University of Nebraska Press

Lincoln in Linking: July 17, 2008

                                                    Linking the Bases!

      New this month from the University of Nebraska Press, is Clearing the Bases: The Greatest Baseball Debates of the Last Century by Allen Barra. I know at one time or another we have all asked ourselves who the greatest baseball player is in the last century? Ok, may not ALL of us (such as myself), but we cannot deny that someone, somewhere, has probably asked this at some time.  We also cannot deny the pervasive influence sports has in our culture and the questions that arise as a result.  As America’s favorite pastime the debates regarding the game often become boisterous and inflated. What sports journalist Allen Barra, whose column “By the Numbers” is often referenced on NPR, has done with his freshman book is to tackles these questions and provide his expert opinion. This week’s  Linking in Lincoln is going to dissect these topics and attack them at random. We will talk debates, baseball, and NPR. Think you can handle it blogger, or are we going to have to take this outside….?

Want to learn the ins and outs of the debating world (I know, don’t we all) then check out IDEA, or the International Debate Education Association, for all you’ll ever need (or want) to know!

In 1960 was the first televised National Debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon. Check out BBC for a closer look.

I’ve got three words for you: National. Public. Radio.  Need I say more?

Want to join your own debate? Then check out ForandAgainst.com, an online debating forum. The topic for today is children in restaurants…

Are you curious just how much of an “expert” Mr. Barra is? Well then check out an online archive of his work, here.

That’s it for today bloggers! Check back with us tomorrow for some TWIH.

Linking in Lincoln: July 10, 2008

New this month from the University of Nebraska Press, Genealogies of Orientalism: History, Theory, Politics edited by Edmund Burke III and David Prochaska is a series of essays that argue for the extension upon Edward Said’s 1978 book, Orientalism, to explore what lies in beyond the title. With this collection they suggest that a look into the past as well as a re-evaluation of the theory is necessary for a multifaceted approach. This week Linking in Lincoln, is also going to take a comprehensive approach to this segment of the world, and see what it has to offer!

Interested in what Orientalism is all about? Check out Emory college for a further description of Edward Said’s book.

For a look at Orientalist art of the nineteenth century please check out this website.

Curious where you come from? Rootsweb: World Connect Project Global Search is a great (and free) place to research your genealogy.

For a more multifaceted look at the orient please check out Orient Magazine for some cuisine articles.

St. Martin’s Orient Beach is a beautiful vacation spot, check out youtube for the virtual tour.

If you need a place to stay while you’re traveling the Orient, then please check out Orient Express Hotel.

What do you think bloggers, do you feel like you’ve acquired a comprehensive perspective of Orientalism? Well, just in case these meager links have fallen short, please check out the University of Nebraska Press for Genealogies of Orientalism: History, Theory, and Politics. Have a great day!

Linking in Lincoln: July 3, 2008

IT’S A LINKING MIRACLE!

New this season from the University of Nebraska Press is, It’s Good to Know a Miracle: Dani’s Story by Sue and Jay Shotel. This book chronicles the tragedy that turned into a miracle, as 26 year old teacher Dani Shotel was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML). Her astounding story is relayed by her parents as they re-live her diagnoses, the wealth of information the learned about the disease, and the young man who came forward and saved her life. Linking in Lincoln is going celebrate Dani’s life this week, as we take a closer look at the miracle that is….well, Miracles!

What is a Miracle? Well, as I’m sure you would have guessed, we will first take a look at Wikipedia to get an answer.

Some might say inspiration is its own miracle. So what do you think inspirational quotes about miracles can achieve? Take a look here to find out!

Are miracles really miracles? This website takes some famous miracles and tells you if they are really fact or fiction.

This NY Times article takes a look at a different kind of miracle, new drugs for Aids patients that may be able to bridge the gap between life and death.

This article on OncoLink is about one person’s struggle and triumph with NK Cell Leukemia

Can we ever tire of miracles?  This article is about one injured man’s amazing recovery.  Find out what it was at USA Today.

