions with little chance of capture/death (like 95% chance or so). remember to always put them on evade combat. I have them stacked with troops except when I want them to travel far away to maybe lead another force in a different colony. They move much faster alone.
What are the restrictions on promoting a Leader?
You can only promote a Leader if he has seniority of 1 or 2...or if he has gained a certain amount of seniority in a single turn. If you don't promote them, they will lose a seniority point each turn that you don't promote them.
Is Boston a region?
Yes. Boston is a normal region, but small. This region was added with the 1.04 patch and the surrounding regions reorganized to better represent the Boston siege situation.
What are naval stores and sugar supplies?
Naval stores and sugar supplies are not mobile. They are there for you to protect and the enemy to take / destroy and gain victory points from them. Not very important, just a little flavor thing.
Does BOA2 operate with simultaneous turns like BOA?
Yes. It uses the same engine, AGE: Adapative Game Engine.
Does BOA2 have a full campaign?
French and Indian Wars 1755-1763
American Revolution 1775-1783
War of 1812 1812-1815
+ many shorter scenarios
When should a unit attempt a forced march?
Obviously, when you are on a hurry to arrive somewhere. In game terms I use it mostly when a stack planned move takes 31-35 days, so, if successful, I will end my movement under 30 days and arrive at my objective in just one turn. The % success change depends of the unit type/quality. Usually militia/wagons and the like won't make it. Use it mostly with light forces that have high % chance of archiving it.
When marching a force to contact with the enemy, is it better to move your force short distances (maybe just 1-2 adjacent land areas) in order to maintain cohesion?
Moving reduces cohesion and combat power. Sometimes its better to arrive sooner but weaker than later but stronger. In general, let the troops rest from time to time or move in 15-20 days long movement so they are fit enough for a battle.
Can calvary only charge in clear terrain?
Calvary may charge in clear, plain, desert, and any open terrain.
Is it wasteful to have a force with two (2) supply wagons?
Each supply unit carries a fixed supply amount that you force will consume. So having 2, 3 or more will give them more turns without starving or the need to resupply. So again it depends of the force size, your number of wagons and the force mission.
I need a quick overview on how supply works?
The Supply system in BOA2 is one where there is no supply network. Each supply source is a bit like an island generating supply for the region it is in and the adjacent regions. If you want to be resupplied, you have to fall back to such a region, and that's all. You can consider wagons as your 'manually handled supply network' though.
Zones of Control (ZOC)
I noticed when I play sometimes that on the normal map view a province will be colored red?
That must be a ZOC (Zone of control). The stack currently selected cannot enter the red zones because an enemy stack or fort in the same region is exerting a ZOC on him that won't let him go deeper into enemy territory. But they can move to surrounding regions where they already have enough military control. Light units (Indians and the like) have high evade and are not usually affected by ZOC. Check page 24 on the manual (paragraph 7.5) for full information.


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2 Comments
[…] Comedy Bonfire (8:00 pm) […]
[…] Comedy Bonfire (8:00 pm) […]

subset: commoncrawl


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I am blown away by the detailed analysis you present of your swatches! When I work I take similar steps but here you detail them all so it's clear to the newbie where you've come from and where you're going. Did you find it difficult to break down and so meticulously record and replicate your creative process?
It took time and it was unfamiliar. I know my own way of doing things but knowing what you do and being able to explain what you do are two different things! Talking through the system with Kate and Tom was vital and it was only after going through it all with them that I was able to sit down and write out my own creative process, step by step. Once I could see that, it got a little bit easier to think about how to share it with a reader. Nic also really helped with finding clever ways to visually present the process once I had written it all down.
Absolutely. I have an extra special love for the EDIROL digital recorder now. As an object it was already special to me, but you would never think that just from looking at it. It's black, plastic, boxy... the buttons are all worn down and half of it is held together with gaffer tape! Yet when you see it with the swatch which it inspired, it is instantly apparent that the two things are connected. The vibrant knitting patterns somehow bring the recorder to life. Together they seem to me to be a very complete expression of an object that I love and a piece of knitting that describes that feeling.
I also know my walnut tree so much better now than I did at the start of the year after documenting its leaves, bark, dyeing properties and resident birds, and now when I walk past places in Reading that I have used as inspiration for the Reading brickwork swatch I have a feeling of connection and celebration. I wonder what people would think if they knew that tiny details of their houses have now been seen by knitters all over the world...
...and I feel compelled to keep checking up on the Art Deco factory to see whether demolition has begun yet. I worry about the day when I will round the corner and find the pink building is gone. The security guys keep saying "this month" but they've been saying that since August! After all the new memories I have created with that building - knitting from it, going there with Fergus (my brother and the book's photographer) to photograph it at first light - I will be sadder than ever when it is finally taken down.
Which of all the lovely swatches in the book is your favourite and why?
I do something very similar to this but when I look at your book I don't see my work, I see something that is completely KNITSONIK. Are you interested in seeing the results that other people produce using your methods?
Yes! I think it's fascinating that we all see the world in completely unique ways; I love that if you and I sat at a table with the same yarn and the same needles and the same inspiration source we would produce completely different ideas because we would notice and be drawn to different things.
I was thinking about that in Shetland and wondering about developing some workshops based on that very idea because I think it would be amazing! Then a discussion started up in the KNITSONIK Ravelry group and now we are doing exactly that: an online swatch-a-long based on a single inspiration source with a big reveal at the end of February. Anyone is welcome to join in and the only rule is that you have to use a pomegranate as the starting point! I can't wait to see all the different ways that the pomegranate will be translated into stranded colourwork by all the different knitters participating...
The other swatches people have made using The KNITSONIK System have blown my mind. I especially like seeing how people come up with their palettes and document their process... everyone is so different and that's what makes it fascinating. I have the same feeling as you - I don't look at other people's swatches and see KNITSONIK; I see the hand of the knitter who made the swatch at work, and what they noticed in their inspiration source. I think that is beautiful.
It is like how in my favourite field recordings I feel like I can hear the sounds that are being recorded, but also something of the recordist and their listening, how they have angled the microphones or positioned themselves in relation to the sound... something to do with personal taste and individual style, like handwriting.
I see you are a fan of somewhat tacky beer clip art and labelling. With the craft beer movement there are more creative beer labels around now that ever - do you think you'll ever immortalize another beer label/pump clip in knitting?
I'd say it is inevitable! I love beer and especially craft beer from small indie breweries, and the artwork on the labels just gets better and better. As a beer drinker I am quite drawn to some of the more minimalist labels; I adore the beer produced by the Kernel Brewery for instance, and they have wonderfully simple, unfussy labels with black ink printed on brown parcel paper. Their little bottles, so unpretentiously packaged, contain some of the finest ales in the land. However, as a knitter, I am oddly compelled to beers featuring fussier labels. In terms of offering inspiration for stranded colourwork, the loud and highly pictorial designs with ships and animals and hops and Gods and so on do offer a bit more to work with. That said, now I am thinking about what could be done to describe those fine plain bottles of Table beer from the Kernel Brewery...


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Butler's Lives of the Saints, Volum 8
Burns & Oates, 1998 - 352 pŕgines
For more than two centuries, "Butler's" has been one of the best known, most widely consulted hagiographies. In its brief and authoritative entries, readers can find a wealth of knowledge on the lives and deeds of the saints, as well as their ecclesiastical and historical importance since canonization.
Des de l'interior del llibre
En aquest llibre hi ha 80 pŕgines coincidents amb editions:ISBN0860122530
Quč opinen els usuaris - Escriviu una ressenya
Butler's lives of the saintsRevisió d'Usuari - Not Available - Book Verdict
In its original form, this work was a classic statement for a broad English-speaking audience; the publisher recently lightly updated and expanded it, republishing it in 12 volumes. This publication ... Llegeix la ressenya completa
ST ALPHONSUS DE LIGUORI bishop doctor and founder
ST EUSEBIUS OF VERCELLI bishop
St Lydia
No s'hi han mostrat 24 seccions
Altres edicions - Mostra-ho tot
Frases i termes més freqüents
AA.SS abbey abbot Alipius Alphonsus asked August Baptism beatified became Benedictine Bernard bishop Blessed born Brothers buried Caesarius Callistus canonized Cardinal Cathars Catholic century Christ Christian church Cistercian Clare clergy condemned Congregation Constantinople convent cross cult death devotion died diocese Diocletian divine Dominic Dominican draft Roman Martyrology early Edith Stein Edmund emperor England English Eusebius eventually faith father feast France Franciscan French friars German Gregory heresy Hippolytus Holy Italy Jesuit Jesus John John's Joseph king later Laurence legend lived Louis married martyr Martyrs of Japan Mary Maximian Maximilian Maximus Milan mission missionaries monastery monks Monophysites mother nuns ordained priest Order pagan papal Paris persecution Pius Poland poor Pope St prayer preached Prudentius R.M. St Radegund refused relics religious Roman Martyrology Rome saints sent sick Simplician Sisters Sixtus Spain spiritual St Augustine suffered thought tion took tradition trans vols


