Bill of Rights Day

December 14, 2020

The Bill of Rights was established on December 15, 1791. It was one of our country’s earliest acts to protect the rights endowed by our founding documents that are afforded all Americans. It is the first ten amendments to the Constitution and guarantees our freedoms. These Ten Constitutional Amendments safeguard the principles of equality, liberty, and justice.

The U.S. Government Publishing Office Bookstore provides a number of federal titles describing the contents of the Constitution as well as other historical documents.

Americans can keep the Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence handy in this pocket-size booklet containing the complete text of the two core documents of American democracy; the Constitution of the United States, and, Declaration of Independence. You can use this comprehensive booklet to stay readily connected with the principles that have made America a bastion of democracy throughout its history.

The Citizen Almanac features information on our history, diverse people, and events that brought us where we are today as a beacon of hope and freedom to the world. This booklet serves as an important reminder of the cherished rights and responsibilities immigrants have upon becoming a U.S. citizen. There’s always more to learn about this great country, its founding ideals, achievements, and history. These important resources provide a great place to begin the journey.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

 

Leave a Comment » | Civics and Citizenship, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

GPO Holiday Gift Guide: Books for the Starry-Eyed Astronomer

December 2, 2020

It’s the greatest time of year! And while this year has most certainly been a tough one, at least we still have the ability to put a smile on a loved one’s face by picking out the perfect gift for them. This holiday season, GPO is bringing you a guide to unexpected gifts for everyone in your life, from the ultimate outdoorsman to the recreational mariner. And we’re starting with publications for the starry-eyed astronomer! Grab a cup of hot cocoa, top it with whipped cream, and cozy up as we help you become the ultimate gift giver this year.

Astronomical Phenomena for the Year 2021 offers far-out (no pun intended) material preprinted from The Astronomical Almanac. It is published jointly by the U.S. Naval Observatory and Her Majesty’s Nautical Almanac Office two years in advance of its date. It includes such things as:

  • Dates for Solar equinoxes, solstices, phases of the Moon
  • Eclipse maps
  • Dates for various planetary phenomena
  • Visibility and magnitudes of the planets
  • The equation of time and declination of the Sun
  • Sunrise/sunset and moonrise/set times
  • The position of Polaris, the star in the end of the Little Dipper handle

This is the perfect publication for anyone with an interest in our solar system and all its mysteries.

Next, take a trip through the atmosphere in NASA’s book Earth, which tells the story of a 4.5-billion-year-old planet that offers so much to admire. Through rare satellite images, the book shows off Earth’s land, wind, water, ice and air from above. Explore waves off the coast of Mauritania, Coral Cocos of the Indian Ocean, colorful faults of Xinjiang China, and the North Patagonian Icefield in South America. You will be blown away by what you learn about the intersection amongst Earth and its people, like the Moken people of Southeast Asia, whose hunter-gatherer lifestyle and small population have helped preserve and protect the high density of plants and animals in the Mergui Archipelago. Side note – if the person you need a gift for also loves to travel, flipping through this book will inspire unique ideas for trips when we can travel again safely. Be dazzled by descriptions and images of the phenomenon known as glory (which looks similar to a rainbow but is formed differently), undular bores, active stratovolcanoes, fallstreak holes (formed by ice crystals that literally fall out of the sky), and milky green water from a boom of phytoplankton.

“The spectacular images in this book remind us of the majestic beauty of our world,” said Lawrence Friedl, program director for the Applied Sciences Program in NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, Earth Science Division in Washington. “We hope these images inspire everyone to explore, understand, and appreciate the planet we call home.”

Stock up on that hot chocolate because we’ve got more gift guides coming your way. We’ll see you next time, and until then, turn on some holiday music and enjoy the season!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

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Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Taking Care of Our Veterans

November 9, 2020

On November 11 our nation celebrates Veterans Day. This important occasion is held annually to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. And just in time for this year’s Veterans Day, the U.S Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Benefits Administration, which ensures our Veterans are kept well informed of the deserving benefits provided to them for unselfishly serving our nation, has released its latest Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors 2020 publication.

Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors is the go-to resource for Veterans. This handy booklet provides answers on the most commonly sought information concerning Veterans benefits and services.  It provides a breakdown of the various eligibilities based upon the military service of a veteran as well as personal needs and health requirements, from basic health care to urgent care.

Health care isn’t the only benefit provided by the VA. The booklet also provides information on non-health care benefits such as Disability Compensation, Supplemental Financing, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, and for those who served post-9/11, the GI Bill covering education and training. Burial and Memorial Benefits are also covered in this important booklet.

If you, a family member, friend, or work associate are a Veteran, this updated resource is a worth acquiring.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

Leave a Comment » | Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Popular Subscriptions from the Federal Government

October 21, 2020

Federal publications provide insight into many different industries from the military to aviation to teaching. The following popular publications can make a difference when it comes to improving on individual performance. They may also help readers gain a greater appreciation for and understanding of why an organization performs at the highest standards. 

For anyone with a personal interest in the U.S. Military community, there’s no better resource than a subscription to Military Review. It provides a forum for original thought and debate on the art and science of land warfare and other issues of current interest to the U.S. Army and the Department of Defense.

FAA Safety Briefing keeps the flying industry up to date on Federal Aviation Administration rule changes and proposed changes. It also offers flying professionals critical refresher information on flight rules, maintenance airworthiness, avionics, accident analysis, and other topics. FAA Safety Briefing is a must-have resource for all civilian (and military) pilots, air traffic controllers, and airplane maintenance personnel.

English Teaching Forum Journal. The U.S. State Department keeps teachers world-wide well informed with this valuable and timely resource, which is made for professionals teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) or as a Second Language (ESL or ESOL). The English Teaching Forum is a Quarterly Journal written by teachers for teachers with classroom ideas, activities, and suggestions for professional development. Who knows better about the classroom environment than the teachers themselves? If you’re a teacher, or perhaps instruct children in foreign lands, you know how challenging the “art and science” of English instruction can be. The English Teaching Forum is a great resource to stay abreast of the new and creative methods practiced across the English language instructional community. 

Check out our array of subscriptions today at https://bookstore.gpo.gov/subscriptions.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

Leave a Comment » | Aviation, Department of Defense, Libraries, Teachers and teaching, Uncategorized | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Publications for National Arts and Humanities Month

October 8, 2020

During the coronavirus pandemic, many people have turned to both making art and experiencing art to help reduce stress and to express their emotions during this unprecedented time. Whether we are listening to music, painting a picture, or reading a poem, art affects our daily lives and can bring us together. 

October is National Arts and Humanities Month (NAHM). This important event provides an opportunity for people across the Nation to recognize the importance of culture in America. According to Americans for the Arts, the month-long celebration focuses on equitable access to the arts, encouraging communities and people in those communities to participate in the arts, allowing Governments and businesses to show their support of the arts, and raising public awareness about the role of the arts and humanities.

Humanities, available at the GPO Bookstore,is a quarterly magazine published by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). The magazine includes vivid and interesting descriptions of NEH- sponsored research in the humanities, NEH programs and projects, and issues related to the humanities in the United States. It also provides recent NEH grants, deadlines, and useful information for applicants seeking funds. This publication is great for anyone involved in the Arts and Humanities.  

William Henry Jackson is best known as a pioneering photographer who captured the first images of Yellowstone, The Tetons, and Mesa Verde. After a lifetime devoted to photography, Jackson picked up a paintbrush when he was 90 years old, proving you’re never too old to try out a new hobby! He produced a series of detailed paintings that illustrated the American West. Jackson’s paintings were remarkable, especially considering he never had any formal training as an artist. Eye for History: The Paintings of William Henry Jackson from the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service is available at the GPO Bookstore.

