Fun Facts About the USS Wisconsin

The USS Wisconsin served in World War II, the Korean War and the Gulf War, earning five battle stars during her career. The USS Wisconsin was decommissioned in 1991 and is now berthed at the Nauticus maritime science center.

Vital Statistics

• The USS Wisconsin was one of four vessels in the Iowa battleship class and the 52,000 ton ship was launched on December 7, 1943. Her original weaponry consisted of nine 16-inch guns and 20 five-inch guns. The USS Wisconsin was refitted to carry Tomahawk and Harpoon missiles for her service in the Persian Gulf.

World War II Service

• The USS Wisconsin originally served in the Third Fleet during the liberation of the Phillipines. She was assigned to the Fifth Fleet in 1945, and bombarded industrial and military targets on the Japanese island of Honshu. Her final mission of World War II was Operation Magic Carpet, during which she brought U.S. troops home from the Pacific.

Nauticus

• The USS Wisconsin is currently berthed at the Nauticus Center in Norfolk, Virginia. The Nauticus' museum screens "USS Wisconsin: The Last Battleship," a film that chronicles the vessel's history and hosts Wisky Walk, an exhibit of artifacts from the USS Wisconsin accompanied by photos and videos. As of October 2010, visitors may also tour the interior of the Wisconsin.

  Nauticus

  One Riverside Drive

  Norfolk, Virgina 23510

  757-664-1000

  nauticus.org

Harlem Today Compared to the Renaissance

Harlem is a neighborhood in the borough of Manhattan in New York City. It was the center of the Harlem Renaissance, an African American social movement of the early 20th century, primarily expressed through literature, music and art.

Population

• The destination of mass migration from the south, Harlem was once considered "the Black Mecca," according to Biography.com. By 1950, African Americans made up 98 percent of Harlem's population. Harlem continues to have the reputation as a predominantly African American neighborhood, although whites now outnumber African Americans, who account for only four out of 10 of Harlem's residents, reported "The New York Times" in January 2010.

The Apollo Theater

• Before 1934, the Apollo Theater was a burlesque theater for white audiences. After Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia's campaign against burlesque, the Apollo became a showcase for African American talent. Some of the winners of the theater's famed Amateur Night include jazz greats Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday. The Apollo is now managed by the nonprofit Apollo Theater Foundation and continues to be a popular venue for African American performers.

Religion

• African American pastors played a leadership role during the Harlem Renaissance, and churches were central gathering spots. One of Harlem's most famous churches, Abyssinian Baptist, moved there in 1927 specifically so Reverend Adam Clayton Powell, Sr. could make the church an active participant in the growing social movement. Today, scholars claim that without uniting social issues and the need for a gathering place, African American churches in Harlem no longer carry the same influence, as reported in the "Columbia Spectator."

1960s Inventions

• Ultrasound machines were an innovation that improved pregnancy care from the 1960s forward. Sollina Images/Digital Vision/Getty Images

  The importance of some inventions of the 1960s was not apparent until the end of the 20th century. Some, especially those in the area of technology, needed much development before they were ready for general use. Others were immediately put into use. The inventions of the 1960s have had global impact on today's economy, world communications and health care.

Automatic Teller Machine

• The first automated teller machine (ATM) was installed at Barclay's Bank in London in 1967. John Shepherd-Barron invented it. He and several other engineers registered patents for automatic teller machines. James Goodfellow was at work as early as 1965 to develop a system of personal identification numbers (PINs) imprinted on a card. But the first machine required a voucher issued to the customer by the bank. The customer went to the bank for vouchers, and later used them to extract packets of 10 pounds stirling, the only amount the ATM dispensed.

Computer Mouse

• Douglas Engelbart invented the computer mouse in 1963. He conducted his research at the Stanford Research Institute. Benjamin Edwards, in "Macworld" magazine, writes that Bill English built the first mouse based on Engelbart's sketches. The mouse tracked movement with two perpendicular wheels attached to analog potentiometers, which converted motion into a change of resistance that controlled the cursor on the screen. The mouse made computing much faster. Users no longer needed to use their keyboards to navigate the screen.