text:
Season 16 Episode #1609
Deer Mice; Obsidian Tracking; Flat Fish; Klamath Wildlife Refuge Photo Essay
This video is not currently available. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Segments in this Episode
Oregon Field Guide
Deer Mice
Deer mice are studied as they harbor a potentially fatal virus to people
Oregon Field Guide
Obsidian Tracking
Explore Oregon's Fort Rock Basin to learn more about the areas first human inhabitants.
Oregon Field Guide
Flat Fish
Oregon scientists study various flat fish to help manage their populations.
Oregon Field Guide
Klamath Wildlife Refuge Photo Essay
Field Guide explores the Klamath Wildlife Refuge.
All Season 16
March 2005 Pledge Special: Oregon's Ancient Wonders: A Geologica (1613)
Oregon Field Guide: Episode #1613
Mt. Hood Glacier; Eco-Wines; Obsidian Trail (1611)
Oregon Field Guide: Episode #1611
Original Broadcast: January 11, 2007
Willapa Bay Restoration; Underwater Camera; Leschi Town; New Sports Photo Essay (1610)
Oregon Field Guide: Episode #1610
Deer Mice; Obsidian Tracking; Flat Fish; Klamath Wildlife Refuge Photo Essay (1609)
Oregon Field Guide: Episode #1609
Original Broadcast: July 31, 2008
Pelicans; Ghost Nets; Bats (1608)
Oregon Field Guide: Episode #1608
Original Broadcast: September 29, 2006
Wolverine; TV Tower Safety; Sandboarding (1606)
Oregon Field Guide: Episode #1606
Original Broadcast: September 22, 2006
Major Support Provided By:
Robert D. and Marcia H. Randall Fund for Lifelong Learning
Carol and Velma Saling Foundation
William K. Blount Family Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation
Additional Support Provided By:
Coit Family Foundation
Kay Kitagawa and Andy Johnson-Laird
Christine and David Vernier
Greenfield/Hartline Habitat Conservation Fund of the Nature Conservancy
Jim and April Lonzway
Special thanks for support by:
Barbara Emily Knudsen Charitable Foundation, Bonnie and Peter Reagan, Evergreen Hill Education Fund, Lee and Marcia Stevenson and Elaine Whitley