Ok bloggers, here is to hoping the rest of your day is inspired! 

Linking in Lincoln: June 26, 2008

Linking in sibling rivalry!

New this season from the University of Nebraska Press is, Sister Brother: Gertrude and Leo Stein by Brenda Wineapple.  This book chronicling the “devoted, eccentric, and compelling” brother and sister follows them from childhood to adulthood and the events leading to their separation. To celebrate the beloved relationship, this weeks Linking in Lincoln is going to Link all things Sibling!

As always, we must first define what we are investigating. Check out Wikipedia to see what constitutes a sibling.

“Rose is a rose is a rose is a rose” Gertrude Stein was a prolific writer, go here to take a look at some of her work.

In the Boston area? Have a bite to eat at the Sibling Rivalry restaurant for some authentic American Cuisine.

Did you know that 40 states have actually ratified a “Siblings Day”? Go here to check it out.

Volunteering for Big Brothers and Big Sisters is a great way to forge a sibling like relationship without the rivalry. Go to the volunteer website to see how you can make a difference.

Drama is always better than real life. To see Hollywood’s take on siblings check out the Emmy award winning Brothers and Sisters on ABC.

Well bloggers, join us again Friday for This Week in History.

Linking in Lincoln: June 19, 2008

New this month from the University of Nebraska Press is, Green Plans by Huey D. Johnson.  By studying the Green Plans in place around the world, Johnson provides a detailed and accessible examination of their theory, implementation, and performance across the globe, highlighting the challenges and successes of green plans in the Netherlands, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, Austria, the United Kingdom, Germany, the rest of the European Community, and Singapore. This week Linking in Lincoln is taking the hint, and proposing a few ways you can go green yourself.

Curious just how far the eco situation has escalated?  Then check out Eco Statistics to get the specifics here.
There are so many aspects to “going green” that one might say you could use a guide. Well, National Geographic just happens have created one.

Maybe you’re like me, and your favorite part of going green is organic fashion. Or maybe that’s something you’ve never heard of….? Well, either way it’s here to stay so you can check it out here at Style Antidote.

Part of being an adult, and having an 8-5 job (well, the fun part anyway…) are the office supplies. That’s a lot of paper though, so perhaps going green in that capacity might save a few trees. Greenroom Eco has a great selection of bright, well made, and fun office supplies.

Wanting to Go Green at home?  And maybe you don’t have the money to do it? Well Ehow has some great tips to get the job done, and maybe save some cash.

Organic is finding itself all over the place. Check out biota.org to see the new face of organic art and its composers.

Check back with us Friday for a new dose of This Week in History

Linking in Lincoln: June, 11 2008

What’s that scratching under your bed…..it’s Linking in Lincoln!

New this month from the University of Nebraska Press, is The Chichi Hoohoo Bogeyman by Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve. This children’s book takes us back to our own adolescence, when the dark was filled with all things terrifying. This new edition of the well received tale follows four little girls who encounter a strange man one day and name him the Chichi Hoohoo Bogeyman. Swearing themselves to secrecy, they become further unsettled when they return home and hear the adults talk of recent unexplained occurrences at home, perhaps driven by spirits. When one of the young girls goes missing, the secret of the Chichi Hoohoo Bogeyman must be uncovered.
This week, in the spirit of the paranormal, LIL is going to take a walk on the supernatural side. Care to join me?
What is the bogeyman? We may remember him well from terrified nights as six year olds, but the origins are actually quite distinctive. Find out more about them here.

Like scary movies? Check out this four minute film about the bogeyman on youtube.

“Aren’t you glad you didn’t turn on the lights?” Nothing beats a good urban legend. Read all about them here…but maybe make sure the lights are on?

John Bellairs wrote thrillers for children.  Stories filled to the brim with witches, mummies, haunted houses, and enchanted objects. Check out the New York Times for a closer look at this unique author.