Ultrasound Machine

• Scottish inventors Professor Ian Donald and Dr John McVicar developed the first usable ultrasound machine. They adapted technology used to detect flaws in industrial metal during World War II. Hospitals first used their invention in the early 1960s when they realized the potential use of ultrasound in obstetrics. Sue Thorn, in "The Endicronologist," reports that within only a few years, ultrasound scanning became a regular part of prenatal care. It made pregnancy and childbirth much safer. Today's hospitals find many uses for ultrasound technology, especially in surgery and diagnostics.

Oral Contraceptive Pills

• Experimental biologist Gregory Pincus developed the first oral contraceptive. The pill hit the market in 1960. It gave women more control over reproduction than they had ever had before. The first successful oral contraceptive was a combined hormonal treatment. The production of both estrogen and progesterone increased when a woman used the pill. The hormonal increase mimicked the state of pregnancy, causing ovulation to cease.

Computer RAM

• Robert Dennard invented random access memory (RAM) in the late 1960s. It made home, office and mobile computing possible. His computer memory provided an internal storage system that allowed room for both programming and data storage. Today's computing still uses RAM, it is the standard for the industry. Before RAM, computers were huge and only technology developers in universities had them. Dennard's invention allowed the computer industry to build smaller computers that were more accessible to academics and non-academics alike.

Irish Baptism Gifts

• The baptism of a Irish baby in the Catholic faith typically occurs shortly after the infant is born. Valueline/Valueline/Getty Images

  An Irish Catholic baptism allows parents to celebrate giving their infant to God, His Son and Holy Spirit; it is also the baby's official introduction into the church community. Being baptized is no longer a prerequisite for social and professional success in the Irish Catholic community, so the ceremony is as much about tradition and community as about faith. Gifts speak to its cultural and spiritual significance.

Framed Irish Baptismal Prayer

• A framed copy of a traditional Irish baptismal prayer can hang on the child's wall for years to come. Choose from a variety of prayers and borders such as the more child-friendly cartoon image border or a traditional simple Celtic knot design. You can also select two frames connected by a hinge. Place the Irish prayer on one side and a picture of the baby's baptism on the other. For a personalized touch, have the baby's name written at the top of the prayer before framing.

Beleek

• Beleek porcelain is an Irish pottery that makes a stunning gift in any form, but especially as a baptismal cup or Catholic figurine. The baptismal cup is often seen in silver form throughout the United States; the beleek porcelain version is one of simple white elegance.

Linen Baby Blanket

• An Irish linen baby blanket will comfort and soothe the child throughout her childhood. Irish linen is known for its durable quality and softness, making it an appropriate material for a baby blanket. A high-quality Irish boutique or website typically sells Irish linen blankets with embroidered shamrocks or Celtic symbols. Personalize the baby blanket by having the child's name, baptism date and location embroidered beneath the Irish symbol.

How to Check Office Updates

If you have Microsoft Office installed on your computer, it's important to keep your software updated as frequently as Microsoft releases updates. This helps keep your program running smoothly. Some updates contain fixes to common errors associated with the software. If you want to automatically check for Office updates, you'll need an Internet connection and the Microsoft Update service.

• 1

  Close all Office programs. Navigate to the official Microsoft Update website hosted by Microsoft. You must open this website using the Internet Explorer browser only. This websites allows you to set up automatic updates for Office and other Microsoft products. Click "Start Now" to begin the process.

• 2

  Click "Continue" after reading through the license agreement to download the update software to your computer. You may need to install an ActiveX control to your computer to complete the download.

• 3

  Check the bottom right task-bar on your computer screen for the "Updates" icon. When you hover over the icon it displays a message that "Updates are ready for your computer." You can also find the "Microsoft Update" option on your Start menu.

• 4

  Click the "Updates" icon to open the "Automatic Updates" dialog box. Choose "Custom Install" and click "Next."

• 5

  Review the list of available updates to check if any of them apply to your version of Microsoft Office. If so, select those items and click "Install" to update the programs.

VBS Projects

• Vacation Bible School is typically a week full of church activities for children. Richard Goerg/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Vacation Bible School projects can keep your participants busy and teach the principles with creative activities. While many projects revolve around Bible stories, not all projects do so. Projects can focus on current world problems, character traits, learning about other religions and cultures or how children can show stewardship of the resources in the world.