text:
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We accomplish these goals by:
Investigating complaints from any person or entity, including Congress, while protecting the identity of whistleblowers.
Reviewing existing and proposed legislation and regulations.
Conducting audits and investigations of SSA programs and operations.
We communicate the results of our efforts by:
Reporting violations of law to Offices of the U.S. Attorney and State and local prosecutors.
Informing Congress and the Commissioner of our findings and recommending corrective action when problems are identified.
Submitting semiannual reports to Congress and the Commissioner.
Statutory Responsibilities
On March 31, 1995, the SSA OIG was established pursuant to Public Law 103-296 known as the Social Security Independence and Program Improvements Act of 1994. General OIG authority is established under the IG Act, which provides statutory responsibility to protect the integrity of SSA programs and operations. We are an independent and objective organization within SSA dedicated to preventing and detecting fraud, waste and abuse in SSA's programs and operations. We are guided by various statutory laws and implementing regulations, as well as various policies and guidance regarding federal law enforcement and government auditing. The following chart describes some of the statutory laws which impact the environment in which OIG carries forth its mission.
Legislation Provisions Impacting OIG
The Federal Managers' Financial Integrity Act of 1982 Requires Federal managers to identify weaknesses in programs and operations and take corresponding corrective actions and report annually on management controls.
The Chief Financial Officers Act Requires assessments of SSA's internal control environment to assure the issuance of reliable financial
of 1990 information and to deter fraud, waste and abuse of SSA resources.
The Government Performance and Requires the assessment of the internal control Results Act of 1993 environment over SSA's performance measures.
The Government Management Reform Act of 1994 Requires an assessment of the reliability of SSA's performance data and evaluates the extent to which SSA's performance plan describes its planned and actual performance meaningfully.
The Welfare Reform Act of 1996 Denies Supplemental Security Income payments for fugitives, probation and parole violators. Requires that we manage the partnership between SSA and local law enforcement to identify and apprehend these individuals.
The Federal Financial Management Improvement Act of 1996 Requires Office of Management and Budget compliant financial management systems.
The Reports Consolidation Act of 2000 Requires Inspectors General to provide a summary and assessment of the most serious management and performance challenges facing Federal agencies and their progress in addressing them.
The Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002 Requires that OIG evaluate SSA's overall information security program and practices.
Improper Payments Act of 2002 Requires annual reviews by OIG or SSA of programs to identify those susceptible to significant improper payments.
The Social Security Protection Act of 2004 Denies Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance benefits and representative payee status to persons fleeing prosecution, custody or confinement after conviction and to persons violating probation or parole. Requires that we manage the partnership between SSA and local law enforcement to identify and apprehend these individuals.
OIG Organization
OIG is comprised of five components: The Immediate Office of the Inspector
General (IO), Office of Audit (OA), Office of the Chief Counsel to the Inspector
General (OCCIG), Office of Resource Management (ORM) and Office of Investigations
Immediate Office of the Inspector General
IO provides the Inspector General (IG) and the Deputy Inspector General with staff assistance on the full range of the IG's responsibilities and administers a comprehensive Professional Responsibility and Quality Assurance program that ensures the adequacy of OIG compliance with its policies and procedures, internal controls and professional standards. In addition, IO serves as the liaison with Congress, Federal agencies and other public and private interest groups.
Office of Audit
OA conducts comprehensive financial, performance and systems audits and evaluations of SSA programs and makes recommendations to ensure that program objectives are achieved. Financial audits, required by the Chief Financial Officers Act of 1990, assess whether SSA's financial statements fairly present the Agency's financial position, results of operations and cash flow. Performance audits review the economy, efficiency and effectiveness of SSA's programs. OA also conducts short-term management and program evaluations on issues of concern to SSA, Congress and the general public. Evaluations identify and recommend ways to prevent program fraud and inefficiency.
Office of the Chief Counsel to the Inspector General
OCCIG reviews and evaluates legislation, regulations and standard operating procedures for their impact on program economy and efficiency. It also provides legal advice and counsel to the IG on various matters, including: (1) statutes, regulations, legislation and policy directives governing the administration of SSA's programs; (2) investigative procedures and techniques; and (3) legal implications and conclusions to be drawn from audit and investigative material produced by OIG. OCCIG also administers the Agency's Civil Monetary Penalty (CMP) program, which the Commissioner of Social Security delegated to OIG. The Office of Communications within OCCIG administers OIG's public affairs, media and interagency activities and coordinates responses to congressional requests.
Office of Resource Management
ORM supports OIG by providing information resource management; systems security and development; and the coordination of budget, procurement, telecommunications, facilities, equipment and human resources. In addition, ORM is responsible for strategic planning, organizational performance management and reporting.
Office of Investigations
OI conducts and coordinates investigations related to fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement of SSA programs and operations, in accordance with the Quality Standards for Investigations published by the President's Council on Integrity and Efficiency (PCIE); the SSA/OIG Special Agent Handbook; and other applicable laws, regulations and policies. These activities include wrongdoing by applicants, beneficiaries, contractors, physicians, interpreters, representative payees, other third parties and SSA employees. Additionally, OI conducts criminal investigations independently and jointly with other Federal, State and local law enforcement agencies.
Strategic Planning Process
GPRA requires Federal agencies to develop goals, strategies and performance indicators for gauging progress. A Strategic Planning Team comprised of OIG headquarters and field personnel was established to develop this Plan. The Team was chartered to develop a Plan that would be useful in every component throughout the organization.
The Team:
Examined the prior Strategic Plan.
Reviewed the IG Act, GPRA and other relevant laws and regulations.
Analyzed SSA's Strategic Plan and Annual Performance Reports.
Evaluated other Federal OIG goals and indicators.
Developed crosscutting strategies.
Suggested new goals, indicators and target levels of performance.
Stakeholder Feedback
Our stakeholders include: Congress; congressional staff; SSA's Commissioner; SSA managers and staff; PCIE and the IG community at large; all OIG employees; Government Accountability Office; the Office of Special Counsel; the Office of Government Ethics; Department of Justice; other Federal, State and local law enforcement agencies; other outside groups both public and private; the general public; and other parties interested in improving the efficiency, effectiveness and integrity of SSA programs and operations. We meet periodically with stakeholders, particularly SSA management officials, U.S. Attorneys and congressional representatives and staff to obtain feedback on our work.
Internal Factors Affecting the Achievement of Strategic Goals
For the Strategic Plan to succeed as a management tool, all OIG employees must embrace and commit to this Plan. Major internal challenges include:
Implementing unified leadership, commitment and involvement to ensure effective execution of the Plan.
Designing and implementing processes and technology needed to enhance information sharing.
Adjusting to changing workload requirements and resource constraints.
External Factors Affecting the Achievement of Strategic Goals
External factors such as budget constraints, SSA's ability to implement recommendations, congressional and SSA priorities and political mandates can affect the achievement of OIG strategic goals. Additional factors include:
Redirecting resources to address national security and public safety issues.
Contracting for outside services with regard to the integrity and reliability of external auditors and consultants.
Preventing fraud, waste and abuse stemming from vulnerabilities in SSA's online services.
Competing with other organizations for skilled staff.
Summary of Program Evaluations
GPRA requires agencies to describe the program evaluations used to establish or revise general goals and objectives. Although there were no formal internal or external program evaluations of OIG to consider in developing this Plan, the Team evaluated several other sources of information to include:
OIG Semiannual Reports
OIG Congressional Budget Justifications
PCIE Annual Reports
Office of Audit PCIE Peer Review
Results of Quality Assurance Reviews
Management information systems of individual OIG components
SSA's Strategic Plan
Goals, Strategies and Measures
Goal 1: Impact
Enhance the integrity, efficiency and effectiveness of SSA programs and operations.
1 Promote an OIG-wide process for cross-component communications on potential programmatic and operational vulnerabilities.
2 Communicate with the Agency to identify mission-critical issues and operations that would benefit from OIG audit and investigation services and develop practical solutions to address identified weaknesses or deficiencies.
3 Prioritize investigations, audits and counsel actions to effect more efficient and effective SSA programs and operations.
Performance Measure 1.1
Maintain an annual acceptance rate of at least 85 percent for all recommendations.
Definition: The number of legislative, policy and regulatory recommendations accepted by SSA and/or Congress (included in proposed legislation) during the FY divided by the total number of recommendations with a management decision and legislative proposals made during the FY.
Demonstrates: OIG's ability to produce improvement ideas valued by SSA and Congress. Recommendations are contained in OIG Audit, Evaluation, Management Advisory, legislative proposals and Regulatory Commentary Reports.
Source: OA's management information system
Performance Measure 1.2
Through FY 2010, achieve a 5-year average implementation rate of 85 percent for accepted recommendations aimed at improving the integrity, efficiency and effectiveness of SSA.
Definition: The total number of accepted recommendations implemented by SSA during the past 5 FYs divided by the total number of recommendations SSA agreed to implement during the past 5 FYs.
Demonstrates: The impact of OIG recommendations on the integrity, efficiency and effectiveness of SSA programs and operations.
Source: OA's management information system
Revised Performance Measure 1.3 (effective FY 2008)
Achieve a positive action on at least 85 percent of all cases closed during the FY.
Revised Definition (effective FY 2007): The total closed cases that resulted in a positive action during the FY divided by the total cases closed during the FY. If the subject has been sentenced, the case referred for a CMP, and/or an administrative action has been taken against the subject, it is considered a positive action in the closed case. In addition, if certain money types have been collected or certain referrals have been made it is considered a positive action. Qualifying Money Types include recoveries, assessments, fines, judgments, penalties, restitution, savings, and settlements. Qualifying Referral Types include referrals to SSA for administrative action and administrative sanction.
Demonstrates: OIG productivity in reducing fraud, waste and abuse.
Source: National Investigative Case Management System (NICMS)
Goal 2: Value
Provide quality products and services of value in a timely manner to Congress, SSA and other key decision-makers while sustaining a positive return for each tax dollar invested in OIG activities.
1 Maintain a "positive-return" culture within OIG.
2 Ensure continual improvement of OIG products by using a product and service quality assessment instrument to measure internal and external user satisfaction.
3 Implement best practices to ensure quality and timeliness of OIG products and services.
4 Utilize information technology investments to enhance OIG work products and service delivery.
Revised Performance Measure 2.1 (effective FY 2008)
Generate a positive return of $6 for every tax dollar invested in OIG activities.
Definition: The total amount of all OIG savings identified during the FY divided by the total amount of appropriated funds during the same period.
Demonstrates: The dollar value returned for each tax dollar invested in SSA OIG.
Source: Division of Budget and Logistics files, OA's management information system, and NICMS.
Performance Measure 2.2
Evaluate and respond to 90 percent of all allegations received within 30 days.
Definition: The total number of allegations closed or referred within 30 days during the FY divided by the total number of allegations closed or referred during the FY. Demonstrates: OIG's ability to initiate timely action on allegations received. Source: NICMS
Performance Measure 2.3
Complete investigative fieldwork on 75 percent of all cases within 180 days.
Revised Definition (effective FY 2007): The total number of investigations closed or referred for prosecution, CMP, SSA or other State or Federal agency action within 180 days during the FY divided by the total investigations closed or referred during the FY.
Demonstrates: The ability to conduct investigations in an efficient, timely manner. Source: NICMS
Performance Measure 2.4
Respond to 90 percent of congressional requests within 21 days.
Revised Definition (effective FY 2007): The total congressional requests respondedto within 21 days during the FY divided by the total number of congressional requestsresponded to during the FY. Processing days are the days elapsed from receipt of acongressional request to the date of a response.
Demonstrates: OIG's ability to provide a rapid response to congressional decision-makers.
Revised Source (effective FY 2008): OIG Control System
Performance Measure 2.5
Take action on 90 percent of CMP subjects within 30 days of receipt.
Definition: The total number of CMP subjects against whom action was taken within 30 days of receipt during the FY divided by the total number of CMP subjects where action was taken during the FY. Actions include sending initial letters, requesting investigative assistance or closing the CMP.
Demonstrates: The ability to identify and take timely action on CMP cases.
Revised Source (effective FY 2008): OIG Control System
Performance Measure 2.6
Achieve a positive internal and external user assessment rating of 85 percent for product-service quality.
Definition: This measure uses a 5-tier rating scale measuring the degree of satisfaction with OIG products and services by recipients and users, including SSA and other government entities, such as Congress, Offices of U.S. Attorney, and external law enforcement agencies. The numeric response is translated into a percentage with 85 percent indicating satisfaction.
Demonstrates: The overall quality of OIG products and services as seen by their users.
Source: Quality Assurance Review Assessment Questionnaire
Revised Performance Measure 2.7 (effective FY 2008)
Issue 78 percent of final audit reports within 1 year of the entrance conference with SSA.
Definition: The total number of audit reports issued during the FY within 1 year of the entrance conference divided by the total number of audit reports issued during the FY.
Demonstrates: OIG's ability to efficiently focus, plan, conduct and report timely audit information.
Source: OA's management information system
Revised Performance Measure 2.8 (effective FY 2008)
Complete 85 percent of requests for legal advice and review within 30 days.
Definition: The total number of legal opinions, subpoenas and audit reviews completed by OCCIG within 30 days of receipt during the FY divided by the total number of requests for legal opinions, subpoenas and audit reviews completed during the FY.
Demonstrates: The ability to complete timely legal analysis of OIG products and to issue prompt legal guidance and support.
Revised Source (effective FY 2008): OIG Control System
Goal 3: People
Promote a skilled, motivated, diverse workforce in a positive and rewarding work environment.
1 Identify assignment interests and developmental needs of all employees.
2 Provide OIG components with training and tools necessary to ensure professional development and skills enhancement.
3 Maintain a proactive approach in recruiting and hiring candidates to meet different needs.
Performance Measure 3.1
Achieve an annual attrition rate of 5 percent or less.
Definition: The total number of employees separated (excluding retirements and deaths) during the FY divided by the OIG Full-Time Equivalents for the FY.
Demonstrates: OIG's ability to provide a quality work experience that encourages staff to pursue their career goals within the SSA OIG.
Revised Source (effective FY 2007): OIG Staffing Data
Performance Measure 3.2
Conduct an annual employee job-satisfaction survey and implement corrective action plans to identify areas where improvement is needed.
Revised Definition (effective FY 2007): OIG's Organizational Health Committee implemented an annual employee job-satisfaction survey. The survey was administered in FY 2006 to establish a baseline level of employee satisfaction. In subsequent years covered by this Strategic Plan, the tool shall be re-administered to measure progress against the baseline.
Demonstrates: That OIG's quality work environment is attentive to the people, technology, communications and other human capital factors influencing the job performance of its employees.
Source: Annual employee job-satisfaction tool
Performance Measure 3.3
Ensure that 90 percent of OIG staff receives 40 or more hours of appropriate developmental and skill-enhancement training annually.
Definition: The total number of OIG staff on board for the entire FY receiving at least 40 hours of training during the FY divided by the total number of OIG staff on board for the entire FY.
Demonstrates: OIG's commitment to continual staff development and skill enhancement.
Revised Source (effective FY 2007): OIG Training Database


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Washington Post blogger Greg Sargent posted an interesting entry today about "deficit hawks." According to Sargent, the term has been unfairly appropriated by the Republican Right, even though the Right is often more interested in drying up all streams of government revenue than it is in eliminating the deficit.
This deficit-hawking started with Ronald Reagan in the late 70s, when he argued for lowering taxes, balancing the budget, and rebuilding America's defenses. When pressed to prioritize these conflicting values, Reagan said there was no conflict. This prompted a moderate Republican opponent (Bush-41) to coin the term "voodoo economics."
I think blogger Sargent makes a good point. If you claim to be a deficit hawk, that should mean that reducing or eliminating the deficit is so important to you that you are willing to sacrifice other values – such as your opposition to raising taxes – in order to address the deficit problem. If you aren't willing to raise taxes to reduce the deficit, then you are more accurately described as a believer in smaller government or an adversary of big government. Paul Ryan is a believer in smaller government, not a deficit hawk. By contrast, the Gang of Six senators are deficit hawks.
Sometimes I think the anti-war liberals are still resentful of being labeled doves during the Vietnam War, as opposed to the pro-war conservatives being labeled hawks. Most alpha Americans think doves are a little squishy. NY Times columnist Maureen Dowd has tried for years to get back at the hawks by name-calling those who didn't serve in Vietnam – she particularly enjoys calling VP Dick Cheney a chickenhawk. (Although that term is considered an epithet, the NY Times is apparently OK with its usage by columnists.) I wonder, however, if Dowd has taken this labeling to its logical conclusion – i.e., under his classification, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama are chickendoves. Don't think they'd like that appellation.