Nature in itself is art, and many artists choose to capture the magnificent landscapes of our Nation. If you love both the outdoors and art, Treasured Landscapes: National Park Service Art Collections Tell America’s Stories from the GPO Bookstore is the perfect coffee table book for you. The publication includes works of art seen together for the first time to illustrate and tell the story of the National Park Service’s first 100 years. The pieces of art in the book showcase the diversity of the national parks and according to the National Park Service, “they reflect the critical role that landscape art played in the establishment of the National Park Service.” The book includes various types of art, including paintings, watercolors, sketches, and more. If you’ve found yourself with some extra time on your hands during quarantine, consider trying your hand at art – whether it be music, writing, drawing, dancing, or photography. You may be surprised just how much you enjoy it. Plus, homemade gifts can really help boost the spirit of a loved one who may have been particularly affected this year. Happy National Arts and Humanities Month from GPO!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

Leave a Comment » | Art, Art and Architecture, Smithsonian Institution | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Celebrating our Constitution and Citizenship

September 16, 2020

The meaning of being an American citizen is grounded in the words of our Constitution and Bill of Rights. We can be proud as the only nation founded on the words of Thomas Jefferson in 1776, who proposed human rights inherent to all people found in the Declaration of Independence: “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights; that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

The Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition). These papers created by America’s Founding Fathers define our government and guarantee our individual rights. On September 17, Americans are encouraged to celebrate Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. For newly arrived and established immigrants, it’s a time to reflect on becoming an American citizen, as a day like no other.

USCIS Adult Citizenship Education Program Development Guide: Building an Adult Citizenship Program. With Constitution Week being celebrated from September 17-23, the Government Publishing Office suggests seeking out publications produced by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that speak to the values and responsibilities of American citizenship. Also in this collection, you will find study resources for civics and English portions of the naturalization interview, plus testing procedures essential to prospective citizens.

For those who are taking steps to become U.S. citizens, USCIS provides many guides with questions on the civics test like, “What is the supreme law of the land?” and “What are two rights of everyone living in the United States?”

To help celebrate Citizenship Day and Constitution Week, test your knowledge, with some of these resources associated with these important events: https://bookstore.gpo.gov/catalog/citizenship-civics.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

Leave a Comment » | Civics and Citizenship, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Publications for Suicide Prevention Month

September 4, 2020

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and National Suicide Prevention Week is September 6–12, 2020. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions during an infectious disease outbreak, such as coronavirus. Over the last several months, you may have experienced fear and worry, changes in sleeping or eating, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, or increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs. In addition, your chronic health problems or mental health conditions may worsen during these stressful times. If you or someone you love is struggling with their mental health, know that you are not alone. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mental illnesses are among the most common health conditions in the United States, and more than 50% of people will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime. There are many resources that can help. Here are just a few from the GPO online bookstore.

The booklet and DVD set kit How To Talk to a Child About a Suicide Attempt in the Family is an easy-to-read publication that can help you talk to children about a suicide attempt in the family. This publication comes with both a booklet and DVD. It outlines how to talk to kids of all ages, including preschoolers, school-aged children, and teenagers. This resource provides examples of what to say, children’s reactions that can be expected and how to handle them, and other ways to support children. This includes giving them activities and outlets to keep busy and active. It also helps to encourage kids to express their emotions. For any family that has experienced a suicide attempt, this is a must-have publication.

Relapse Prevention and Recovery Promotion in Behavioral Health Services is geared toward mental health service providers but is also useful to people who are personally dealing with mental illness or who know a friend or family member struggling with mental health. This publication from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers an overview of techniques, approaches, and best-practice guidance for preventing relapse and promoting recovery from addiction and mental illness. It provides cognitive exercises such as proactive imagination (remembering a scene of a place that feels calm, relaxed, or serene) and thought diffusion (imagining placing distressing thoughts in a balloon, or on a cloud, and watching them float away). It also discusses physical ways of coping. These include deep breathing, walking in nature, practicing gentle movement, muscle relaxation, and even singing. Emotional methods of coping mentioned in the book include writing, making a gratitude list, and listening to or playing music. Finally, SAMHSA cites relational ways of coping. These include connecting with a person, or even a pet. (Did you know petting an animal lowers blood pressure and can alleviate stress?!) According to the book, “Behavioral health services are beginning to emphasize long-term recovery from substance use and mental disorders instead of focusing on multiple episodes of acute care.” Therefore, the publication focuses on promoting ongoing recovery. The book emphasizes that many people still don’t have access to the services they need. SAMHSA suggests tips on creating easy access to care for patients. It also promotes using a strengths-based assessment, rather than focusing on what is “wrong” with a person.