One World -- One People

• The Bible teaches that we all originate from Adam and Eve. This can give a focus on the people of the world as one huge family. Although we are not all alike, we share many commonalities. Have the students choose several common needs and wants and discuss how we can share resources to provide for the needs of all inhabitants.

  Students can start a community garden to focus on the need for wholesome food and how we can work together to provide for all. Students can also learn about how water is cleaned and filtered to make it drinkable in areas where public water systems are not healthy.

  Students can collect unneeded clothing, shoes and household items for redistribution in needy areas. A food drive to stock local food pantries also teaches mutual responsibility for all inhabitants.

What We Believe

• Students can study some of the basic tenets of other religions. Ask some representatives from other denominations and religious organizations in your area to speak to the students. Speakers can focus on both the similarities and differences in what you believe. Religious groups that share core materials like the Bible can focus on the similarities of beliefs.

  Students should also learn what their particular religious group believes. The younger the group, the more simplistic you will need to make the teaching. A simple two- to five-word expression of beliefs could include "God is," or "We are God's children." Children should end the week with a basic understanding of religious tenets.

Desirable Character Traits

• Most people would agree that traits like honesty, intelligence, creativity, strength, loving, peacefulness and consideration are desirable and worth pursuing. Share stories about people who exemplify those traits over the course of the week. Children can choose a favorite role model at the end of the week.

  A costume party could end the week and the children can come dressed as their favorite characters. Children can explain why they chose the person they did and what steps they will take to become more like that person.

The Average Salary in 1920

The year 1920 marked the beginning of the legendary Roaring Twenties. The U.S. population had boomed to more than 106 million but only 6 percent were literate. More than 2 million people were unemployed and the life expectancy was virtually equal between men and women at about 54 years of age. The end of the decade saw the beginning of the Great Depression preceded by the stock market crash in 1929.

Salary

• The average annual salary of an American worker in the year 1920 was $1,236. The '20s are generally regarded as a prosperous time for the U.S. economy. The job market benefited from an influx of new citizens and unemployment was at a low 5.2 percent. In urban areas, laborers in the manufacturing and construction sectors held the most promise for the predominantly uneducated workforce of 1920.

Industry

• By 1920, the automobile industry was in the midst of a meteoric rise as nearly 7 million consumers owned cars. Electrical power consumption increased dramatically due to industrial needs. Electrical plants required workers to help power manufacturing plants that produced goods and distribution and retail grew to accommodate the growing supply of materials for public consumption.

Education

• Education was overshadowed by the need for laborers in 1920. Also an indicator of how devalued education had become after the industry boom was the fact that the average teacher's salary fell short of the rest of the workforce by nearly $300 a year.

How to Donate Clothes to a Catholic Charity

"I was naked and you clothed me," said Christ (Matthew 25:36). Donating your old gently used clothes to a Catholic Charity helps to clothe those in need. Many Catholic Charities accept various donations, including clothing donations. With the economy tight, there are more calls for help that need answering. In addition to filling a spiritual impulse, donating your good used clothing is also a recognized tax deduction.

• 1

  Contact a local Catholic parish. You can either call or visit its website. Clothing donations need to be dropped off at specific locations. Not every Catholic Charity accepts clothes. For example, the New Hampshire Catholic Charities does not accept clothes; instead, clothing donations there are made through the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

• 2

  Confirm the hours of operation for the location.

• 3

  Drive to the specified location during its regular hours. For example, the Catholic Charities Emergency Services in St. Cloud, Minn. is only open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• 4

  Leave your donations at the specified location. For example, in St. Cloud donations are accepted at the southeast door only.

• 5

  Remember to get your receipt if you wish to claim a deduction on your taxes.

Factors that Affect Population Growth

• Overpopulation in a country may adversly affect people's lives. Adam Jones/Photodisc/Getty Images

  The population of the world is estimated to be nearly 7 billion people. Countries such as China and India are currently the most populated, and the least populated country is Tuvalu. How cultures interact together under extreme conditions may play a factor in population growth and decline, as well as natural causes, such as birth and death.

Birth Rates

• The birth rate is the number of live births per 1,000 in a year. Birth rates are influenced by various factors, including adequate nutritional intake, the fertility of individual child-bearing females and total fertility rates and attitudes. The use of contraceptives to specifically block unwanted pregnancies affects birth rates, along with government policies toward condom use to prevent diseases. The rate of natural increase is the birthrate minus death rate and is calculated as a percentage.