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Lift access, bespoke lighting, warmth, full air-conditioning and wonderful staff provide an excellent browsing environment. The second user books on our shelves are priced at half or less, of what they would cost if bought new (those from our warehouse reflect the going rate online). There is a further 10% discount for students (conditions apply) and also a discount for cinema goers, and members of the Society of Authors, see below.
Skoob is on Marchmont Street side of The Brunswick, just along from Waitrose's rear exit. If you find yourself in the main concourse of The Brunswick, with chain stores and cafes all around, head straight through Waitrose, admire the cheese, exit and turn left. We are the first shop you come to.
Our 2000 square foot shop (186 m2) is crammed with over 55,000 different titles, and at the moment we're replacing over 5,000 every month. However, NONE of these books are catalogued. But, we have over a million pre-owned books in a warehouse in Oxfordshire … close to 107,000 of those ARE catalogued and on internet sale and we're again adding around 5,000 every month. Any of these can be delivered to the shop post-free, for you to peruse within a couple of days (depending on when Chris is shuttling up the M40). If you don't want to buy it, we'll find a space for it on the shelves. You can tell if the book you want is in the warehouse on the Search Our Warehouse page. If you don't find what you want on the web, that doesn't mean it's not in the shop. If you can't get down here and look, e-mail us, and we'll have a look when we're not busy.
Click here to see our bookshop video ...
If you're reading this site and have a specific interest, e-mail us and let us know. Bear in mind that there are some classes and types of second hand books that cannot be economically accommodated in the shop. That doesn't prevent us from wanting to sell you them somehow. Deep below (and along a bit) from the shop we have a further storeroom for displaying specialist collections and from whence we can often find books of particular interest not immediately available upstairs. Do let us know in advance, it's not always possible to get down there on spec.
If you want to bring books in to sell to us, we buy smaller quantities, by appointment only, in the shop. For larger collections, we may come to you, more on the Sell Books Page.


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TEL AVIV — The $3.1 billion Israel receives in annual U.S. military aid, plus hundreds of millions more in U.S. funding for cooperative missile defense programs, guarantees that Washington's special partner in Jerusalem will remain a hot market for American defense firms for years to come.
Under U.S. law, Israel must spend 73.7 percent of congressionally appropriated foreign military financing (FMF) funding in the United States. At $1.5 billion, this represents about 20 percent of Israel's overall defense budget and some 60 percent of modernization funding.
The Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter leads the big-ticket programs funded by annual FMF, followed by ongoing purchases of the firm's C-130J and a recently inked $735 million contract for Honeywell engines used to power Israel's new fleet of Alenia Aermacchi M-346 trainer jets.
But Israel also is allowed to convert the remaining third of its annual FMF into shekels for domestic modernization spending, and officials and experts here say a growing amount of U.S.-origin funding is making its way back to the U.S. market once locally developed systems are ready for production.
The latest example of FMF flowback to the U.S. market is the Israeli Namer, a heavy troop carrier based on the hull and other components of the indigenously developed and produced Merkava Mk4 main battle tank. Under a contract to be funded by U.S. FMF aid, General Dynamics Land Systems will produce hulls and materiel kit sets for up to 600 Namers over the next eight years at its Lima, Ohio, facility.
The bulk of early development funding for this mega project came from so-called Offshore Procurement (OSP), the portion of annual aid that Israel was allowed to convert into local shekels for modernization projects.
The Color of Money
In Israel, the distinction between direct FMF funds to be spent in the United States — so-called green dollars — and OSP aid convertible into shekels is known as the color of money, with the latter coined blue-and-white dollars after the colors of the Israeli flag.
And while the color of money has long influenced Israel's program, planning and budgeting process, government and industry are becoming increasingly adept at leveraging the investment of blue-and-white development dollars into U.S.-based procurement programs financed through direct FMF green dollars.
Government officials and industry executives cite Israel's Tzayad Digital Army Program (DAP), developed by Elbit Systems, as a classic example of FMF flowback to the benefit of Israeli and U.S. industry. Over the past decade, Israel has spent billions of shekels on this centerpiece program to connect all elements of Israel's ground forces and other service branches into a single, secure C4I network.
Multiyear plans through 2017 call for investing several hundred million more shekels in DAP-related development, but actual production will take place at Elbit USA, Elbit's wholly owned U.S. subsidiary employing hundreds of U.S. citizens and subject to U.S. laws. Funding for mass production of multiple elements of Israel's DAP network will come from direct FMF, or green dollars.
Plan Oz
Israel's upcoming 2013-2017 spending plan, dubbed Plan Oz, was approved in early September but remains on hold due to protracted budget disputes unlikely to be resolved until after Israeli elections scheduled for Jan. 22.
Nevertheless, military officers here point to a considerable increase in funding earmarked for local development of sensors, munitions and unmanned systems that can be transitioned to FMF-funded U.S.-based production.
"A large focus of the [Israel Defense Forces] Ground Forces' force buildup goals … is augmenting primary platforms with an emphasis on the continued integration of the Merkava tank and the Namer APC," Israel's military spokesman told Defense News.
In parallel, Israel plans to expand procurement of the locally developed Trophy active protection system for armor and the Iron Dome active defense system against rockets and short-range missiles. Both systems are developed and produced by Rafael.


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I love these Waverly ads.....
Monday, June 27, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Virtual Weekly Wardrobe
Untitled by Vera Brasil. featuring vintage glass shades
Vintage Cotton Lace Tee by mrsanketell featuring a boat neck tee
Untitled by LuckyG1rl featuring pleated shorts
Go Green by Viva La Vida featuring flat shoes
Sem título by Vera Brasil. featuring flat sandals
Military Inspired by Viva La Vida featuring sigerson morrison shoes
★~Maybe I Know, Somewhere Deep In My Soul...~★ by ~ღA d R i iღ~ featuring converse trainers
{Click on outfits for clothing sources & Polyvore stylists.}
Friday, June 24, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Let's Go Shopping at.....
Ballard Designs
Safety Pin Plaques
Film Reel Plaques
Lorraine Quilted Bedding
PE Double Wall Pocket
Monday, June 20, 2011
A "Friends" Modern Barn
What do you think of Courteney Cox's modern barn beach house in Malibu? I love it. Courteney is pretty well known for her love of design and architecture. She has great taste in interior design and along with the help of her friend, designer Trip Haenisch, this house is no exception.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Virtual Weekly Wardrobe
Untitled by gita016 featuring cameo jewelry
Untitled by patina'scloset featuring cropped jeans
Chevron Strip Tee by M3Mom featuring skinny leg jeans
5.24.11 by cdp featuring chain pendants
romantic casual by christygetscrafty featuring gold bags
Summer/Spring by OhHiShop featuring glass shades
Polka Dots by Viva La Vida featuring blue jeans
{Click on outfits for clothing sources & Polyvore stylists.}
Friday, June 17, 2011
{Friday Flickr Favorites}
1. New year's wish..., 2. Pencils...{20/365}, 3. Knowledge, 4. Untitled
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Calgon, Take me Away.....
{via house of turquoise, flickr, my home ideas, this old house, my home ideas}
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Hard-To-Buff Silver Deposit
Do you have suggestions for resolving an issue with silver-plated deposits that are difficult to polish and buff?
Q. I work for a specialty silver plating company that restores silver-plated candelabras, silverware and other household items. Our silver plating bath has been well-maintained in terms of testing and maintaining proper chemical composition, but we have noticed over the last few months that the plated deposits are more difficult to polish and buff. Do you have any suggestions for resolving this problem? S.L.
A. Start by checking the current density in the bath. Low current density will enable you to deposit silver, but if it is at the very low end of the suggested range you can get harder-than-normal silver deposits.
There are several types of impurities that will cause silver deposits to become hard and difficult to polish and buff, including the presence of iron and high chlorides. Lead, tin, nickel and organics also can cause this problem.
To remove the unwanted organics, filter the plating solution through activated carbon. Keep in mind, however, that activated carbon treatment will also remove desirable organic additives, so you will most likely have to reconstitute the bath with the required additives. To remove most of the "tramp" metals mentioned above, dummy the bath at 2 asf for 12 to 24 hrs.
Related Topics
Passivation of Stainless Steel
Getting the properties you paid for...
Nickel Electroplating
Applications, plating solutions, brighteners, good operating practices and troubleshooting.
Plating Q&A: Can you color stainless steel?
Our expert, Art Kushner, says yes, you can color stainless steel, but it is not a process that is typically performed in a plating shop. Read more about his answer.


