resources

NEA Today, Jan 2008

JANUARY 1-EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION ANNIVERSARY

In 1863, President Lincoln signed this edict proclaiming that all slaves living within rebelling Confederate states "are, and henceforth shall be, free." Visit www.archives.gov/exhibits/featured_ documents/emancipation_proclamation/.

JANUARY 1-ELLIS ISLAND OPENS

Beginning in 1892, this New York Harbor facility served as the gateway to the United States for more than 20 million people. Search passsenger arrival records and add your ancestors to the Ellis Island Wall of Honor at www.ellisisland.org.

JANUARY 1-3-JAPANESE NEW YEAR

Japan celebrates the 20th year of Emperor Akihito's reign. People decorate their entrances, wear ceremonial attire, visit shrines, and listen to temple bells ring 108 times.

JANUARY 7-CHRISTMAS DAY (ORTHODOX)

Kala Christouyenna! Following the Julian Calendar, Greek and Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas in January.

JANUARY 21-MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY/ DAY OF SERVICE

This day honors Reverend King's life and commitment to equality and unity. A recent addition to this federal holiday, the Day of Service encourages citizens to follow his words: "Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve." For more, go to www.mlkday.org.

JANUARY 20-WORLD RELIGION DAY

This day emphasizes that the religions of the world must strive for unity among humans. For more, go to www.worldreligionday.org.

JANUARY 21-25-NO NAME-CALLING WEEK

Words can be hurtful. This week is aimed at ending name-calling of all kinds and providing schools with tools and inspiration to launch dialogues about ways to eliminate bullying. Go to www. nonamecallingweek.org/.

JANUARY 23-FIRST NATIVE AMERICAN SENATOR

On this day in 1907, Charles Curtis, of Kaw, Osage, and Pottawatomie ancestry on his mother's side, was sworn in as the U.S. Senator from Kansas. From 1928-1933 he served the nation as Vice President with President Herbert Hoover.

Heads Up from NEA Member Benefits

REDUCE THE STRESS AND COST OF DOING YOUR TAXES!

WHETHER YOU DO YOUR TAXES YOURSELF OR NOT, NEA Member Benefits has worked out three sweet discounts with H&R Block that will save you time and money.

GET 35 PERCENT OFF H8cR Block's online tax preparation services. Fill out forms, check for errors, file returns, and receive refunds in a matter of days-all online!

RECEIVE A SPECIAL DISCOUNT on H8cR Block's TaxCut software package, when purchased online. Choose federal and/or state versions along with e-file capability.

VISIT A LOCAL H&R BLOCK OFFICE and receive $20 off standard tax preparation services and $40 off premium services.

Learn more at www.neamb.com/taxcut07.

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR ASSETS, AND SAVE ON LEGAL FEES

NEA MEMBER BENEFITS AND NOLO PRESS are excited to offer a great deal* on Quicken WillMaker Plus 2008 estate planning software. For a limited time, NEA members can purchase the package for $27.90, including shipping (the Nolo Internet price is normally $49.99). A downloadable version is also available for $19.95.

Quicken WillMaker Plus provides legal forms to create a will, living trust, health care power of attorney, financial powers of attorney, and much more. Find out more, including legal limitations within and outside the United States: Go to www.neamb.com, click on Member Discounts, and select the Nolo Quicken WillMaker Plus offer.