It’s a well known belief that America is a melting pot. In addition to the numerous benefits this has had on our culture, folklore is just one. It might be one of the more interesting though, so check out this American Folklore website and see what the Native Americans, African Americans, and even the French-Canadian have to offer in terms of mythology. P.S.  You might want to take a look at the American Spooky Series as well.
Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve is the author of many children’s books. Find out more about this author, and her other works at the VG website.

Well bloggers, scared yet? If not, then you’re made of stronger stuff than me! Join us again Friday for another dose of TWIH.

Linking In Lincoln: June 4, 2008

     A DOSE OF SUMMER LINKS!

Well bloggers, the sun is not shinning, (though I may have caught a hint of glimmer from those rain clouds), my hair is ten times the normal size due to humidity, my apartment is sans air conditioning, my summer classes have decided to overwhelm me,  and my best friend is about to escape to Mexico for the season. Needless to say, my summer has not started off on the right foot; however, in the spirit of optimism I have decided to forgo glumness and embrace the heat.  This week, Linking in Lincoln will celebrating all things summer. We will talk food, art, books, and best of all wine. Care to toss away your umbrellas and join me, blogger?

I may be alone in this but, for me, the best part of summer is the food. I used to be a hot dog and chips kind of girl (which are plentiful this time of year) but my roommate has introduced me to cold pastas with sun dried tomatoes, pesto and mozzarella. I have become a fan of fresh salsas; grilled chicken with mango chutney’s paired with feta and tomato salads, and homemade Ice teas. If this is your kind of  cuisine, then may I recommend the foodnetwork.com and their plethora of summer recipes.

If you need some wine to accompany your meal then please go to cbs.news.com. Yesterday, The Early Show did a feature on top wines for some top prices. Italian wine for $5, I think I’ll take it!

One of the best things about summer is the free time spent with family and friends. If you are in the Nebraska area and looking for some fun and local things to do, then take a gander at the Omaha World Herald for great family activities.

If you’re heading to the beach, the lake, the park, or even the couch right in front of your very tiny air condition (that where I’ll be!) then bring one of “The Best Books You’ve Never Read” as displayed on the NewYorkBooks.com and stimulate your mind while your body takes a break.

May films are more your thing? Well, I don’t need to sell you on the blockbusters coming out this summer, but if  you’re heading in a different, more artistic direction then take a look at azcentral.com  and check out the art films this summer has to offer. 

Skin care is always important, but especially in the summer when UV Rays have their heyday. Oprah.com has a great article on how to protect and maintain your skin.

Gas prices are at an all time high, and even that is an understatement. So the “staycation” has become the catch phrase for this summer. Go to the Chicago Tribune and see how you can enjoy what’s going on in your own backyard.  Maybe you’ll even save a few bucks along the way!

Ok,  the sun is not out now, but it will be! So in preparation we shall maintain these summer thoughts and cross our fingers, it’s got to show sometime….. If you’re looking for something to occupy your time, then please check out the University of Nebraska Press and our June books. Have a great day, bloggers!

Linking in Lincoln: May 29, 2008

If you’re an avid follower of current events, then you must be aware that in addition to spring, it’s also wildfire season. This month from the University of Nebraska Press is Wildfire and Americans, by Roger G. Kennedy. The book is a desperate plea to Humans to re-evaluate our place in the larger ecosystem. Kennedy’s unique perspective on natural disasters and the moral role of humans, mixed with his suspicions of the political system create a very compelling read. This week, Linking in Lincoln will throw themselves into the fire…the wildfire that is, and find out just how informed we should be on the subject!

Are you curious what a wildfire consists of? How they start? Just how dangerous they are? The United States Geological Survey (USGS) provides a great explanation, which you can find here.

How can you protect you and your family from wildfire? State Farm provides a detailed list of what to do before and during the fire.

One of Kennedy’s arguments is that there are no natural disasters, only human disasters. Check out this Newsday article by Wolf Schafer to see how “Humans create, worsen natural disasters.”

