Friday, June 3, I sent out to the counties in my state (which must
remain unnamed, for confidentialty reasons), a series of spreadsheets
which will enable the staff working with children in the care of the
state to better track the basis on which the counties get paid federal
funds meted out by the state. While this may not seen like a big deal,
to me, it avails them of their most precious asset, time. These people
are, as much as anyone in this country, overworked and underpaid, and
doing a vital job - helping children who've had a difficult start in
life. One of the things that make my job here rewarding is that I can
help the people who help the kids.

(As I was writing this message, I received a copy of an email from one
of the counties saying, "THANK YOU!!! This is great. Just what we
needed." It makes me feel I'm doing something worthwhile.)

I want to thank the people here who helped me do my job and who, in
turn, helped others. I couldn't have done these spreadsheets without
the help of the regular contributors here including:

Tom Olgivy
Dave Peterson
Chip Pearson
Steve Bell
Ron De Bruin
Bernie Dietrich

There were others whom I can't take the time to mention individually,
but I appreciate the help and patience of everyone who contributed.
Thank-you all!