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Since last week we made a journey around the world of speculative fiction with the help of The Portal, this week let's make a similar journey with the help of InterNova. Although both sites feature articles and insights of the worldwide speculative fiction there is a small difference between them, because The Portal is dedicated to the reviews of the short form of speculative fiction from around the world and InterNova is dedicated to the publication of the short speculative fiction from across the world. Here is a small presentation of InterNova in its own words:
InterNova is an offspring of the German science fiction magazine Nova. Founded in 2002, Nova was intented to be a long-term forum for current German language science fiction. Part of our concept was to include in each isseue an interesting classic reprint or a translated story by a foreign guest writer. Famous writers such as Greg Egan or Brian Aldiss were so kind to contribute short works. When researching for stories outside of the Anglo-American world we found that there are much more interesting science fiction all over the world than we could publish in Nova. Thus the idea of an international edition was born.
In spring 2005 the fist issue of InterNova was published. Since Frederik Pohl's short-living International SF in the late sixties, which lasted only for two issues, a truly international science fiction magazine has never been attempted again. InterNova was not lucky either: despite good critics the sales were so low that the magazine had to be discontinued before the second issue was in print. Not willing to give up the idea of an international sf magazine completely, however, editor Michael K. Iwoleit decided to relaunch InterNova as an e-zine.
InterNova already features non-fiction articles by Richard Kunzmann, Lavie Tidhar, Roberto de Sousa Causo and Daniel Salvo, a classic section where we can find the stories of two Italian writers, Lino Aldani (Red Rhombuses) and Renato Pestriniero (The People in the Painting), and the fiction section which features the short stories of Gerson Lodi-Ribeiro (Brazil, Peak Time), Eduardo J. Carletti (Argentina, God's Gut), Arthur Goldstuck (South Africa, The Fabulous Yesterdays), Aleksandar Ziljak (Croatia, What Colour Is the Wind?), Eric Brown (England, Thursday's Child), Sven Klöpping (Germany, Let's Talk About Death, Baby), Roberto de Sousa Causo (Brazil, The Most Beautiful Woman in the World), Pasi Ilmari Jääskeläinen (Finland, Those Were the Days), Anil Menon (India, Vermillion), Yan Wu (China, Mouse Pad), Milena Benini (Croatia, As Time Goes By), Guido Eekhaut (Belgium, A Conspiracy) and Vandana Singh (India, The Tetrahedron).
Good luck, InterNova!


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FunctionThe marco StepDot valve with hybrid drive enables very fast needle dispensing. The requisite movement of the needle – vertically over the dispensing point – is executed by the valve itself. To allow a continuous movement of the robot head, the valve is drawn briefly against the movement of the head resulting in the dispensing needle only stopping briefly over the dot. We call the combination of this movement – from the great precision of the robot – with the great mass of its head and with the fast and small movement of the valve, hybrid drive. The valve controlling the small movements of the dispensing needle is called StepDot. A robot alone typically reaches operating frequencies during needle dispensing of up to 10 Hz – in contrast, the StepDot principle achieves frequencies of up to 100 Hz.
IntegrationThe marco StepDot valve can easily be flanged onto a robot. The valve is driven via external control electronics which can be mounted on the portal. Parameters are set using special software via Ethernet. Digital inputs on the control electronics trigger the movement and dispensing process.
- Quick dispensing of solder pastes in small dot sizes (<200 μm)
- The fast movements in the z direction compared to the slow movement of the robot save time
- High dispensing frequencies with up to 100 Hz possible for contact dispensing
- Optimum break off behaviour from synchronised valve and robot movements


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Product ID Number: uk2429
Ideal to fix a Broken Hinge on the DS Lite
We now offer a fitting service of all cases and of course repairs just call or email us for more info
The saying goes, if everybody looked the same, we'd get tired of looking each other and the same goes for the Nintendo DS Lite. It's time to change your DS Lite and give it a unique and vibrant look wherever you go. Manufactured with the highest quality in mind these are a range of stellar replacement cases for DS Lite suitable for a fantastically aesthetically pleasing makeover of Nintendo's handheld or as a replacement to damaged or defective
original casing. Every Ds Lite case is created with rigorously durable ABS
material which will ultimately preserve the shockingly wonderful appearance for the entirety of the handheld.
Product Specifications :
The Yellow cases included everything required for a complete overhaul of your DS Lite. As standard the following is included in every professionally boxed case:
- Top and bottom casing, complete with battery compartment
- All buttons (both triggers, left control pad, right buttons, start/select and power/volume)
- GBA front cover
- Screwpads
What's in the box
DS Lite Full Replacement Case Yellow


