I did, I know, post a special BLAST last week when the entire audio file of Dr. Ginny Shepherd's Nashville Public Library lunchtime talk (part of the "Thinking Outside the Lunchbox" series-- jointly sponsored by the library and the Vanderbilt Office of Public Affairs) became available on the Vanderbilt Media site; but I'm well aware that many of us might not have the time to click on over, download, and listen to the entire presentation. That said, this special Snacks! episode will share some excerpts from that talk, in which Dr. Shepherd reiterates alarms repeatedly raised (by prominent scientists, educators, politicians, and others) which calls attention to America's lagging production of scientists, researchers, and science educators. Those who know me must know that I'm not a jingoist, by any means. But I do have a great pride in our national history of creativity, innovation, and invention. What I offer "hear" is some indication of that, hopefully. I know of no other earthling more dedicated to promoting the reclamation of our national scientific leadership role that is Dr. Ginny Shepherd. Listen to her and you will agree. The PowerPoint presentation accompanying Dr. S's remarks can be downloaded here and will make a very tidy accompaniment to your listening to this S4theB! Download the show here, gather some teaching buddies around you, pull out your brown-bagged lunches, and enjoy! Music provided by the Podsafe Music Network, a song called "Intro-Song of LoveODub...," from a wonderfully quirky Pennsylvania band called Trap Door. Thanks, Trappies!!! You can pick up Dr. Shepherd's entire talk from the Vanderbilt Media website! I highly recommend listening to the whole thing!!! Links: A Nation at Risk Rising Above the Gathering Storm Before It's Too Late--The Glenn Report PACE Act now before Congress