Johnny-on-the-spot as a noun means "an unusually alert fellow who is capable of decisive action, and seizing an opportunity!"

Valuing Diversity

Definition: Creates an atmosphere of valuing and accepting others

Behavioral Indicators:

-Gets insight from others about issues and opportunities before making decisions

-Directly confronts any prejudicial or disrespectful behavior or comments

-Examines one's own thought and language for assumptions and stereotypical responses

-Establishes relationships with people who are different from oneself

-Seeks to understand the individual person rather than seeing the person as a representative of a group

-Values the involvement of employees who have a broad base of experience and backgrounds as an asset

-Gives feedback openly and respectfully to others whose different behaviors and values affect their credibility and effectiveness, identifying alternatives to help people use their differences effectively

and not alienate others.

-Accommodates different personal styles that are effective in accomplishing desired outcomes

Stay tuned for monthly 'Johnny-On-The-Spots'

I'm not sure when it happens, but it seems that our kids go through different stages. First, we have to carry them everywhere because they can't walk. After they learn to walk, they want to walk everywhere. Sometime after that, they want to be carried again. And it seems that finally sometime later they want to walk again. Last year we went to the Texas state fair. My oldest daughter, Morgan, is 5 years old and was in the last stage of this progression when we went. She didn't want to be carried, she wanted to show everyone that she was a big girl. She wanted to walk everywhere because she's not a baby anymore and she can ride the big rides and do the big kid things.

Brain Fun:

Neurobics™

Neurobics™ is a unique system of brain exercises using your five physical senses and your emotional sense in unexpected ways that encourage you to shake up your everyday routines. They are designed to help your brain manufacture its own nutrients that strengthen, preserve, and grow brain cells.

Created by Lawrence C. Katz, Ph.D., a professor of neurobiology at Duke University Medical Center, neurobics can be done anywhere, anytime, in offbeat, fun and easy ways. Nevertheless, these exercises can activate underused nerve pathways and connections, helping you achieve a fit and flexible mind.

Railroad Safety Tips

When you're walking...

Always stop, look, and listen for trains before crossing the tracks - cross only at crosswalks and be sure to look both ways.

Don't stand on the tracks or step in front of a train - the operator may not see you or be able to stop in time.

* At 55 mph it takes 5280 ft. (one mile) to stop a train.

Do not cross between uncoupled cars.

Never step on the rails, as they may be slippery.

When you're in a vehicle...

Never race a train to a crossing - you will never have a second chance if you lose.

Be careful turning across train tracks - it's where more accidents happen.

Always obey all traffic signs and signals; never assume you have the right-of-way - and look both ways before crossing.

Expect a train on any track at any time - if a train goes by, watch out for a second one - and be sure to look in both directions.

Never stop your car on train tracks - if you stall or get stuck, get everyone out of the vehicle and off the tracks.

Don't anticipate lights or creep out at rail intersections - and never, ever drive around the crossing gates.

Remember: Trains can't stop as quickly as you can.

Remember: Many vehicles are required to stop at all rail crossings.

If you're on a motorcycle or bike, be sure to cross tracks at a 90 degree angle - and follow all the above safety rules as well.