Death Rates

• The death rate is counted per 1,000 in a year. Factors affecting death rates include disease -- both individual and infectious disease. The occurrence of war and advancements in medical technology are also causative factors. Improved health care, adequate nutritional intake and exercise are factors that influence death rates and population growth.

Immigration

• Immigration encompasses pull factors, which are the characteristics of a country that attracts people to want to leave their own country and go to a foreign land and pursue citizenship. A surplus of jobs or other positive factors often cause immigration to a particular country.

Emigration

• Emigration affects a population because it is the number of people leaving a country. This adds to the decline in population. Push factors, like war, lack of employment, famine and other negative factors, make people want to leave their own country.

Refugees

• People who are forced to leave their country are called refugees. Small numbers of refugees leave because of discrimination or political upheaval. Larger numbers of refugees may be seen in the factoring of war, famine and natural disasters such as earthquakes.

Population Growth Rates

• The population growth rate is the increase of percentage in a population over a period of time. The population growth rate is calculated by subtracting the number of deaths and emigrants from the number of births and immigrants.

Dutch Arrest Techniques

• As the United States, the Netherlands has a very specific set of procedures that are to be followed during an arrest. If these procedures are not strictly adhered to, the criminal may have cause to have their charges dropped. Everything from the reasons for stopping a suspect, reasons to use force, decisions about arrest and the methods used to gain information -- such as a confession or other details about a crime -- are clearly outlined by the government in the Netherlands.

Reasons to Stop a Suspect

• Dutch police are allowed to stop and question anyone believed to be involved in a crime. However, the suspect is allowed to be stopped for only six hours before they must be either released or charged with a crime, although this can be extended to 48 hours by a prosecutor if evidence is being gathered or examined. In order to arrest a suspect, the police officer must actually witness the crime taking place. Arrests can be made without the police officer having witnessed the crime only if the crime carries a sentence of four or more years. For less-serious offenses, suspects are given a summons, which provides a time and date to learn when they will appear before the court for a hearing.

Use of Force

• As Dutch police officers carry a baton and a firearm, use of force is strictly defined by Dutch law. One instance in which the officer is always allowed to use force is in either self defense or the defense of the public. As each individual has a "guaranteed right to physical integrity" as defined by the Constitution of the Netherlands, only appropriate force may be used in each situation. As each situation is unique, there is some degree of discretion given to the police officer, although force is to be preceded by a verbal warning that force is about to be used, and only in cases where some other means cannot be used to improve the situation.

Decision for Arrest

• Arrests can be made either by a senior police officer, who is an officer at the management level of Inspector, or -- in the case of a suspect not leaving a home or allowing police entry -- with an arrest warrant. The decision for or against an arrest is complex only in less-serious cases. Arrest is not necessary or allowed for first-time offenders in less-serious crimes.

Search and Seizure

• Police may search the area where a crime takes place or the home of a suspect when the officer witnesses the crime taking place. Search warrants are necessary when the crime is not witnessed and the suspects do not grant permission to search their home. In the case of a search warrant, a judge, police commissioner or mayor of the municipality must be present at the time of the search. Seizure is allowed of any items during a legal search that will aid in the establishment of truth or criminal activity.

Confession

• As confessions can be obtained during arrest, the procedure for obtaining a confession is also strictly defined. No confession will be admissible if not given voluntarily. Use of force, threats and promises are not allowed when obtaining confessions. The use of drugs, alcohol, hypnosis or exhaustion is also not allowed. The confession may be obtained during the six-hour period that police hold the suspect, during which time the suspect does not have a right to an attorney. After arrest, the suspect does have a right to an attorney. The withholding of a lawyer can negatively impact the validity of a confession in court.

How to Choose A Senate Candidate

Each state elects two candidates to the U.S. Senate. These senators are members of the legislative branch of government and serve six-year terms. According to the U.S. Senate, members are responsible for crafting and approving legislation, approving nominees for federal positions, impeaching federal officials and approving treaties. Electing a particular candidate is an important responsibility because relatively long terms allow senators to exert great influence on public policy.