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Four Days in Newport, Rhode Island
The following itineraries illustrate four different ways to spend a day in Newport, Rhode Island. None of the itineraries include suggestions of lodging as it is assumed you have a place to stay.
It is suggested to be equipped with a bottle of water and sneakers as much of Newport requires travel by foot.
Day 1: Newport Arts[edit]
Throw on those sneakers, grab a water and start your day off with an early and inexpensive breakfast at: Annies, 176 Bellevue Ave. If the Early Bird Special does not suit your palate, choose one of the many other classic diner items the menu has to offer. Although this establishment provides access to an ATM (charging $2.50), it is advisable to bring cash since credit cards are not accepted.
From there drive 5 minutes (20 minutes by foot) to one of the most beautiful Newport Mansions: Elms, 367 Bellevue Avenue.
Free off-street parking spaces are provided by all Preservation Society properties (with the exception of the Hunter House where you can park on the street). Allow an hour and a half per house to fully enjoy all that the Newport Mansions have to offer from their gorgeously elaborate interior to their spacious and breathtaking grounds.
Admission prices vary by which tour you prefer: one property of your choice ($14.50 for adults and $5.50 for children ages 6-17) or five property tour of your choice ($31.50 for adults and $10.00 for children ages 6-17). Tours of the more popular mansions, such as the Breakers or Hunter House, are a bit pricier than the rest.
You can purchase your tickets on site at any of the houses or in advance online or by phone at (401) 847-1000, ext. 102.
Refer to the website for operating hours for a operating schedule and a list of the other more popular mansions. http://www.newportmansions.org/plan-your-visit/operating-schedule.
From here it is a short drive or a 5 miniute walk to Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave.
Admission to the museum varies as adults are $10.00 and children under 5 are free.
The hours vary by season: (always closed on Mondays, 10 a.m to either 4 or 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturdays, and noon to 4 or 5 p.m on Sundays).
Refer to the website's complete hours of operation: http://www.newportartmuseum.org/pages/driving.cfm
After your art gallery tour, enjoy a nice dinner at Yesterday's, 28 Washington Square which is a 2-3 minute drive from the Newport Art Museum and Art Association (9 minute walk). Yesterday's features a wide selection of entrees that is sure to have something for everyone including a variety of club sandwiches, pizza, burgers, salads, pasta, soups among other items. There is also an extensive list of draft beers and cocktails available.
From here drive less than one minute to Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (2 minute walk.)
This historic building was first built in 1834 as a church before being converted to a theater in 1919. Today, the theater retains its charm by bringing the arts to the public through movies, films and performances and more. Attractions range from the classic black and white film "The Artist" to the La Corsaire from the Bolshoi Ballet.
For the most recent attractions and times consult the following website. http://janepickens.com/coming-attractions
Call 401-846-5252 for showtimes and 401-846-5474 for the box office.
Day 2[edit]
Scenic Experience of Newport
Before you start your day, it would be wise to have a large breakfast, due to the lack of eateries available within the vicinity of your destination. At the heart of downtown Newport is Ocean Coffee Roasters, located on 22 Washington Sq. where you will find everything a breakfast joint should have; bagels, eggs, pancakes, french toast and muffins. It is recommended to take the car to the closest Stop & Shop supermarket, located on 250 Bellevue Ave. (a 4 minute drive). At Stop & Shop it would be wise to grab some food for a picnic. From Stop & Shop you can head to Fort Adams via Harrison Ave. which should take about 9 minutes.
Fort Adams is the largest coastal fortification in the United States.You can simply go to visit and enjoy the scenery, or you can take a closer look at its fantastic architecture by taking a guided tour that runs everyday from 10:00 A.M.-4:00 A.M. For additional hours of operation, see http://www.fortadams.org/. The prices for this tour are very reasonable, $10.00 general admission, $5.00 for youth (6-17), and 5 years and younger are free! They also have a family rate for the price of $25.00 which includes two adults and up to four youth.
From Fort Adam's you could take Ocean Dr. to Brenton Point State Park located only 6 minutes via car from Fort Adams. Brenton Point has a number of picnic tables ideal for an ocean front lunch. Brenton Point State park requires no fee to enter. Since this destination is known for having wide areas for kite flying, in your travels, you may want to stop at the nearest store to purchase a kite and take part in the tradition. For hours of operation, see: http://www.riparks.com/BRENTON.htm.
Continue on Ocean Drive until it becomes Bellevue Avenue. From here is is a short drive to the intersection with Sheppard Avenue and the National Museum of American Illustration located in Vernon Court mansion, 492 Bellevue Ave. The collection includes masterpieces of illustration art and is the largest such collection in the world. It includes Maxfield Parrish, Norman Rockwell, J.C. Leyendecker, NC Wyeth and over 150 others.
Admission to the museum varies as adults are $20.00; Seniors/Military $18, Sudents with ID are $14, Children (5 to 12 yrs) $10, however note that children under 5 are not admitted.
Open days vary by season: in summer they are open Thursday-Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm.
Refer to the website's complete hours of operation: http://www.americanillustration.org.
After enjoying a day in the sun, you can end it with a relaxing, tranquil experience at the Castle Hill Inn which is one of Newport's most pristine inn's that provides its guest with warmth, and quiet luxury.The Castle Inn sits on a 40 acre peninsula and is home to the historical sea-life background that encompasses Newport, RI. However, Castle Hill Inn is a 5 star restaurant and the price range is rated as having a bill over $80.00 for 2 people. If you are not interested in spending this much money, you can still enjoy a drink and maybe a sandwich at the outdoor bar overlooking the water. If you have children, there is a grassy area along with a hill that they can play on directly below the bar. For hours of operation, see: http://www.castlehillinn.com/Rhode-Island-Dining/rhode-island-dining.htm.
Day 3[edit]
Outdoors in Newport
Before you make your way to the Beach, you can grab a bite to eat at The Hungry Monkey on 124 Broadway. The Hungry Monkey offers a variety of eggs and omelets; the chourico omelet is a popular choice. Stuffed waffles are also a popular choice. For those with a larger appetite, you can order the Gorilla Special; a combination of 3 pancakes, 2 eggs, your choice bacon, sausage or ham, and steak with home fries.
The drive from the Hungry Monkey to the beach is short, and should take you about 4 minutes. Easton's Beach, also known as "First Beach", offers ocean swimming, beach board, surf board, umbrella and beach chair rental. A skateboard park, playground, seasonal carousel, and an exploration center for "Save the Bay" are available for children and adolescents. The concession stand is seasonal, so if you are visiting during the off season, be sure to pack a lunch. Picnic tables, indoor/outdoor showers and restrooms are available.
Parking is $10 on weekdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day and $10-15 on weekends. The beach is open from 9 am to 6 pm and the parking lot closes at 9 pm. Free parking is available off of side streets off Memorial Boulevard.
Continue your afternoon with the Cliff Walk. The Cliff Walk is directly adjacent to Easton's Beach, so you can leave the car parked here. The walking path starts at the sign.
The Cliff Walk is a well-known outdoor Newport Attraction. The walking trail starts at Newport's First Beach and follows the coast up to the island's Ocean Drive. The Cliff Walk offers beautiful ocean views and, since it is located in a national historic district, offers a peek at the famous Newport Mansions. The walk is about 3.5 miles and two-thirds of the trail is easy walking for all ages.
While walking, watch out for poison ivy. Some portions of the Cliff Walk drop off steeply into the water, so proceed and pass other walkers at your own risk. Rocks can be slippery, and parts of walk are not well paved, so wear proper footwear.
The Cliff Walk can take from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how fast you walk. While bikes are not permitted, dogs are as long as they are kept on a lleash. The Cliff Walk does not offer refreshments or picnic areas, so be sure to eat, or pack light snacks like granola bars. Be sure to leave no trash behind.
The Cliff Walk's hours are from sunrise to sunset and is completely free of charge. The north end is handicapped accessible and baby carriage accessible
There are multiple ways to exit the Cliff Walk, all of which lead back to Bellevue Avenue and the front side of the mansions. Walking back to the car can take a while, so the free RIPTA trolley a viable option to get back to your vehicle.
To end your day, enjoy a nice sit down meal at Scales & Shells located on 527 Thames St. This is an ideal location for a tourist in search of an authentic meal from the City by the Sea. Scales & Shells is a strictly seafood restaurant that carries a wide variety of fish such as grilled fish (salmon, mahi mahi and bluefish) as well as a wide selection of wines. The entrees feature muscles marinara, linguine with clams, and lobster fra diavolo.
Day 4[edit]
Shopping in Newport
Plan your visit to the Brick Market Place!
The Brick Market Place is a year round, open air market containing over 25 shops and eateries. Located between Thames Street and Americas Cup Avenue, Brick Market Place is open daily for visitors and locals alike. Shops range from jewelry shops to handmade gifts and souvenirs.
Before you start your day of shopping, take a seat at the Corner Cafe on 110 Broadway. The Corner Cafe has a basic menu which features a number of unique combinations of scrambled eggs and different sides. After your meal, you can continue down Broadway until you reach the entrance of Downtown which should take 1 minute driving (about 6 minutes walking). Brick Market is the area on the right side of Downtown.
The following are a couple of places that you should make sure to check out:
Tourist Trap
Tourist Trap is perfect for picking up Newport related souvenirs, items ranging from tee-shirts and sweatshirts to bumper stickers and coffee mugs. The store is filled with knick knacks and fun souvenirs of all shapes and sizes. It is open daily from 10am – 10pm.
They offer gift certificates, gift wrapping and shipping and accept debit cards, all major credit cards, and cash, although there is no ATM.
In terms of parking there is a free lot and on-street meters; the store is handicap accessible.
For more information see: http://www.brickmarketnewport.com/swinburne/tourist-trap
107 Swinburne Row Brick Market Place Newport, RI 02840 401-846-4531
Pleasant Surprise
Pleasant Surprise has a mixture eclectic gifts and offbeat accessories. Their items range from fun gifts, home accessories to quirky books, cards, and toys. If you are looking for novelty items, gag gifts, and other peculiar items, this is the place to find them.
They offer shipping and accept debit cards, all major credit cards, and cash, and there is a conveniently located ATM. Their return policy is limited to no cash or credit refunds. They only offer store credit within 30 days of purchase.
In terms of parking there is on-street metered parking and a paid lot.
113 Swinburne Row Brick Market Place Newport, RI 02840 401-849-1204
After you have enjoyed shopping around the Brick Market, you can make your way to the Brick Alley Pub for lunch. It is wise to have lunch at the Brick Alley rather than dinner, because it can be very busy at times, and they do not take reservations, so once the sun goes down expect to wait in a line. Brick Alley Pub is your best bet for an extensive lunch menu that ensures everyone can find what they want. The restaurant itself is interesting to look at due to its clutter of decorations, the atmosphere is lively and the service is top notch. The menu includes clam chowder, a rack of ribs, quesadillas, burgers, and a salad bar if want a light lunch because you are still full from breakfast.
Be Dazzled
Be Dazzled creates and manufactures High Quality Costume Jewelry. This little boutique has women's custom jewelry and accessories, hair clips, stretch bracelets, and scarves. The jewelry is sparkling, fun and affordable; most pieces are under $24. Their slogan is "Wear Everyday Pieces at Everyday Prices." Open on Mon - Thu, 11am - 7pm; Fri, 11am - 8pm; Sat, 10am - 9pm; Sun, 11am - 7pm
They accept Cash, American Express, MasterCard, and Visa.
In terms of parking, there is on-street metered parking and a paid lot.
225 Goddard Row Brick Market Place Newport, RI 02840 401-849-3290
You can finish off your 4 day tour of Newport by having a meal at The Black Pearl, a 4 minute walk down to Bowen's Wharf from Be Dazzled. The Black Pearl is one of the more popular restaurants in Newport, and it features a selection of grilled shrimp, baked cod, sea scallops, and New England lobster. You also have your choice of sitting in the tavern, or out on the patio depending on the season. From the patio you have a nice view of the water as well as the various boats and yachts tied to the surrounding docks.