Preventing Suicide: A Toolkit for High Schools is a resource for high school administrators, students, parents, and individuals with suicide and other life-threatening health issues. The book was funded by SAMHSA to help high schools and their partners prevent suicide and promote behavioral health among their students. The book offers data on youth suicide. One of the helpful facts to know is that suicide is the third leading cause of death among teenagers. The toll among some groups, such as Native Americans, is even higher. Also included are an information sheet on bullying and a checklist of suicide prevention activities. Suggested prevention activities include implementing a written protocol for helping students who may be at risk of suicide as well as training staff on suicide prevention, among many others.

The coronavirus pandemic has been an unprecedented and tough time for our families, our communities, and our country. The CDC offers the below resources. For more information on healthy ways to cope with stress, visit the CDC website.

Get immediate help in a crisis

  • Call 911
  • Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (press 2 for Spanish), or text TalkWithUs for English or Hablanos for Spanish to 66746. Spanish speakers from Puerto Rico can text Hablanos to 1-787-339-2663.
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for English, 1-888-628-9454 for Spanish, or Lifeline Crisis Chat.
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522
  • National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453) or text 1-800-422-4453
  • National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or Online Chat
  • The Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116
  • Veteran’s Crisis Line: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or Crisis Chat or text: 8388255

Find a health care provider or treatment for substance use disorder and mental health

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

Leave a Comment » | Department of Health & Human Services, health | Tagged: , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Publications for National Aviation Day

August 18, 2020

National Aviation Day, which is celebrated on August 19 (chosen based on Orville Wright’s birthday) is a day to celebrate the development of aviation. President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the day 81 years ago in 1939. President Roosevelt’s proclamation allows the sitting U.S. President to proclaim August 19 as National Aviation Day each year. The president may encourage citizens to partake in activities related to aviation to celebrate the holiday. The airline industry has been widely affected by the coronavirus pandemic, and the GPO Bookstore has just the resource for those in the industry who undoubtedly could use some guidance and support during these tough times.

The FAA Safety Briefing magazine provides updates on major Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposed changes, as well as refresher information on flight rules, maintenance airworthiness, avionics, accident analysis, and other topics. This magazine is a must-have for pilots, air traffic controllers, airplane maintenance personnel and anyone involved in ensuring flying safely. Sign up for a subscription today at the GPO Bookstore. With a yearly subscription, you will receive six issues for year with invaluable information to stay up-to-date on everything aviation.

The July/August 2020 issue of the FAA Safety Briefing is available now. In it, readers will find advice on how to be cautious during the coronavirus pandemic. In his article “Getting to a New Normal,” Dr. Michael Berry, who spent the majority of his career in aerospace medicine, advises slowing down and factoring in extra time for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces between flights. Dr. Berry says of flying during the coronavirus pandemic, “This situation is unique in scale and scope for pilots, aircraft, air traffic controllers, and public health authorities. Respect this reality, and take the time needed to ensure that your return to the skies is a safe one.” The issue also includes information on how a stressful situation, such as the pandemic we’re going through now, can affect pilots, maintenance crews, and others in aviation. The author offers warning signs of stress, which can come in many forms, including irritability, worry, lack of concentration, insomnia, and physical reactions such as muscle tension and grinding teeth. By reading this issue, learn to play the “A” Game for stress management: Avoid, Alter, Adapt, and Accept. In her piece about fighting fatigue in general aviation, Jennifer Caron, a certified technical writer-editor in aviation safety and flight standards, writes that fatigue poses the highest risk during the task-critical taxi, takeoff, and landing phases. Check out this issue for her guidance on combatting fatigue, plus so much more.