• 1

  Compile a list of the political and cultural issues that are most important to you. Consider health care, economic policy, abortion rights, immigration, foreign policy, job creation, stance on gay marriage, environmental issues, national security and energy policy. Rank the issues from most important to least important.

• 2

  Make notes of your position on each of the top five issues from your list. Write a few sentences about your personal stance on the issue. Think about the personal, religious and cultural factors that influence your beliefs and how important it is that a candidate share those characteristics. Use this list as a scorecard against which to evaluate the Senate candidates.

• 3

  Read your state's ballot to determine how many candidates are running. Most congressional races have a Democratic and a Republican candidate, but several candidates from smaller parties may also run for office. Do not discount these third-party candidates, as they may better represent your personal stance on the issues.

• 4

  Investigate each candidate by visiting her website, viewing campaign ads, reading newspaper articles and researching her previous voting history. Most states have televised debates between the candidates that clarify stances on key issues. Collect as much information as you can about the candidates before making a selection. Remain aware that advertising campaigns may include misinformation or distorted facts about the candidates.

• 5

  Assess a candidate's campaign strategy. A Senate candidate who runs a straightforward, transparent campaign focusing on the issues may act similarly as a representative. Beware of candidates who refuse to meet with the press, decline to debate with an opponent or fail to take a stance on the issues.

Scout Troop Meeting Activities

• Include in your Scout meeting plenty of activities. Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images

  When planning for an upcoming boy or girl scout troop meeting, you want to be sure of the topics you need to discuss. On top of that, you want your scouts to interact with each other through positive, team-based activities that develop their cooperation with each other while promoting the Scouts' message.

Things Common and Unique

• Start off your meeting with an icebreaker activity that helps the scouts learn more about each other. First, divide the Scouts into groups of about five people each. Sit all of the groups down at separate tables. Hand a player from each group a writing utensil and a piece of paper. He becomes the recorder of the group. The members of each group have to come up with as many things they all share amongst each other. Things like experiences, family life and interests work better than things like physical features. The recorder writes these things down on the paper. Once two minutes have passed, tell the groups to come up with as many things unique to their group members as they can. Continue for another two minutes then ask the groups to read the listed items to everyone. See which group came up with the most things in common and the most unique things.

T-Shirt Relay

• No Scout meeting remains complete without a relay game. Start this game by gathering the Scouts to an open area. Divide the Scouts into two or more teams. Line each team up so teammates stand side by side. Hand the right-most player of each team an over-sized t-shirt. Ask these members to put the shirts on and have all of the teammates hold hands. When you say "go," the right-most players pull the shirts over their heads and past their shoulders onto the players beside them. The t-shirts should pass through the lines without the teammates breaking hands. The first team to have the t-shirt at the left-most end of its line wins the game.

Silence

• To see how well your Scouts can work together using only nonverbal communication, play this game during your next meeting. Start by having all of the Scouts write down the dates of their birth on index cards. Tape these cards to the front of the players' shirts. Then, tell the players they have to arrange themselves in a line according to the chronological order of their birthdays--from oldest to youngest. The crux of the game, however, rests on whether these players can do this without speaking to each other. If you want to add a sense of competition to the game, divide the Scouts into two teams and have them race against each other to achieve the correct order first.

CE Certification Definition

You have probably seen the distinctive "CE" logo somewhere on the packaging for a product you have purchased. It is a requirement for certain products sold in some European countries, but a lot of people still take it for granted and are not sure what it means.

Definition

• "CE" stands for "Conformité Européenne," which is French for "European Conformity." It attests that the product to which it is affixed has met certain safety and environmental standards. This assures consumers the product they are purchasing will be safe and can be enjoyed worry-free.

Participants

• Twenty-seven countries use the CE marking. These include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom. If a product is to be legally marketed in any of these countries, it must be branded with the CE mark. This pertains to products manufactured outside Europe but meant for sale there as well.

Usage

• There is no list of specific products requiring the CE certification. It is up to manufacturers to determine if their product falls into one of a variety of certification guidelines. These guidelines are determined by a number of directives established by the European Economic Area and include items such as low-voltage electronics, toys and Class 1 medical devices. In these instances, the manufacturer can determine to self-affix the CE mark. For higher-risk devices such as those that burn gas or have some sort of potential for explosive behavior, the manufacturer cannot self-certify and must submit their product to a government-approved testing laboratory. Once approved, the item can affix the CE logo and be sent off for marketing and purchase.