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Mike Derer / AP file
A driver talks on a cellphone while driving in Newark, N.J., on Feb 28, 2008, a day before a state law banning the use of hand-held devices went into effect.
New Jersey lawmakers are considering a bill that would require drivers to hand over their cell phones along with their licenses and registrations when talking to police after a car accident.
The bill, proposed by state Sen. James Holzapfel, would give police the right to thumb through the phone's history of calls and text messages without a warrant, under the pretense of assessing whether or not the phone was in use during the accident.
Afterwards, officers would be required to return cellphones to their users.
If passed, the bill would be the first of its kind. A similar bill failed in Hawaii in 2009.
The legislation, which is aimed to cut down on reckless accidents due to distractions while driving, states: "whenever an operator of a motor vehicle has been involved in an accident resulting in death, bodily injury or property damage, a police officer may confiscate the operator's hand-held wireless telephone if the officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the operator was operating a hand-held wireless telephone while driving."
According to the Department of Law and Public Safety's most recent annual report, there were approximately 10,000 motor vehicle crashes attributed to cell-phone use in New Jersey from 2008-2010. The state prohibits talking on a cell phone unless the driver is using a hands-free device.
Cathleen Lewis, the Director of Public Affairs and Government Relations for AAA, said targeting cell phones may not go far enough.
"Obviously, distracted driving is a huge concern, and it continues to grow every day, but it is not limited to use of cell phones, it is other cognitive distractions as well," Lewis said. "I think if we are going to better talk about how to tackle distracted driving, we have to talk about it in its totality — distractions could be phones, GPS or entertainment devices in cars."
AAA New Jersey released a study Wednesday revealing that voice-activated car technologies, including the use of hands-free cellphone devices, dangerously undermine the attention of the driver, making it harder for them to keep their eyes on the road.
Such distractions led to 3,331 deaths and an additional 387,000 injuries nationwide in 2011, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
To fight distractions, 41 states have banned texting while driving; 11 states have banned hand-held cellphone use all together.
Udi Ofer, Executive Director of the American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey (ACLU) knows that making sure our roads are safe and drivers are not distracted while on the road is an important goal, but does not support the senator's bill.
"There are many things government can and should do to educate about the dangers of texting while driving or talking on cellphone.But, what government can't do is say 'just because we think you may have potentially used your cellphone during an unfortunate crash, that is not enough to seize the phone, take it away from you, and go through your phone records'" he said.
Ofer and the ACLU are concerned that if legislators pass one law allowing the government to infringe on the right to privacy, that it will be a slippery slope.
"I think it's important to keep in mind the greater principle at stake, this is about our privacy and rights. As Americans one of our most cherished rights is the right to be left alone, privacy, and this bill would greatly damage that constitutional right," Ofer said.
The ACLU is confident that the bill will not pass. Holzapfel was not available for comment.


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Disappearing hypnotist: The $59.08-a-pound diet
When Terry Fry signed a one-year contract with a local hypnosis center, she had no idea how expensive losing 25 pounds could be.
Fry had been seeing ads for Positive Changes Hypnosis in the Daily Progress since early spring, and when her doctor told her she needed to lose weight, she decided to give it a try. In July, she paid $1,477 and began the program.
The program consisted of personal sessions with a hypnotist and weekly trips to the office on Rio Road to watch videotaped lectures on nutrition and receive a half hour of "audio hypnosis," says Fry.
"Everything was going well," she says. "I went faithfully, never missing a session, and lost 25 pounds."
However, when she arrived for her session on November 1, she found the door locked and a sign saying that Positive Changes had closed and clients would be contacted by mail.
The mail notification, however, never arrived, nor did any refund check. Fry believes the company owes her $984 for the eight months left on her contract. Two emails to an address listed on the company's website also went unanswered. The money Fry has spent works out to $59.08 per lost pound.
I looked through the materials Fry received, which promise that clients will "gain the personal skills and behavior characteristics of naturally thin people," "use the most effective, modern, transformational hypnotic devices and technology available today," and "[turn] weight loss goals into your healthy obsession!"
Positive Changes, headquartered in Virginia Beach, has approximately 80 franchisees in the U.S. and Canada. Its founder and executive director, Patrick Porter, Ph.D., touts a device he calls "Advanced Bio-feed-in," which combines "gentle pulses of light and sound through specially designed glasses and headphones."
Fry describes these as "plastic glasses with red flashing lights in circles." Clients are supposed to wear the glasses and the headphones while reclining in comfy chairs and listening to hypnosis tapes.
Porter spoke to me from Virginia Beach and identified his brother, David, and sister-in-law, Heidi, as the former Charlottesville franchisees.
They had only "about 11 clients," Porter said, and he attributed the center's collapse, in part, to the drought. When I told him about Fry's experience and the money she believes she's owed, he disagreed, saying, "She got her services."
When I asked if he thought a lawyer would agree with his assertion that a 12-month contract could be fulfilled in only four, however, he had no response. In any case, clients shouldn't look to Porter for redress, as each franchise is set up as a separate legal entity.
Even so, when six of the former Charlottesville clients called to complain, Porter offered to let them attend Saturday sessions in Newport News– nearly three hours away– or continue by mail. Fry, not surprisingly, would prefer to get her money back.
I listened to two of the tapes Fry received and concluded that although David may have encountered business difficulties, he's a lot better speaker than his brother. His voice is soothing, the pace leisurely, and the content a typical mix of affirmations and encouragement for positive thinking.
Patrick, on the other hand, not only rattles on at a rapid clip, but also says some really strange things. Consider, for instance, the following: "As you conquer mood-altering foods, I say to you now, soon you will be unaware of the abdomen, chest, and back."
I wanted to speak with Heidi or David, who, according to Porter, now live in Shipman. When I asked for their number, however, he said he didn't have it. Oddly enough, directory assistance does list a Patrick Porter in Shipman, but when I called the number, the woman who answered said there were no Porters at that address.
Fry intends to file a complaint with the Virginia Office of Consumer Affairs. I'll report the company's response, if any, in a future column.
Do you have a consumer problem or question? Email the Fearless Consumer, write her at 100 Second Street NW, 22902, or call 295-8700 ext. 406.


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Tori Spelling had a run-in - literally - with some overly-aggressive photographers, and turned to Twitter to reveal the details.
"Paparazzi chased me w/the kids 2school," she wrote. "I was trying to get away from him and had a pretty big accident. Took down whole wall of school."
She goes on to describe the ensuing chaos. "He thn STILL got out to try to get pics. 10 school moms chased him away. Wht will it take? Someone dying for paparazzi to stop?"
U.S. & World
The 38 year-old is due in October with her third child with husband Dean McDermott. After the accident, Spelling immediately went to her doctor.
"Going to dr now to check on baby. I think its just shock."
There have been no official statements from Spelling's publicists, but Los Angeles Police did confirm the accident occurred Monday morning, and that Spelling's vehicle struck a curb.
Selected Reading: RadarOnline, Twitter, Access Hollywood


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You can also combine the Rockstar by KMC Wheels XD775 Rockstar 20x8.5 6x135 6x139.7 10 Offset 106.25 Hub Chrome Plated wheels with tires and we can make this a package deal for you! All of our packages are mounted and balanced to assure the best ride possible and are shipped FREE in the continental U.S. to your door and include locks and lugs!
Have questions about fitment? Give our fitment experts a call with your vehicles year, make, and model and we can help you find the best fitment possible for your car or truck. We also specialize in lifted and leveled applications.
Need wheels to go with the tires? All Star Motorsports has a vast selection of wheel models that come in multiple sizes and finishes. If you combine the tires with a wheel package, we include not only free mounting and balancing, but also free locks and lugs, as well as free shipping to the continental US. So you get the complete package ready to be installed on your vehicle!
Trust in our fitment experts to ensure right fitment for your vehicle. Lifted or lowered, with our vast knowledge and many years in the industry, our experts will get you the right fitment guaranteed. Every wheel and tire is checked for quality and packaged with the utmost care to ensure your order arrives without any damage. Feel free to call us with any concerns.


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Study of Pulmonary Complications in Pediatric Patients With Storage Disorders Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
|The safety and scientific validity of this study is the responsibility of the study sponsor and investigators. Listing a study does not mean it has been evaluated by the U.S. Federal Government. Read our disclaimer for details.
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00005900
Recruitment Status : Unknown
Verified October 2003 by Office of Rare Diseases (ORD).
Recruitment status was: Active, not recruiting
First Posted : June 5, 2000
Last Update Posted : June 24, 2005
- Study Details
- Tabular View
- No Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
OBJECTIVES: I. Evaluate bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum obtained from pediatric patients with storage disorders prior to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for the presence of proinflammatory cytokines and for the production of nitric oxide by alveolar macrophages to identify possible risk factors for pulmonary complications.
II. Investigate the underlying mechanism for the development of significant pulmonary complications in these patients during HSCT.
III. Evaluate bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum obtained from these same patients at the time a pulmonary complication develops post-HSCT, or at 60 days post-HSCT if there has been no pulmonary complications.
|Condition or disease
|I Cell Disease Fucosidosis Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy Adrenoleukodystrophy Mannosidosis Niemann-Pick Disease Pulmonary Complications Mucopolysaccharidosis I Mucopolysaccharidosis VI Metachromatic Leukodystrophy Gaucher's Disease Wolman Disease
Patients undergo bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) prior to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). ELISA assays for cytokines are performed. Patients are followed post-HSCT for the development of transplant related pulmonary complications. A repeat bronchoscopy with BAL is performed at the time pulmonary complications develop or at day 60 post-HSCT if no complications develop. Cytokine assays are repeated.
|Study Type :
|Enrollment :
|10 participants
|Primary Purpose:
|Study Start Date :
|August 1999
Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study. To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contacts provided below. For general information, Learn About Clinical Studies.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|Child, Adult, Older Adult
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
- Diagnosis of an inborn error of metabolism eligible for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation on protocol UMN-MT-1995-01
To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contact information provided by the sponsor.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier (NCT number): NCT00005900
|United States, Minnesota
|Fairview University Medical Center
|Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, 55455
|Study Chair:
|K. Scott Baker
|Fairview University Medical Center
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|First Posted:
|June 5, 2000 Key Record Dates
|Last Update Posted:
|June 24, 2005
|Last Verified:
|October 2003
Gaucher's disease
I cell disease
Niemann-Pick disease
Wolman disease
disease-related problem/condition
genetic diseases and dysmorphic syndromes
globoid cell leukodystrophy
inborn errors of metabolism
metachromatic leukodystrophy
mucopolysaccharidosis I
mucopolysaccharidosis VI
oncologic disorders
pulmonary complications
rare disease
Gaucher Disease
Pick Disease of the Brain
Aphasia, Primary Progressive
Frontotemporal Dementia
Leukodystrophy, Metachromatic
Niemann-Pick Diseases
Niemann-Pick Disease, Type A
Niemann-Pick Disease, Type C
Leukodystrophy, Globoid Cell
Mucopolysaccharidosis I
Mannosidase Deficiency Diseases
Wolman Disease
Mucopolysaccharidosis VI
Carbohydrate Metabolism, Inborn Errors
Metabolism, Inborn Errors
Genetic Diseases, Inborn
Lysosomal Storage Diseases
Connective Tissue Diseases
Metabolic Diseases
Lysosomal Storage Diseases, Nervous System
Brain Diseases, Metabolic, Inborn
Brain Diseases, Metabolic
Brain Diseases


