For the people who founded Farm Aid, it's probably in a much different place now than they thought it would be when they started it 20 years ago.

I try to schedule my driving less. It costs so much money to fill up a tank that I try not to go to my stores as often.

Consumers are becoming part of the system, taking over functions that marketers used to do. They are not just on the receiving end of things anymore.

Sometimes, as in the Annenberg collection, gifts are in the form of artwork, or land, or some other piece of property whose value isn't as clear-cut as cash. In cases like those, the bequeathed amount is a best guess by experts.

Technology has changed how people feel about sharing their identity.

We assured the parents that their kids are prepared for the test. We have not made it a big deal. If anything, we have a low-key approach. We have confidence in the kids. You may need motivational assemblies in some places, but it's not necessary in Ridgefield.

We have a good time playing if there's three people in the place.

We took that as a sign that the rebound in the economy is affecting charities in a positive way.

What donors need to do is go to the charity's Web site and see how they say they are going to use the money and if they have a question, call. Usually they'll be happy to establish a relationship with you so you know what the charity is using the money for and if it's being used the way you want them to. That way everyone will be happy, and charities want that because they want happy donors who will continue giving.

We have hired eight extra people to open boxes of the tests and (sort) them by school during vacation next week.