How to Make a Win98 Startup Disk

Though now obsolete, Windows 98 (also called "Win98") was a popular operating system released by Microsoft to improve on Windows 95. If you have this operating system installed on your computer, it's a smart idea to create a Win98 startup disk to use in case you have trouble booting your system. When inserted, the computer gives you the option to boot Windows 98 from your hard drive or this separate startup disk.

• 1

  Reboot your system and hold down the "Ctrl" button on your keyboard to load the "Startup" menu. Select "Command Prompt Only" from the list of options. You'll see a blinking cursor that indicates the computer is waiting for an instruction from you.

• 2

  Push your floppy disk into drive A of your computer and wait for the system to recognize the disk.

• 3

  Enter "cd windows\command" (no quotation marks) on the first line of the command prompt and then press "Enter."

• 4

  Enter "smrtdrv.exe" (no quotes) on the next command prompt and press "Enter" again.

• 5

  Type in "bootdisk a:" (no quotes) on the final line and then press "Enter" to start the process of saving the necessary files to your floppy disk. The system informs you when the startup disk is ready and you can withdraw the disk from your computer.

• 6

  Store this Win98 startup disk in a safe place where you can access it quickly if you have any issues booting your system in the future.

Ancient Japanese Samurai Training Methods

• Samurai armor was made of composite materials, not plate metal. Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images

  In ancient Japan the samurai formed both the bulk of military forces and a separate social class, making the form and content of their training more diverse than that of the average medieval era soldier. The primary areas of training for the samurai focused on Kenjitsu (swordsmanship) and Kyudo (archery). Emphasis was also placed upon the use of heavy battlefield armor and, as a consequence, in the physical fitness required, as well as agility training. Since the samurai was a social class in addition to a military title, samurai were well versed in philosophy, and they were highly literate.

Martial Disciplines of the Sword and Bow

• The chief military disciplines taught to the samurai class involved the use of the sword, the bow and a military spear known as the yari. Higher ranking samurai had the option of sending their children for training at a formalized dojo; however, lower ranking samurai families often passed martial traditions from father to eldest son or daughter. A martial discipline of the sword known as kenjitsu focused on the art of single combat, using either a single Japanese longsword called a katana or a two-bladed style utilizing both a katana and a short blade known as a wakizashi. Kyudo, the art of samurai class archery, was also commonly taught because it was used for both hunting and military purposes, offering a significant strategic advantage to those trained in both melee range and long-range disciplines. Kyudo is still taught today in modern Japan in a largely historically accurate manner, with archery remaining a culturally significant mainstream sport in Japan.

Armor Training

• Like their European knightly counterparts, samurai warriors were trained in the use of specialized heavy armor. However, the materials used in construction of samurai armor were different, consisting of far less plate metal and far more composite materials. Another key difference between the armor training of medieval knights and the Japanese samurai was that swimming in heavy armor was emphasized by the samurai, because of the nation's many rivers and coastal settlements.

Philosophical and Arts Training

• The samurai, being a social class rather than simply a form of soldier, also trained in the arts of philosophy and literary studies. Most samurai were able to read and write and were familiar with both Zen Buddhism and Shinto religious ideologies. The study of poetry was another mainstream literary pursuit of the samurai class, as was the reading and writing of full-length books as typified by the widespread study of Sun Tzu's "The Art of War" and other more period-specific local works. These included "The Book of Five Rings" treatise on Bushido (way of the warrior) and swordsmanship, and "The Tale of Genji," which can be described as one of the world's earliest novelizations.

Women in the Samurai Class

• Women played an important role in the samurai class and were often trained in the martial arts in a similar fashion to their male counterparts. Samurai women, however, were a rare sight on the battlefield, with their role being the protector of the family and household while their husbands and sons left for war. Among the samurai class it was commonplace to have women function as the head of the household in place of their husbands for significant periods of time, in stark contrast to the European customs of the time.

Frame of Reference & Effective Communication

Frame of reference refers to your life experiences and how they influence interpretations of verbal and nonverbal communications. Effective communication requires listeners to empathize with a communicator's frame of reference and vice versa.