If you do have to be on an airplane during the coronavirus pandemic, remember to take extra precautions and stay safe and healthy. Happy Aviation Day from GPO!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

Leave a Comment » | Aviation, Federal Aviation Adminstration (FAA) | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Government Resources for Homebuyers

August 7, 2020

Thinking about buying a new home? Existing home owners, real estate brokers, and mortgage providers can all benefit by checking out helpful resources from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The following publications provide important facts and processes in securing the best loan for you and your family.

Buying a home is exciting and, let’s face it, complicated. A great place to start is Your Home Loan Toolkit: A Step By Step Guide. This booklet can help you make better choices along your path to owning a home. This easy-to-follow guide will take you through the home loan process. It provides interactive worksheets as well as a simple 4-step process to help you estimate key financial considerations. Sections on checklists, research tips, and terms will keep your process on track.

Consumer Handbook On Adjustable Rate Mortgages will help you decide whether an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is the right choice for you and will help you take control of the home buying process. This publication helps you understand how an ARM works and the risks that come with the variety of ARM products available.

If you are considering purchasing a new home or refinancing an existing mortgage, be sure to check out these helpful publications at the GPO Bookstore.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

2 Comments | Consumers, Family, finances | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

World Nature Conservation Day

July 27, 2020

The earth is our home. Regardless of where you live, we all share the same planet. On July 28th, we celebrate 2020 World Nature Conservation Day to focus our efforts on preserving our natural environment and keeping our home, Earth, healthy. The future of life on earth depends on a healthy climate – everything from food production to our favorite vacation spots are affected by the environment.

What can we do today to protect the future?

  • Support local businesses and help your community thrive by finding a local environmental cause to support, which can make a big impact for yourself and neighbors. What Does the U.S. EPA Do to Protect the Environment? is an activity book for young children outlining the different ways The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protects human health and the environment.
  • Check your own habits to see how earth-friendly you are on a day-to-day basis. Are you following the three “R’s?”: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. EPA’s Consumer’s Handbook for Reducing Solid Waste describes how people can help solve a growing problem, garbage.
  • Share a love of nature with your kids, which can make a huge impact on the rest of their lives. Show your passion for protecting our environment with others and create a big change! The National Park Service (NPS) preserves natural and cultural resources in over 400 units for this generation and future generations. Teaching children to become Junior Rangers supports the mission by exploring, learning about, and helping to protect these areas for future generations. The Junior Ranger Activity Book for Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park is a great activity resource to learn about the park and earn a badge.

Nature conservation means protecting our environment and the wildlife it supports. It includes looking after biodiversity and the health of the planet. Logging, loss of milkweed breeding, climate change, and extreme weather are factors that help explain the decline of the best-known butterflies in North America, the monarch (Danaus plexippus). Read the Conservation Status and Ecology of the Monarch Butterfly in the United States report, which briefly summarizes the monarch’s North American distribution, life history, population, current conservation status, and potential causes of decline.

Isn’t it fun to just let time go by while we admire the beauty of nature and the bountiful gifts we receive? Most of us take our natural surroundings and resources for granted. Widespread damage to the environment in the form of reduced green cover, drought, global warming, and unexpected floods can be avoided. On World Nature Conservation Day, let’s rethink our outlook toward the environment and come up with activities and ideas to help nature.

Each year, the NPS conducts an assessment of the agency’s progress in meeting goals and objectives to lessen the NPS’s impact on the environment and improve human welfare. Read how the NPS is on track to achieve its goals in Green Parks Plan (GPP). The plan is framed around the following 10 sustainability categories and sets ambitious agency-wide goals.