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Experience the best of the Māori world with cultural performances, tā moko experts, and healthy and delicious traditional foods.
The spirit of Manaakitanga (hospitality) is alive and well in the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua - famous for its natural hot springs, shooting geysers, bubbling mud pools, and the local indigenous people who live amongst the geothermal activity and use the boiling water to cook, bathe and warm their homes.
Places like Te Puia, Mitai Village and Tamaki Village offer cultural experiences that combine dramatic performances – singing, dancing and haka (war dances) – with delicious Māori food. The owls and glowworms of the surrounding native forest warm this truly spiritual area.
At Whakarewarewa - The Living Māori Village you can see how early Māori used the geothermal waters of this area to cook, bathe and do washing.
Toss a gold coin into the river and watch as local children dive into the water to retrieve it, as their ancestors have done for generations. Enjoy a visit to Ohinemutu Village and see beautiful carved meeting houses and a Tudor-style church decorated with Māori art.
The Te Arawa tribe started the tourism industry in New Zealand in the 19th century when visitors first began travelling to the area to experience the healing qualities of the thermal waters and to visit the "Eighth Wonder of the World" - the magnificent Pink and White Terraces which were tragically destroyed in the 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera.
Today the Māori people continue to play a major part in the local tourism industry, opening up their homes and villages to guests and sharing their food, song and dance; arts including carving, weaving, tattoo, and weaponry; holistic knowledge such as Māori spirituality, massage and the medicinal use of native plants; as well as local history and legends.
Take a historical tour of a living Māori village, paddle Lake Rotorua in a beautifully carved canoe, enjoy a delicious hāngī feast cooked in the steaming ground, and be captivated by the powerful song and dance of a passionate people. For a more intimate experience, stay the night in an intricately carved traditional meeting house, or enjoy a home cooked meal with a local family.
Rotorua is home to some of the best contemporary Māori artists in the country. Get a Māori tattoo, or take home a stunning piece of artwork or designer clothing with that distinctive Māori flavour.
Rotorua is a hub of 'Māoridom' where you can experience the old and new of this unique culture with a people well known for their warm hospitality and great sense of humour.
For more information, visit RotoruaNZ.com.


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Construction Consumer Products Metals & Materials Safety Environment Transportation Chemicals Energy Medical Quality
Engaging the U.S. Government
ASTM International engages with the U.S. federal government to help build consensus among the private and public sectors and increase awareness about the value of developing and using voluntary consensus standards. ASTM International's office in Washington, D.C., helps drive such initiatives and serves as a resource for our technical committees.
ASTM International's Washington, D.C., office continually reaches out to Congress and federal government agencies to educate policymakers about ASTM International, the importance of public-private collaboration and the federal government's participation in standards development, and the value of using consensus-based standards for legislative, regulatory and trade matters.
ASTM's engagement with the federal government is valuable because of the various challenges posed to the standards community. First, standards initiatives are not always a top priority for the federal government, in part because of the government's lack of resources and because of the lack of knowledge about standards development organizations and the value of standards. Second, federal agencies' objectives and attitudes toward standards vary. Third, rule making involves a lengthy process, and as a result many federal agencies neglect to update or revise regulations to incorporate the most recent standard.
ASTM International addresses these challenges by communicating with the U.S. federal government. The best approach to increasing awareness about ASTM's standards activities and enhancing private and public coordination is being flexible. ASTM works to understand Congress' objectives and the various agencies' needs and then helps them determine how consensus-based standards play a role. ASTM encourages federal agency representatives to participate on our technical committees so that they can contribute to standards development and understand the value of using a consensus-based standard. ASTM's Washington, D.C., office often collaborates with the staff at ASTM headquarters and members on various technical committees to successfully engage with federal agencies.
ASTM International's outreach has resulted in some agencies relying on ASTM to develop a standard under our open, balanced and consensus-driven process that meets the agencies' regulatory needs. The federal government may base its regulations on the private sector standard developed with the consensus of the public and private sectors. When incorporating an ASTM standard into a proposed rule, the federal agency then allows for the public to comment on the use of the standard as part of its rule making process. All stakeholders benefit when the government takes this approach. For example, in 2005, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration adopted a new class of aircraft, light sport aircraft, made possible through collaboration with the aviation industry in the development of consensus standards under the auspices of ASTM International. FAA selected ASTM to develop these standards because the agency did not have the breadth of expertise, resources or the platform for reaching consensus on the high quality technical standards necessary to spur this burgeoning industry. With the development of a portfolio of ASTM standards and FAA's acceptance of them, the LSA industry continues to innovate through increased safety, marketplace acceptance, technology development and lower costs for manufacturers and consumers.
Furthermore, ASTM often works with federal agencies to ensure that they reference the most updated version of a standard. We monitor the Code of Federal Regulations, which references consensus standards required in federal rules. Because the CFR contains 2,200 references to ASTM standards, it is important that ASTM coordinates with its technical committees to submit public comments in response to agencies' proposed regulations that address outdated standards. ASTM standards are reviewed and revised at least once every five years to ensure that the standards continue to meet industry and consumer needs and reflect new information or technologies. The government's reference to the most updated version of an ASTM standard increases public-private collaboration, clarifies legal uncertainty and reduces confusion in the marketplace.
ASTM's educational initiatives with the federal government are reinforced by two current federal policies: the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 and the Office of Management and Budget Circular No. A-119, Federal Participation in the Development and Use of Voluntary Consensus Standards and in Conformity Assessment Activities. The NTTAA and the OMB A-119 circular recognize the value and benefits of using and participating in a transparent and open process to develop voluntary consensus-based standards. These policies require federal agencies to use standards developed by voluntary consensus standards organizations when possible to carry out their policy objectives and encourage federal government agencies to participate in SDOs.
It is important for ASTM and its members to continue to educate policymakers about NTTAA and OMB A-119. ASTM standards are referenced more than those from any other SDO (see Table 1), with the Code of Federal Regulations containing more than 2,200 references to ASTM standards. A list of all ASTM standards incorporated into regulation can be found when you search under "ASTM" in the Standards Incorporated by Reference Database.
Additionally, with more than 1,300 representatives from federal agencies participating on 93 percent of ASTM's technical committees, the federal government is a partner and key stakeholder in ASTM's standards activities. The federal government's participation in standards development serves the public's interests. Agency representation can provide technical expertise and support, shed light on the agency's objectives and eliminate the need for the development of separate government-unique standards developed without stakeholder input.
Overall, ASTM's staff in Washington, D.C., serves as a resource for our technical committees and members. ASTM initiatives to increase the U.S. federal government's recognition of and participation in ASTM's standards development activities help provide uniformity across the public-private sectors. Such consensus and uniformity contributes to achieving product quality, reliability and performance, consumer confidence and market access. We welcome an open dialogue with ASTM members so that we can better educate the federal government about the value of ASTM International and voluntary consensus standards to both the public and private sectors.
For more information about ASTM International's engagement with the federal government, or how your committee can further its own engagement, please contact Sarah Petre in ASTM's Washington, D.C., office.Sarah Petre is manager of government and industry affairs at ASTM International.
Standards Developing Organization No.
ASTM International 2245
American National Standards Institute 556
American Society of Mechanical Engineers 552
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 464
SAE International 438
National Fire Protection Association 375
American Petroleum Institute 281
International Maritime Organization 238
AOAC International 210
National Academy Press 198
1. These are the top ten regulatory SDOs in the Standards Incorporated by Reference Database and the number of times one of their standards is listed in the Code of Federal Regulations.