Significance

• A person's life experiences influence the values the person holds in a word. For instance, family will have a different meaning to a person from a dysfunctional family than someone who grew up in a loving, nurturing family. Understanding another person's frame of reference fosters effective communication by avoiding miscommunication created by the differing values of the communicator and the listener.

Tips

• Asking questions is a good way to understand another person's frame of reference. For example, a man might get upset with his girlfriend because he feels she acts too motherly. To help resolve the issue, the woman can ask "What behaviors give off the motherly vibe to you?"

Considerations

• Frame of reference serves as only one element to effective communication. Other obstacles to overcome for effective communication include poor atmosphere, defensive responses and emotional stubbornness.

Rules About Displaying the Texas Flag

• The single white star on the Texas flag symbolizes state unity. VisionsofAmerica/Joe Sohm/Photodisc/Getty Images

  The Texas state flag was adopted in 1839 and served as the independent Republic of Texas flag until Texas became a state in 1845. According the Texas Government Code for the state flag, red represents lives lost, military or civilian, by those serving the state; white represents purity, and blue represents valor. In general, the Texas flag, like all state flags, is handled with respect and defers to the U.S. flag when displayed.

Outdoor Flagpole Display

• On one flagpole the U.S. flag flies above the Texas flag. flags image by palms from Fotolia.com

  All flags and poles should be similar sizes and heights when multiple flags are displayed. The Texas flag should always be to the observer's right of the U.S. flag; if another flag is displayed, such as a military flag, it should be to the observer's right of the state flag. Pole height is equal for different flags, even if the U.S. flag is displayed. The Texas flag is always displayed with the white stripe at the top unless you are sending an extreme distress signal by flying it upside down.

  The Texas flag can fly 24 hours a day, even in bad weather, if it is lit during the night and weatherproof; otherwise, it should be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset. Whenever the state flag is flown at half staff, it should be raised to the top of the flagpole before being lowered for the day.

Outdoor Ceremonial Flag Use

• Carry the state flag at the marching right during parades. on the parade image by Alexey Klementiev from Fotolia.com

  When displaying a flag from a building on a flagstaff, the flag should be at the top of the staff and at an angle from the building. If the Texas state flag is displayed over a street, it should be vertical with the blue stripe at the top and the white stripe to the left of the red stripe, as viewed by an observer. A state flag on a motor vehicle should be attached to the right fender or chassis if used alone; the state flag moves to the vehicle's left side if the U.S. flag is included.

  If the state flag is being carried, it should be held up and fly free. In parades the state flag should be carried at the marching right except when the U.S. flag is present and takes that position.

Indoor Flag Display

• Flagstaffs for the state flag may be decorated with gold tassels or cord and the flag may have gold fringe if the flag is permanently mounted. Flags displayed on flagstaffs must be at the top of the staff, and the finial on the staff may only be a star or a spearhead.

  If displayed flat, such as on a wall for a backdrop to a speaker's platform, the state flag should be behind and above the speaker. It should be to the right of the U.S. flag if used with a flagstaff.

General Flag Display Guidelines

• The Texas flag is only dipped in respect to the U.S. flag. American Flag image by dwight9592 from Fotolia.com

  The Texas flag should be displayed on state and national holidays as well as near the entrance of state office buildings. The state flag should not be used to cover or drape anything, including ceilings, statues or vehicles. It also should not be soiled, put in water, touch anything below it or have anything added to it.

Outreach Ideas for Kids

• Outreach is simply the act of reaching out to others for the purpose of providing assistance or education. Outreach for kids should be interesting, engaging and give them a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Let your kids choose their particular outreach projects in which to take part. This will give them a feeling of empowerment, and they will enjoy the project more.

Environmental Outreach

• Many people are increasingly environmentally conscious. With kids in love with the great outdoors, an outreach idea for children would be environmental outreach. Let your child help with a recycling program or participate in a large-scale city cleanup effort in your local community. Older kids may take part in lobbying for changes in current regulations or stronger laws against littering.

Senior Outreach

• Older children can visit a nursing home or day center for seniors. Seniors often enjoy talking to youngsters. Patients in nursing homes may enjoy playing games with kids. Seniors who may not be able to travel alone would appreciate the kids running small errands for them after school or on the weekend.