  • Continuously Improve Environmental Performance
  • Be Climate Friendly and Climate Ready
  • Be Energy Smart
  • Be Water Wise
  • Green Our Rides
  • Buy Green and Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
  • Preserve Outdoor Experiences, Promote Healthy Engagement
  • Strengthen Sustainability Partnerships
  • Foster Sustainability Beyond Our Boundaries
  • Green Our Grounds

Help raise awareness about the conservation of nature and stress the importance of preserving our natural resources. To ensure the well-being of our future generations, it is important that we work towards sustainable development and take care of our environment.

Today, the world urgently needs a new commitment to nature, especially as we recover from COVID-19. Below are additional suggested U.S. Government publications in support of World Nature Conservation Day.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

For the free resources, click on the links above.

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor BethAnn Telford is part of GPO’s Public Relations office.

Leave a Comment » | Environment, Environmental Protection Agency | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

America’s National Parks Beckon for an Outdoor Holiday This Summer

July 17, 2020

Feeling cooped up during this challenging time of social distancing due to COVID-19? There’s no better place to get away from it all than America’s beautiful national parks. For National Park and Recreation Month, get out and enjoy the many outdoor recreational activities within the National Park System.

You can also enjoy scenes from some of your favorite national parks from the comfort of your own home. Here are a few colorful posters available at the GPO Online Bookstore that are sure to make you feel happier during quarantine.

Rocky Mountain Poster. Created by renowned poster artist Charley Harper, this colorful depiction of Rocky Mountain animal and plant life of the Rocky Mountains is a stunner. An artistically created image shaped by glaciers, crystal clear streams, and a beaver at work, says come visit the Rocky Mountains soon. Rocky Mountain National Park (Map)

Canyon Country Poster. This Charley Harper poster is a testament to why he’s is considered a master poster artist. In this poster, he portrays the Canyon Country National Parks in southern Utah, northern Arizona, eastern Nevada and western Colorado. A richly multi-color illustration of America’s Southwestern parks, striking pinnacles, buttes, spires, mesas, and canyons teeming with wildlife make you feel as if you are standing on the edge of a primeval wonderland.

The GPO Online Bookstore has over fifty elegantly colorful posters, many by Charley Harper, plus portraits of recent Presidents and more, to spruce up any home or classroom. We hope you enjoy National Park and Recreation Month!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

Leave a Comment » | Art, Department of the Interior, National Park Service | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Government Resources for July Fourth

July 2, 2020

This year, July Fourth will undoubtedly look a little different than usual. While many fireworks displays and other celebrations have been cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, there are still many ways to let freedom ring. That includes making a visit to GPO Online Bookstore for some patriotic publications.

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, inspiring Independence Day, a day for Americans to come together, celebrate their freedom and display patriotism. As is written by the National Archives, the Declaration of Independence “states the principles on which our government, and our identity as Americans, are based.” This document, which continues to be an inspiration for freedom and equality around the world, declared why the thirteen colonies considered themselves independent from Great Britain. Representatives from all thirteen colonies (New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia) signed the document. If you want to feel truly patriotic this year, you can purchase a pocket edition of the Declaration of Independence from the GPO Bookstore.

Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition) contains two core American democracy documents—the Constitution of the United States of America and the Declaration of Independence. This official primary source document outlines the framework of our National Government. Keep this handy pocket-sized document on you to exhibit your pride for your country … and to add a little patriotism to your already red, white and blue Fourth of July ensemble. This booklet also defines the ratification and amendment ratification process.

The Citizen’s Almanac from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services says “naturalized citizens have played an important role in shaping this country. From Alexander Hamilton to Albert Einstein, foreign-born Americans have contributed to all aspects of society—literature, motion pictures, public service, and athletics, to name just a few.” This almanac, available at the GPO Bookstore, offers information on the history, people, and events that have made the United States a beacon of hope and freedom to the world. This booklet will serve as a reminder of the important rights and responsibilities immigrants will have as a U.S. citizen and is perfect for anyone preparing themselves for taking the Naturalization Test to become a citizen of the United States.

GPO wishes you and your family a safe and healthy July 4th. Happy Independence Day!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Cat Goergen is the PR Specialist in GPO’s Public Relations office.

2 Comments | Civics and Citizenship, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

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