Well this may not be the same kind of bad weather, but check out Jazz Goddess Lena Horne’s stunning rendition of “Stormy Weather” here on youtube.

Since we’re on the subject of youtube, and if you don’t scare easily, check out real footage of the 1999 Willow Fire in Apple Valley, California.

Are you like me, and a sucker for a natural disaster movie? I won’t lie, Twister both terrifies and delights me. If you too like to be thrust into a world where nature, and not man has all the control then check out disasterflicks.com.

On a more serious note, wildfires are incredibly dangerous. In addition to protecting you and your family, take a look at the MRSC website to check out wildfire prevention.

The effects of wildfire damage are considerable to say the least, the loss of lives, personal property, and homes take their toll each year. Here, CBSNews takes a closer look at the devastating effect.

What do you think bloggers, are you now a wildfire authority? Well, I hope so! At any rate, check back on Friday for This Day in History!

LINKING IN LINCOLN: May 22, 2008

LINKING IN LINCOLN: A SEN-HAITIAN-IONAL  EXPERIENCE!!

                                         

 

“Lyonel Trouillot’s novel Children of Heroes is a real tour de force"

The weather is getting hotter, and so is the University of Nebraska Press! New this month is Children of Heroes by Lyonel Trouillot. Chronicling a childhood where he and his sister Mariéla were abused by their father and in the end “killed the man who tyrannized them and their piously pathetic mother, who is now a “blank.” They then escaped to somewhere “far away.”Now the prolific writer Trouillot re-visits his past with this book, that while stark and tragic, gives an intimate depiction of this unique country.  From Mardi Gras to the food, to the sometimes dire political situation; this week’s Linking in Lincoln will be indulging in all things Haitian.

Did you know Christopher Columbus (actually) discovered the island of Haiti on December 5, 1492? For more information on the rich history of this country check out Wikipedia.

In post-Duvalier society, Haiti is much freer country. To get a look at the harsh reign of the Duvalier’s check out moreorless.com

The disposition of children in Haiti is well known, Trouillot’s story is evidence of that. For a closer look at the Haitian Lost Boys then go to the Washington post.com

For an interview with Lyonel Trouillot click here.

Did you know BBQ was first seen by Europeans in Haiti 500 years ago? For more social studies fun facts click here.

Interested in food (or food in general) then click here for a closer look at Haitian cuisine and how to make it!

Mardi Gras is well known...well, everywhere. Go to the Belkanaval website to see a video on how Haitians celebrate.

Well bloggers, I hope you enjoyed this edition of Linking in Lincoln. Check back with us on Friday for a rousing This Week in History.

Linking in Lincoln: May, 14 2008

ALL THAT GLITTERS…..IS LINKING IN LINCOLN!

New this month from the University of Nebraska is The Golden Volcano by Jules Verne. The  French master of science fiction  who has given us such gems as Around the World in 80 Days, Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea, and Journey to the Center of the Earth did not abandon us, even in death. This manuscript, edited and altered by Verne’s own son, is about two cousins searching for the mythical Golden Volcano during the Gold Rush.  Hmm… a golden volcano, I’m going to go out on a limb here and say there are worse things you could find.

This week Linking in Lincoln will take a step into the past….and explore all things glittering and gold!

Jules Verne, one of the few truly famous science fiction authors, has gained the kind of reputation few writers ever achieve. To learn more about this prolific writer and his work, go to Wikipedia.

Many of Verne’s books have been turned into movies, and some (like perhaps myself….) may even be more familiar with the films. To see which media you prefer take a look at this timeline put together by Jules Verne enthusiast, Andrew Nash.

The Klondike Gold Rush is legendary, check out why here!

The most well known film by Charlie Chaplin is The Gold Rush. If you want to find out how he turned a dangerous and sometimes devastating time in American history into a comedy, check out filmsite.com

Did you know that a real Golden Volcano exists? Check out the New York Times to get a full scoop on the who, what, where, when, and why!

Thanks bloggers! Check us out later for This Week in History!