Non-Profit Outreach

• If you regularly donate to non-profit organizations, take your kids with you so they may truly appreciate their blessings. Take your children to volunteer at a homeless shelter or participate in a school supply drive for children in your area. Kids are often touched when they see other children that don't have a lot of nice things and mountains of toys in the closet. Get them involved in giving gifts at Christmas from an Angel Tree.

Christian Outreach

• Christian outreach may involve children participating in church events or hosting programs to bring new kids into the church. If you are new to an area, take your kids to an outreach program at a local church to get to know people in the neighborhood and decide if this is the right church for you and your family.

Chinese Anniversary Gifts

• Picking something out to celebrate a Chinese anniversary. Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

  Chinese weddings tend to be elaborate, rich and full of tradition. Anniversaries should be celebrated in similar fashion. Regardless of how much you're spending, gifts should be brightly colored to celebrate the couple's special union and to honor their culture.

Fine China

• Buy a brand new set of fine China. fine china image by Gina Smith from Fotolia.com

  China sets are traditional to both western and eastern cultures. When picking out a china set for a Chinese couple for their anniversary, select colors and/or designs that are bright. For example, a white china set with gold trim if you wish to go simple. If you want to pick something more elaborate, select a china set with bright red blossoms.

Crystal

• Find the most beautiful crystal to decorate their home. crystal image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com

  Crystals are beautiful gifts to decorate the couple's home. Find a crystal piece in the shape and color you know will fit the couple's decor. To make it even more personal, select a crystal in the form of the animal that represented the year the couple got married. There are twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac, you can find a crystal in the animal shape for the couple to remember their special day.

Tea Set

• Purchase a tea set to celebrate their anniversary. tea set image by Luisafer from Fotolia.com

  Tea time is a unique and often important tradition to the Chinese culture. It's often the centerpiece of a Sunday afternoon and brewing tea is an activity that's often passed down from a father to his children. Find a Chinese tea set for the couple to celebrate their anniversary. Select one with more than a two tea cup set so they may share in the celebration with their children.

Vase

• Purchase a vase for fresh flowers. vase image by Rog999 from Fotolia.com

  A vase is another great item to decorate the couple's home. Again, find one that's brightly decorated either in color or in design. Select extravagant designs such as a dazzling bouquet of flowers or a brilliant peacock. Keep the couple's home in mind when picking out a vase and try to purchase one that will be versatile in their home; one that will fit in either their living room, dining room, or bedroom.

How to Donate Used Shoes in Los Angeles

Styles change, and for those who update their wardrobes accordingly, old shoes can start to gather. Children also outgrow shoes that can still be worn. If you have used shoes to donate, programs exist where donations are accepted for charitable purposes. Throughout Los Angeles, programs are in place to provide needy recipients with older or used shoes.

• 1

  Gather all used shoes and separate them into piles, according to size. Place all children's shoes in one bag and place adult shoes in another. Make a list for each grouping of shoes and place the handwritten list in the bag that notes how many pairs of shoes and the sizes of each pair. Restrict donations to clean shoes that can be worn by others by removing surface dirt.

• 2

  Make a list of organizations throughout Los Angeles that accepts used shoes. Include groups such as Nike's Reuse-A-Shoe program that accepts used sneakers for recycling and is suitable for shoes in poor condition. List groups according to the type of shoes they typically accept. Note program parameters as some groups only seek running shoes and sneakers for disadvantaged children and adults without access to such shoes.

• 3

  Contact organizations with operations and drop-off locations in the Los Angeles area to inquire whether they are accepting used shoe donations. Have your list of the total number of pairs for donation and sizes available as certain organizations seek specific shoes sizes on occasion. Call all relevant organizations, including local churches and shelters.

• 4

  Keep a list of which organizations you contacted and note which group agreed to accept shoes for donation. Go through the shoes and box them up according to organization, and seal the boxes with tape. Place a note on the top of the box with your name, address, contact information and the name of the organization in Los Angeles. Keep shoes that have not been accepted in a separate pile.

• 5

  Drop the box of shoes off at each location. Get a receipt for tax-deduction purposes for each donation made. Make sure the receipt shows the address where the donation was made.